Chantel Renee is a Costume Designer and Crafts Artisan. She was born and raised in Detroit, MI by a very supportive single Black mother. This lived experience had a strong influence on her very hard-working and ambitious nature.

Chantel earned a BFA in Apparel and Textile Design from Michigan State University and has also studied at Ohio University. She is currently an MFA Candidate in Costume Design at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, eagerly awaiting her graduation in May 2024.

Chantel really loves designing for wacky musicals and immersing herself in the music. She is also very passionate about costume crafts and being able to physically bring things to life.

Between semesters Chantel is also the owner and creator of So’Cha Handmade a handmade jewelry and accessories business, you can see this work on Instagram @sochahandmade and shop with her on Etsy, etsy.com/shop/sochahandmade.