Summer Larsen
Owner- Summer Forrest Designs
Summary
Experienced merchandising and design professional with a strong foundation in fashion, custom product design, and community leadership. Bringing over 15 years of experience in boutique retail, healthcare, and nonprofit leadership. Adept at bridging creative and consumer language to support AI training initiatives and product development.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
Owner
Summer Forrest Designs
01.2020 - Current
- Deliver custom design and printing services for apparel, mugs, and home décor.
- Translate client needs into consumer-friendly and visually impactful products.
- Utilize Canva, sublimation printing, and Cricut for high-quality merchandise.
Executive Director & Founder
The Kingsley Foundation
01.2010 - Current
- Lead a nonprofit providing support, resources, and joy to families of children with special needs.
- Develop inclusive programming and maintain partnerships with hospitals and care providers.
- Manage all aspects of nonprofit operations, fundraising, and outreach.
Parent Care Provider, CNA
Aveanna Home Healthcare
01.2015 - 01.2024
- Provided full-time care to son with profound special needs.
- Managed complex medication schedules, oxygen therapy, and mobility using medical equipment.
- Maintained patient comfort, safety, and quality of life with compassion and precision.
Founder & Executive Director
Square One Boutique
01.2001 - 01.2010
- Operated an upscale boutique in Larimer Square featuring curated fashion and accessories.
- Oversaw buying, merchandising, and team leadership for a high-volume storefront.
- Recognized multiple times as Denver's best boutique by local press.
Senior Merchandise Manager
Calvin Klein (Warnaco Inc.)
01.1998 - 01.2001
- Managed regional merchandising for men's and women's apparel divisions.
- Increased product turnover by 25% through improved marketing and store-level strategies.
- Liaised with retailers across the Midwest to ensure brand cohesion and performance.
Education
BBA - Consumer Merchandising/Retailing Management
University of Colorado Denver
Denver, CO 01.2021 - 01.2024
Master of Arts - Fashion Merchandising/Marketing
International Academy of Design And Technology
06-1999
Skills
Fashion Merchandising & Buying
Visual Merchandising & Branding
Product Annotation & Categorization
Understanding consumer communication patterns
Custom Design & Sublimation Printing
Skilled in patient support and equipment operation
Canva design proficiency
POS system management
Fashion trend forecasting
Client relationship building
Business growth strategies
Retail space optimization
Fashion styling and coordination
Certification
CNA - Certified Nurse Assistant
Timeline
CNA - Certified Nurse Assistant
11-2025
BBA - Consumer Merchandising/Retailing Management
University of Colorado Denver
01.2021 - 01.2024
Owner
Summer Forrest Designs
01.2020 - Current
Parent Care Provider, CNA
Aveanna Home Healthcare
01.2015 - 01.2024
Executive Director & Founder
The Kingsley Foundation
01.2010 - Current
Founder & Executive Director
Square One Boutique
01.2001 - 01.2010
Senior Merchandise Manager
Calvin Klein (Warnaco Inc.)
01.1998 - 01.2001
Master of Arts - Fashion Merchandising/Marketing
International Academy of Design And Technology