Three things come to mind when I think of my Dad: Chocolate🍫, New York City and Hugs. Every family has its culture. Some dads play baseball while others play video games. In my household, Dad-ing meant warm embraces, eating chocolate and trips to New York City. I hadn’t realized how much these traditions with my dad shaped the individual I am today. My dad’s hugs gave me a sense of comfort, security and self-esteem that I have carried through my personal and professional lives. Eating chocolate with my Dad taught me how to sit back sometimes and enjoy life’s smaller pleasures. 

However, some of my most cherished childhood memories are of my father taking me into this magical microcosm of dreams, grit and glitter known as New York City. He took me to work with him and exposed me to the lights, culture, the corporate environment and fashion industry. What seemed like something very normal to us I now realize was revolutionary. He planted seeds for his little girl to become comfortable in this business world- planted seeds of curiosity and the willingness to explore worlds different from our own at home. 

These experiences equipped me with the tools to break glass ceilings in the business world and live in New York City my way. So, as we come full circle on this Father’s Day, there will be gratitude, hugs, chocolate and New York City. Hug your Dad. Eat more chocolate. Hugs and chocolate bring JOY. 

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