Louisville Milliner Jenny Pfanenstiel: From Main Street to PBS!
Have you heard? My friend Jenny Pfanenstiel, the incredibly talented milliner from Louisville, is a star! She's been featured on PBS's Emmy-winning show, "Made With Love," and honestly, I'm bursting with pride for her. The show celebrates amazing craftspeople from all over the world, and Jenny's episode, part of the "America" series, premiered on February 28th. It's a beautiful showcase of her incredible work.
A Hat-Making Legacy
Jenny owns Formé Millinery Hat Shop on East Main Street in Louisville. She's not just making hats; she's carrying on a tradition that's over 200 years old! She uses antique hat blocks to shape each hat – talk about dedication! It's a painstaking process. "Making hats this way takes days, not hours," she told me, and you can really see the difference in the quality. And she often uses vintage embellishments, adding another layer of unique history to every single piece. It's more than just a hat; it's a piece of art.
Beyond the Kentucky Derby
Jenny's amazing talent has gotten a lot of attention, and rightfully so! She's been a featured milliner at the Kentucky Derby for the past five years – can you imagine? That's a huge deal! But her hats aren't just for the Derby. She has three shops in Louisville: Formé Millinery Hat Shop, The Hat Shoppe, and Judith M Millinery Supply House. And you can also find her creations at other locations listed on her website.
Where to Catch the Show
"America, Made with Love" aired on PBS on February 28th and will be available for streaming for two years. I know I’m already looking forward to watching the episode again! You can find it on pbs.org, the PBS app, or various streaming platforms like Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see the artistry and passion that goes into her work.
Giving Back
Jenny’s incredible generosity extends beyond her beautiful hats. She's even donating handmade fascinators as gifts to PBS viewers who pledge during their annual fundraising drives! That’s just another way she's using her talent to support something she believes in. It's inspiring, isn't it?
More Than Just a Show
Jenny’s episode is more than just a glimpse into the world of millinery; it's a celebration of dedication, craftsmanship, and the enduring beauty of a timeless art form. It's a reminder to appreciate the skill and artistry that goes into making something truly special. Seriously, go check it out! You won't regret it.
