A dynamic Fashion Production Manager with a proven track record at Couture Culture and Arts, I excel in fashion styling and show production, enhancing brand visibility and fostering strong industry relationships. My creative direction and teamwork have consistently driven growth, with a keen eye for fashion forecasting and a commitment to exceptional customer service.
Hi, I’m
Meghan Durnford
Mississauga,ON
Summary
Overview
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Couture Culture and Arts (CCA)
Fashion Production Manager
10.2017 - Current
Job overview
- Developed a loyal customer base through exceptional service and personalized styling consultations.
- Enhanced brand reputation by implementing innovative fashion campaigns and collaborations.
- Negotiated favorable contracts with vendors, ensuring competitive pricing on high-quality products.
- Established strong relationships with key industry influencers to expand brand reach and awareness.
- Coordinated fashion shows highlighting top-selling items, generating buzz around the brand and driving demand for featured pieces.
- Analyzed market trends to identify opportunities for growth within the fashion industry landscape.
- Fostered a positive work environment, resulting in high employee retention rates and increased job satisfaction.
- Collaborated with designers to ensure timely delivery of new collections and accurate merchandise presentation.
- 2017 Amato Couture Runway Show- Canadian Debut for International Designer. Finale Designer for TFW's ultimate show, and independent runway show in Yorkville- assisted with production and behind-the-scenes duties, the first event with Couture Culture and Arts
- CCA Editorial Model Search in 2018, and 2019, produced several photo shoots and runway shows for our competitors alongside Claris Manglicmot (CCA Founder and Creative Director)
- Multiple Photo Shoots for designer and model clients produced and styled by CCA from 2017- Present which I was involved in the planning and execution of
- Assisted in styling a variety of photo shoots
- Performed PR duties for Editorial Search components and various photo shoots
- Behind-the-scenes organization and prep for various shoots and runway shows
- Casting communications with models and responsibilities for photo shoots, shows, etc.
- Published in many fashion outlets as a freelance writer, approximately 65 stories in print to date
- Assisted in casting the Fashion Circuit Series in 2023 and communications with all of the many models
- Day of Fashion Circuit Series assisted in backstage flow, management of models, dressing, and quick-changes
- Assisted in the casting of the inaugural Toronto Fashion Experience, handled exclusive communications with approximately 70 models leading up to the event
- Coordinated models backstage during the event, flow of day including hair-and-makeup order and additional fittings with designers
- Assisted the 12 designers with their castings, styling, and show order
- Called the models during the actual show and sent them down the runway in their order
- Have built a roster of models, designers, photographers, and videographers to date that am proud to work with again in future
- Coordinated runway show and photo shoot at the Toronto Divina Dali art exhibit
- Assisted in production of Gala event for TJ Collectibles designs, produced photo shoot and awards ceremony at Gala
- Working currently with La Coutts handbag brand and produced a photo shoot and runway show at their one-year anniversary party in Thornton, ON
- Produced two designer segments at inaugural Fashion Week TO event: casting models, running fittings, styling backstage, calling models at runway during the show
- Cast models for and produced runway show at The Divina Dali Art Exhibit in Toronto
- Cast models for and produced the 2nd Annual Toronto Fashion Experience (TFE)- ran the fittings process with designers, handled all model communications and instructions (75 Models, 12 Designers), Called the fashion show during live presentation, and coordinated the backstage proceedings throughout the event including model assignment, placements, and hair and makeup delegation
- Produced and cast models for Fashion Circuit Series '24 Event, produced two designers' segments, called models for the runway, ran the fittings and coordinated the backstage proceedings during the event
- Produced two designers' segments for Toronto Vanguard International- cast and fit several models for the show, coordinated backstage details
- Cast for and produced fashion presentation for Toronto Youth Day '24- fittings/backstage/called models/coordinate logistics
- Various Photo Shoots for brands and designers in 2024- cast models, coordinated with designers and models, ran fittings, styled looks
- Produced and ran the fashion presentation for inaugural Toronto Mimosa Fest '24: cast models and designers, ran fittings and event backstage as well as called models and coordinated logistics
- Cast for and produced the fashion presentation featured at The Golden Balangay Foundation Awards in Niagara Falls- ran the backstage fittings, logistics, and coordinated the fashion event
- Cast exclusive private wealth management event on the 49th floor of the CIBC building in Toronto for designer La Coutts, handled logistics, fittings, styling, etc.
- Produced the Mister International Canada Pageant- cast the models, recruited designers, cast the sponsored 12 contestants, handled exclusive model and contestant communications over two months, ran the backstage during the day of the event including 12 contestants, 6 designers, and 25 models, as well as hair and makeup, media, etc.
- Assisted backstage at Fashion Art Toronto '24: backstage coordination and logistics for one designer, fittings/styling
- Produced two designer segments for Toronto Kids Fashion Week '24: handled fittings and styling, coordination backstage
- Produced the fashion segment for a TV show for Your TV Halton spot- cast, fit, and coordinated with models, hair and makeup, and media
- For all events listed, handled post-event communication and coordinated photographers/videographers and distributed their work to the models, designers, etc.
- More events planned and upcoming, currently working on casting and production
Andrews Family
Private Nanny
09.2018 - Current
Job overview
- Developed strong relationships with parents, maintaining open communication about each child''s progress and needs.
- Oversaw household duties such as light housekeeping tasks or running errands when required.
- Played games, worked on puzzles, and read books to young children.
- Prepared healthy, age-appropriate snacks and meals.
- Built positive and nurturing environments to support child social and emotional growth.
- Organized and cleaned home after activities by picking up toys and straightening up play room.
- Bathed, dressed, and helped with teeth brushing as part of bedtime preparation.
- Established clear expectations for behavior, setting boundaries to create a respectful atmosphere within the home.
- Led indoor and outdoor activities to entertain and occupy children.
- Enhanced children''s emotional well-being by providing consistent and nurturing care.
- Communicated with children at age-appropriate levels to encourage understanding and foster relationships.
- Promoted healthy eating habits by preparing nutritious meals and snacks on a daily basis.
- Conducted regular safety checks and maintained a clean, hazard-free environment for the children at all times.
- Implemented daily routines for optimal child development and created a structured environment.
- Organized engaging activities that incorporated age-appropriate educational components for cognitive development.
- Adapted caregiving approaches based on individual needs of each child to provide personalized support.
- Assisted with homework and school projects, fostering a love for learning in the children.
- Collaborated with parents to establish effective bedtime routines, resulting in improved sleep patterns for the children.
- Supported emotional growth by helping children navigate conflicts with empathy and understanding while teaching problem-solving skills.
- Provided safe transportation to and from school, extracurricular activities, and other events.
- Facilitated creative expression through art projects, imaginative play, storytelling sessions, and more.
- Monitored screen time usage to promote healthy balance between technology use and offline activities in daily life.
- Encouraged social interactions through playdates, group outings, and community events.
- Planned special outings or themed days around children's interests or areas of study in their school curriculum.
- Taught children everyday skills and language.
- Taught children basic life skills, manners and personal hygiene.
- Managed medical appointments, ensuring regular check-ups and vaccinations were up-to-date for each child.
Freelance-writers
Freelance Writer
05.2014 - Current
Job overview
- Utilized exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills to produce engaging and error-free content.
- Collaborated with editors to refine drafts, ensuring consistent tone and style across various platforms.
- Interviewed individuals by phone, video chat and in-person to write news stories.
- Generated ideas for new content series or formats based on audience interests and market trends.
- Wrote and edited high-quality content and visually impactful programs under deadline pressure with exciting, captivating, and authentic approach.
- Conducted thorough research on diverse topics, producing well-informed pieces that resonated with readers.
- Brainstormed ideas to create useful content for clients.
- Adapted writing styles based on different platforms such as social media, blog posts, and print materials.
- Organized material to research and complete writing tasks.
- Followed company policies and editorial guidelines to craft thorough, well-written content.
- Developed engaging articles for online publications, resulting in increased readership and social media shares.
- Wrote compelling, succinct, clear news scripts under tight deadlines.
- Tailored writing style and tone to match various clients' brand voices, enhancing their connection with target audiences.
- Streamlined content creation process, cutting down project turnaround time without compromising on quality.
- Coordinated with graphic designers to produce multimedia content that complemented and enhanced written articles, increasing overall content consumption.
- Managed competing deadlines with efficiency.
- Created content for websites and online publications.
- Composed original written material for various types of publications and submitted for approval by supervisor, editor or publisher.
- Edited and proofread drafts of articles and other documents.
- Developed and pitched story ideas to editors.
- Completed accurate and polished formatting in line with publishing standards prior to submission.
- Consulted with editors to shape story and eliminate any errors.
- Chose cover photography or artwork, selected fonts, and arranged designs to attract target readership.
- Prepared and submitted professional proposals to select publishers to outline works, promotional skills and literary experience.
- Wrote advertising material for use by publication, broadcast or internet media to promote sale of goods and services.
Costa Blanca Accessories
Sales Associate/Key Holder
08.2011 - 01.2012
Job overview
- Handled cash transactions efficiently while adhering to company cash handling policies, ensuring accuracy in all financial exchanges.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
- Maintained calm demeanor and professionally managed issues in busy, high-stress situations.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Helped customers locate products and checked store system for merchandise at other sites.
- Answered customer questions about sizing, accessories, and merchandise care.
- Provided positive first impressions to welcome existing, new, and potential customers.
- Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability and store appearance.
- Engaged with customers to build rapport and loyalty.
- Boosted customer satisfaction levels through exceptional service, addressing concerns promptly, and providing a welcoming store environment.
- Accurately processed POS transactions, returning coin, currency, payment cards, and receipts to customers.
- Collaborated with team members to improve overall store performance, sharing best practices, and offering support as needed.
- Increased sales revenue by building strong rapport with customers and recommending appropriate products based on their needs.
- Educated clients on current promotional offerings and products using persuasive selling tactics.
- Assessed customer needs and utilized suggestive selling techniques to drive sales.
- Assisted in training new staff members on company policies, product information, and sales techniques for a seamless onboarding experience.
- Minimized wait times for customers during peak hours, maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction.
- Achieved monthly sales targets consistently by implementing effective sales strategies and maintaining a high level of product knowledge.
- Enhanced team productivity by fostering a positive work environment and providing support to colleagues as needed.
- Managed conflict resolution with dissatisfied customers professionally, resulting in improved customer retention rates.
- Maintained accurate inventory records to ensure adequate stock levels, minimizing out-of-stock situations that could impact customer satisfaction.
- Contributed to visual merchandising efforts by creating eye-catching displays that showcased products effectively and enticed shoppers to make purchases.
- Participated in team meetings and training sessions regularly for continuous professional development within the retail industry.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve monthly sales targets.
- Monitored sales trends to adjust sales strategies and meet changing customer demands.
- Collaborated with management team to develop sales strategies and goals, aligning with company objectives.
- Assisted in inventory management tasks, such as stock replenishment and cycle counts, to ensure product availability.
- Contributed to positive shopping environment by maintaining organized and welcoming store appearance.
- Participated in visual merchandising, creating attractive displays that stimulated customer interest and sales.
- Led team meetings focused on sales techniques and product features, boosting overall team performance.
- Managed efficient cash register operations.
- Stocked merchandise, clearly labeling items, and arranging according to size or color.
- Engaged in friendly conversation with customer to better uncover individual needs.
- Organized racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote specific merchandise.
Jacob Boutique
Sales Associate
11.2010 - 06.2011
Job overview
- Handled cash transactions efficiently while adhering to company cash handling policies, ensuring accuracy in all financial exchanges.
- Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Helped customers locate products and checked store system for merchandise at other sites.
- Answered customer questions about sizing, accessories, and merchandise care.
- Provided positive first impressions to welcome existing, new, and potential customers.
- Solved customer challenges by offering relevant products and services.
- Accurately processed POS transactions, returning coin, currency, payment cards, and receipts to customers.
- Collaborated with team members to improve overall store performance, sharing best practices, and offering support as needed.
- Organized racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote specific merchandise.
Otello's Banquet Hall
Server/Assistant
11.2008 - 08.2012
Job overview
- Greeted customers warmly to provide exceptional customer service.
- Bussed tables between courses and load and unloaded trays to expedite tasks.
- Utilized strong multitasking abilities to manage multiple responsibilities effectively, ensuring a smooth flow of service during peak meal times.
- Maintained a clean and organized dining area by routinely sweeping floors, wiping surfaces, and removing trash.
- Delivered customer orders promptly and with attention to accuracy and satisfaction.
- Kept close eye on customers to quickly spot leaving guests and clear tables for future patrons.
- Adapted quickly to changing circumstances, such as accommodating last-minute reservations or handling unexpected guest requests, demonstrating flexibility and professionalism under pressure.
- Refilled drinks and condiments and restocked serving areas to minimize delays.
- Maintained clean, safe and organized work environment to safeguard servers and patrons.
- Contributed to a positive team environment by working cooperatively with fellow server assistants and other restaurant staff members.
Aldo Accessories
Sales Associate/Key Holder
08.2007 - 10.2010
Job overview
- Organized racks and shelves to maintain store visual appeal, engage customers, and promote specific merchandise.
- Handled cash transactions efficiently while adhering to company cash handling policies, ensuring accuracy in all financial exchanges.
- Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
- Managed returns, exchanges and refunds in accordance with store policy.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Maintained calm demeanor and professionally managed issues in busy, high-stress situations.
- Helped customers locate products and checked store system for merchandise at other sites.
- Provided positive first impressions to welcome existing, new, and potential customers.
- Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability and store appearance.
- Engaged with customers to build rapport and loyalty.
- Boosted customer satisfaction levels through exceptional service, addressing concerns promptly, and providing a welcoming store environment.
- Solved customer challenges by offering relevant products and services.
- Accurately processed POS transactions, returning coin, currency, payment cards, and receipts to customers.
- Collaborated with team members to improve overall store performance, sharing best practices, and offering support as needed.
- Educated clients on current promotional offerings and products using persuasive selling tactics.
- Assessed customer needs and utilized suggestive selling techniques to drive sales.
- Assisted in training new staff members on company policies, product information, and sales techniques for a seamless onboarding experience.
- Minimized wait times for customers during peak hours, maintaining a high level of customer satisfaction.
- Achieved monthly sales targets consistently by implementing effective sales strategies and maintaining a high level of product knowledge.
- Enhanced team productivity by fostering a positive work environment and providing support to colleagues as needed.
- Managed conflict resolution with dissatisfied customers professionally, resulting in improved customer retention rates.
- Contributed to visual merchandising efforts by creating eye-catching displays that showcased products effectively and enticed shoppers to make purchases.
- Participated in team meetings and training sessions regularly for continuous professional development within the retail industry.
- Provided personalized shopping experiences for repeat customers by remembering their preferences and offering tailored recommendations.
- Organized in-store promotions and events to increase foot traffic and drive additional sales opportunities.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve monthly sales targets.
- Monitored sales trends to adjust sales strategies and meet changing customer demands.
- Maintained accurate inventory records to ensure adequate stock levels, minimizing out-of-stock situations that could impact customer satisfaction.
- Participated in visual merchandising, creating attractive displays that stimulated customer interest and sales.
- Managed inventory to ensure product availability, contributing to uptick in sales.
- Utilized CRM tools to track customer interactions and sales, enhancing effectiveness of follow-up communications.
- Provided training to new staff on sales techniques and store procedures, ensuring consistent customer service experience.
- Led team meetings focused on sales techniques and product features, boosting overall team performance.
- Stocked merchandise, clearly labeling items, and arranging according to size or color.
- Opened, shelved and merchandised new products in visually appealing and organized displays for optimal sales promotions.
- Volunteered for extra shifts during holidays and other busy periods to alleviate staffing shortages.
Le Delice Pastry Shop
Cashier/Server
02.2007 - 12.2007
Job overview
- Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
- Greeted customers entering store and responded promptly to customer needs.
- Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
- Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
- Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
- Restocked and organized merchandise in front lanes.
- Stocked, tagged and displayed merchandise as required.
- Assisted customers with inquiries and provided exceptional service, resulting in positive feedback from shoppers.
- Resolved customer complaints professionally, leading to improved customer relations and loyalty.
- Contributed to store success by maintaining high standards of cleanliness throughout the facility.
Real Canadian Superstore
Cashier/Front End
08.2006 - 02.2007
Job overview
- Greeted customers entering store and responded promptly to customer needs.
- Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
- Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
- Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
- Assisted customers with inquiries and provided exceptional service, resulting in positive feedback from shoppers.
- Contributed to store success by maintaining high standards of cleanliness throughout the facility.
Education
University of TorontoToronto, None
Courses Completed from English Literature, Women And Gender Studies, Film
University Overview
Skills
- Schedule management
- Fashion styling
- Fashion show production
- Creative direction
- Fashion writing
- Personal shopping
- Fashion forecasting
- Clothing organization
- Positive attitude
- Teamwork
- Styling advice
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Attention to detail
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Interests
My personal interests range from fashion and styling, to a passion for film and film history, to historical events and studying impactful events in the past I enjoy working with others and collaborating on projects together, as well as helping others in need whenever I can I have a strong sense of family values and spend a generous amount of time with my own family and helping them with various tasks I am most satisfied after a successful event or a busy day that has gone well, and appreciate the little joys in life that some may not take the time to notice I love design in all forms- clothing, accessories, architecture, interior design, and aesthetics Make-up and hair have always been an exciting outlet for me as well and I like to experiment with new looks for myself and my friends With years spent in customer service and working with people, I have learned that I am meant to work with others and serve them in some way which best utilizes my skillset
Timeline
Private Nanny
Andrews Family
09.2018 - Current
Fashion Production Manager
Couture Culture and Arts (CCA)
10.2017 - Current
Freelance Writer
Freelance-writers
05.2014 - Current
Sales Associate/Key Holder
Costa Blanca Accessories
08.2011 - 01.2012
Sales Associate
Jacob Boutique
11.2010 - 06.2011
Server/Assistant
Otello's Banquet Hall
11.2008 - 08.2012
Sales Associate/Key Holder
Aldo Accessories
08.2007 - 10.2010
Cashier/Server
Le Delice Pastry Shop
02.2007 - 12.2007
Cashier/Front End
Real Canadian Superstore
08.2006 - 02.2007
University of Toronto
Courses Completed from English Literature, Women And Gender Studies, Film
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