April 10 ,2025 | Eberjey: A Talk with Co-Founders Ali Mejia and Mariela Rovito
The Georgetown Retail & Luxury Association recently had the privilege of hosting Ali Mejia and Mariela Rovito, the co-founders of Eberjey, for an inspiring discussion on entrepreneurship, creativity, and the evolution of their iconic lingerie and loungewear brand.
Ali, born in El Salvador and raised in Miami, developed a love for design from an early age, inspired by her mother’s European sleepwear and her own curiosity for altering and reworking clothing. Mariela, born in Buenos Aires and also raised in Miami, grew up with a strong entrepreneurial drive and a talent for spotting business opportunities. The two first met while working in advertising, and in their early twenties, they decided to leave corporate jobs to pursue something more meaningful. When Ali shared her initial designs, Mariela immediately saw the potential, and together they transformed a side project into a brand that has now spanned nearly three decades.
One of the highlights of the event was the story of how the brand got its name. While brainstorming, they attended an African dance performance where the dancers chanted the word Eberjey. Both founders loved its rhythm and uniqueness, and later discovered it translates to “all-encompassing joy.” The name captured exactly what they wanted their brand to stand for: designs that combine beauty and comfort while inspiring confidence and joy in everyday life.
The founders also spoke openly about the challenges of growing a business. They recalled how in 2020, wholesale orders suddenly collapsed, forcing them to lean into direct-to-consumer strategies and build even closer relationships with their customers. They also reflected on lessons learned from product missteps — like when a redesign of their signature pajama buttons backfired and led to a recall — emphasizing the importance of attention to detail and resilience.
Throughout the conversation, a few consistent themes stood out: the power of trust in a long-term business partnership, the importance of balancing creativity with structure, and the value of staying true to one’s vision even as trends change. They described their recent 25th anniversary rebrand not as a reinvention but as an evolution — proof that lasting brands grow by honoring their roots while adapting to the times.
Students walked away with not just admiration for Ali and Mariela’s journey, but also practical insights on leadership, branding, and navigating uncertainty. Their story is a reminder that building something meaningful often comes down to courage, collaboration, and a clear sense of purpose.