People Focus: Raven the Founder (genius) Behind Chicago Fashion Connect

I just got the opportunity to interview Raven, the founder behind Chicago Fashion Connect. I was very excited, since I am a HUGE fan of this organization that helps people in the Chicago Fashion Industry network with one another and to become noticed for their talent.

Me: What made you decide to create Chicago Fashion Connect? Tell us a little more about Chicago Fashion Connect (CFC)? 

Raven: There is so much talent in Chicago, it's a big city with a lot of artists and designers who work hard and create great work, beautiful clothing and jewelry. It's unfortunate that not all of them are known or getting the recognition that they deserve. CFC was created to address some of the hurdles that aspiring talent face when it comes to getting their name known and breaking into the industry. 

Pictures from CFC Networking Event, provided by Aaron Kissman

The mission of Chicago Fashion Connect is to place the fashion industry in the cultural spotlight by promoting emerging talent and create opportunities for fashion entrepreneurs to network, collaborate and grow. In the light of that mission CFC has been hosting networking events, as well as doing coverages of fashion events around the city, doing interviews with designers and photographers. 

Me: Why did you decide to stay in Chicago for your fashion career? 

Raven: There is a lot of potential here. 

Me: What are some upcoming events you will be hosting? 

 Raven: One of the upcoming events is the February Industry mixer on Feb 7th. The event is meant to create an encouraging and friendly setting for industry people to meet other fashion-minded professionals, network, find opportunities for future work or collaboration. To help guests to find the right contacts that they are looking for, we have color coded all the name tags. Designers are a light blue, models are yellow, photographers are green and etc. This way, if you're looking for someone in particular, for example a photographer for an upcoming photoshoot, all you have to do is scan the room for green colored tags.

Photo from CFC Event, by Aaron Kissman

Me: What are your future goals for Chicago Fashion Connect? 

Raven: Future plans right now is to grow bigger and better; create more opportunities in the industry, showcase designers, organize and host more events and expand the blog. CFC is also open for partnerships and collaborations, anyone wanting to work with us, reach out and let us know who you are. 

Me: What inspires you about Chicago Fashion? 

Raven: As I mentioned before there is a lot of potential in Chicago. There is a lot that has not been done here yet and a lot of room to grow; and that is inspiring. 

Thank you Raven!!!!