We had the good fortune of connecting with Jonathan Marc Stein and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jonathan Marc, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my company, JONATHAN MARC STEIN Atelier, has been one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life. Since I was little I knew I always wanted to do something creative career-wise. From an architect to a chef to an artist to an engineer, designing something has always been my ambition. It was not until my sophomore year of getting my degree in Mechanical Engineering that I even discovered the fashion industry. A 1990-something Alexander McQueen runway show inspired me in such a way that I put everything else behind me. I knew from this moment on that fashion is what I wanted to pursue. I thought about quitting my current degree in pursuit of one in fashion design and then getting a job at a reputable design house, but I knew for me to consider this line of work that I should do it entirely on my own. Thus, JONATHAN MARC STEIN Atelier was born.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art has constantly evolved since I taught myself how to sew in 2015. I became obsessed with all things leather and how I can showcase its beauty as both a fabric and art form. When my father was taken from us in 2022, I fell into a very deep hole of despair and did not think I could continue on with my career. Suddenly, inspiration came to me and I knew that I had to create something dedicated to him and his life that would remain forever on this plane. I created an iconic convertible leather trench coat called The DAN/IEL. This piece is what I have been most proud of not only for the immense detail, time and love I spent creating it, but how it represents both my father and the big hurdles I had to overcome in my journey. Since I am a fully self-taught designer who started from nothing with no connections or favors, the journey has been a grueling one. Without my amazing team and family behind me, JONATHAN MARC STEIN Atelier would not exist. I have learned so many things through the incredible celebrity clients, stylists, magazines, and talent that I have worked with and cannot wait to see what is in store.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities and I have come to love it so much. A week is just is not long enough to fully experience all that it has to offer. Upon picking them up from LAX, the first stop would always be the beach. My favorite spot has continued to be Paradise Cove in Malibu. It is both scenic and serene and the food, drinks, and views are breathtaking. After taking in the rays we would head back to my house and get ready to go out. While I do not love to do touristy things, Rodeo Drive is a must. Not only does it have a vast array of designer stores (or in my case art galleries), it has some of the best restaurants in the city. Just off of the main way, Spago lies at the end. An iconic eatery by the renowned Wolfgang Puck has amazing pasta and more! Beverly Hills is one of my favorite areas and is host to so many great experiences. Hollywood, the heart of LA, is next. Host to the Walk of Fame, evening shows, and amazing views, Hollywood brings people from all over the world to showcase the talent that our amazing city represents. If my friend loves to enjoy the outdoors or hikes, I would take them to my two favorite spots, Wisdom Tree and Griffith Observatory. Not only do I love to hike, but I love the treasure that lies at the top of both. Griffith is home to not only one of the best views in the city, but is an astrophile’s dream. While this might be an itinerary that anyone could be happy with, I am constantly finding new amazing things to do in and around the city to this day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would be lying if I said that I got to where I am by myself. Without my incredible family’s support I would most likely be nowhere. My incredible parents Debbie and Daniel literally dropped everything and sold their house and moved across the country to Los Angeles to be there for me and help run my company. Unfortunately, my father was murdered not too long ago so it has been my mother and I running things and I most definitely could not do this without her unconditional support and love.

Website: https://www.jonathanmarcstein.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanmarcstein/?hl=en & https://www.instagram.com/jonathanmarcsteinofficial/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanmarcstein/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JONATHANMARCSTEIN/

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