Presenting

48 | GRAVITAS MAGAZINE How did your career begin? Dream Weaver came about as a natural transition. I was an art major in high school and college and always knew I would do something in the arts. Never did I imagine it would eventually be in fashion! I began making a living as a poer, which segued into a cra store on Martha's Vineyard in the late 70s. Many of my clients told me I should open on St. A rmand 's Circle in Sarasota so in 1982, I came to Sarasota with the intention of having two locations. During the eight years of doing cra stores, my heart was turning towards wearables, especially handwovens. at's when Dream Weaver was born with the Gar y Wright song in my head! Why did you pick this town? I picked Sarasota for two reasons; one, it was recommended by several of my Martha's Vineyard clients and two, it was the cultural center of the west coast of Florida. A rts, culture, beautiful beaches and gorgeous weather all in the same place. How would you describe your boutique? It is a high-end boutique with a niche market catering to women who want to dress in their individual style in clothing that truly reflects who they are. We only carr y small designers who don't go into major stores or do major production. We only carr y things made in the U.S. or Europe. Nothing mass produced. How would you describe the client that shops at Dream Weaver? I think with the Dream Weaver Woman, it's not about current trends. Its about individuality and spirit; knowing who you are and following your dream. My professional staff helps our clients find what is best not only for her figure but for her personality and lifestyle. How do you want your clients to feel when they make a purchase at Dream Weaver? I want them to feel special and that they were treated as the unique individual they are. We offer custom sizing from extra small to grande. We want her to feel confident that she looks her best. We are honest and never send them out in some- thing that isn't flaering on them. We are all about customer ser vice, offering a ver y comfortable environment not only for the client but for her significant other while she's shopping. What do you love most about what you do? I love bringing out the best in my wonderful clients. I love working with the designers, some who have become my best friends and we oen collaborate on designs that cater to what clients ask for throughout the year. What are some of the challenges of being a business owner? Keeping ever yone happy! What advice would you give another woman just starting out in business? I would advise ever y woman to follow her dream. It's not about how much money you make but how you live your day- to-day life. We are not geing rich here but we enjoy each day interacting with interesting people and playing with art in fashion. I would also tell her to never take no for an answer. If someone says no, you can't do something , find a way to do it. Patience is a virtue but persistence to the point of success is a blessing. Joan's beloved Buzz and Marly Photography by Alex Stafford, Hair by Amy Amuso, Makeup by Stephanie Gimson

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