Susie is a woman whose life’s story has been like a strangely crafted novel of passion, creativity, individuality, and resilience. Sometimes, she jokes, it “doesn’t even seem real.” Hailing from Buffalo, New York, Susie moved to Saint Louis in 2003. Although she’s lived in Saint Louis for 20 years and accounts much of this creative endeavor and boutique to her transformation while experiencing life here in Missouri, her love for art, vintage cars, music, and fashion unfolded at age 12, shaping her unique aesthetic sense from the very beginning of her emergence into adulthood.
Susie was a waitress in high school, through college, and after. She began to resent putting her hair in a ponytail and wearing uniforms daily. There was no individual expression save for the “flair” given to her to wear. Her transition from waitress to high school English teacher to entrepreneur is a testament to her unwavering determination to carve her own path and live life creatively, fully, and if ever so possibly, without regrets.
Susie’s personal style reflects her bold and eclectic taste. In winter, she loves to adorn herself in all-black ensembles accentuated with colorful jewelry and metallic accessories, creating a striking contrast that captures attention and admiration. In warmer months, her vintage dresses are the favorite part of her collection! She has a penchant for 1960s colors and fabrics, so it’s always fun to see what the outfit of the day is!
Growing up as a child who didn’t quite fit in, Susie’s unique vision of beauty and artistry was nurtured by her parents and teachers. Susie’s parents and some formative teachers instilled in her the importance of embracing individuality and creativity almost to a fault, yet she’s thankful she was pushed. Susie attributes these people to shaping her into the visionary she is.
Drawing inspiration from fashion icons like Patricia Field, Iris Apfel, Lilly Pulitzer, and even the legendary Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Susie’s style is a testament to her appreciation for innovation, elegance, and a touch of rebellion. Her love for mixing colors, textures, styles, and eras echoes the vibrant and beautifully convoluted story of her life’s experiences that she embraces and attributes to the opening of Briefly Beautiful.
A seasoned traveler with adventures in 18 countries and 35 states (usually by road trip!) under her belt, Susie’s thirst for exploration and new experiences knows few bounds or restrictions. Yet, amidst her worldly escapades, she cherishes the simple joy of waking up to a text from her best friend, Jenny. A little reminder of the enduring bonds that ground her in her rapidly changing world.
Susie is not just a fashion enthusiast or an entrepreneur; she is a living embodiment of authenticity, creativity, and strength. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of self-expression and the beauty of embracing one’s true essence, which is found in making new memories and finding beauty in the old ones.