Our Founder

Catherine Caldwell’s unique experience in fashion, beauty and retail is the foundation of BLT Original’s success. Named for the initials of Cathy’s children (and the delicious sandwich!), BLT Originals has worn a few different hats over the years.

Catherine has been a jewelry designer, and her designs were featured in Essence magazine twice, multiple newspapers, and Neiman Marcus. Catherine’s jewelry was discovered by Neiman Marcus buyers during her time there as a Sales Specialist for Tiffany, Yohji Yamamota and Bvlgari. Customers were drawn to the pieces Catherine wore, and wanted to know where she purchased them. This excitement lead to an invitation to do a truck show at Neiman Marcus, phenomenal sales, and a continued following to this day.

Having worked as a model, Catherine also saw an opportunity to use her modeling experience to make a difference in local youth. As a child, Catherine’s parents encouraged her to model to bring her out of her shy shell. That lead to being an in house model for Bonwit Tellers, endless runway events, and being invited by Jane Kirby Harris to teach modeling classes. Modeling gave Catherine self-confidence that went beyond the runway, and she wanted other children to build their inner strength too.

BLT Originals took on yet another path. As an active parent, Catherine created a program called Beautiful Ladies and Lads of Tomorrow. This program used modeling as a tool for inner city children to discover new experiences and build self-esteem. From etiquette classes, to high tea at Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, to putting on runway shows. The program was featured on Philadelphia radio stations, newspapers, and had a successful partnership with Sears and local schools.

Beautiful – Ladies and Lads was extremely rewarding in giving back to Philadelphia’s children. Many program graduates said that this program was life changing, and made a bold difference in their future successes.