Manny Joson had just completed his bachelor's degree in interior design from Harrington College of Design and was working as an interior designer. "Things were looking pretty good. I felt my professional career was moving along smoothly," he said.
But then the recession hit. His firm downsized and Joson was let go. So he did a few freelance design jobs, but they were few and far between.
"I then had the luck to get a position as ( a ) visual merchandiser for American Girl, which was my introduction to this profession," said Joson, who now works for Ashley Furniture. "I love designing spaces; this was a perfect fit for me."
Joson started managing a smaller store and now is in charge of the flagship store of Ashley Furniture. "I manage the showroom, making sure the sales staff present the store according to established floor plans," he said. "I create vignettes for furniture displays, incorporating accessories to facilitate and drive sales of both furniture and accessories. I also maintain high visual standards by directing staff and orchestrating the space planning.
"I feel like the captain of a ship, directing and maintaining a beautiful image."
Joson takes pride in his finished work and one corporate executive, after reviewing his store, said, "We need more Mannys." Joson, naturally, was "very proud and validated."
"I hope to continue to grow in my visual merchandising; I am open to explore more in this field and take on new challenges," Joson said. "I keep my eye open and see what's going on as far as trends in the fashion, interior design fields, as well as the visual arts … and then try to apply what I learn in my works."
Interior design is Joson's first love and he's been doing it since he was a kid, creating and re-arranging furniture and more. "I always knew that my passion in design would be part of my life and work," he said. "I love architecture, I love the aesthetics of beautiful furniture and taking that vision into someone's life at home or work … I find it very rewarding and I like my client's happy reactions. I take a lot of pride in my work."
Joson has done residential work for Ravenswood Manor homes as well as places in Lincoln Park, downtown Chicago and elsewhere. "I had the opportunity to work on a commercial project for Columbia College and a store front at Navy Pier and local boutique stores," he said. "I would like to keep building my reputation and am open to the possibilities to work on exciting new projects, be they residential, the hospitality industry or commercial."
- Job title: Visual merchandiser, Ashley Furniture
- Neighborhood: Rogers Park
- Relationship status: His partner is Rick Flores, a senior programmer. They have been together for 16 years. ( "He is the one ( who ) encouraged me to pursue my love of design. He believes in my talent and always reminds to never give up on my dreams and don't let fear stop you from doing something you love." )
- Favorite Chicago bar: "Neighborhood bars, such Rogers Park Social and Hydrate for dancing."
- Hobbies: Working out, hiking, biking and travelingand then "exploring the museums, arts and architecture of this city and on our travels."