Brianna Rodgers has always been a huge fan of fashion. When Rodgers was a student at Baldwin High School, she found out there was an adapted sewing machine that can be used without foot pedals. She immediately knew she had to try it. Rodgers was born with spina bifida and uses a power wheelchair. When her sewing teacher Mrs. Pfatteicher obtained an adapted sewing machine for the classroom at the high school, Brianna, fell in love with using it and quickly saw the entrepreneurial possibilities. She launched her own online store: Bee’s Boutique by Brianna. The store offers a variety of items, including totes, tumblers, and apparel. New inventory is added seasonally and Rodgers takes custom requests. “I enjoy being able to make people’s custom designs come to life,” notes Rodgers. Y

After graduating Baldwin High School in 2024, Rodgers was able to devote more time and attention to her entrepreneurial endeavor. Bee’s Boutique has steadily grown through word of mouth, social media, and presence at seasonal craft shows. In addition to running her own business, Rodgers works at Fresh Start Cafe. The skills she uses professionally flow directly from the training she had at Baldwin High School. Rodgers explains, “Fashion Design class has helped me learn how to sew for my Boutique. The Baldwin Bean has helped me learn how to work in a coffee shop.”

This fall, Rodgers added a new fashion accessory to her wardrobe: The Jr. Miss Wheelchair Pennsylvania. Rodgers went through an application and interview process before being honored with the title. When she was announced as the winner, Rodgers was elated. “I was very excited and a little nervous at the same time,” she recalls. She looks forward to the advocacy role that the title empowers. “I am excited to spread awareness about how important adaptable fashion and makeup are in a world that a lot disabled individuals don’t have access to,” she shares.