Runs in the Family

Everything is ultimately connected, but these family ties in the creative industry take it a notch higher. The Laurels, Aberins, Dassents, and Gibbs talk about working with their family members, dealing with friction, and learning from one another

- MARIAN SAN PEDRO

The House of Laurel 

Welcome to The House of Laurel: Rajo Laurel, Venisse Laurel-Hermano, John Laurel, and Gela Laurel-Stehmeier. Creativity really is intrinsic among the Laurels. Being a fashion designer is Rajo’s life-long dream. His sister Gela used to improv and loves creating things from zero to nothing, which is why she handles the house’s beauty aspect. John had a penchant for playing the violin and now manages Rajo Man while running his own construction business. Finally, Venisse handles the data, numbers, and business side of things.

“What did dad call you?” Gela asks Rajo. “You are the sastre. I’m the beautician. John is the karpintero. And we have...?”

“The favorite,” Rajo chimes in, referring to Venisse—and everybody laughs. The Laurels had a warm and natural chemistry, playing off each others’ strengths, which is probably why they’re already celebrating their 30th year in the business.

Their biggest takeaway from each other is learning how to communicate, having a collective goal, and respecting each other’s area of responsibility. Friction is a necessary part of any relationship, and that’s okay. They simply feel lucky that they’re aware of what they can do and that they genuinely like each other.

“Give and take, compromise,” John mentions. “We just have to do our best in everything we do and be consistent. Yes we’re artistic, but we have to be motivated and inspired.”

The Laurels reveal that as children, they didn’t really play