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

Hi Natalie, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a creative career in fashion because from a young age it called to me. I would always be sketching fashion designs and planning away. In high school, I even started a fashion club since I was so passionate about it. I am thrilled that I get to be creative in my career everyday.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have been a business owner for years and that has been an amazing journey. My business is a fashion events and styling company that was founded in 2014. I just started in my career as a Fashion Educator and it has been amazing! I am one leading 1 of the 2 Fashion Marketing programs in Miami Dade. My course at Hialeah Gardens High School includes the following topics:

*The history of Fashion
*Fashion Design
*Fashion Career Planning
*Entrepreneurship
*Fashion Show Production
*Visual Merchandising
*Product Development

I also direct the school fashion shows and lead the class photo shoots. I worked hard to get to this place in my career by marketing myself as a fashion professional and getting the education and experience needed to be successful. I have overcome challenges learning how to set boundaries. I have learned a lot as a fashion educator including how to create curriculum and engage the students. I would like the world to know that hard work pays off and you will get to where you want to be with time. You just need to believe it!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to visit the Wynwood walls to see the art and graffiti on a Saturday night for an art walk! We would also go check out Vizcaya museum and gardens. It is a romantic spot and the gardens are divine! For a fun zumba or heels class we would go to the Black box studios. To eat, I would recommend Swan in the design district or Cafe La Trova on Calle Ocho!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give credit and recognition to my mentor and good friend, Kathleen Ross. She is a Chief Marketing Executive and Founder of Style your Career. She has been a great help in my business and even personal life. I would also like to give a shout out to my mom who has always been a great support in my life and mentor as well. She has been an educator for over 30 years. She also has a very entrepreneurial spirit and has been very supportive with my fashion business. Lastly, my sister has been a great support as well as she also works in the education industry and has been very successful as well!

Website: fashionhappyhour.com

Instagram: instagram.com/fashionhappyhour

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieloren/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FashionHHEvent

Facebook: facebook.com/fashionhappyhour

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/fashionhappyhour

Image Credits
Juan Pablo Castro (model photos)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.