Randy Fenoli - Say Yes to the Dress

Episode 15 Randy Fenoli

On this episode 15 of "Weddings-ish with Jove," we welcome the radiant bridal designer and TV star from Say Yes to the Dress, Randy Fenoli. Known as a beacon of brightness and joy, Randy's story is as inspiring as it is surprising. Jove was amazed to learn that Randy grew up on a farm in Southern Illinois. Randy shared memories of being the youngest of seven children, wearing hand-me-downs, and living on a sprawling 163-acre farm with cows. He recalled running away from home five times, starting at the tender age of five, in an attempt to escape the physical abuse he endured from his father, who often treated him like a personal punching bag. Fortunately, at age 16, his sister-in-law offered him refuge, asking him to help around the house when she and his brother were expecting their second child. This move marked a turning point in Randy’s life, and he spoke candidly about how the abuse affected his ability to trust others, saying that once his trust is broken, it’s nearly impossible to repair.

After moving in with his sister-in-law and brother, Randy transformed from a C and D student into a top performer, excelling in all his classes and joining every club—except the athletic ones. Driving himself to school gave him a fresh start, and his social standing improved dramatically. However, after high school, Randy attended Louisiana State University (LSU) for just one semester before deciding to leave. Throughout high school, Randy had always dated girls, but one night, while out drinking, he decided to visit a gay bar as a joke. Having grown up with the notion of what gay me were like, he was taken aback when he immediately connected with Mr. Gay Louisiana, and the two began a relationship that would change Randy’s life forever.

“What were they thinking?”

Randi talking about growing up on a farm

When Randy’s brother discovered his relationship, he cornered Randy into admitting his sexuality, which led to a family intervention in 1983. Even Randy’s mother, as cheap as she was, flew in, and they insisted he go to therapy, believing he was "crazy." Trusting their concern, Randy returned home and saw a therapist in Alexandria, where he attended a session and loved speaking with the therapist. The therapist concluded that Randy wasn’t the problem—his family was. Living rent-free in his family’s large house with a pool, Randy eventually won their acceptance and decided to pursue his passion for beauty. He enrolled in beauty school, becoming a skilled hair and makeup artist, a talent he still uses to this day, even cutting his own hair.

Randy's journey took a significant turn when he attended his first drag show, where he met a drag queen who would become his mentor and drag mother. This encounter led Randy into the world of female impersonation, where he found a new identity as Brandy Alexander. His striking beauty and talent in drag earned him more money than he had ever made as a hairdresser. Despite the risks—female impersonation was illegal at the time, and Randy was often pulled over by police who mistook him for a woman—he flourished in this new world. He even won the title of Miss Gay America in 1990 after persevering through two prior failed attempts, one due to disqualification and the other because of sabotage. By his third attempt, everyone was rooting for him, and Randy treated his role with the utmost seriousness, viewing it as a job and a mission to inspire others.

During one particular interview, Randy shared his dream of moving to New York to become a fashion designer. His peers laughed at the idea, but Randy was determined. He left the world of female impersonation behind, packed up a U-Haul, and moved to New York City, renting an apartment over the phone. The reality was harsh—his studio had no electricity, and the door lacked a lock. Living near Port Authority in 1991 was challenging, and Randy once had a close call when he was jumped by five men on his way to see Silence of the Lambs. He escaped by cleverly pretending a police officer was nearby.

Soon after, Randy enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), where he initially wanted to focus solely on eveningwear. However, during his third semester, he was introduced to bridal design. For his first competition, he was tasked with creating a mood board, a bridal gown, and a bridesmaid dress. While most students submitted one design, Randy stayed through Christmas and created five mood boards and five bridal designs. When the judges reviewed the entries, all five of Randy's designs were selected in the top ten. This incredible achievement caught the attention of one of the judges, Vivien Dessy Diamond, who offered Randy a job designing bridal wear. By his fourth semester, Randy had his own label under the company, and just four months later, his collections were showcased on the runway. His unique perspective—having never attended a wedding and therefore not being influenced by religious or traditional expectations—led to the creation of innovative designs, including his popular halter dresses, which quickly gained admiration in the fashion world.

After the events of 9/11, Randy took a break from the fashion industry, purchasing and flipping properties in Louisiana. However, Hurricane Katrina hit as he was starting to set up his bridal shop. To make ends meet, Randy became a personal chef, a skill he had honed from a young age, as his mother was often absent, leaving him to care for himself and his siblings.

Klienfeld bridal, which he knew of through working in NY was hiring. They created a role for him and the rest was history! Randy’s relationship with Kleinfeld Bridal led to his role on "Say Yes to the Dress." Initially skeptical of reality TV, Randy soon found his stride, becoming a beloved figure on the show. Despite facing challenges, including being set up to look terrible in his first episode, Randy’s genuine nature and expertise won over both brides and viewers. As he reflects on his journey, Randy acknowledges the responsibility that comes with fame, always striving to be kind and set a positive example.

Randy continues to be a sought-after figure in the bridal industry, with season 28 of "Say Yes to the Dress" featuring episodes that have yet to air. He has also embraced his role as an ambassador of love and romance on Princess Cruises, hosting cruises and supporting numerous charities. Despite the challenges that come with fame, Randy remains grateful for the opportunities he has had and the people he has met along the way. His story is one of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of happiness, both for himself and for those he helps find their perfect dress.

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