Would you believe one of the country’s top couture designers is creating show-stopping gowns right in Tontitown, Arkansas? Stephanie, the creative force behind Violet’s Formal Destination, has designed and styled dresses for six national pageant winners, with gowns sold across the U.S.—even in Hawaii and Alaska. Known for turning fabric into wearable art, she blends precision, imagination, and bold design to craft gowns that shine on the grand stage and at life’s biggest moments.
Every Violet’s gown begins as a vision—sometimes inspired by architecture, a bold color, or the wearer’s personality. Stephanie hand-paints fabrics, sources luxurious fabrics from markets in Atlanta and Austin, and tailors every detail to create timeless, unforgettable pieces. “When a girl goes out on stage,” she says, “they want to give it their all. And they want to know they’re in the best of the best. It’s special knowing they had a hand in bringing the design they’re wearing to life.” Her gowns are more than dresses; they’re statements of confidence, designed to help the wearer feel like her best self.
Stephanie’s hands-on approach means close collaboration with clients like 2025’s Miss Arkansas’ Teen, Peyton Bolling. They discussed every detail—from colors and neckline to waistline and fabric. Stephanie made a custom sketch so Peyton could see the dress before it was made. “Because the girls have a hand in the design process,” Stephanie explains, “they feel more confident wearing it on stage.” This personal touch is why so many young women competing in pageants choose Violet’s. Stephanie believes a dress can be beautiful but it must also match the girl’s personality. Her goal is to empower everyone that wears her gowns.
Stephanie’s path wasn’t traditional. Before becoming one of the region’s top designers, she worked as a nurse. Creativity was always part of her life, waiting for the right moment. That came when she won a swimsuit competition in the Bahamas and used the prize money to pursue her dream of designing gowns. What started as a small boutique grew into a career defined by artistry, vision, and style.
As her reputation grew, so did the stages her gowns graced. From local pageants to the national spotlight, Stephanie’s designs helped contestants win crowns and magazine covers. Her work has appeared at New York Fashion Week, where her bold creativity and refined elegance stood with fashion’s biggest names. For clients, wearing a Violet’s gown isn’t just stepping on stage—it’s stepping into new confidence.
Stephanie’s impact goes beyond her personal designs. She styles dresses from other designers, helping clients perfect every look from head to toe. Whether tailoring her own creations or styling others, Stephanie brings passion and detail, making each woman feel polished and confident. She’s built a community of young women who come to Violet’s for couture, mentorship, and encouragement. Many credit her with helping them find their voice and style. Whether guiding first-timers or perfecting gowns for national contestants, Stephanie pours her heart into every relationship.
Looking ahead, Stephanie remains committed to her craft and community. Every new design reflects elegance and personal expression. For those who wear Violet’s originals, it’s more than a dress—it’s a meaningful part of their most important moments. For Stephanie, it’s about celebrating individuality and helping others feel confident and empowered, no matter the stage or occasion.
“Because the girls have a hand in the design process, they feel more confident wearing it on stage.”