Behind every public icon stands someone with their own unique story. June Baranco is one such figure, an American artist, entrepreneur, and former wife of broadcaster Bryant Gumbel. While many recognize her name from that high profile marriage, June Baranco has built a distinct identity through her creative passion, fine art background, and independent career as a custom milliner.
This article explores the life and journey of June Baranco, from her Louisiana roots to her artistic achievements, personal evolution, and professional legacy.
Who Is June Baranco?
June Baranco is an American artist, designer, and businesswoman known for her elegance, creativity, and resilience. Born and raised in Louisiana, June Baranco pursued her artistic interests early, later channeling her talent into both painting and millinery. Her story goes beyond her marriage to Bryant Gumbel; it’s about determination, reinvention, and self-expression through art.
Early Life and Background
Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, June Baranco grew up surrounded by Southern culture and creativity. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong appreciation for art and craftsmanship that would later define her professional life.
Family and Education
June Baranco attended Louisiana State University (LSU), where she graduated in 1971 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Fine Art. Her studies shaped her artistic perspective and refined her eye for design. Influenced by her Aunt Eura, who taught her to sew at a young age, June Baranco received her first sewing machine at just ten years old. This early love of creation became a lifelong passion.
Personal Interests and Early Influences
Even after moving from Louisiana to New York, June Baranco carried her Southern roots and creativity with her. She painted in oils and pastels and developed a deep interest in fashion design. Her ability to merge art and fashion became the foundation for her later career as a milliner.
Marriage to Bryant Gumbel
The most well-known chapter in June Baranco’s life began when she married television journalist Bryant Gumbel.
How June Baranco Met Bryant Gumbel
June Baranco met Bryant Gumbel in the early 1970s, during the start of his media career. They married in 1973, long before Gumbel became a household name as co-host of NBC’s Today show. Their relationship lasted nearly three decades — a duration comparable to other long-term celebrity marriages such as that of Atila Altaunbay and Grace Jones, which also drew public attention for its longevity and unique story.
Marriage, Family Life, and Challenges
During their marriage, June Baranco supported Gumbel through the heights of his career while raising their two children, Jillian Beth and Bradley Christopher. Managing family life in the public eye required strength and patience, qualities that June Baranco displayed consistently. Despite their outward success, the marriage faced personal challenges that ultimately led to separation.
Divorce and Life After Separation
After 28 years together, June Baranco and Bryant Gumbel divorced in 2001. Though the split was highly publicized, it marked a turning point for June Baranco, who redirected her focus toward her own ambitions. The period following the divorce became one of growth and reinvention, as she transitioned from a private life partner to an independent creative professional.
Career and Professional Life
Following her separation, June Baranco turned her lifelong artistic passion into a thriving second career.
Early Career Journey
Before establishing her business, June Baranco balanced her artistic pursuits with her family life. Her creativity found new direction in 2011 when, while searching for a hat for her daughter’s wedding, she was dissatisfied with the available options. This inspired her to design her own sparking the creation of her future business.
Contributions and Achievements
June Baranco founded Geaux Chapeaux Millinery, specializing in handmade, custom hats. The name “Geaux” is a tribute to her Louisiana heritage. Through this brand, June Baranco combined her fine art training with her eye for elegance, creating hats that became wearable art. Her designs gained recognition for their craftsmanship, color, and timeless beauty. In 2014, she showcased her work at the LSU Rural Life Museum, reconnecting with her roots and celebrating her creative achievements.
Public Recognition and Influence
June Baranco’s artistry and business success established her as a respected figure in the niche world of millinery. Her journey illustrates how creative passions can evolve into professional fulfillment. Through dedication and authenticity, June Baranco continues to inspire others seeking purpose later in life.
June Baranco’s Net Worth and Financial Overview
Though specific figures are private, June Baranco’s net worth reflects her career achievements, divorce settlement, and business ventures.
| Aspect | Description |
| Sources of Income | Income for June Baranco comes from her custom hat business, Geaux Chapeaux Millinery, art sales, and the financial settlement from her 2001 divorce. |
| Lifestyle and Assets | June Baranco leads a refined, art-centered lifestyle influenced by her creative career. Her assets likely include business earnings and holdings from her long-term marriage settlement. |
Beyond numbers, June Baranco’s true wealth lies in her independence and creative legacy.
Personal Life and Current Endeavors
In her current life, June Baranco focuses on art, design, and family while maintaining strong ties to her Southern heritage. She also manages her finances and creative projects responsibly, often emphasizing the importance of smart money management tools like Traceloans to support her artistic and personal endeavors.
Where Is June Baranco Now?
Today, June Baranco dedicates her time to her millinery business and her artwork. She continues to live between New York and Louisiana, creating elegant designs that embody her love of craftsmanship. Her role as a mother and artist remains central to her identity, and she enjoys a fulfilling, balanced life grounded in creativity and purpose.
Legacy and Impact
The story of June Baranco is one of quiet strength and reinvention.
Role as a Public Figure
Rather than being defined by her past marriage, June Baranco is celebrated for carving her own path. Her late-career transformation demonstrates that it’s never too late to follow one’s passions. Through her work, June Baranco exemplifies artistic resilience and self-determination.
Influence on Media and Society
By redefining herself after divorce, June Baranco has become a symbol of empowerment. Her journey challenges the perception of celebrity spouses, proving that success can emerge from personal reinvention. June Baranco’s life underscores that creative identity and self-worth come from within, not from association with fame.
Conclusion
From Louisiana to New York, from artist to entrepreneur, June Baranco has lived a life of transformation. Her evolution from supportive spouse to accomplished milliner reflects the power of creativity and independence. Today, June Baranco continues to inspire others with her artistry, grace, and example of living authentically. Her story is a reminder that reinvention and self-expression can flourish at any stage of life.
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Frequently Asked Question
What is June Baranco’s current profession?
June Baranco is a professional artist and custom milliner, running her business Geaux Chapeaux Millinery.
Where did June Baranco attend college?
June Baranco graduated from Louisiana State University (LSU) with a Bachelor of Science in Fine Art.
How long was June Baranco married to Bryant Gumbel?
June Baranco was married to Bryant Gumbel for about 28 years, from 1973 to 2001.
Does June Baranco have children?
Yes, June Baranco and Bryant Gumbel have two children Jillian Beth and Bradley Christopher.
What inspired June Baranco to start her millinery business?
June Baranco was inspired to launch Geaux Chapeaux after struggling to find a suitable hat for her daughter’s wedding, leading her to design her own custom pieces.
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