Class of 2008 graduate pairs design management role at General Motors with Oak Park wedding business
FERNDALE, Mich. — Ferndale High School alumna Jannarie Gaston, class of 2008, is the latest graduate featured in Ferndale Public Schools’ Alumni Spotlight series, which celebrates the careers and community impact of Ferndale Eagles.
Gaston serves as a design studio manager at General Motors and owns Ever and Ever Wedding Studio in Oak Park, which she describes as Detroit’s first Las Vegas-inspired wedding studio. The studio offers couples a quick, celebratory alternative to a traditional wedding, bringing the spirit of a Las Vegas chapel close to home.
While at Ferndale High School, Gaston was named 2008 prom queen. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Columbia College Chicago before building a career that bridges corporate design and small-business ownership. She now lives in Southfield.
“Ferndale opened my eyes to different cultures and helped me build relationships that have been instrumental in my growth and my business,” Gaston said. “Managing the student store was one of my best experiences in high school, and it prepared me for business.”
Gaston credits several Ferndale educators with shaping her high school years, including Larry Lockridge, Ms. Grey, Mr. Hunter and former principal Herbert Ivory.
“Jannarie’s story is exactly what we hope for every Ferndale graduate: the confidence to lead in a major company and the creativity to build something of her own,” Superintendent Camille Hibbler said. “She shows our students that there’s more than one path to success, and that the path can start right here.”
The Alumni Spotlight series highlights Ferndale High School and University High School graduates who are making a difference as entrepreneurs, educators, artists, health care professionals, public servants, military members and community leaders. Alumni can share their own story or nominate a fellow graduate through the Ferndale Alumni Spotlight Submission Form.
About Ferndale Public Schools
Founded in 1887, Ferndale Public Schools serves approximately 3,100 students from the communities of Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Oak Park, Royal Oak Township and portions of Hazel Park. The district provides a comprehensive educational experience from early childhood through high school, offering rigorous academics, innovative learning opportunities, award-winning arts and athletics, career and technical education, and comprehensive social-emotional supports. Recognized for its commitment to equity, inclusion and student-centered learning, Ferndale Public Schools empowers every student to discover their potential, achieve academic success and become engaged members of their communities.
To learn more about Ferndale Public Schools, visit the website. To stay up to date on district news, events and announcements, visit the News page.