Meet Hayley Paige | Wedding Dress Designer and Creative Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Hayley Paige and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Hayley, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk has been a constant and transformative force in my career, shaping not only my journey but also my growth as a designer and entrepreneur. From the outset, I’ve taken leaps of faith—whether it was launching my own bridal collection or walking away from a situation to pursue a vision that felt truer to my values. One of the most pivotal risks I faced was my legal battle to regain the rights to my name and right to practice my chosen trade, which meant betting on my ability to find a way forward when circumstances were not in my favor — a good pivot. I called this the “rinse and reinvent” moment of my career rather than the “rinse and repeat”. It was a daunting challenge, but it taught me the power of a person’s ability to “creatively bounce” after a fall, the value of creative freedom, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in.

At the end of the day, it’s ALL a risk — doing NOTHING is a risk. Doing SOMETHING is a risk. So make the move that will teach you the most about yourself that you didn’t already know. Moments of discomfort are where you find unique ways to reach and shape-shift. Believe that your own hardships are growth areas to evolve, adapt, and ultimately carve out a path that’s authentically YOU.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Design has always been my most natural form of communication, a language where I’ve found both my voice and my confidence. Through my art, I’ve experienced a profound journey of dynamism and progressive hardship, which has shaped a deep sense of sentimentality, a growing sense of accountability, and a continuous evolution of personal development. Like many creators, I draw inspiration from the world around me, but I believe it’s in the interpretation that a truly unique dialogue emerges. I’m particularly drawn to playful juxtapositions and often lean toward maximalism over simplification, as it allows me to explore the full spectrum of creativity.

The most effortless moments of my journey have emerged during times of flow—when I am fully immersed in my craft and dedicated to the execution of an idea. That’s when my creativity feels boundless. However, I’ve learned that the realities of multitasking and managing the business side can sometimes stifle that creative energy. Yet, it’s all part of the territory, and the key lies in knowing where and how to prioritize what matters most.

One of the greatest lessons I’m still learning is the art of adaptability—remaining open to change while steadfastly holding onto your core values. It’s about embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth, without allowing setbacks to strip away your enthusiasm. For me, this resilience comes from a sense of self-efficacy, which I often equate with faith. It’s the unwavering belief that you possess the strength to endure, to transform dreams into reality, and to persist even when circumstances aren’t in your favor. It’s a reminder that while the nightmares may persist, so do we. This journey has never been about having all the answers but rather trusting that you’ll find them along the way, learning from your own experiences as well as from the wisdom of others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I feel so blessed to have called NYC my home for 15 years (I live in Florida now). The best thing about NYC is the eclectic pockets of experience, so it’s all about what you are in the mood for. At the moment, I am in the mood for food and drink…lol… so this itinerary is food and drink heavy. I might recommend brunch at the Breslin at the Ace Hotel (get a Scotch Egg), then wander through Madison Square Park, grab a cremespressos at Lavazza in Eataly, and head to Chelsea Market to browse the Artists & Fleas market nearby (where local designers and vintage collectors offer some incredible finds). Have a leisurely afternoon cocktail at The Baccarat Hotel (which has one of my favorite-most-inspiring interiors designed by my friend, Tony Ingrao). For your dinner, head to Hawksmoor Steak for a delicious experience. If you’re up for one last adventure, end with late-night jazz at The Django, a hidden gem in Tribeca.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to shoutout my business partner, Elyse Gilreath. I have so much respect and gratitude for our shared journey and how we’ve “managed to somehow manage”. I always think of the quote from the Lord of The Rings, “When the sun shines, it will shine out the clearer.”

Website: https://sheischeval.com

Instagram: @misshayleypaige @sheischeval @allthatglittersonthegram

Twitter: @misshayleypaige

Youtube: @misshayleypaige

Image Credits
@garnetdahlia
@misshayleypaige