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Ali von Paris
Entrepreneur based in Towson
Ali von Paris is the Owner and Founder of Route One Apparel, a Maryland-based company that specializes in creating and selling products that celebrate Maryland pride.1 Here are some key details about Ali von Paris:
Professional Background
Ali founded Route One Apparel in November 2010 while she was still a student at the University of Maryland.1 The company started when she designed a t-shirt to commemorate the closing of a favorite campus bar, which quickly gained popularity.2 Since then, Route One Apparel has grown into a successful business that offers over 3,000 unique products, including apparel, home decor, and accessories.3
Education
Ali graduated from the University of Maryland - Robert H. Smith School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Information Systems (2008-2012).1
Achievements and Recognition
Ali has received numerous awards and honors for her entrepreneurial success:
- Named to The Daily Record's Top 100 Women list in 2020 and 20211
- Recognized as one of Baltimore Business Journal's 40 Under 40 in 20161
- Received the Young Alumni Award from the University of Maryland in 20161
- Named Alumni Entrepreneur of the Year by the University of Maryland Dingman Center of Entrepreneurship in 20161
Business Accomplishments
Under Ali's leadership, Route One Apparel has:
- Developed licensing agreements with iconic Maryland brands like Natty Boh, Old Bay, and the University of Maryland23
- Grown to manage a 35-member team and fulfill over 150,000 orders annually1
- Established wholesale relationships with over 150 brick-and-mortar stores across Maryland1
- Built an e-commerce website with over 250,000 unique customers1
Community Involvement
Ali is actively involved in various boards and community initiatives:
- Board Member for the University Systems of Maryland (since 2021)1
- Board Member for Preservation Maryland (since 2017)1
- Board Member for the University of Maryland - Robert H. Smith School of Business (since 2017)1
- Maryland Tourism Board Member (since 2016)1
Ali von Paris has built Route One Apparel into a successful brand that celebrates Maryland pride while also giving back to the community and supporting local businesses.3


