Costume design concept for Jill Criscuolo by Alexander Jacobs

Being in a family that has a multi-generational business is both a bonanza and a curse. The good news is that if you have a passion for your business and get along with the older generation, your chances for accelerated success are greatly enhanced.

If, however, you are forced into into a life of servitude to a career you hate then it is purgatory. Happily for me the first is true and our company enables me to move into various areas that not only pique my curiosity and force me to think creatively but also enables us to move into profitable niche areas which grow the business. I am conveniently forgetting the ideas that cost money and go nowhere.

In the case of the next generation in our family Ben, Alex and Kayla, all have exhibited many of the family traits that would be of great use to our company, however, under the watchful, careful, guardian eye of my wonderful wife, Wendy I have not been allowed to push or pursue them in any way but let them follow their own passions. But there is no one to say I can’t help with the direction they choose even if it is not directly for “the firm.”

The sketch on this page is from my son, Alex. Since I have been on WOR Radio in New York City we became involved with an up and coming singer/dancer named Jill Criscuolo. She has the chance at landing her own reality show and I suggested that Alex make some sketches for some potential outfits she might use on the show. He is majoring in fashion design and marketing in college.

Alex did some sketches and Jill liked them. He then made some revisions and Jill liked those. What you see here is the finished design. At this point we are not sure if the costume will be used but regardless it was a great experience for Alex. It is a chance to increase his resume and the dream for him to create his own clothing line if Jill’s career takes off.