As Reported By Sally Kilbridge
Whether it’s a regal satin ball gown or a fluid lace sheath, Toronto-based designer Rita Vinieris fulfills all manner of bridal fantasies. The creative hand behind brands Alyne and RIVINI, as well as the bespoke Rita Vinieris collection, she delivers a modern vision with couture-level craftsmanship. Heading up the company’s sales and finance divisions is husband and business partner Tony Giancola.
As the worldwide coronavirus epidemic put their business on pause, the team shifted their focus to making and donating tens of thousands of masks to hospitals and frontline healthcare workers across Ontario and the US. Rita and Tony took time from their intense schedules to let us peek into their partnership and process.
Bridal Council: How did you find each other?
Rita: I was working at a menswear shop when Tony came in with a bunch of his buddies. We found that we went to the same university and he said to me “Maybe I’ll see you at uni and we can go for coffee.” Surprisingly we actually did bump into each other, not just once but three times. The third time he asked me if we could meet up.
It’s difficult to pin down what I liked about Tony — it was an overall feeling. The things that caught my attention were his looks and his sense of humor. He made me laugh.
Tony: This was all before cell phones and social media, so after we met in the store, who knew if we would see each other again? But there seemed to be a positive energy from the outset, and a hope of meeting again.
BC: How have your individual business roles evolved over the years?
Rita: Right from the beginning we divided responsibilities based on our strengths. My focus was the creative process and production and Tony’s focus was finance and sales.
With fashion being my major and having worked as a designer and overseeing small production runs for other companies, I was able to bring that experience to my business. My role has evolved from being fully hands on at the start to working with a team and overseeing the process that brings my designs to life.
BC: Tony, how difficult was the decision to quit your job in finance and join forces with Rita?
Tony: The decision wasn't very difficult. I believed in her talent and would do anything to support it. Besides, we've always been a great team.
BC: Do you find it difficult to separate your business and personal life?
Tony: I don't find it particularly difficult. When business concerns come up [outside the office] we deal with them as required and move on to personal time. Because we both share the same goals around family first, business second, we are able to put things in context. Having two children also serves as a natural distraction from business, and helps keep me stay centered on family.