Kerry Freud, a talented designer located in the heart of Dromore, grew up on a farm in the picturesque Islandmagee, on the stunning Antrim Coast. Surrounded by the beauty of the countryside, Kerry’s upbringing was rich with inspiration, fostering a deep-seated creativity from a young age.
As a child, Kerry had a passion for art and needlework classes at school, where the seeds of creativity were sown. However, one dream stood out among the rest: to become a Jim Henson puppeteer. This aspiration reflected Kerry’s love for bringing inanimate objects to life, showcasing a vivid imagination and a knack for storytelling.
Today, Kerry has found a unique way to fulfill that childhood dream through hat creation. Each piece is a testament to her artistic vision, as she skillfully transforms materials into whimsical creations that tell a story. Just like Jim Henson brought his puppets to life, Kerry breathes life into her hats, making them not just accessories but pieces of art.
Speaking to UrbanABC, Kerry claims, “my inspiration to become a milliner often came from a love for fashion and design, a passion for artistic expression, and the joy of creating unique, wearable pieces that empower and transform those who wear them. It’s about merging creativity with traditional craftsmanship to make something beautiful and meaningful”.
Attending Art College Kerry studied visual merchandising, which laid the foundation for her vibrant career in the creative industry. With a keen eye for aesthetics and design, Kerry explored various creative roles, gaining valuable experience that would shape her future.
One of Kerry’s notable positions was as a cake decorator at Belfast based Ashers Bakery, where she honed her skills and developed a deep appreciation for the art of baking. Her time at Ashers allowed her to explore her creativity in a delicious and visually appealing way, setting the stage for her next big step.
Kerry’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to open her own bakery on the bustling Lisburn Road in Belfast. Specialising in high-end cakes and pastries, her bakery quickly became known for its exquisite designs and delectable flavors. With a commitment to quality and creativity, Kerry successfully turned her passion for baking into a thriving business, delighting customers with her artistic confections.
“I then sold the business and decided to pursue a career as a food industry professional were I achieved a degree in Food Technology at CAFRE, this is how I ended up in Dromore, as I was working in the Technical department for a large Food manufacturer in Craigavon”
However, after several years in the industry, Kerry found herself missing her creative roots. Inspired by her mother, who was a talented seamstress, Kerry developed a keen interest in dressmaking. Watching her mother transform flat fabric into stunning garments ignited a passion within her to explore the world of fashion and creativity once again.
“When I got married my Mum made my wedding dress and I got a local milliner to make me a hat to match, this was when my curiosity for millinery began as I really wanted to know how she created it. I attended some millinery master classes and learnt a lot from video tutorials, books and lots and lots of experimenting, this has resulted in me opening Halo Studio“.
Kerry affirms that collaborating with every client on a custom piece for a special event, such as a wedding or a prestigious horse race, is an incredibly rewarding and memorable experience. Each project allowing the Dromore Milliner to delve into the unique vision of her clients, transforming their ideas into stunning hats and headpieces that perfectly complement their outfits. The joy of seeing the final result, knowing it enhances their special day, is a fulfilling aspect of her work.
“The moment I opened my own studio marked a significant milestone in my millinery career. This space not only allows me to fully showcase my work but also is a platform to establish my brand. Here, I can experiment with designs and materials, pushing the boundaries of traditional millinery. The studio has become my hub for innovation, where I can connect with clients and bring their dreams to life”.
This journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but the satisfaction of creating custom pieces that resonate with her clients is what drives Kerry. Each hat tells a story, and talking to her it’s clear Kerry is proud to be a part of those memorable moments in people’s lives.
“As I continue to grow and evolve in my craft, I look forward to creating even more beautiful pieces that celebrate individuality and style.
“I’m committed to slow fashion, and prioritise quality and sustainability, using ethically sourced materials to craft each piece with love and intention, empowering individuals to express themselves through fashion.”
Offering advice to any budding milliners Kerry says; “focus on honing your skills and mastering the fundamental techniques of millinery. Quality craftsmanship is essential for creating hats that stand out.
“Use the best materials you can afford, as they greatly impact the quality of your work. Continuously seek inspiration from art, fashion, nature, and other milliners. Stay curious and open to learning new techniques and trends to keep your designs fresh and innovative”.
Outside of her millinery activities, Kerry finds joy in walking in the stunning Mournes and cycling along the local towpaths. These outdoor adventures allow her to connect with nature and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes that surround her.
“In addition to my love for the outdoors, I have a fascination with ancient archaeology. I spend time visiting historical sites around Ireland, as well as exploring our ancient capital, Orkney. Each visit deepens my appreciation for the rich history and cultural heritage of these remarkable places”.
A self proclaimed “true foodie”, with a particular passion for Italian, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisines, Kerry enjoys vibrant flavours and diverse culinary techniques of these cultures inspire her both in the kitchen and in her everyday life. Whether it’s enjoying a bowl of pho or savouring a classic pasta dish, her love for food adds another layer of richness to her experiences beyond the world of millinery.
Kerry journey from the serene farmlands of Islandmagee to becoming a celebrated hat designer exemplifies the power of creativity and passion. Her story inspires others to embrace their artistic dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.