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

Hi Alicia, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
I am a stepmom to a teenage boy, Aaron. Aaron came out to my husband and I about 4 years ago. “Dad I’m trans do you still love me?”. Hearing the words do you still love me was crippling for both my husband and I. So many thoughts went through my mind. How many kids out there suffer in silence in fear of being rejected by a loved one. We knew we had to face this head on and educate ourselves immediately. There was no way our kid was going to be in this alone, so It was our job as parents to make sure Aaron knew he was loved and accepted. I am far from perfect as a stepmom, but I loved Aaron for who he was, I love Aaron for who he is now and I love Aaron for the man he is becoming and that feels right.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
After my stepson came out as trans, my career path changed dramatically. I was a server/actress/??? and honestly not quite sure where I was going to end up. Through the process of learning about Aaron’s needs and wants a conversation sparked. I remember sitting with my husband and talking about what our next steps were going be in order to make Aaron feel more comfortable with himself. We were talking about how shopping with Aaron would be different now and how we needed to find a place where he can find clothes that fit him right. Aaron is FTM and clothing can be really challenging sometimes because of his unique body type. My husband brought it to my attention that there were no stores for transgender teens. A light bulb went off in my head and I said that’s what we need to do. We are going to create a clothing line and store for transgender and gender non- conforming teens. The idea of Every Body was born and that’s when I decided that I would dedicate myself entirely to creating a comfortable space where TGNC teens can shop freely. Although we are still in the beginning stages, we are committed to pushing forward and getting our product out there.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Venice beach is one of my favorite spots. My husband and I take our bikes on the beach path and stop for bites along the way. Bowling is one my favorite hobbies. Most people would probably like to go to Lucky Strike in Hollywood which is fun don’t get me wrong but I like my bowling a little less trendy so I go to Corbin Bowl in the valley. I love to eat at Lala’s Argentine Grill on Ventura Blvd. Come in June and I would definitely take anybody to PRIDE in West Hollywood. Hiking is always fun in Los Angeles. There are a lot of spots to see the city Concerts at the Hollywood Bowl and The Greek Theatre are a must do. Los Angeles is known for having delicious taco trucks Which are peppered throughout the city. Pink’s hot dogs Is a staple spot that’s been around since 1939. I love it! In all honesty I spend a lot of time in my backyard with my pet pig Gus.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to give a shoutout to the LGBTQ+ center/community for creating a safe environment where kids like mine can can be themselves. I want to give a shoutout to Eunsoo Wilkinson, an amazing designer who has recently joined our team. Eunsoo is the perfect fit for Every’ Body, bringing skill and creativity to our brand. Please check her out @by.eunsoo or check out her website www.byeunsoo.com

Website: Everybodyfitsin.com
Instagram: @wearyoufitin
Twitter: @wearyoufitin

Nominate someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.