The phrase ”You finish how you start” typically rings true – but not for Gayle Dizon. As a first-generation Filipino woman, her parents encouraged her to study business, law, or medicine and she began her college career in finance and marketing. Despite their pleas, Dizon chose what her parents deemed ‘an impractical pursuit’ and embarked on her own path, producing fashion shows and campaigns.

“I realized that production is this incredible blend of music, sets, lights, pacing, choreography, casting, and storytelling through models. It felt like a unique merging of so many disciplines,” Dizon explained. “I love using my knowledge of manufacturing, logistics, styling, photography, music, casting, and lighting to help build brands from the ground up.”

Dizon began her career at Calvin Klein in the early 1990s working directly with the designer and his business partner Barry Schwartz.  Back then, the production team fell under PR and was a two-woman show as she trained under Carolyn Bessette, handling all show and event production, non-advertising shoots, casting, and talent booking.

“It was a unique opportunity that taught me how to interact with agencies and approach creativity through a brand lens. Calvin in the nineties was iconic, and being part of a small, intimate team of about 325 employees created a dynamic environment that demanded a strong work ethic,” Dizon recalled.

Today, she still applies the principles she learned at Calvin — attention to detail, strategic storytelling, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

“While I strive to bring innovation to my work, what truly sets me apart is my commitment to kindness, adaptability, and collaboration,” she said. “Above all, I value the contributions and diverse perspectives of my team, which I believe have been key to my success in various roles.”

It is also her drive to create and excel in production and fashion, ignited by a deep love for the industry and a clear vision of her goals that set her apart.

“I was wide-eyed and eager, but looking back, I am proud of what I have accomplished, especially as a non-white woman in an industry that has not always been diverse or inclusive,” she said. “Through the 1990s and into the early 2000s, I kept my head down and worked hard, always driven by a passion to make a difference and break down barriers.

“What fueled my drive to start my own company in 2000 stemmed from my experiences during the hardcore ’90s fashion era,” she added. “To help people understand how challenging it was, I often compare it to The Devil Wears Prada. I wanted to build something different: an agency that led with integrity, humanity, and kindness – qualities I rarely experienced in previous roles. In the fashion world, you learn that there is no room for vulnerability. But I believed it was possible to be successful while treating people with decency and respect.”

Failure has never intimidated her from creating the life she wants in fashion. Instead, each choice, whether successful or not, has made her wiser and better equipped to navigate the industry.

“In this fast-paced industry, there is no time to dwell on failures. Thick skin and learning from mistakes are crucial. Recognizing each outcome as a learning opportunity and asking, ‘What did I learn today?’ helps you stay resilient and adaptable,” she shared.

Dizon finds courage by staying focused on her vision, drawing from past successes, and leaning on her supportive network.

“These experiences are dreamlike,” she said. “I get to explore and learn about these incredible spaces and their architecture, all while working with passionate, innovative people.”

Moving forward, Dizon aims to pursue new ventures and continuously improve the approach, all while remaining aligned with her core vision.

“I am most excited about branching into brand consultation, development, and universe creation,” she said. “It is about taking what we have been doing in the event and experiential world and expanding it into its own universe.”