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As the COVID-19 pandemic began to hit the New York area hard, I found myself out of work and discouraged. I am a fashion entrepreneur and founder of Style Haven, a full-service boutique. As an on-set tailor, wardrobe specialist and stylist for events like the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, the 2019 VMAs and America’s Got Talent, most of the work that I do requires in-person contact. Like many small business owners, I was worried about my financial situation, and I was having a hard time being creative.

After hearing about a shortage of PPE (personal protective equipment), and in particular face masks, I decided to help. I signed up for various volunteer opportunities around the city, but the interest was so high that many of the programs were taking too long to organize. I decided to show people how to make masks with supplies you may have around the house on Instagram Live, and I began making masks from the supplies that I had in my studio to send to friends, family members and anyone who was in need.

I also began working with Rising Tide Capital, an amazing nonprofit that equips under-resourced entrepreneurs with the tools and training to achieve self-sufficiency and build sustainable businesses. I’m a graduate of the Rising Tide Capital Community Business Academy (CBA) and they asked me and other graduates to be a part of a sewing circle to make masks for those in need.

Although this is still a difficult time for me, it has been rewarding to use my passion to help others. Check out my DIY video below on how to make masks using supplies you may have in your home.

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Corin Wright is an on-set tailor, wardrobe specialist , entrepreneur and a fashion pundit. She currently runs the day-to-day operations of her mobile boutique, Style Haven, and freelances as a tailor and dresser for theater, tv, print and live performances.

CorinWright

Writing since February 2022 · 1 story contributed