Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Mejia.
Hi Mark, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Baron Hats was founded by Eddy Baron, a master hat maker who supplied Hollywood with countless hats during his time at Western Costumes and after he started his own business. I was an apprentice under Eddy for a couple of years before he sold the business to me in 1995. At the time, our shop was located in Burbank, but we relocated to DTLA at the end of 2018. Since taking over, I’ve been committed to keeping the hat-making tradition alive by utilizing all the techniques Eddy taught me. All our hats are handmade using wooden molds and steam. These molds are used every day, and I’ve used these skills and tools to make hats for people in all walks of life. Some of my clients include Diane Keaton, Bob Dylan, and Beyoncé. I’ve also made hats for companies like Disney, Tapatio, and NASA.
We’ve been featured in publications like Reuters, Variety, and the LA Times.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Running a small business always has its ups and downs. In the last few years we’ve undergone some huge changes, like relocating to downtown to navigating through uncertain times during the pandemic. On top of that, there is a major felt shortage that is hurting hat makers all over the country.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
Our specialty is in costuming and supplying hats to the entertainment industry. While we do have a showroom with hats available for sale our primary business is in custom-made, unique pieces of headwear. Most recently, we’re known for making the hat Cillian Murphy wears in “Oppenheimer.” Costume designer Ellen Mirojnick has mentioned in several publications that she looked all over for this unique style of hat but didn’t find it until she contacted us. We were contacted by Beyoncé’s people before the start of her “Formations” tour because they needed really, really wide brim hats for her and her dancers. It was a mission to get them done, but it was very gratifying seeing them worn on stage.
If you can dream it, chances are we can make it. Our capabilities are not limited to one style of hat or size. We make hats in felt, straw, leather, and more. We’re also known for replicating hats; people often send us photos of hats they’d like replicated.
Alright, so before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
We’re also open to the public, and people can call to schedule an appointment to meet with us if they’re interested in having a hat made.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.baronhats.com
- Instagram: @baronhats
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaronHats/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/baron-hats-los-angeles
Image Credits
Jeff Berting
Sonia Mejia
