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I am so fortunate to be living an “American Dream”.  I am surrounded by people I love and my work gives me great joy and satisfaction.

Unbeknownst to me at the time, I was preparing for this career from my early years as a child.  I realize now that I gained strengths through both my good and difficult experiences. Those old clichés about “If it doesn’t kill you, it can make you stronger” and “there is no such thing as a failure just a learning experience”, are so true.  I know that my experiences can also provide guidance and instill hope in other “dreamers”.

Upon graduation from college with a double major in Art and Psychology, my intention was to become an Art Therapist. Funny how life takes a turn...Audrey Graver (my soon to be mother-in-law), suggested I might enjoy the fashion industry where I could apply my artistic talent, joy of people and passion for fashion. I thought it might be a good idea. So, I went to the heart of the garment center... 1407 Broadway, NY, NY. Perhaps a bit unconventional, I asked the elevator operator if he had heard of any jobs available in the building.  Lo and behold, he directed me to a new company that was looking for help. I started at the ground level. Answering phones and being a  “schlepper” were two of my major responsibilities. Nevertheless, I was so happy to be in an environment where I could learn.  I immediately fell in love with the fast pace and contagious energy of the business. This was my introduction to the fashion industry!

 A few months later, during a big storm, I was delivering a garment to another company. Appearing at their office with packages in hand, and looking like a drowned rat, I engaged in a delightful conversation. To my great surprise, I was asked to join this fast growing pant manufacturer. Talk about being in the right place at the right time!  I stayed with this company for many years and took every advantage to learn as much as I could. I worked with buyers/merchandisers of major department and specialty stores and especially loved designing and merchandising.

After quite a few years and embolden with my new knowledge, I dreamt about designing, marketing, and producing my own line of fashion under my name, Susan Graver Style.  The idea of owning my own business seemed perfect for me. I had the support of my buyers. I could design my own line from my own point of view. But there was also an ulterior motive... My son Michael was one year old and I fantasized about the prospect of not answering to a boss and coming and going as I pleased. I took the leap of faith.

Yes, there are both pros and cons of being in your own business. But they are not all exactly as I fantasized. When you are in your own business, you are on the job 24/7. And yes, you don’t have a boss to answer to but as your own boss you might be your own harshest critic. You also have a world of customers, buyers, staff, lenders, etc. depending on you. I remember being in the hospital bed with a color chart the day David, my second son was born, to choose the color palate for my upcoming collection.  I was back to the office 3 weeks later, barely physically or mentally ready. Then my third child, Jaclyn came along. We say, "that was the straw that broke the camel's back”. With 3 children now, and running my own business, I was ready to throw in the towel. I was totally stressed and pulled in every direction.

With my husband Richard by my side, we figured ways to manage the business and the children. Rather than give up, I remember telling myself that my family was all that matters... If my designs are not produced on time, it's not the end of the world. With my new relaxed attitude, my stress was reduced and it all came together!  I even met my deadlines. My business continued to grow and my fashions were seen in major department stores.

Twenty-five years ago a new and unknown retailer walked into my showroom, QVC. Before I knew what was happening, I was invited to QVC Studios to make a guest appearance. I thought I'd be on for 5 minutes, but was actually on air for an hour... Totally unprepared, it was one of the biggest hours at QVC!   Shortly thereafter, Audrey and I were asked to design exclusively for QVC.  I was so proud to be the first designer to have a weekly show and design exclusively for QVC.

Initially, I was spellbound by the allure of the fashion industry and the artistic outlet it provided me.  However, in reality, the greatest satisfaction I have derived from this journey is the connection I have made with women. Through QVC ‘s brilliant vision, the magic of television, the internet and social media, I have had the opportunity to connect with my customers in a way never have thought possible in prior generations.   My “customers” feel more like “friends” and I am so grateful for them. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of being part of your lives. 

It's funny how we never know where our paths will lead us.

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Check out more stories from our other “Salute to the American Dream” blogs:

Robin Sydney from Twiddle

Meredith Laurence from The Blue Jean Chef

Scott Grime from JAI Jewelry

Barbara King

Mark Charles

Carolyn Pollack

Tara McConnell from Temp-tations

Liam Bourke from Orthaheel

Judith Ripka

Mally

Isaac Mizrahi

Jamie Kern from IT Cosmetics

Aimee Kestenberg