Rye Brook Teens Gain Hands-On Career Insights At Mixology Clothing Company Event

RYE BROOK, NY — Students in Westchester had a hands-on opportunity to learn about some of the ins and outs of the fashion industry up close.

NXT UP TEENS partnered with Mixology Clothing Company to host a Career Night at the retailer's Rye Brook location. The special event provided local teens with an evening focused on business, entrepreneurship, and the fashion industry.

The organization, founded by Derek and Hailey Graffeo, connects teens with professionals to explore various career paths. The organization's Career Nights aim to build confidence, prepare resumes, strengthen interview skills, and discover future possibilities for young people.

The collaboration was a natural fit, as Mixology Clothing Company is also led by siblings. Jordan Edwards serves as CEO, and Gabrielle Edwards is the President and Head Buyer. They have grown the company into a 16-store women's fashion retailer across New York, New Jersey, and Florida over 15 years.

During the event, teens engaged in discussions with both speakers. They gained insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and building a career in fashion and business. Attendees were invited to bring resumes for a chance at a shadowing opportunity with Jordan or Gabrielle Edwards, offering firsthand exposure to executive leadership.

Jordan Edwards, CEO of Mixology Clothing Company, discussed the company's values.

"At Mixology Clothing Company, one of our core values is Inspire Confidence. That applies to our customers and to the next generation," Edwards said. He added that the company prioritizes hiring from the communities it serves.

Edwards also highlighted the company's internal training program.

"We built an internal training program called Mix U to develop talent from within," Edwards said. "The teens who showed up, asked questions, and brought their resumes are exactly the kind of people we want on our team."

The event was conceived to reflect both organizations' commitment to investing in young people and creating meaningful opportunities for career exploration.