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Founder and Creative Director Monique Sandoval’s love for garment-making began long before she ever picked up a needle and thread. As a young child, she would watch in awe as her great aunt swiftly sewed together clothing for her to wear, her hands moving with practiced ease. The nostalgia of her sewing room—the scent of fabrics and coffee, the hum of the sewing machine—felt like a sanctuary, calming and inspiring her even then. These early moments sparked a fascination with the art of creation, planting the seeds of a lifelong passion.
By the age of 12, she had begun sewing her own clothes, learning the basics in home economics classes and supported by her grandmother, who would draft master patterns so she could recreate her favorite pieces over and over. These experiences deepened her appreciation for craftsmanship and the transformative power of a perfectly tailored garment.
Ten years later, she completed her first bridal gown, captivated by the intricate details and construction that sparked dreams of becoming a couture designer. Determined to hone her craft, she dedicated herself to mastering the art of pattern-making through private lessons and refined her technique alongside an assistant trained by Italian couturiers. This foundation of skill and precision became the cornerstone of her design philosophy.
For over a decade, she channeled her expertise into Cleo + Clementine, a beloved Phoenix studio known for its bespoke designs and personalized approach. With over 900 glowing reviews from women of all ages, shapes, and sizes, the studio became a trusted name in bridal fashion, celebrated for its ability to create gowns that felt sensual, beautifully tailored, and unique.
Through this journey, she developed a deep understanding of what makes a gown truly exceptional—how linings, structure, and careful adjustments to fit can elevate a gown’s impact, addressing every detail to make each client feel stunning and confident.
When the Phoenix studio lease ended unexpectedly due to redevelopment, it became an opportunity to reimagine the brand, giving rise to Cleo Phoenix—a new chapter shaped by experience, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to design and craftsmanship. Inspired by the magic of the Southwest and infused with a love for hand-embroidery, elegant draping, delicate silk tulle, French lace, and romantic silhouettes, Cleo Phoenix crafts a vision of beauty that’s deeply personal, effortlessly cool, and unmistakably its own.
At Cleo Phoenix, every gown is more than a dress—it’s a celebration of individuality, artistry, and love’s quiet, lasting magic. The designs are created to help every bride feel uniquely herself—cool, confident, and completely at ease on her wedding day. With a commitment to exquisite craftsmanship and a deep understanding of the female form, Cleo Phoenix is more than a brand; it’s a testament to the power of reinvention and the beauty of dreams realized.