Since the beginning, Natalie M. Studio has been dedicated to empowering people of all ages to feel their best by looking their best. But beyond the beautiful gowns and dapper tuxedos, this premiere fashion destination also prioritizes its value for people in the way it gives back to the community.
Its founder Natalie Nearenberg wove this precedent into the very framework of Natalie M. 50 years ago, a value pushed forward by the current owner Lisa Carson.
“I feel a profound sense of responsibility to continue that legacy of service,” she said. “Truth be told, it brings me a great deal of joy to do so.”
Carson took over in 2010 after her youngest daughter participated in the Natalie M. Foundation Benefit Fashion Show. She saw the confidence her daughter gained by being involved and knew this was the business for her.
“My goal has stayed constant–to make a positive impact on the people who trust us to dress them for the best days of their lives and to make a positive impact on the community at large,” Carson said.
The girls who become a part of the Natalie M. family are challenged to make this their goal as well. Carson regularly holds events for these young ladies to brainstorm and collaborate on ways they can personally serve their community and apply for grants to help.
Many organizations have benefited from their work–Alzheimer’s research, the Kansas City Pet Project, Llamas for Leukemia, and Harvesters to name a few. But when the holiday season approaches, Carson cannot help but kick it up a notch.
“We are entering a season of giving. Many of our initiatives focus on giving people hope and independence because those are things that we are passionate about,” Carson said. “Now we are gearing up for our annual Toys For Tots drive, and we just kicked off a campaign called “Help Her Walk Away” to benefit Newhouse KC, a domestic violence shelter.”
Authenticity in character and beauty is a defining factor of Natalie M. Studio, and bringing those qualities out in people is Carson’s greatest passion.
“That might mean looking your best on your wedding day or on a pageant stage. It might mean looking for mentorship for your own community service initiative. It might mean an internship to learn about fashion merchandising. Whatever we do, the goal is to bring out the best in each person and every situation,” Carson said.
