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Almost a decade ago Genessa Jackson decided to design and sew her own Halloween costume, but she had no idea what that would lead to.
The Kelowna-based fashion designer has had her own line of clothing for eight years now and in that time she’s sewn over 10,000 pieces.
On Sunday, her many loyal customers were hard to miss as they walked down Bernard Avenue in Jackson’s unique styles.
“It’s been a long, hard journey and we’re celebrating my success,” she explained.
The mother of four has hit a milestone, now that she’s secured a manufacturer for her line in Vancouver.
“It’s huge. I’m starting to distribute it,” said Jackson, of her line. “It’s been a lot of hard work though.”
About 60 women dressed in her designs strutted their stuff from her store to Okanagan Lake, making their way to a cruise ship on the water to celebrate in style.
Jackson owns Le Reve, located at 529 Bernard Ave. The store, which opened in Kelowna not long ago, carries all her own pieces.
“I started the business in Nelson, B.C., and then moved to Kelowna for four years,” she said. The designer tried her luck in Calgary but eventually decided to move her store back to Kelowna, where she said having a store front is much more affordable.
“I love the Okanagan,” said Jackson. “It’s a beautiful place to live, a great place to raise kids and there are beautiful women here.”
The bold and bright dresses designed by Jackson seem to be a crowd favourite, and for her, the love goes both ways.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without my clients.”
Jackson’s items can also be purchased through her online store, at a boutique at Big White, at a local store in Nelson and at Black Fish Apparel, another storefront on Bernard.
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