Craig Conover Takes His Career to the U.S. Capitol: “Nervous, but So Damn Proud of How Far I’ve Come”

Another day, another career milestone for Craig Conover.

On Tuesday, May 20, the Southern Charm cast member headed to Washington, D.C., for the Small Business Showcase — an annual event in which dozens of entrepreneurs from around the country present their ventures to U.S. representatives. Craig teased the trip in a quick Instagram video shortly before boarding his flight to the nation's capital.

“I have to wear a tie today because I have a presentation in D.C.,” he said. “It took me three tries to tie it. It feels good to be in a tie. I used to be in one all the time… There’s something about dressing up before work or a game. It’s like Deion Sanders said: ‘If you look good, you feel good. If you feel good, you play good. Play good, they pay good.’”

Craig Conover presents Sewing Down South to U.S. representatives

Craig later confirmed that the Small Business Showcase was held inside the U.S. Capitol Building, where he and more than 25 other business owners highlighted their work and their collective impact on the economy. Craig was there to present Sewing Down South, the eight-figure home goods brand he started in 2018.

“We’re walking up to the Capitol, which is awesome,” he said on The Hill. “We’re talking with the House Committee on Small Business… and we get to present Sewing Down. So, it’s pretty awesome. A little nervous, but let’s go to the Capitol.”

Craig shared a few photos from the showcase, where he met with congress members and fellow entrepreneurs. The event also included Spritz Society, the sparkling cocktail company Craig invested in last year.

“OK, everyone, that was awesome. Just presented Sewing Down South to the small business committee in the Capitol building, and Spritz was there, too,” he said. “So, two companies today in the Capitol, pretty awesome. I hope I get the chance to come back… One foot in front of the other.”

What's next for Craig Conover's Sewing Down South?

2025 has marked a banner year for Craig and Sewing Down South. Shortly after releasing the brand’s summer 2025 collection, Craig announced the company’s much-anticipated collaboration with Belk’s private label Crown & Ivy. The partnership includes co-branded products that celebrate the beauty and rich tradition of the South. The limited-time collection includes everything from women’s and men’s apparel to accessories to home goods.

“Collaborating with Belk is a huge milestone for Sewing Down South, and it’s been a ton of fun from the start,” Craig said in a press release. “From the first days of working together on color concepts, to aligning on our creative direction, to developing the line, we’ve created a collection that we’re proud of and are excited to see go to market.”