​

In June of 1988, in partnership with her mother, JoAnn, Tammy opened her first mini-boutique within a "retail incubator" located in Chicago's historic "Oldtown" neighborhood.  The 50 square foot retail space featured OOAK jewelry, apparel, accessories, fine art and home decorative objects. Initially, all items were produced by the pair, but they quickly expanded that boutique allowing them to showcase the work of other Chicago area artists.

​

In May of 1991, Tammy formed another partnership with wearable designer, Zully. The two ladies took over the "retail incubator" that housed their boutiques, Chicago Originals, Ltd. Tammy served as the director of operations, overseeing the day to day business activities and the full time staff for the 3 years they continued on Wells St.

​

 

August 11, 2015,  Tammy realized her dream and purchased a Live/Work building in Berwyn, Illinois serving as an additional, second location for TLD Design Center & JAD Gallery.  Classes and Gallery Exhibits are now available in both locations.

​

​

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~