Alia Gray, a 20-year veteran of Aesthetic Movement, succeeded company founder Jesse James as president last year. In addition to a full executive portrait of Gray, contributor Diane Falvey spoke with her about her life outside work.
Do you have a brand success story that has resulted from its connection with Aesthetic Movement?
We have many, but I think the best partnerships are rooted in trust and letting the model work for them. We find that more accounts don’t always mean better business, and when a brand is searching for quantity that comes with quality, they see their brand thrive.
Share a bit about your family life.
I am super proud of my family — my husband and two kids here in Philadelphia — I’m especially grateful for the opportunity to grow with my family and thrive at A/M, especially with the challenges raising kids can bring!
Where do you get your inspiration when assessing new products, collections and partner collaborations?
Really everywhere! I’m inspired heavily by our travels, shows we try to visit both in the US and abroad, our sales team sharing inspiration — whatever feels cutting edge, unique and interesting.
What is your favorite vacation spot and why?
I’ll take all the travel I can get — I love seeing everything I can see. But after the summer shows wrap in August, I always take a trip with my family to a secret little spot — a cottage on a small lake in the mountains of Pennsylvania. It’s idyllic, and I enjoy the combination of the time and the place, and the gift of reconnecting with my family after a busy summer.
Do you have a favorite design aesthetic and how does that dovetail with your role at Aesthetic Movement?
Never answered this question before, but I guess you’d call my design aesthetic transitional. It’s really the combination of old and new, modern and classic, but working together with intention. I definitely feel guided by the core style of Aesthetic Movement!
