EDUCATION

Fashion Design Certificate

Fashion Merchandising Certificate

Digital Publishing Certificate 6/2010

Assistant Dressmaking Certificate

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe InDesign

Autocad 2010

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Pattern drafting

Draping

Sketching

Couture alterations including beading

EXPERTISE

Client Relations

Custom Design

Merchandising

Networking

Event Planning

INTERESTS

Current fashion

Travel + local culture

Work/life balance

Gardening

Cooking

Golfing

Boating

CONTACT

style@kimkessler.com

562.818.3651

Print

Resume

EXPERIENCE

PRODUCTION MANGER

NATURE USA /BGREENAPPAREL.COM / AUGUST 2010 THRU PRESENT

Proven ability to manage production through a critical path to achieve tight deadlines

Experienced w/measuring garments to meet customer technical package specifications.

Ensure lab dips, strike offs and trim approval are reviewed and commented on so the factories can proceed with salesman samples and production.

Supervised and partook in the preparation of all sample and production technical packages.

Conduct daily correspondence with domestic factories, dye house and trim suppliers.

Maintain inventory for retail and wholesale website for private label.

Process knitting and converting order once customers purchase order are received.

Travel to trade shows/festivals to promote private label.

DESIGN CONSULTANT

KNBC GRAPHICS / AUGUST 2004 THRU PRESENT

Instrumental in obtaining new clients.

Creative direction, logo and brand identity design, web design, corporate collateral products and materials, publications and page layout design, Illustration, packaging design, event marketing.

Tend semiautomatic sewing machine with multiple-sewing heads controlled by pattern chain that embroiders designs on garments and garment parts.

Able to help clients design and produce garments.

Developed original embroideries, embellishments and prints.

PAYROLL MANAGER

SOCAL FRAMING / FEBRUARY 1999 THRU PRESENT

Process time records and compile payroll statistics.

Maintain payroll control records and calculated payrolls.

Directed preparation of government reports.

Reviewed payroll to ensure accuracy.

Respond to written and telephone requests for salary and hire dates.

FASHION DESIGNER, OWNER

KIKI ORIGINALS / KIKIORIGINALS.COM / SEPTEMBER 1997 THRU NOVEMBER 2008

Managed all business affairs including bookkeeping, marketing, networking and advertising.

Trained and supervised employees/interns in all aspects of the store and manufacturing including sales, scheduling and sewing.

Created custom women’s garments, including bridal gowns, dresses for bridesmaids, mother of the bride/groom and flower girl dresses to meet customer specifications.

Expert experience in coordinating fabric and accessories in preparation for final sewing and assembly.

Recreate heirloom and vintage gowns to make current and wearable.

Able to sketch designs and work from design drawings. Drawings may include everything from garment to accessories.

Purchased fabric and trim for custom gowns.

Traveled to trade shows to purchase merchandise essential for the retail selling floor.

Conduct fittings with customers to ensure the fit of the garment are the look and feel they desire.

Developed and marketed a group of products and accessories.

STORE MANAGER

EXPRESS / SEPTEMBER 1994 THRU APRIL 1998

Managed retail store and supervised employees.

Executed daily operations of goals to ensure productivity.

Prepared and directed workers preparing merchandise displays and advertising copy.

Ensured compliance of employees with established security, sales and record keeping procedures and practices.

Answered customer complaints and inquiries.

Interviewed, hired and trained employees.

Talented Fashion Designer, Production Manager + Digital Publisher looking for great a company to share talents. I possess distinctive talents as an experienced Fashion Designer, who brings complex projects together working with limited and unlimited budgets. The application of my creative eye and efficient skills has been praised as one-of-a-kind and effective at representing each client’s unique style. I am flexible and will move on any project to meet accelerated completion deadlines. I am proficient in many graphic programs such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Dreamweaver and AutoCad 2010.

My drive and track record of stunning design would be an exceptional addition to any organization. I encourage you to continue to view my resume website.

The Artisan’s Lair

As one of Kim Kessler’s former neighbors and also a fellow businesswoman, I have had the opportunity to work with her in an indirect way. In her business of custom bridal wear, she often was approached for alterations. Due to the nature of her business, the alterations were sent to me. It was through this connection that I got to know Kim’s work. I have much admiration for her professionalism, integrity and honesty. She will be a great asset and I have no doubt will contribute invaluable knowledge.
Linda Varela
Owner, The Artisan’s Lair

THE WEDDING VIDEO

To whom it may concern:
I met and worked with Kim on my film, THE WEDDING VIDEO in 2006. She served as our wedding costumer on the film and collaborated with our wardrobe department to help define the personalities of our characters with her own gown designs as well as inventory she's amassed. We were also lucky enough to shoot in her gorgeous boutique. With our very limited budget, Kim's knowledge and creativity was an incredible asset to the production. I highly recommend Kim for any position that could utilize her many skills.
Linda Palmer
Producer/Production Designer
310.801.0885

KNBC Graphics LLC

I have known Ms. Kessler for nearly 10 years, both on a professional and a personal level. Ms. Kessler’s business knowledge, professionalism and her ability to communicate at any level is what keeps her customers coming back. I have worked with Ms. Kessler on several projects of different types. All of which have been completed with pride and thoroughness. One word that is not in Ms. Kessler’s vocabulary is “NO”. If she doesn’t know how to do something – she will find the way. If someone is in need of help, she will make the time. If it can’t be built, she will find a way to build it. I am proud and honored to have Ms. Kim Kessler as a friend and a business acquaintance.

Biagio Cuomo
Proprietor - KNBC Graphics LLC - See Me Coming

style@kimkessler.com

562.818.3651