I first met fashion designer Amir Sali a little over ten years ago when I was looking for a young designer to do my 25th wedding anniversary gown. That time he had just returned from years of working abroad making glittering gowns for the royal families in the Middle Eastern countries. He was also doing gowns and bead works for top designers in the country.
He mentioned to me that he wanted to open his own shop and launch his career in Manila. That time my daughter had just come back to the country after studying and working in Manhattan. She was going through some period of adjustment after she arrived back in Manila. I thought partnering with a talented designer would interest her during the transition period.
Very few people know that Julienne was Amir Sali’s business partner when they opened the House of Amir at Ford Connecticut in Greenhills. It was born out of a desire to see someone with God’s given talent flourish in his chosen field.
Their staff still look at her with respect and fondness.
I was touched when Amir said he considers us his family and that he always tells his staff that what they are today is due to the trust and support we gave him when he was starting in the Philippines. He said our family was used by God as an instrument to provide him with the confidence and strength to pursue his love of design.
Despite his success, Amir remains humble, simple, grateful, and true to his faith in God.
Amir and brother Edgar were in Hollywood four weeks ago. He took the measurements of music superstar Katy Perry. He would be doing two dresses or costumes for her to wear at her upcoming concert in Toronto.
Our family is happy to be a part of Amir’s journey and we wish him continued success and happiness.
