A 2011 South University, Atlanta graduate, Rose Gordon1 has made a name for herself as a trendsetter and leader in fashion, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Rose is the founder and CEO of Fashion Frenzy Inc. This growing fashion company operates as Pink Maison Atelier in Atlanta and New York. She is also head of the Rose Gordon Foundation and editor-in-chief of NYSFE Magazine.
A Strong Start to Entrepreneurship
Earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at South University is a big part of Rose’s story. The program helped get her ready to launch a successful business.2 “Engaging in class projects and coursework designed around real-life scenarios enabled me to effectively apply my knowledge to my business ventures,” she explains. “It prepared me for my entrepreneurial journey.”
With the small classes, Rose had personalized faculty attention and support. In particular, Rose recalls one professor who helped her craft the plan she used to build her business.
“I attribute this professor for nurturing my entrepreneurial curiosity, which ultimately evolved into my passion. His invaluable insights, shared during our interactions, have been integrated into the Fashion Frenzy business model,” she says. “I encourage students to cultivate relationships with their professors and faculty members, as their wealth of knowledge can greatly contribute to their development and growth.”
Finding a Footing in the Fashion World
After graduating, Rose started an online boutique for women's clothing. She held fashion shows to promote her new venture. As word spread, emerging designers wanted to join her shows. Over time, Rose felt compelled to delve deeper into the world of designers. She set out to understand their challenges and aspirations. Most of all, she wanted to help them launch their careers.
“This journey led me to establish Pink Maison—an incubator and showroom dedicated to supporting emerging designers,” she explains. “Through mentorship, scholarships, assistance with buyer procurement, eco-friendly manufacturing solutions, and comprehensive marketing and sales support, we empower emerging designers to navigate the complexities of the fashion industry."
Today, Rose manages the day-to-day operations of Pink Maison, oversees showroom sales preparations, and provides consulting to designers as they prepare their collections. She also produces and directs the Pink Maison fashion shows. This work includes preparing for events like New York Fashion Week and the Pink Maison annual summer fashion show.
For a show, Rose leads everything from conceptualization to execution. She collaborates with influencers and celebrities, manages backstage operations, and ensures the seamless flow of events. Looks from Pink Maison shows have appeared in Getty Images, MTV, VH1, Bravo TV, Fashion Bomb Daily, Celebrity TV, Market Watch, OK Magazine, and the Daily Mail.
In 2021, Rose also started the Rose Gordon Foundation for student designers and creatives. Eligible students receive financial support, mentorship, and learning opportunities. Eventually, Rose hopes to expand her impact by increasing the scholarship award amounts and number of recipients.
Continuing to Grow
In addition to empowering emerging designers, Rose is committed to her own growth. She has been selected for and completed a variety of programs for entrepreneurs, including:
- Bank of America Institute for Women’s Entrepreneurship Certificate Program at Cornell University
- Invest Atlanta Women Entrepreneur Initiative (WEI)
- Atlanta Beltline Business Ventures Cohort
- Zane Access Venture Cohort
- Nasdaq Entrepreneur Milestone Circles
- Ignite Small Business Academy Certification at Morehouse College
Rose is also a member of ForbesBLK and Fashion Group International.
South University is proud to count Rose as one of our many impressive alumni, and we congratulate her on her accomplishments!
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1 Testimonials have been provided by students/alumni in their own words and without coercion. This spotlight is based on information shared by Rose Gordon in 2024.
2 South University does not promise or guarantee employment.
