john Ariola
Founder, Designer · Monroe Studios
Happy Valley, ORIn My Own Words
I recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in Design Innovation & Management with a minor in Merchandise Management at Oregon State University. My passion lies in the intersection of business, fashion, outdoor sports and marketing, cultivated through hands-on experiences in the apparel, public relations, retail, and graphic design sectors. As a founder of a startup clothing brand and with previous experience in Management, I possess proficiency in a range of skills from customer service, project coordination, social media marketing, adobe, and Microsoft suites among others.
Work Experience
Founder, Designer
Monroe Studios2022 – Present
- Led the creative direction, planning & execution of 9 collections, handling around 500 merchandise units. - In-charge of sewing and pattern drafting for all custom orders - Managed supplier and customer communication to confirm timely delivery of samples and launch materials. - Planned and executed social media content and photoshoots - Coordinated road mapping for current and future projects. - Responsible for documenting invoices, product inventory, and sales data - demonstrating attention to detail. - Used A/B testing for apparel samples to refine product quality and improve customer satisfaction.
Mentee, Designer
Soho House2024 – 2024
- Participated in a 16 week mentorship program where I got paired up with a mentor in the creative industry. - Led all aspects of design from ideation phase, moodboard, pattern making, sourcing fabrics, and construction of garment. - Collaborated with another creative mentee to launch a short film of the design process for the garments I constructed - Constructed 2 looks compromising 4 garments cohesive to the theme “Heritage” in tight timeline of 2 and a half weeks - Strengthen my technical skills from refurbishing my resume, portfolio and networking skills
Store Management Trainee/ Assistant Store Manager
Kohls2024 – 2024
- Led Men's Department sales, increasing YTD sales by 7%. - Managed team to execute merchandise reflows to meet the company's look book, meeting strict deadlines and ensuring timely project completion - Acted as the first point of contact for inquiries regarding customer and store operations needs to ensure a positive environment for the customers and employees. - Monitored & tracked sales data and operational audits to adhere to the company’s compliance guidelines
Store Management Intern
Kohls2023 – 2023
- Worked side by side with assistant store manager and store manager to oversee all of store operations - Implemented projects within Men's Department to improve sell through percentage - provided extra resources for individual store departments - Managed customer service needs and helping employees problem solve with any issues or disputes
Education
Bachelors of Science in Design Innovation & Management
Oregon State University2020 – 2024
Minor in Merchandising Management Cum Laude Honors with 3.54 GPA
Projects
Design Portfolio
https://www.johnariola.comMy design portfolio highlights some of my recent design projects I have done both professionally and during my time In Oregon State University. These projects showcases my skills in project coordination, merchandising, entrepreneurship, fashion design and more.
