Meet Afiya Joy | Bridal Gown Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Afiya Joy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Afiya, what do you attribute your success to?
First let me say, I absolutely love what I do, but let’s be honest… Not a lot of people talk about the sacrifices that are required to do what you love. Sacrifices comes in many forms including late nights, countless dollars spent, missed opportunities, and days you want to quit etc.. I believe the true love and passion for curating Art has been the driving force for my tenure in this business. I grew up with a grandmother who quilted by hand, and friends & family who allowed me to experiment with my creativity. It has been those experiences that carved out my path within my career in Fashion Design. I attribute my success to many factors, but if I had to single out one thing it would be how meticulous I am. Quality is always key! I put so much detail and care into my designs, no matter how complex or simple a client’s design may be and no matter how big or small a client’s budget is. We put the same amount of care and quality into each gown. We only use the best materials; every design is one of a kind and hand made. It’s important to find your “niche” and be consistent. Remain confident and double down or your brand. For every “yes” there are a thousand “no’s”.

What should our readers know about your business?
We are 100% black owned and women owned. We are produced in the United States. What sets us apart is our customization. In previous years, the bridal industry wasn’t as inclusive for brides and designers of color. It was also more difficult to find custom designs or customizable options at your local bridal boutiques. We pride ourselves on being one of the first fully custom bridal designers in the industry. It was difficult to find bridal boutiques that would collaborate and carry our line, it can still be difficult to find the right partnership. We’ve learned over the years that it’s okay if some opportunities aren’t a “good fit”. We are currently carried in two boutiques on the East Coast and those partnerships have been going well

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
That’s funny because I keep a “running list” of new places to eat in ATL. I love great food and a good ambiance. Can’t forget a good cocktail lol. So, As a mom of young boys we typically keep our trips short and sweet. Typically a Friday -Sunday is all we have the time and energy for lol. On Friday, we’d definitely would start the trip out with mani pedi’s at my favorite nail bar Nail Talk in Sandy Springs. We would immediately head for a bite to eat at Sebastian Pintxos Bar for some great Mexican food and cocktails. After a little shopping in Buckhead, we’d check into her favorite hotel, the Waldorf. After a quick nap and a fresh new outfit, its time to hit the town again. Nobu Atlanta for the win. Saturday would definitely consist of massages and brunch at the hotel. Shopping would commence in Alpharetta followed by lunch at Ocean and Acre. After a visit to see a few other close family and friends we’d end the night at Americano Atlanta, the perfect backdrop for some great photo memories.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s not just one, but there are many people who make up my support tribe: My family and close friends have been supporting my dream since childhood. I wouldn’t be here without all the loving support and motivation from them over the years. My dear friend Patrick T. Cooper, who gave me my first internship as a Fashion Stylist in 2005. To The Fringe Collective, who allowed me to participate as a first time Indie designer for New York Bridal Fashion week. My Nana Naomi, who is the reason why I’ve been able to make it this far. She has literally helped me sew every single gown by hand since 2010. We’ve literally been up until midnight on many occasions just to get an order out on time, mind you she’s eighty years young lol. I love all of them so much for believing in me from the start and taking a risk on my growth.

Website: www.purpleroseatelier.com

Instagram: @Purplerosegowns