At GANT, my primary role centered on design and creative execution, including styling mannequins and developing showroom and set designs for wholesale vendors and press viewings of the latest seasonal collections. I designed and constructed both single-use and multi-use sets for seasonal storyboards, window displays, and in-store presentations, as well as Head Office (HO) showrooms for merchandising teams and wholesale buyers. With the guidance and mentorship of senior colleagues, I quickly gained confidence and expertise in these processes, adding a new dimension to my visual merchandising skill set.
Budget Management and Supplier Relationships:
In addition to my design responsibilities, I managed budget-focused orders for window kits and point-of-purchase materials for UK stores. I built strong relationships with suppliers, sourcing and purchasing cost-effective components for store and showroom concepts without compromising on quality or creativity.
Training and Development:
Twice a year, I facilitated relevant wholesale company training and seasonal product training sessions for UK Visual Merchandisers (VMs) and store managers. These sessions ensured that teams were well-equipped to represent the brand effectively and maintain consistent visual standards across all locations.
This role at GANT allowed me to further refine my creative and strategic abilities, while also developing skills in budget management, supplier collaboration, and team training. The experience deepened my understanding of the intersection between design, merchandising, and brand storytelling, solidifying my expertise in delivering impactful visual experiences.
2011 SHOWROOM
A particularly rewarding moment in my career at GANT came when the winter storyline theme I developed for the 2011 Fall/Winter collection was selected for production. This project allowed me to showcase my creativity and storytelling skills by dividing the showroom into distinct yet cohesive spaces, each representing a unique aspect of the collection while contributing to an overarching narrative.
Concept and Execution:
The theme centered around the story of a painter taking his family on a skiing trip, with each showroom area reflecting a different part of their journey and surroundings. The spaces were designed as follows:
- - Artist’s Temporary Workspace: Showcasing the Men’s collection, this area evoked the creative energy of the painter’s studio.
- - The Library: Highlighting the Women’s collection, this space exuded elegance and sophistication.
- - Outdoor Setting: Featuring the Kids’ collection, this area captured the playful spirit of a snowy adventure.
- - Kitchen: Dedicated to Accessories, this space emphasised warmth and functionality.
- - Dining Room & Fireplace: Displaying key Hero pieces from each collection, this area served as the heart of the showroom, tying the narrative together.
This innovative approach not only brought the collection to life but also created an immersive experience for wholesale buyers and press attendees. The success of this project was a testament to my ability to blend storytelling with visual merchandising, further enhancing my expertise in creating compelling and cohesive brand presentations.
