As a Black female entrepreneur, Carrington values diversity and inclusion as much as she does quality. Originally from Gary Indiana, Debra got her start in retail in Chicago on its Magnificent Mile. In 2005, she relocated to California, first working in Orange County in television sales management and media and later in Los Angeles in the entertainment industry. At the time, there were a lot of television shows featuring Black and minority actors, but they didn’t have the merchandise programs to go along with them. Carrington’s entrepreneurial vision led her to starting a company that focused on developing and managing the licensing programs for her clients – the studios, corporate brands, and celebrities.

How did your work managing diversity-based licensing programs for Viacom-Paramount Entertainment, Sony Entertainment, American Greetings and others lead you to opening Summer Colony Living?

I really wanted to launch a platform to showcase brands that most people don’t know about….but should. My ultimate goal was to create an all-encompassing lifestyle brand around resort living. What began as a small pop-up in 2017 has since expanded to a 3,500 square foot space on El Paseo in Palm Desert, CA. I am inspired by talented (although perhaps lesser known) designers and want to provide the community with new and different options.

In addition to the diverse offerings in designer women’s and men’s apparel, accessories, fine jewelry, home décor and art that we carry, we also began offering custom bridal gowns a few years ago – and it’s opened new ways to invest in the LGBTQ community. I am proud to now offer same-sex wedding attire within Summer Colony Living’s bridal collection, and to partner with the National Gay Wedding Association.

What directed you to Palm Desert, and what is behind the name Summer Colony Living?

The term “summer colony” is often used to describe well-known resorts and upper-class enclaves. Many of these historic communities are considered quiet bastions of old money. Additionally, their economies tend to be driven largely by tourist trade. The inspiration of the brand comes from those who love a very casual yet sophisticated lifestyle. Palm Springs became a fashionable resort in the early 1900s when health tourists arrived to take advantage of the dry heat. Palm Desert, 14 miles east, has been one of the state’s fastest growing cities since 1980 – and has become the Coachella Valley’s premier luxury shopping destination.

When I was first introduced to you (by CFDA Member Paul Marlow), your store was described as a “gathering place” and you as a true admirer – a champion – of fashion designers and great design.

As a consumer, I have always gravitated toward small boutiques and shops. I am truly dedicated to elevating others through fashion and creativity. I love showcasing emerging designers while introducing our national brands to new audiences. They tend to complement each other in a unique way. Our typical customer seeks quality and uniqueness as well as a more personal “one-on-one, touch-and-feel” shopping experience. We have a great way of taking people outside of their norm and showing them things that they wouldn’t necessarily think about. I enjoy the fact that Summer Colony Living has become a shared destination of so many in the community.

Who are some of the CFDA Members that you carry?

We just hosted an event with fine jewelry designer Coomi Bhasin of COOMI. We carry established CFDA Members – including Jason Wu and Vera Wang – as well as newer designers such as Nicole Benefield, Patrick Cupid and Paul Marlow. We’re always looking for others!