Ayana Patterson

- Conceptualized, designed, engineered and managed numerous signature collections including travel games, travel boxes, tableware, stemware, barware, decorative accessories, frames, small furniture, lighting and umbrellas.

- Managed and mentored junior staff and freelance on projects, helping them to build an understanding of manufacturing, construction and user experience for the luxury consumer.

- Collaborated with merchandising, sourcing and buying teams to strategize and create successful assortments that drive business.

- Traveled to Europe and Asia to gather market information, attended trade shows and find trends and inspiration.
Led extensive travel to Europe and Asia visiting factories to understand manufacturing, materials, and capabilities. Established good working relationships with international vendors.

- Key Accomplishments
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- Reduced sampling costs by utilizing knowledge of materials and the manufacturing process.

- Awarded with the project of developing a statement piece that embodied both the history and future of Ralph Lauren for his 50th anniversary.

- Developed and implemented organizational solutions to improve team communication and workflow.

- Recognized by Kohl’s management and clients as a top performer for creative and timely designs.

- Led high-priority expansion of the Bobby Flay brand, including tabletop and textiles.

- Continuously developed brand aesthetic and styling through trend research, client collaboration and consumer feedback.

- Maintained close client relationship with Bobby Flay and his team to create strong brand and trend-right designs.

- Developed a top-selling multimillion-dollar seasonal Bobby Flay melamine tabletop collection.

- Created several highly successful dinnerware and cookware lines for Food Network.

- Conducted trend and color research through local and European travel in addition to attending trade and trend show presentations.

- Selected as a member of the start-up team of Kohl’s Private Label Design studio in New York City.

- Performed trend analysis and competitive research.

- Established strong communication with Food Network and Bobby Flay product representatives.

- Provided design support for the launching of the Food Network and Bobby Flay private label brands.

- Designed dinnerware, cookware, bake-ware and textiles for both Food Network and Bobby Flay brands through ideation sketches, renderings and technical drawings.