Jose Stemkens is a Dutch-born fashion consultant, model, and entrepreneur who gained recognition for her professional achievements long before she became known as the ex-wife of actor Titus Welliver. Born and raised in Tembisa, a township in South Africa, Jose spent most of her early life in the Netherlands, where she developed an early interest in international business, culture, and fashion. From a young age, she was drawn to creative expression and style, showing a natural ability to blend elegance with professionalism—qualities that would later define her career. Growing up in Europe allowed her to appreciate different fashion sensibilities, and this exposure became the foundation for her future success in the global fashion scene.

Her upbringing in a multicultural environment played an essential role in shaping her perspective on business and creativity. She was known for her academic discipline, ambition, and leadership skills even during her school years. These early experiences helped her transition smoothly into the world of fashion and corporate management, where she built an impressive portfolio working with international brands.

Quick Bio

Modeling Career and Early Start in Fashion

Before stepping into the corporate side of fashion, Jose Stemkens began her journey as a model. Her tall frame, confident presence, and sophisticated appearance made her a perfect fit for the European modeling scene. During her modeling years, she worked with several European brands, gaining firsthand experience in how the fashion industry operates from the inside. This phase of her life gave her a deep understanding of how branding, presentation, and consumer behavior intersect in the fashion world.

However, Jose was not content with merely being in front of the camera. She wanted to understand what happened behind the scenes—the design process, the logistics, the business strategy, and the international partnerships that make fashion a global phenomenon. Her decision to move beyond modeling into business was the beginning of a new chapter that would define her as a leader in fashion consulting.

Transition into Fashion Consulting and Business

After gaining valuable experience in modeling, Jose Stemkens began working for international fashion houses, including prestigious European brands. Her skills and professionalism quickly caught attention, allowing her to climb the corporate ladder. Eventually, she joined The Great China Wall, a high-end clothing brand, as a sales manager and later as an executive.

Through this role, Jose developed a reputation for her strategic thinking and her ability to connect Western brands with Asian markets. She had an exceptional understanding of cultural nuances, which allowed her to manage cross-border partnerships successfully. Her work often involved bridging the gap between creativity and commerce—helping designers translate their artistic visions into profitable business ventures. This mix of creativity and corporate insight became her professional signature.

Founding Sunrise Fashion Consulting

In 2014, Jose Stemkens founded her own company, Sunrise Fashion Consulting, based in Los Angeles, California. The company’s mission was to help international fashion labels establish themselves in the U.S. market and assist American brands in expanding overseas. Her consultancy offered services such as brand management, sales strategies, market entry analysis, and international distribution planning.

Under Jose’s leadership, Sunrise Fashion Consulting became a trusted name in the industry. Her global network of contacts, professionalism, and deep knowledge of fashion operations allowed her to guide numerous brands to success. What set Jose apart from other consultants was her hands-on approach—she believed in understanding each client’s vision, strengths, and target audience before designing a business plan.

Her company’s success demonstrated not only her expertise but also her ability to adapt to a rapidly changing industry. With the rise of digital fashion, online retail, and influencer marketing, Jose ensured her clients remained ahead of trends and competition.

Marriage to Titus Welliver

Jose Stemkens’ personal life attracted media attention when she married the American actor Titus Welliver in 2014. Titus, best known for his roles in Bosch, Sons of Anarchy, and Deadwood, was already a familiar face in Hollywood. The couple’s wedding was a beautiful private ceremony held in California, attended by close friends and family.

Their marriage represented a union of two successful professionals from different worlds—fashion and film. Despite their different career paths, the pair shared a deep appreciation for art, culture, and family. Jose also became a stepmother to Titus’s children from his previous relationships and was admired for maintaining a close bond with them.

However, after several years of marriage, the couple decided to part ways, finalizing their divorce in 2019. While the separation made headlines, both Jose and Titus remained respectful and private about their reasons. Jose continued to focus on her professional life, maintaining her grace and poise even amid public attention.

Life After Divorce

Following her divorce, Jose Stemkens kept a low profile, dedicating most of her time to her fashion consulting business. She continued to live in California, managing her company and working with clients across Europe, Asia, and the United States. Her ability to remain focused and composed during personal transitions is one of the qualities that have earned her respect in professional circles.

Jose also began mentoring young professionals interested in fashion entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of understanding both creative and commercial aspects of the industry. Her career path became an inspiring example of how resilience and confidence can help a person rebuild after major life changes.

Professional Philosophy and Work Ethic

Jose Stemkens believes that fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a cultural expression and a form of storytelling. This belief has shaped her approach to consulting, where she encourages brands to build emotional connections with their consumers. Her work ethic is built on integrity, commitment, and precision, ensuring that every project she undertakes delivers measurable results.

She also emphasizes collaboration and cross-cultural understanding in business. Because of her international background, Jose is fluent in several languages and highly skilled at managing diverse teams. Her ability to navigate cultural differences with ease has made her a valuable partner for brands aiming to expand globally.

Influence in the Fashion Industry

Today, Jose Stemkens is recognized as one of the influential behind-the-scenes figures in the fashion world. While she may not be a household name like designers or celebrities, her work has had a significant impact on how international brands operate. She has been instrumental in helping emerging labels gain exposure in competitive markets and ensuring established brands remain relevant.

Her experience across multiple continents gives her a unique perspective on fashion trends, consumer behavior, and global marketing. She continues to advocate for sustainable practices in fashion and encourages brands to adopt environmentally conscious strategies. Jose’s influence extends beyond business—she has become a symbol of strength and independence for women pursuing careers in demanding industries.

Current Endeavors and Future Outlook

As of recent years, Jose continues to run Sunrise Fashion Consulting while exploring opportunities in fashion innovation and digital branding. With the growing influence of online retail and sustainable fashion movements, Jose remains adaptable, embracing change as part of her success strategy.

Her current work includes collaborating with eco-conscious designers and advising international clients on entering new markets. She is also rumored to be considering launching her own lifestyle brand, which would reflect her elegant yet practical sense of style. While she maintains privacy regarding her personal life, her professional achievements continue to speak volumes.

Legacy and Inspiration

Jose Stemkens’ story is one of perseverance, intelligence, and self-reinvention. From her beginnings as a model in Europe to becoming a global fashion consultant and entrepreneur, she has shown that success comes from courage and determination. Her journey reflects the evolving role of women in business—balancing creativity with leadership, and personal life with ambition.

Whether it’s through her consulting firm or her mentorship work, Jose continues to inspire many in the fashion community. She is a reminder that elegance is not only about appearance but also about strength, grace, and authenticity. Her life serves as proof that even after challenges such as divorce or career shifts, reinvention is always possible with hard work and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Jose Stemkens?

• Jose Stemkens is a Dutch-born fashion consultant, entrepreneur, and former model best known as the ex-wife of American actor Titus Welliver. She is also the founder of Sunrise Fashion Consulting.

2. What is Sunrise Fashion Consulting?

• Sunrise Fashion Consulting is a company founded by Jose Stemkens that helps fashion brands expand internationally, offering consulting services in branding, sales, and global market strategies.

3. How did Jose Stemkens meet Titus Welliver?

• Jose met Titus Welliver in Los Angeles through mutual professional connections. Their shared interests in art and culture helped them develop a close bond that eventually led to marriage in 2014.

4. What does Jose Stemkens do now?

• Jose currently continues her work as a fashion consultant and entrepreneur. She runs Sunrise Fashion Consulting and collaborates with global fashion brands on market expansion and brand management.

5. What is Jose Stemkens’ nationality?

• Jose Stemkens holds Dutch nationality and has lived in several countries, including the Netherlands, South Africa, and the United States.