We had the good fortune of connecting with Tracey Williamson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tracey, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. As a southern girl, I was directly impacted by my environment and all the south has to offer. My upbringing allowed me to learn how to sew and become the creative I am today. The women in my family played an integral part of my creativity and helped spark my interest in sewing and fashion design. For my family, sewing was a natural progression into woman hood. It was a regular occurrence in my family to have a new dress for Sunday service, handmade on Saturday. As a teenager, I would assist my mom as she constructed garments for church and other events. In these moments, I learned a variety of sewing techniques, basics of fabric sourcing and a host of other fashion and designing procedures. As a native Atlantan, I’ve had the privilege to take part in a host of activities, events and programs that inspired me creatively over the years. Atlanta is home to several HBCU’s, cultural festivals and vibes has kept me inspired my entire life. In this season of my life, I hope to continue to grow creatively and inspire others to keep going!!
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a Content Creator/Sewist, I have the privilege to create and develop wearable art daily. Having the ability to visualize a garment and then bringing it to reality is so satisfying and liberating. It’s important for me challenge myself when designing and creating various looks. What sets me apart is my ability to create designs freely and authentically. Pattern-matching, colorblocking textures and tones are important factors when setting designers apart from one another. It is my goal to continue to challenge myself with a variety of designing techniques.
Although, I began sewing in my youth, it wasn’t until the Covid-19 pandemic that I really started to develop my skills. During this time, I sewed everyday and worked on more challenging projects. I started posting my ideas and makes on Instagram and really grew with the sewing community. Of course, nothing is easy when you are trying to build a business or brand. I feel as though there are always goals that we want to achieve personally and professionally. Having enough time and making designing mistakes have been some challenges that I face daily. However, with daily practice and pushing through helps me overcome these challenges.
I have learned quite a bit overtime. Here are a few mottos that keep me motivated and lessons I can share with others;
1. Take the risk, you never know until you try.
2. Don’t burn bridges! You never know who you might need to collaborate with in the future.
3. Have a plan A-Z. (Covid, rumors of war etc.) Always have a way to pivot your business or brand through various circumstances.
4. Never give up!
5. Live your best life!!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We would start at PIedmont Park to get a little exercise and fresh air. Next, we would go to brunch a Le Petit Marché for some breakfast or brunch. Then, we would get some shopping done at Atlantic Station. Later, we would hit the Beltline and get in an afternoon walk and grab a bite at one of restaurants on the Beltline. Lastly, we would take in some art at the High Museum and grab a dessert and cappuccino at Cafe Intermezzo.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Mom_ She is the BEST and really sparked my interest in sewing and fashion design. Mimi G Style- She is the DIY Queen and really has inspired me with my sewing journey.
Website: www.thetraceyshow.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetraceyshow/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCYwuw3r8tPZhoZOC-tD1SQ/featured
Image Credits
Tracey Williamson