From Fashion to Cannabis: Brett Heyman's Entrepreneurial Journey
This article delves into the inspiring career of Brett Heyman, founder and creative director of Edie Parker and Flower by Edie Parker. It traces her journey from a fashion intern to a trailblazing entrepreneur, highlighting her experiences in a male-dominated industry and her personal philosophies on success and well-being. Heyman's narrative emphasizes the significance of self-belief, resilience, and a compassionate approach in both personal and professional spheres. Her story serves as a testament to the power of intuition and strategic planning in navigating the complexities of business and life.
Brett Heyman's Ascent: Pioneering Women's Leadership in Fashion and Cannabis
In a revealing discussion for ELLE's "Office Hours" series, Brett Heyman, the driving force behind Edie Parker, recounted her journey of building a successful enterprise from the ground up. Sixteen years ago, Heyman boldly departed from her public relations role at Gucci, embarking on a mission to create her own accessories brand. Seven years later, she ventured into the burgeoning cannabis sector, establishing Flower by Edie Parker. This initiative has since grown exponentially, proudly standing as the largest woman-owned and operated cannabis brand across America.
Heyman’s early career began with a formative internship at ELLE magazine during her freshman year of college. She fondly recalled the experience, particularly her admiration for then-fashion director Nina Garcia, and how this immersive period solidified her ambitions within the fashion world. Reflecting on less favorable professional moments, Heyman mentioned her time volunteering in production trucks at broadcast sports events in the '90s. She described the environment as less than ideal for a woman, highlighting the inherent challenges of working in a male-dominated field, yet maintained a positive outlook on her overall career path.
Addressing her position as a woman in a traditionally male-centric industry, Heyman views it not as a hindrance but as a distinct advantage. She noted that in the cannabis industry, which she characterized as being dominated by "cowboys," her all-female team at Flower by Edie Parker has been instrumental in understanding and catering to women's preferences, enabling them to cut through the competitive landscape. She expressed pride in her team, which is 100 percent female, a composition that evolved naturally as women consistently proved to be the best candidates for every role.
Among the valuable lessons she has acquired, Heyman stressed the paramount importance of treating everyone with kindness. This philosophy extends to her team and vendors, reflecting her deep appreciation for their contributions to her vision. She recently adopted a new daily mantra: affirming each night that "Something wonderful is going to happen tomorrow," and each morning, "Something wonderful is going to happen today," underscoring her belief in the power of positive affirmations and manifesting intentions.
Heyman is a staunch advocate for self-trust, particularly for women, believing that feminine intuition is "infallible." She advises following one's gut instincts, balancing this self-assurance with practicality. She recounted how her own decision to launch her business, though guided by intuition, was also supported by prior savings and work experience, illustrating the synergy between belief and pragmatism. For creative blocks, she recommends engaging with the outside world—visiting museums, galleries, or vintage shops—and surrounding oneself with other imaginative individuals. When faced with adversity, Heyman advocates for a pragmatic approach: making lists, accepting responsibility for mistakes, and pushing through challenges with determination, rather than succumbing to panic. Her perspective on work-life balance centers on the idea of four essential pillars—self-care, relationships, family, and work—acknowledging that perfecting all four simultaneously is often impossible. Instead, she suggests flexibility and self-compassion, allowing for adjustments as life's demands shift, ensuring that three out of four pillars remain strong at any given time.
Brett Heyman’s journey offers profound lessons on resilience, the power of intuition, and the strategic advantages of fostering a supportive, diverse team. Her success in both the fashion and cannabis industries underscores the importance of a clear vision, unwavering determination, and a human-centered approach to business. Her emphasis on kindness, self-trust, and a balanced lifestyle provides a compelling blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women aiming to break barriers in challenging sectors. Heyman’s story inspires us to embrace our unique perspectives and to cultivate an environment where genuine connection and strategic thought pave the way for extraordinary achievements.