about me
Creativity has always been a lens through which I see the world. Growing up with grandparents in the dry-cleaning and tailoring business, I was introduced early on to the power of craft and detail—often creating projects on a knee-lever Singer and cultivating a sharp eye for detail. By the time I could reach displays at my mother’s favorite clothing stores, I was already rearranging jewelry and observing the impact of branding. These early experiences shaped my love for design and placemaking, and my education at The Shannon Rodgers and Jerry Silverman School of Fashion Design and Merchandising at Kent State University refined this foundation into a skill set that connects design with strategy in practical, meaningful ways.
Formative experiences with industry experts in Florence and New York City deepened my understanding of tastemaking, craftsmanship, and the strategic art of brand storytelling. My curiosity about branding—its philosophy, psychology, and cultural impact—has driven my career and ignited a passion for creating community-centered brand strategies that make a genuine impact. I’ve seen firsthand how a brand’s success depends on understanding its audience, building purposeful partnerships, and adapting to evolving market needs. Known for my business acumen and ability to balance high-level strategy with hands-on execution, I manage initiatives with enthusiasm and vision, blending insight and innovation to authentically connect brands with their communities through shared values.
Whether designing loyalty programs, analyzing trends and consumer insights, crafting impactful pitch decks, or leading large-scale activations, I bring a thoughtful, organized approach that fosters collaboration and builds strong relationships with partners, businesses, and vendors. Described as a trusted advisor with a talent for balancing empathy, professionalism, and high standards for quality, I strive to create experiences that resonate. With each initiative, my work embodies purpose and elevates the consumer experience in meaningful ways.
Based in Boston, I find constant inspiration in art, nature, and the vibrant community around me. You’ll often find me in a yoga flow, sourcing treasures at estate sales, brewing a perfect cup of coffee, or reading in the Public Garden and connecting with friends and strangers. I hold Anthony Bourdain’s words close to heart: “Travel changes you.” I’m humbled by the experiences and opportunities life has offered so far, and I remain a sponge for lessons, insights, and new perspectives.
testimonials
press
Holdette’s ‘women@work’ column 12/2019
Original Photo
“Gillian Dunn, an alumna of Kent State University, is a new member of the WS Development team where she works as a digital content coordinator creating and strategizing content for Boston’s Seaport neighborhood as it expands. Gillian sat down with Holdette to talk all things influencer, social media, and creativity after your 9-5. She is also my [aka Harper] old manager at my last internship!” … read more
boston magazine’s ‘hubthreads’ column 04/2018
Photo by Diana Levine
“Critics say this city has no style. We’re here to prove them wrong. Welcome to HubThreads, where we chat with the most stylish people we find out and about in Boston.
What brought you to Boston? I studied fashion merchandising at Kent State University, I minored in media and concentrated in sustainability. But after graduating I didn’t really have a route. My sister lives on Cape Cod and she offered for me to live with her, so I moved there. I came to Boston to visit friends and just fell in love with it. I worked four part-time jobs for six months on the cape before moving here a week ago.” … read more
MERAKI (ΜΕΡΆΚΙ) - THE SOUL, CREATIVITY, OR LOVE PUT INTO SOMETHING; THE ESSENCE OF YOURSELF PUT INTO YOUR WORK