I learned basic sewing skills from my mother who was an accomplished seamstress in her own right. She made clothing for all her seven children, including our special Easter frocks, birthday dresses and matching day wear. The skill of creativity, which both my parents exhibited, was passed down to all their children. My 7th grade Home Economics class was also instrumental in developing my interest in sewing and I have continued to educated myself on fitting, fashion and sewing techniques through classes, books, trial and error and many sewing mentors over the years.

I didn’t start out to make a career in sewing or design. I started my career in education and taught elementary school full time until I started my family. Being a stay-at-home mom, I started to get back into sewing, beginning with home décor items for myself and other clients as well as my children’s christening gowns, play clothes, holiday dresses, and prom dresses. I created costumes for my daughters ballet school productions and later did costuming for Jesuit High School drama department which I still do today. I really enjoy the creativity and challenges each production brings. It is very gratifying to help a performer get into their character through their costume as much as it is gratifying to create something beautiful for a client.