Daniel recognizes that Southern California has developed its own niche regarding its sense of style.  The world is in tune with what it means to dress “Californian” just as it recognizes what European or Asian styling is.  “California is very unique as far as fashion is concerned.”  This is the main reason for the establishment of Sugar Moods in Los Angeles, instead of New York for instance.  Daniel also feels that Los Angeles “is more production friendly.” 

Rewards and pitfalls are part of the territory of owning a business.  The ability to solve problems efficiently is what helps to make a business run smoothly.  Daniel relies on his abilities to troubleshoot to keep him motivated in the workplace.  The opportunity to meet people who have had an impact on the apparel industry is something that Daniel values highly as an added bonus to being a part of the fashion community…the money makes a nice bonus too.  There is a downside to his business however.  He says, “Unfortunately it involves a lot of uneducated people and that is very challenging.  The communication issues are the worst part of this business.”

Daniel utilizes the FBI as a “check and balance” and as a resource to clear up any of the “unknowns” which he feels is prominent in the business.  He appreciates Frances Harder’s desire to truly help the businesses in the fashion community of Los Angeles.  Daniel supports the FBI saying, “The organization is a great asset to this industry.”  Personally, Daniel has enjoyed the seminars from which he learns a great deal and the opportunities for networking through his membership with the FBI.

The next step Daniel would like to achieve for Sugar Moods is to develop the label marylou, a line of special occasion dresses and eveningwear, and push it into becoming a branded label.  Further into the future, Daniel would like to be so well organized and settled within his company that he could have plenty of free time to enjoy the other things in life that make him happy, such as beach volleyball and scuba diving.

By Donna Sandez,Stephanie Petitt, and Thanuja Hasseem

First Published 8/3/2004