We had the good fortune of connecting with Tedi Tinnille and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tedi, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I asked myself “why continue to work toward someone else’s dreams while pushing my own to the side?” Like every other person, I have a particular skill/talent that is uniquely my own. I saw a need that I knew I could meet. I started my own business because I knew my skills would be useful to everyday people just like it is for athletes, celebrities, and artists.

What should our readers know about your business?

My journey started by chance at Delmar Media Group. Owner and CEO, Virgil Odell was building his photography and media company and needed a stylist to bring more clarity and style to client photoshoots. He gave me the opportunity to work with a few of his clients because I had a natural eye for fashion. From there, I landed the role of Head Fashion Stylist for DMG. Suddenly I found myself responsible for styling professional athletes, artists, actors, and models for various events. I worked along side influential people like Joyce Hawkins and Christine Brown who were running their own management and fan liaison companies at the time. I worked with professional athletes and brilliant artists such as Tamir Rock, SJR, and Alexis Nicole. I’ve also styled “alter-ego” photo shoots as well as all DMG projects such as the highly publicized Model Premier swimsuit calendar and the critically acclaimed photo series, “Behind the Velvet Rope.” My career at DMG was extremely challenging and equally rewarding.

Only after I was well on my way to the head stylist role at DMG did I pursue my education. I fell in love with the industry in such a way that it pushed me toward a desire to learn more and be better at my new craft. I set my eyes on Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Arts and fought my way into the Fashion Merchandising program all while being a full time fashion stylist. Nothing was easy about working hard working for long hours on little to no sleep. However, there is nothing too hard to overcome when you’re doing what you love!

My life is much different now. While yes, I am the Wardrobe stylist, Tedi Tinnille, but I am also a mother, a sister, a daughter, an auntie, and a partner. I am a human being who life has taken many twists and turns. Like countless others, I have experienced great losses over the last few years. During the pandemic the loss of financial independence and the death of my 2.5 year old son, Ihanu sometimes felt like more than I could bare. Thanks to my village, I have yet to break. With their undying support, I am blessed to be in a position I thought I would never see again. I am bravely living my life on my own terms.

Today, I am the founder and CEO of a Fashion and Entertainment access firm called VARYOn! We specialize in image consulting, photography w/on-set assistance, talent management, acquisitions, and more. What sets us apart is the ability to supply all the resources our clients need to (re)build their image and portfolio, establish an online presence, rock a red carpet, and beyond! I want my journey to encourage that they have something amazing to contribute to this world but may not know how to. I along with my team show our clients how to not only identify how they want to present themselves to the world. The easiest place to start is with your personal style.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are lots of great restaurants in Fredericksburg! For some of the best southern fried chicken, greens, and more, I would visit Hope Heroes Southern Kitchen, a black-owned, altruistic, Southern-inspired, restaurant where “people make a difference by simply eating!” I also love the Nepali and Indian Restaurant, Himalayan Heritage VA. Their take on Indian and Nepalese cuisine is truly amazing. We also have endless parks and trails to enjoy! Alum Spring Park is one of the best! For a night out with the boo or girls, I would try Orleans Bistro. It’s a New Orleans themed restaurant known for their delicious dishes, yummy drinks, and lively guest DJs!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Endless thanks to my family and friends! I have an amazing gaggle of good, good girlfriends that have lifted me up in the circle of sisterhood. Big shout out to my brother-in-love, Celebrity Photographer, Virgil Odell for giving me my start in the fashion and media industries. Lastly, to my mama, Mildred Wells and my big sis, Chama Moore you are the pillars to my village, the foundation on which I’m built, and my biggest fans. I would be nothing without your love and support!

Instagram: justvaryon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tedi.tinnille/ https://www.facebook.com/JustVaryON

Image Credits
Photographers: Virgil Odell and Lee Wilson MUAs: Brandy Page Casey and Ash Johnson Wardrobe: Tedi Tinnille

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