Mr. Pedro Marlin, a well-known Anguillian fashion designer and manufacturer, as well as a culinary enthusiast, won the support and commendation of a large number of persons for his fashion exhibition on Saturday evening, October 31.
The event, at the building known as Safire restaurant, at West End, was the exotic scene of multi-coloured clusters of ladies’ bags, women’s and men’s fine dress apparel, hats and other wear. Most of the clothing was fitted on stately manikin models which took up much of the showroom, but with ample space for spectators. One young and attractive female made frequent modelling trips through the crowd, showcasing various pieces of attire, overwhelming many onlookers.
Pedro is a very polite, friendly and cordial gentleman with a touch of class and pride in his work. These fine characteristics appear to be interwoven in the expert designs he produces as an artistic manufacturer.
Working closely with him is a Venezuelan tailor, with thirty years of experience. The tailor’s interaction with the guests at the exhibition, providing some of the necessary explanations, added much to the lively event.
Asked to describe his exhibits, Pedro said: “It is basically a selection of merchandise that was made by AXA Production Company Ltd. All of the stuff is actually made in Anguilla. I am the designer – and the person who makes it is Miguel, a gentleman out of Venezuela. He has been with the company for about a year now.”
Pedro went on: “This is my second exhibition, the first having been on December 28, last year. I would say that I am just getting into the market. Before the company started, I had a few contacts. I spoke to several persons in St. Martin. For the most part, I think we have a good locally-made product. Just for the exhibition I made a special collection of bags. We do leather bags, a combination of leather and canvas bags, and so far the response to our bags is very good. As a matter of fact, I made a bag a couple of days ago and as a lady got into the showroom, she clutched the bag and said whatever the price was she would be willing to pay it; and she purchased that bag. I am the designer of the bags and some of the clothing.”
Questioned about where he got the designing experience, he replied: “I was supposed to bring designers out of Cuba – but one day I sat down and designed about ten bags and I guess I did it through the grace of God.”
As to the young woman who did the modelling, Pedro said: “She is a Dominican lady. I spoke to a local person who was supposed to be here but this lady decided to come and I am happy she came.”
Pedro has a factory building just behind Safety Step on the Wallace Rey Drive. “I am not making a bunch of money but I expect that in time to come that may be possible,” he said. “So far, I shipped stuff to New York and to Brazil – not on a regular basis but I am delighted about it. I have been very fortunate to be able to put some fabric together so that people can say ‘wow’. It sits well with me that I can please somebody to that magnitude.”
Pedro stressed that he was very grateful to a number of persons who supported him – and continue to support him in his work. He is also thankful to all persons who attended his exhibition and those who assisted with the delicacies for the occasion. The delicacies were part of his culinary concepts and service.
