Meet Jessica Pontoriero

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jessica Pontoriero. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jessica, great to have you with us today and excited to have you share your wisdom with our readers. Over the years, after speaking with countless do-ers, makers, builders, entrepreneurs, artists and more we’ve noticed that the ability to take risks is central to almost all stories of triumph and so we’re really interested in hearing about your journey with risk and how you developed your risk-taking ability.

I developed my ability to take risks by learning to say yes to opportunities, even when they seemed intimidating at first. I realized that the worst outcome is often just hearing no or experiencing failure, and both can be valuable teachers. Failure has shown me that every setback opens the door to something new. I’ve also learned that taking risks isn’t just about bold actions, but about honesty. Speaking up for what’s right, even when it feels uncomfortable, has taught me that authenticity is always more meaningful than staying silent.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am a fashion design student with a deep passion for creating custom evening wear and bridal designs. What I love most about this field is the balance between creativity and precision, being able to bring a client’s vision to life through thoughtful design, detail, and craftsmanship. Every piece I create tells a story and reflects both my artistic style and the personality of the person wearing it.

My goal is to build a brand that celebrates individuality and confidence. I’m inspired by the process of transforming fabrics into something timeless and meaningful, whether it’s a gown for a once-in-a-lifetime event or a dress that makes someone feel their most beautiful. I approach every project with dedication and care, always striving to learn, refine my skills, and push creative boundaries.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, the three most impactful skills in my journey have been creativity, patience, and attention to detail. Creativity allows me to express individuality through design and to find inspiration in unexpected places. Patience has been essential, especially in learning the technical side of fashion design, perfecting a pattern or stitching takes time and discipline. Attention to detail brings everything together; the smallest choices in fabric, fit, or finish can completely transform a design.

For anyone just starting out, I would say never rush the learning process. Take time to study your craft, observe what inspires you, and practice consistently. Mistakes are part of growth, and every piece you create teaches you something new. Stay curious, stay dedicated, and always let your passion guide you.

All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?

The biggest challenge I have faced is learning how to separate my work from my passion. As a fashion design student, I found myself designing almost every hour of the day, and eventually, I became burnt out. Design has always been both my career path and my hobby, but I realized that constantly working left me little space to recharge or find fresh inspiration.

To overcome this, I’ve been learning to set boundaries and create time for rest and exploration outside of school or projects. I’ve started to enjoy other creative outlets and allow myself moments to pause, which helps me return to my work with new energy and perspective. Finding balance has not only improved my well-being but has also made my designs stronger and more meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jessica2479.wixstudio.com/my-site-1
• Instagram: @designedbyj3ss
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicapontoriero?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app