Available to hire
I’m Jennifer Vaupel, a senior apparel designer and production manager with extensive experience spanning fashion design, product development, and production oversight for apparel, accessories, and home decor. I lead concepts from initial sketches through buy/commit decisions, manage tech packs, fit sessions, and collaborate closely with Creative Director, Marketing, and vendors to deliver on-brand products on time. I excel at pattern/grading, garment construction, and packaging/label design, and I build sourcing libraries to streamline development and production across domestic and international factories.
I leverage strong trend analysis and consumer insight to develop unique designs while maintaining brand standards across multiple categories. My work emphasizes fit accuracy, quality construction, and efficient cross-functional communication from concept to final product, ensuring consistency and success across all product lines.
Experience Level
Language
English
Fluent
Work Experience
Senior Apparel Designer/Production Manager at Faceplant Dreams
May 1, 2021 - PresentCreates and maintains products from development to buy/commit, including concepts, sketches, bill of materials, sample requests, and daily communication of changes to internal and external groups. Analyzes products for spec, construction, fit intent, and aesthetic. Leads in-house fit sessions, coordinates changes to vendors via tech packs, and evaluates fabric and components for wearability and performance. Builds and maintains sourcing libraries (spec/CAD/line sheets, product reviews, costing sheets, materials/tariff codes, style numbers) and collaborates with Creative Director, Marketing/Sales, and vendors. Manages technical design across women’s, men’s, gift items, and bedding; maintains fit consistency and quality standards. Designs packaging and labels and coordinates with overseas vendors to uphold brand standards.
Alterations Specialist at David’s Bridal
March 1, 2023 - October 21, 2025Performs fittings to David’s Bridal standards; executes alterations on bridal gowns, bridesmaids, flower girl, and special occasion dresses using industrial and hand sewing techniques. Maintains quality control, delivers garments by agreed dates, completes alteration tickets with accurate pricing, and resolves customer service issues. Supports sales by validating garment fit with stylists and communicating supply needs to management. Oversees equipment maintenance and client fittings.
Senior Product Development/Assistant Manager at Cousin Corporation of America
March 1, 2021 - October 21, 2025Managed multiple projects with tight timelines and seasonal changes. Tracked current and emerging fashion/retail trends; assisted Creative Manager with design of new product lines; updated product lines with buyers seasonally and non-seasonally. Created and maintained tech packs, planograms, and trend boards; developed finished accessories and jewelry components for mass retailers. Traveled for sourcing and trend research; developed licensed products with DC Comics, Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter, Swarovski, and LaurDIY. Led domestic and international teams to meet commercialization requirements; built and maintained sourcing libraries for communication with factories.
On-Call Costume Specialist at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
March 1, 2016 - October 21, 2025Worked during peak holiday seasons for Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Town. Maintained inventory and costumes, constructed and altered costumes and accessories, and assisted with test fittings. Organized fabric and accessory libraries, fit entertainers, and performed repairs to garments. Created design changes and patterns to fit measurements, sewed garments, and assisted in laundering and storage logistics. Supported makeup application as needed.
Director of Marketing/Design at Diane Dal Lago (Collegiate Fashionista)
April 1, 2014 - October 21, 2025Developed advertising materials (flyers, web pages, media kits) for sale reps and vendors. Managed trade shows (CAMEX, Atlanta Mart, ICBA, Dallas Mart), developed licensing products for collegiate apparel, tracked trends, and managed design for new accessories. Updated samples seasonally; created Spec, Logo, and CAD sheets for major vendors and smaller boutiques. Designed measurements for design detail placements and supported licensing programs.
On-Call Production-Production Manager at Diane Dal Lago
April 1, 2012 - October 21, 2025On-call production manager overseeing production schedules, vendor communications, and quality control for apparel and accessories projects.
Visual Merchandiser-Visual Merch Manager at Bealls Department Store
September 1, 2012 - October 21, 2025Led visual merchandising and floor set planning, collaborating with buyers to align displays with seasonal campaigns and brand standards.
Assembly Line at ACS
July 1, 2015 - October 21, 2025Performed assembly line tasks to support production and quality goals in a fast-paced environment.
Lead Visual/Sales at Burlington Coat Factory
July 1, 2010 - October 21, 2025Led visual merchandising and sales initiatives; ensured store presentation aligned with corporate guidelines and drove sales.
Assistant Manager at Spencer Gifts
August 1, 2004 - October 21, 2025Assistant Manager overseeing store operations, staff performance, and guest services across multiple locations (Tampa/Fort Myers).
Assistant Manager at Forever21
February 1, 2002 - October 21, 2025Assistant Manager responsible for daily operations, merchandising, and staff development in Jacksonville, FL.
Education
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design and Marketing at International Academy of Design & Technology, Tampa, FL
January 11, 2030 - October 21, 2025Qualifications
Industry Experience
Retail, Consumer Goods, Manufacturing, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services
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