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Our Expert Team
Driving Success and Innovation
Tim Owen
Manufacturing & Marketing Specialist - Senior Team
Understanding where the marketing is moving is paramount to achieving sales in the millions. Tim Owen has mastered this strategy, resulting in him carving out a lane for urban brands in major department stores, chain stores and better speciality stores.
A pioneer in the urban market, Tim has directed national sales for legacy urban brands like Wu-Wear, Phat Farm and outerwear leader Comet Leather Co. Quality manufacturing ensured the success of Comet and overseeing the importing of skins from France to manufacturing facilities in Pakistan and India was a large contributor to their success. His knowledge of leather manufacturing lead him to expand his sales territory to South America, importing beautiful leather from Pakistan and India.
His relationships with national chain stores and expansive development resources carefully curated over 30 years is why Tim is a trusted leader and global development specialist.
Understanding where the marketing is moving is paramount to achieving sales in the millions. Tim Owen has mastered this strategy, resulting in him carving out a lane for urban brands in major department stores, chain stores and better speciality stores.
A pioneer in the urban market, Tim has directed national sales for legacy urban brands like Wu-Wear, Phat Farm and outerwear leader Comet Leather Co. Quality manufacturing ensured the success of Comet and overseeing the importing of skins from France to manufacturing facilities in Pakistan and India was a large contributor to their success. His knowledge of leather manufacturing lead him to expand his sales territory to South America, importing beautiful leather from Pakistan and India.
His relationships with national chain stores and expansive development resources carefully curated over 30 years is why Tim is a trusted leader and global development specialist.
Shanny Herrera
Celebrity Fashion Brand
Maverick - Senior Team
Hip-Hops influence over the Fashion Industry has undeniably shaped consumer trend’s for the better part of 30 years and has only grown in it’s global dominance. This tremendous growth can be attributed to key players who early on recognized the value of Hip Hop’s biggest artist’s and made strategic partnerships to bring HIP-HOP fashion to the masses.
One of those major intuitive forces is Shanny Herrera, a dynamic brand ambassador, sales and marketing executive who cut her teeth in the early 90s as an administrative assistant at an outerwear manufacturer. Learning the day-to-day operations of merchandising, marketing, and sales. Her exceptional marketing and networking fostered profitable relationships with major licenses Wu Wear, Phatfarm and Sir Benni Miles.
In 1998, Shanny brokered the partnership deal between manufacture and Rocafella Records. This entity became known as Rocawear, one of the most prolific Hip-Hop brands history that rapidly grew to 80 million in sales within the first 18 months. As co-founder/ Brand manager she steered the Rocawear to the forefront of the Urban marketplace. After her time there she went on to fashion consulting and brand development specializing in Celebrity Brands including rap artists Eve and Lil’ Kim.
Maverick - Senior Team
Hip-Hops influence over the Fashion Industry has undeniably shaped consumer trend’s for the better part of 30 years and has only grown in it’s global dominance. This tremendous growth can be attributed to key players who early on recognized the value of Hip Hop’s biggest artist’s and made strategic partnerships to bring HIP-HOP fashion to the masses.
One of those major intuitive forces is Shanny Herrera, a dynamic brand ambassador, sales and marketing executive who cut her teeth in the early 90s as an administrative assistant at an outerwear manufacturer. Learning the day-to-day operations of merchandising, marketing, and sales. Her exceptional marketing and networking fostered profitable relationships with major licenses Wu Wear, Phatfarm and Sir Benni Miles.
In 1998, Shanny brokered the partnership deal between manufacture and Rocafella Records. This entity became known as Rocawear, one of the most prolific Hip-Hop brands history that rapidly grew to 80 million in sales within the first 18 months. As co-founder/ Brand manager she steered the Rocawear to the forefront of the Urban marketplace. After her time there she went on to fashion consulting and brand development specializing in Celebrity Brands including rap artists Eve and Lil’ Kim.
Toya Cumbo
Brand Management, Sales & Branding Specialist
From model to marketing maven, Toya Cumbo’s captivating presence leaves an undeniable impact in any space she enters. Her genuine, energenic spirit, and professionalism are paramount to her marketing and sales success. Toya played an essential roles in the sales, marketing and promotion for a host of brands: including Pure Playas, Rocawear, Naughty Gear, Bushi by Busta Rhymes, Vampire Attire, Phat Farm and Wu Wear, just to name a few.
Easily pivoting between the Fashion and entertainment industries, Toya’s time as executive assistant to Grammy singer/ songwriter/ producer Corte Ellis for Akademy Records where she learned her niche of strategic creative, out -the-box marketing initiatives that created real impact. Toya’s incredible ability to foster long-standing relationships and key partnerships has made her a tremendous force in celebrity product placement, brand endorsement and strategic partnerships. Toya’s unwavering dedication to servicing the needs of any brand she represents is why she has been a trusted and reliable industry source for over 25years.
From model to marketing maven, Toya Cumbo’s captivating presence leaves an undeniable impact in any space she enters. Her genuine, energenic spirit, and professionalism are paramount to her marketing and sales success. Toya played an essential roles in the sales, marketing and promotion for a host of brands: including Pure Playas, Rocawear, Naughty Gear, Bushi by Busta Rhymes, Vampire Attire, Phat Farm and Wu Wear, just to name a few.
Easily pivoting between the Fashion and entertainment industries, Toya’s time as executive assistant to Grammy singer/ songwriter/ producer Corte Ellis for Akademy Records where she learned her niche of strategic creative, out -the-box marketing initiatives that created real impact. Toya’s incredible ability to foster long-standing relationships and key partnerships has made her a tremendous force in celebrity product placement, brand endorsement and strategic partnerships. Toya’s unwavering dedication to servicing the needs of any brand she represents is why she has been a trusted and reliable industry source for over 25years.
Jerry Wong
Domestic & Overseas Development / Production
Jerry Wong began his career during the 1970’s, traveling between Japan and the US, importing the rare leather and skins that he featured in his designs. As he began to establish his name his collection was picked up by Barney’s New York and the popularity of his designs grew. Most notably, John Travolta strutted down 86th St in one Jerry’s cool jackets during the opening credits of ‘Saturday Night Fever’.
As the 70’s came to a close, the 80’s leather trend began to evolve. Jerry became the Design Director at a company called M. Julian. At this time, developing in Hong Kong and China where he gained the inside knowledge needed to innovate leather again by combining it with furs such as the classic fox trim hooded jacket and the WWII bombers.
Familiarizing himself overseas, he went on to create Wongo Enterprises, Ltd. headquartered in Hong Kong. Building relationships with a multitude of leather factories, Wongo producing goods for major brands such as such Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Sean John, Timberland, and Fila to name a few. As the 90’s approached, he lead the trend incorporating leather varsity silhouettes and various versions of the classic Levi’s jacket.
Always ahead of the curve, Jerry anticipated the shift to vegan leather and faux fur. He founded his latest entity, The JDW Group in 2000, which specializes in creating and producing faux leather jackets.
Jerry Wong began his career during the 1970’s, traveling between Japan and the US, importing the rare leather and skins that he featured in his designs. As he began to establish his name his collection was picked up by Barney’s New York and the popularity of his designs grew. Most notably, John Travolta strutted down 86th St in one Jerry’s cool jackets during the opening credits of ‘Saturday Night Fever’.
As the 70’s came to a close, the 80’s leather trend began to evolve. Jerry became the Design Director at a company called M. Julian. At this time, developing in Hong Kong and China where he gained the inside knowledge needed to innovate leather again by combining it with furs such as the classic fox trim hooded jacket and the WWII bombers.
Familiarizing himself overseas, he went on to create Wongo Enterprises, Ltd. headquartered in Hong Kong. Building relationships with a multitude of leather factories, Wongo producing goods for major brands such as such Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Sean John, Timberland, and Fila to name a few. As the 90’s approached, he lead the trend incorporating leather varsity silhouettes and various versions of the classic Levi’s jacket.
Always ahead of the curve, Jerry anticipated the shift to vegan leather and faux fur. He founded his latest entity, The JDW Group in 2000, which specializes in creating and producing faux leather jackets.
Danielle Appleton
Fashion Design/ Trend & Marketing Specialist
Creative visionary is not an exaggeration but a very accurate description of the dynamic artistry of Danielle Appleton. She transitions through various creative mediums with mastery, bringing an undeniable expertise to every project. Danielle’s extensive art and design education is evident in her discipline and tremendous skill level. Whats sets her apart is her proven exceptional ability to turn concepts into sellable collections.
Danielle expertly manages every aspect of design and product development while building and evolving a brand. This is inclusive of trend research, design, development, merchandising and sourcing both domestic and internationally. Dedicated and confident she thrives in a fast-paced environment where her critical thinking, time management and creativity are effectively utilized to produce results. Through her varied experience, she has acquired the knowledge to direct and lead in an ever-evolving industry.
The significant time she has spent in China, and in Hong Kong developing in a variety of capacities, specifically in denim, leather goods, and outerwear, is what elevates her experience and design capabilities. Expertly navigating as a stylist, Art Director and Costume Designer, her captivating designs have been featured in Fashion and entertainment for over 20 years including many notable artists including; Asia Cruise, Young Jeezy, Christina Milian, Huey, Young Joc, Andreena Mills, Lil X, Memph Hitz, Usher, Lil Kim, Tika Sumpter, Joe Budden, Nivea, Trey Songs, Miguel and many more. Danielle has designed compelling collections for notable brands like Members Only, Jordache, Godspeed, Joan Vass, Hawke & Co, Rocawear, The Children’s Place, Sean John, Kenneth Cole and Anna Sui, Jessica Simpson, River Island and Top Shop.
Creative visionary is not an exaggeration but a very accurate description of the dynamic artistry of Danielle Appleton. She transitions through various creative mediums with mastery, bringing an undeniable expertise to every project. Danielle’s extensive art and design education is evident in her discipline and tremendous skill level. Whats sets her apart is her proven exceptional ability to turn concepts into sellable collections.
Danielle expertly manages every aspect of design and product development while building and evolving a brand. This is inclusive of trend research, design, development, merchandising and sourcing both domestic and internationally. Dedicated and confident she thrives in a fast-paced environment where her critical thinking, time management and creativity are effectively utilized to produce results. Through her varied experience, she has acquired the knowledge to direct and lead in an ever-evolving industry.
The significant time she has spent in China, and in Hong Kong developing in a variety of capacities, specifically in denim, leather goods, and outerwear, is what elevates her experience and design capabilities. Expertly navigating as a stylist, Art Director and Costume Designer, her captivating designs have been featured in Fashion and entertainment for over 20 years including many notable artists including; Asia Cruise, Young Jeezy, Christina Milian, Huey, Young Joc, Andreena Mills, Lil X, Memph Hitz, Usher, Lil Kim, Tika Sumpter, Joe Budden, Nivea, Trey Songs, Miguel and many more. Danielle has designed compelling collections for notable brands like Members Only, Jordache, Godspeed, Joan Vass, Hawke & Co, Rocawear, The Children’s Place, Sean John, Kenneth Cole and Anna Sui, Jessica Simpson, River Island and Top Shop.
Vedeta Hanley
Fashion Design, Graphics and Marketing
Vedeta Hanley is a distinguished Fashion designer, graphic designer and marketing expert and instructor with an impressive track record in the creative industry. As the visionary behind Illusions and Designs, Vedeta has developed a reputation for delivering innovative and effective design and visual solutions that captivate audiences and drive results. Her expertise spans across design, concept, branding, digital marketing, and visual communication, making her a sought-after consultant and collaborator.
In addition to her professional achievements, Vedeta is passionate about education and mentorship. She has dedicated herself to teaching aspiring designers and sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience to help them succeed in their careers. Vedeta's commitment to excellence and her ability to inspire others have made her a respected figure in both the professional and educational realms.
Vedeta Hanley is a distinguished Fashion designer, graphic designer and marketing expert and instructor with an impressive track record in the creative industry. As the visionary behind Illusions and Designs, Vedeta has developed a reputation for delivering innovative and effective design and visual solutions that captivate audiences and drive results. Her expertise spans across design, concept, branding, digital marketing, and visual communication, making her a sought-after consultant and collaborator.
In addition to her professional achievements, Vedeta is passionate about education and mentorship. She has dedicated herself to teaching aspiring designers and sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience to help them succeed in their careers. Vedeta's commitment to excellence and her ability to inspire others have made her a respected figure in both the professional and educational realms.
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