Cheval

Episode 6 Cheval

In this episode of Weddings-ish with Jove, Jove reconnects with the incredible and effervescent designer Cheval after their conversation on the podcast 7 years ago. Jove + Cheval’s last exchange in 2016 marked a different chapter. You can listen to the previous episode HERE. At that time, Cheval, previously known as Hailey Paige, was happily married and employed by JLM, where she crafted the iconic Hailey Paige and Blush by Hayley Paige collections. She had already attained many of her dreams as a wedding dress designer, appearing on "Say Yes to the Dress." and amassing a meaningful social media following. Since then, Cheval has undergone a remarkable transformation through a long and difficult legal dispute with her former employer as well as a divorce. Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, she has reinvented herself. Forced to change her name and distance herself from designing wedding dresses, Cheval has embarked on a new journey, venturing into the realm of shoe design, carving out a fresh path for herself. Throughout it all, Cheval has remained steadfast in her sunny disposition, retaining her sparkle and fighting spirit.

Cheval opens up to Jove about the ordeal surrounding her birth name. As her contract approached renewal and she felt more emboldened to negotiate, Cheval had already established herself as an influential figure. Her years-long legal battle ultimately resulted in her having to relinquish the use of her birth name, surrendering ownership and control of her social media platforms, and being bound by a non-compete clause that prohibits her from designing anything akin to wedding dresses, which her former employer sells.

“There is such an emotional connection with the wedding world. That I feel like its important to be sentimental and emotional with your work, so I do that all the time even creating now with shoes”

Cheval on how she designs

She has turned the limitations placed on her into an opportunity for growth. Cheval has delved into the creation of her own exquisite line of shoes. Embracing the humility of stepping into uncharted territory without formal education, she embarked on this new journey. Granting herself patience and grace, she gradually cultivated confidence in designing within this novel medium. "Shoes felt like a product that could carry me places, literally" she reflects. Her design process commenced with a deep dive into her personal wardrobe, drawing inspiration from her own style. Embracing the opportunity to learn intricacies of hardware and construction from the incredible Stuart Weitzman, Cheval honed her craft. Now, She By Cheval boasts a vibrant presence with a pop-up store in NYC and an array of playful and fabulous designs available online.

Cheval discusses her swift divorce after realizing it was time to end her previous relationship. Soon after, a friend introduced her to someone who would become her next partner. She shares the story of their first date, where she felt immediately comfortable and was able to open up about her past without hesitation. They got engaged in July 2019 and have chosen not to rush into marriage especially given the challenges of the pandemic and ongoing legal battles with her former employer. During the conversation with Jove, Cheval and Jove talk about the very real financial piece of wedding planning.

Our listeners ask Cheval how she remains optimistic in the face of hard times. Cheval talks about her favorite activities and the importance of the company you keep. She also reflects on the grieving process. Another listener asks Cheval her advice for a newbie in the industry. She speaks to relying on discipline over motivation and how to keep a mindset of abundance!

Our team member Sloan joins Jove again for a segment of “Ask Jove” where they discuss your question on planning and elopement and how to handle fiends and family member’s disappointment. Jove gives advice on how to be mindful of loved ones’ feelings while still being true to yourself!

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