Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

Today we’re thrilled to chat with Enzo Valentino of Valentino Tailors. Enzo is a tailor whose love for his craft goes beyond the fabric and threads. In this episode, we dive into Enzo’s journey—from his beginnings to his vision of passing the torch to his kids, the creative solutions he brings to his shop every day, and why building a community-focused business means everything to him. His story is all about loving what you do and finding purpose in every stitch, every project, and every challenge that comes his way.

Outfits:

Enzo –

• Shacket – Grupo Mattei from Valentino Tailors
• Button down shirt – &Sons from Valentino Tailors
• Chinos – Gap
• Shoes – Grand New Haven, custom made from Valentino Tailors

Melissa – 

• Dress – Bill Blass vintage from Nastalgie, currently at Mongers Market
• Pumps – Christian Louboutin
• Watch – Hawthorn Watch Co.
• Ankle Bracelet – permanent jewelry from Stay True Body Piercing

Matt – 

• Suit – Bards
• Button Down Shirt – Bards
• Tie – Mountain and Sackett
• Shoes – Magnanni

Key Topics Discussed:

• Sewing with Purpose: Enzo’s dedication to the craft of tailoring and his hopes for involving his children in the business.
• The Everyday Fix: How Enzo’s love for problem-solving and creating solutions brings a unique vibe to his shop.
• Supporting Local: The importance Enzo places on supporting local businesses and nurturing his community.
• Finding His Voice: Enzo’s journey in sharing his knowledge and story on social media, with the support of his wife, Alicia.
• Building a Legacy: How Enzo envisions his business growing as a legacy for his family and community.

Takeaways:

• Passion isn’t just in the work; it’s in who you do it for.
• Enzo’s love for his family, team, and clients shines in every story.
• Local businesses are the heartbeat of communities, and supporting them makes all the difference.
• When you truly love what you do, even the hardest days don’t take away from your purpose.

Links:

• Valentino Tailors – We offer alterations, made to measure garments and made to order shoes for both men and women in New Haven, Connecticut.
• &Sons – Vintage-Inspired Timeless Clothing for the Modern Pioneer & Creative People.
• Grand New Haven Shoes – Grand New Haven is Valentino Tailor’s exclusive brand of made to order shoes, belts, bags and accessories for both men and women.
• Mongers Market – We are a collection of diverse Mongers selling vintage, industrial salvage and antique items in a 75000 square foot refurbished factory.
• Christian Louboutin – Luxury retailer known for the designer’s red-soled shoes, plus handbags, wallets & select cosmetics.
• Hawthorn Watch Co. – Custom designed, heritage watches made with premium components.
• Stay True Body Piercing – Newington, CT – premier piercing studio specializing in body piercings and fine jewelry.
• Mountain and Sackett – We Offer The Finest Silk, Cashmere and Wool Ties in multiple Sizes.
• Magnanni Shoes – Explore Magnanni’s handcrafted leather shoe designs and experience generations of passion and artisanal luxury.