Meet Jessica Perry | Fashion Designer & Owner of House of Zell

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

Hi Jessica, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
This is such an amazing question that I have had to ask myself multiple times on my journey. Being a young person..honestly a young Black woman with a dream so big, it seems unattainable and can be SCARY sometimes. There are times where I just want to throw the towel in and quit, especially recently. What I think truly keeps me going in the fact that I feel I was chosen specifically to fulfill this huge purpose. I’ve wanted to be a successful Fashion Designer and business owner since I was 9 years old. If I give up now I will never know what life will be like once my purpose is fulfilled. Moments where I feel like I’m ready to throw the towel in, the voice in the back of my head tells me not to give up because I am closer than I think. I can’t give up on my inner child.

I think one of the most valuable pieces of advice that I’m reminded of constantly is, “Rest when you need to, but don’t quit.”

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business, House of Zell, embodies elegance, fluidity, and class. House of Zell offers custom luxury and ready to wear clothing and accessories, exclusively handmade for our wearers. Each piece is crafted from lustrous fabrics and embellishments that will draw attention to the beauty of the woman wearing her House of Zell look. Our goal is to make the lady wearing our brand the best dressed woman in the room.

I believe what sets my business apart from others is the relationship that is built with each client. My focus is to learn each client’s individual needs, in order to better the custom experience. Although I’ve only been in business for 3 years, I have learned so much and overcome so many obstacles. It is not easy to run a business and work a full time job. At one point I was also in school full time. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is to balance hustle & rest and to also learn how to effectively manage my time. I’m still working on this daily.

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.
I recently moved to Charlotte, NC during the height of COVID so I am still learning the city. I’ve been to a few really great spots here and the city but I’d say that my favorite experience so far was Rosie’s Wine Garden. I love wine and nature so it was the perfect vibe.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people that I can shout out that have supported me along my journey. From my friends & family..my designer friends who I love and appreciate..and all of the amazing connections I’ve made within the industry. The talent in NC and surrounding areas is amazing. I am blessed to be surrounded by so many creatives.

Website: www.houseofzell.com

Instagram: instagram.com/houseofzell

Twitter: twitter.com/houseofzell

Facebook: House of Zell

Image Credits
Photographed by Alexus B Photography