About Scarlet Begonias Baby

Sari Marissa's Story

I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in fashion and textile design at Moore College of Art and Design (the only all-women's art school in America). I met some truly incredible and talented people there, and I use something that I learned there every single day. Going to Moore was such an amazing experience and it's a big part of who I am.

It was there I met fashion greats such as Diane Von Furstenberg, Todd Oldham, fellow alum Adrienne Vittadini, Badgley Mishka, Bob Mackie, and Betsey Johnson. I moved to New York and interned for Chloe & Betsey Johnson. I created an accessory for Betsey’s line and dyed all the trims for her show that year.

Following the Betsey Johnson internship, I returned to Philadelphia and worked for three years as a visual merchandiser for H&M.

To be a wife, a mommy, and to run my own small business: this is all I have ever wanted. Ever since I can remember, I have been creating things and selling them — not so much for the money, but for the creative outlet and the thrill of making people happy.

Yes, starting at the tender age of 8, I would sit outside my parent’s house on Bloomfield Avenue in Philadelphia to sell hair bands I had made. My parents would help me attract a crowd and to this day, their support is undying and truly means the world to me.

After seeing the play "Hair" on my 15th birthday, I turned into a "true hippie." With flowers in my long, long hair, I designed, wore and sold patchwork-corduroy pants and dresses; backless, reversible ‘hippie’ halters; and of course, hemp necklaces.

(It was while sporting this garb that I met my best friend and future husband, David. He's a saint who now lives in a home filled with the tulle, rhinestones, paint, and flowers I use to design the Scarlet Begonias Baby line.)

When I was still a teenager, three stores — including one on Philly's infamous South Street — were selling my clothes. I would go to concerts and see other girls wearing my label, and it was by far the biggest thrill to me. I also made "Memory Quilts," filled with photos and hand designed to match the recipient’s personality and home. These fabulous Bat Mitzvah, birthday and anniversary gifts spread by word of mouth, south to Virginia and as far north as Canada.

My past experiences were amazing and very educational, but nothing like my current job, the most incredible and rewarding job in the world: Mommy to a beautiful, perfect li’l princess, Madison Alexa — and I couldn't be happier!

I started making headbands for my li’l Madi, and people kept asking me where I got them.

So it was only natural to take my baby-based creations to market. Soon I was selling them here and there at craft shows and to friends.

I named my company after the Grateful Dead song, "Scarlet Begonias," because of the lyric "she wore scarlet begonias tucked into her curls; I knew right away she was not like other girls."

I'm a huge music fan and I've always loved going to concerts. Music inspires me. That's why my products are given the names of musicians and songs. Every day I think of a new item and I put it on scarletbegonias.com.

I love when I run into people who have worn, seen, heard about or purchased Scarlet Begonias Baby goods.

Please know how much I appreciate your support of my dream.

"All my love, Sari Marissa"