Mazdack Rassi
Mazdack Rassi | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1970 Tehran, Iran |
| Occupation | Entrepreneur |
| Known for | Co-founder of Milk Studios, Milk Makeup, and Camp David |
Mazdack Rassi (born 1970) is an Iranian-American entrepreneur specializing in real estate and the creative sector. He is widely recognized as a co-founder of Milk Studios, alongside Erez Shternlicht and Moishe Mana. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in establishing Milk Makeup and Camp David, both based in Brooklyn, New York.
Early life
Rassi was born in Tehran, Iran and relocated with his family to rural Champaign, Illinois at the age of nine after escaping the Iranian Revolution. His father, an alumnus of Cornell University and former diplomat for Iran, transitioned to academia as a professor at the University of Illinois. Meanwhile, his mother pursued a career in costume design.
In 1994, after leaving community college, Rassi borrowed $500 from his mother and moved to New York City, where he supported himself through various jobs, including employment at the Gap.
Milk Studios
Following the acquisition of his real estate license, Rassi leased an apartment to future collaborators Erez Shternlicht and Moishe Mana. He persuaded them to establish a photography studio in the Meatpacking District, which evolved into Milk Studios—a multifaceted media entity serving as a central hub for fashion photography, casting, videography, media publishing, and cosmetics. The brand further diversified by launching Milk Makeup, strengthening its footprint within the fashion and creative sectors.
Industry visibility
Rassi has been instrumental in advancing the careers of prominent designers such as Alexander Wang, Joseph Altuzarra, and Hood By Air through MADE Fashion Week—a platform he co-created at Milk Studios with Jenné Lombardo and Keith Baptista. Collaborating with tattoo artist Scott Campbell, Rassi helped produce the "Whole Glory" exhibition hosted by MILK Studios. His presence as a VIP at leading fashion shows and music events has elevated his profile within key industry networks.
Personal life
He is married to Zanna Roberts Rassi, who serves as senior fashion editor at Marie Claire and correspondent for E!. The couple lives in Chelsea with their two daughters, Rumi and Juno.
Charity and Honors
Rassi holds board positions with Parsons School of Design, New York City Ballet, and Burton Snowboards. He received recognition at Make-A-Wish's 2016 Power of a Wish Gala and co-hosted the first Autism Tomorrow fundraiser. As an advocate for the Global Poverty Project and Global Citizen Festival, he has actively contributed to enhancing New York City's commercial and fashion landscapes through participation in NYC 2020, the Meatpacking BID Steering Committee, and the New York City Economic Development Corporation.