Portraits: Patricia Jacobs

Mother, grandmother and head of the Hannah Lavery production team

 

 (Images: Taryn Diab)

Patricia is a patient and humble woman who has been working in the clothing industry for over four decades. Born and raised in Athlone, Pat later moved to Bonteheuwel where she now lives with her husband Robert while working for the Hannah Lavery brand. Pat has experience working with both large factories and private designers- her career taking her from packing stock, to becoming head seamstress and now to reaching higher levels of management. ‘Live and let live’ are words Patricia likes to instill in her daily life.

"Patricia Jacobs is such an integral part of the development and day-to-day running of the brand. Her exceptional skill and dedication to consistent quality has made the entire journey of the brand possible. I personally and as a designer have so much respect for this incredible woman and continue to learn lessons of kindness, empathy and attention to detail from watching her work and live. "- Hannah Lavery

 

What are you passionate about? What matters most to you?
My family is very important to me. We are a very close-knit and spiritually grounded family. I am also very passionate about my community, my work and caring for my three children and two grandchildren.
How long have you been working at Hannah Lavery?
I have been at Hannah Lavery since the start, when the baby was first born.
How did you start working at Hannah Lavery?
When Hannah was in college, she came to the place where I was working and became an intern there. During this time, I made samples for her and we started working together. I see myself as a committed and honest person and that’s why Hannah entrusted me to start working with her for as long as the brand has been running.

How did you first get involved in the fashion industry?
I was first inspired by watching my grandmother sew by hand and then with her old fashioned sewing machine. My inspiration for designing and sewing came from her.
What is one of the biggest lessons you’ve learnt over your lifetime?
To stop selling myself short.
What makes you the happiest in life?
When I can do something good for somebody else. I love it when other people are happy and make sure not to hang around negative people.
Do you have a quote or philosophy that you like to live by?
‘Live and let live. Live one day at a time and don’t hang around negative people.’
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