Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Bruno.
Hi Valerie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Ever since I was young, I always had a passion for the fashion industry, however, I never thought or even attempted to pursue modeling in any form or fashion. It was not until in my late 20’s that I embraced myself and from there, my drive and determination took the lead which started me on this incredible journey. After graduating and staring my business, Originally Crafted Events, LLC (OCE) in February 2020, which mainly focused in the craft beverage industry, the pandemic hit shortly after. And with that, we needed to reevaluate and assess what the next steps were. Putting a pause on events, I took up a new hobby, modeling, turning it into a passion and now an added career.
Since then, I have had the opportunity to be signed to an agency here in Boston, appeared on a billboard in Time Square, and hit the runway during Miami Swim Week, New York Fashion Week and Art Basel. However, I have been mostly a freelance model, building my network, portfolio and skills; I am determined, hardworking, positive, energetic and strive to maintain a professional and optimistic manner in all situations. This I feel has helped me not only run but pivot my business, Originally Crafted Events, LLC to even more fun and creative ideas. With my new passion for modeling and knowledge of business to create new and different fashion experiences, I have been able to produced a Miami Swim Week production, The Royal Garden Miami Edition and helped produce the New York Fashion Week Pantone Vivid Magenta show this past February 2023.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There were many challenges when it came to starting Originally Crafted Events LLC and now helping to co-producing our latest production, New York Fashion Week Pantone Vivid Magenta. From being a sole women-owned business to helping to create and co-producing OCE’s second show “post pandemic” in a different state while adapting to all the challenges in between, has only further instilled a drive and passion to work with others and bring experiences to people everywhere! There will always be new challenges and obstacles that need to be overcome but with determination and the right people by your side, you will be able to accomplish anything.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Originally Crafted Events brings collaboration and creativity to life through unique and fun experiences. Founded in February 2020 and based out of Massachusetts, OCE started creating local events in the craft beverage industry working with local breweries including; Jack’s Abby, Springdale Beer Co, Bent Water Brewing Co, True North Ales, Remnant Brewing and many others. Once the Covid-19 pandemic hit, like most businesses, we needed to reevaluate and make adjustments. During the pandemic, founder and CEO Valerie Bruno fell into the fashion industry and from there, she not only found a new passion for herself but for OCE. Valerie has taken her passion for modeling and knowledge of business to create new, different, and inclusive fashion experiences. From building her skills, network and knowledge of the industry, along with incredible collaborations, she has been able to bring her ideas and passion to life. With that, Valerie partnered with Meliza Ruby from Art all Expo to create The Originally Crafted Art Gall Expo New York Fashion Week 2023, Pantone Vivid Magenta-inspired production which was the first show in NYFW HISTORY to be held north of Washington Heights. We are both excited for what’s to come for next for our businesses!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Absolutely, you should be networking and putting yourself out there trying to connect with as many people as possible. Although you may feel you should only be networking with individuals in the field you want to pursue because that is what would make the most sense; connecting with people outside your interest, may just end up benefiting more than you realize. Having an outside perspective or someone who might not look at you as a threat or competition can sometimes give the best guidance and advise.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://originallycraftede.wixsite.com/originally-crafted
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/originallycraftedevents/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/originallycraftedevents
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/originally-crafted-events-llc
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/valleygirlventures/
Image Credits
Angello @angellomiami Joe Provenzano @repechage_photo Verse Citi @verse_citi Ron Rock
