Shows
Secrets of a Bridal SeamstressWhy Every Bridal Seamstress Needs to Attend In-Person EventsLet’s face it—working alone in your studio can be both peaceful and isolating. In this episode we're diving into why in-person connection isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a total game-changer for your business.You’ll hear stories from our Charleston retreat (including how attendees braved an ice storm to get there!), learn what’s ahead for upcoming events, and discover why now is the perfect time to commit to being in the room with other bridal professionals.There’s something special about real hugs, shared meals, and side-by-side learning that just can’t be repli...2025-05-3026 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress6 Figure Friday: The Power of a Schedule: Two Game-Changing Tips for Seamstress SanityIt’s easy to get caught in the nonstop hustle of busy season—but today’s Six-Figure Friday tip is all about reclaiming your time and energy by using one simple tool: a schedule.In this quick, actionable episode, I share two powerful (but doable!) scheduling habits that have completely changed the way I run my bridal sewing business—and I think they’ll do the same for you.In this episode:Why scheduling regular time off isn’t a luxury—it’s a business strategyHow setting a routine keeps overwhelm at bay...2025-05-1613 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress6 Figure Friday: Is Social Media Serving You… or Draining You? A Candid Chat for Seamstress Business OwnersLet’s talk about social media—specifically, how to use it like a business owner, not let it use you. In this Six-Figure Friday mini episode, we're diving into the heart of how social media affects your mindset, productivity, and overall business health. Inspired by the book The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, this chat is part mindset reset and part tactical check-in.Bridal seamstress or not, if you’ve ever felt distracted, discouraged, or drained by the scroll, this episode offers three grounded tips to reframe your relationship with social media—so it becomes a tool again, n...2025-05-0915 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressThe Seamstress Next Gen: Meet Danielle, a 22-Year-Old Bridal PowerhouseThink sewing is just for older generations? Think again. This week’s guest, Danielle Park, is living proof that passion, hustle, and community support can turn a teenage dream into a thriving bridal business.Danielle is the owner of Yours with Every Stitch, a bustling bridal studio she launched while still in high school. Now, at just 22 years old, she’s fully booked for the year, working in a multi-room space she earned by building genuine relationships and never letting her age limit her vision.In this episode:Starting a sewing business straight out...2025-05-0634 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress6 Figure Friday: Unlock Your Brand Essence: The Secret to Seamstress SuccessWelcome back to another Six Figure Friday episode of Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress! This week, we’re diving into a topic that fuels everything from your logo to your Instagram captions: your brand essence.So… what exactly is brand essence, and how does it differ from your mission statement? Your brand essence is the feeling your clients get when they interact with your business. It’s the vibe, the energy, the “youness” that makes your studio stand out. In this episode, I’ll walk you through simple, reflective questions to help you define what your brand essence trul...2025-05-0213 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressBuilding a Bridal Business from the Ground Up with Susan, Saylor SewingIn this episode of Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress, I'm thrilled to introduce you to one of our incredible SBS members — Susan Taylor, the owner of Saylor Sewing in Nebraska!Susan’s story is a perfect mix of heart, hustle, and creative passion. From sewing doll clothes with her grandmother to running a bustling bridal studio with a team of talented seamstresses, Susie's journey will inspire anyone chasing their sewing dreams.In this episode:How Susan turned a lifelong love of sewing into a full-time businessThe leap from taking on "what...2025-04-2954 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress6 Figure Friday: Why Your Brand Mission Is the Backbone of Your Bridal BusinessWelcome to the first official Six Figure Friday on the Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress Podcast!If you’re on my email list, you’ve seen these weekly business tips designed to help bridal seamstresses like you strengthen your brand, streamline your systems, and boost your income—without burnout. And now, you can listen in as we bring these tips to the podcast!This week’s short and powerful tip is all about crafting a brand mission that truly reflects your business—and why it’s the foundation for everything from your marketing to your pricing to t...2025-04-2522 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressHandling Bridezillas with Confidence: How to Move On Professionally & EmotionallyAt some point, every bridal seamstress will encounter a difficult client. But what happens after the fact? How do you move forward without letting one stressful experience overshadow the joy of serving your brides?In this episode, I’m sharing a special training I created for DeeDee Anderson’s Bridal Seamstress Symposium, all about how to emotionally and professionally move on from a bridezilla situation. We’ll talk about the key mindset shifts, practical strategies, and boundary-setting tools that will protect your energy and keep you confident in your business.Join the Secrets of a Bridal...2025-02-1830 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressUplevel Your Bridal Business by Strengthening Your MindsetIt’s still a new year, which means its a perfect time to refresh and realign—especially when it comes to your emotional well-being. In today’s episode, we focus on leveling up emotionally for 2025 with small but impactful changes that can transform how you approach both your bridal seamstress business and personal life.Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed from the hustle of last year or eager to continue building on success, this episode is packed with insights to help you maintain balance, set boundaries, and grow emotionally. Get ready to step into 2025 with a mindset t...2025-02-1121 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressOrganized Studio, Organized Mind: Marie Kondo Your Studio for a Successful Bridal SeasonIn today’s episode, we’re focusing on the power of decluttering to help you get ahead of the busy bridal season. As bridal seamstresses, we know how quickly our studios (and minds!) can become cluttered when business is in full swing. That’s why now—during your slower season—is the perfect time to clean, organize, and streamline.
I share tips to help you organize your studio, refresh your client communication, and rework your business systems. Plus, we'll discuss the importance of making space not just physically but emotionally—because an organized studio helps foster a productive...2025-02-0622 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressOff-Season Checklist: Set Your Seamstress Business Up for Busy Season SuccessWelcome back and Happy 2025! In today’s episode, we’re focusing on how you can use your slow season to set yourself up for success when the busy season hits. The work you do now—updating, refreshing, and organizing—will save you time, stress, and headaches later. Trust me, your future self will thank you once the busy season rolls around!I’m sharing five essential areas to revisit and refresh this season, ensuring you're prepared when your studio fills up with wedding dresses and client appointments. We’ll be talking about a few simple yet impactful updates you...2025-02-0425 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressMastering Boundaries and Building a Sustainable Wedding Business with Megan Gillikin, Weddings For RealIf you struggle with hustle culture and work life balance, this episode about slowing down to grow a sustainable, joyful business is game-changing for anyone in the wedding industry.
In this episode, I sit down with Megan Gillikin, wedding pro, educator, speaker, and host of the Weddings for Real podcast. Megan shares her journey from working in hospitality to owning a thriving wedding planning business and eventually becoming a full-time wedding industry educator.
In this episode:
Megan’s unexpected start in the wedding industry, including buying her first business just weeks after her ow...2024-12-1140 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressUnveiling the Secrets of the 2025 Symposium with DeeDee AndersonEver wonder how the bridal alterations community comes together to share, learn, and grow? In this episode, I’m joined by DeeDee Anderson of Anderson Academy to talk about the highly anticipated 2025 Symposium—an event designed to educate, inspire, and unite bridal seamstresses from around the world.
In this episode:
Who is DeeDee Anderson
What is the 2025 Symposium
About the panelists: Adrienne Gonzales, Brenda Breitnmoser, Kirstie Gilbert, and me, Nadine Bozeman
The 2025 Theme, and my presentation on Bridezillas!
Why You Should Attend:
Whether you’re a seaso...2024-12-0432 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressThe Art of Bridal Sewing: Passion, Playfulness, and Client Care with Sarah Betty DesignsHow do you reignite your love for sewing while managing the day-to-day demands of running a business?
In this episode, I chat with Sarah Betty of Sarah Betty Designs about her journey from learning to sew with her grandmother to running a thriving bridal business. Sarah shares the story behind her designs, her deep connection with clients, and how she keeps her creativity alive, even during the busiest wedding seasons.
In this episode:
How Sarah became a bridal seamstress.
The importance of creating memorable client experiences and building meaningful relationships.
2024-11-2644 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressBuilding a Luxury Brand and Empowering Wedding Pros with Christy Townsend of The Paper Vow and The Collective VowEver wondered what it takes to build a luxury brand in the wedding industry?
In today’s episode, we’re joined by Christy Townsend, founder of The Paper Vow and The Collective Vow. Christy shares her story of going from a corporate graphic designer to luxury wedding stationery designer and creator of a retreat for wedding professionals.
She shares advice from someone in the luxury wedding industry, why she chose to specialize in high-end stationery, and the steps she took to build a luxury brand from scratch. For bridal seamstresses and other creative professionals, this episo...2024-11-1945 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressCrafting Calm, Wellness, and Connection in Bridal Alterations with Anna Kathryne, The Heart-Centered SeamstressIn this episode, I’m joined by Anna, the talented and compassionate owner of The Heart-Centered Seamstress. Anna shares how she transformed her passions for sewing and holistic wellness into a business dedicated to providing not only stunning bridal alterations, but also a calming and supportive environment for brides-to-be.
If you’re a bridal seamstress, a wedding industry professional, or a bride-to-be seeking a more holistic approach to your wedding preparations, this conversation is packed with insights on balancing passion with purpose, infusing wellness into your work, and finding joy in the small, intentional moments.
In thi...2024-11-1350 min
White Dress OptionalSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress with Nadine BozemanWelcome back, everyone! This week, Mel & Malea are diving into all the wedding dress alteration secrets you didn’t know you needed with bridal seamstress, Nadine Bozeman of Sweet Francis Sewing Co.! They break down why every wedding gown, whether off-the-rack or custom-ordered, needs alterations. You’ll also get expert tips on choosing the best bridal tailor, planning for body changes, and even tipping etiquette. And to make your life even easier, make sure to download our digital alterations checklist below to help guide you through the process step by step!FREE Alterations ChecklistConnect with...2024-10-0237 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressHow to Stay Sane in Wedding Season: Burnout Prevention for Bridal Seamstresses, with Heidi ThompsonBusiness is only as hard as you make it!
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Heidi Thompson, founder of Evolve Your Wedding Business. Heidi shares her expertise on avoiding burnout and building a wedding business that provides freedom rather than stress.
As Heidi says, creatives are the best at burning themselves out, so Heidi provides practical steps for bridal seamstresses to help manage and prevent burnout!
In this episode:
Heidi’s Journey from nonprofit event planning to marketing expert in the wedding industry.
The Sand, Pebble, Big Rock Metho...2024-10-0141 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressFrom Clients to Cheerleaders: How to Grow Your Business with Relationship Marketing with Madelyn VictoriaIn this episode, we’re talking all about marketing – specifically, how you can use affordable tools to market your business and strengthen the relationships you already have with your clients. Joining me is Madelyn, a marketing strategist who works with small businesses. Madelyn will be sharing her top tips for building genuine connections with clients and turning them into your biggest fans.
If you're a scrappy bridal seamstress, DIY-ing your marketing and looking for ways to connect with clients without breaking the bank, this episode is for you!
In this episode:
Inexpensive Marketing Tact...2024-09-2533 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressHow to Plan Time Off as a Bridal Seamstress Without Losing Your MindI just took a vacation to Minnesota to see family, in the middle of busy season as a seamstress. During my trip I had DMs from people asking, “How do you take time off?”
I get it! We work hard, and sometimes the thought of stepping away can feel impossible.
But guess what? It’s totally doable, and I’m here to share exactly how to plan time off so you can rest, recharge, and still keep your business running smoothly.
Today, we’re talking about how to plan a vacation, enjoy your time off, a...2024-09-1138 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressStreamlining Your Seamstress Business with Dubsado, SEO and Virtual Assistant Services with Kelly McCrackenRunning the backend of your business can be easy – it might just take a few automations to make your life easier!
Kelly McCracken is a local celebrity in the SBS community, known for managing Dubsado, Pinterest and Blogging for wedding photographers & professionals!
Kelly discusses her transition from teaching to entrepreneurship, the importance of delegating tasks to trusted professionals, and walks us through the benefits and setup of a CRM system like Dubsado. We also talk about the value of blogging and Pinterest for business growth, SEO optimization, and how to effectively hire and collaborate with virt...2024-08-1332 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressEpisode 100 Special: Wisdom, Wins, and What's Next for SBSWelcome to episode 100 of Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress! In this episode I’m sharing the secrets behind starting this podcast, growth and learnings I have seen along the way- and much more! This podcast would not be possible without listeners and guests, so thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey.
I also have a big announcement - Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress is closing fall 2024.
Listen to the episode to hear the new structure of the membership and how you can get in before the doors close!
In thi...2024-08-0726 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressThe Art of Indie Patterns with Peggy Mead, Sew House 7Peggy Mead, the creator, and designer behind Sew House Seven Patterns, a popular indie pattern company based in Portland, Oregon. Sew House Seven is an independent pattern company grown in the Pacific Northwest. Their focus is on creating beautiful sewing patterns that can be made up rather quickly and easily yet appeal to sewists of all levels. The pattern instructions are very detailed and provide an opportunity to learn while sewing. Most styles have a special design feature that makes them unique.
Peggy shares her journey from learning to sew as a child to developing her pattern b...2024-07-3040 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressSewing and the City with Christine LindebakIn this episode of Secrets of Bridal Seamstress, Nadine interviews Christine Lindback, the creative force behind Sewing and the City and Lindy Lindy. Christine shares her inspiring journey from the Pacific Northwest to New York City, and describes living her dream life now in Spain. The discussion covers a typical day in Christine's creative life, the evolution of her brands, and her transition from a career in fashion retail to becoming a thriving sewing entrepreneur.
Christine talks about the importance of taking time off, staying motivated, and her upcoming plans, including a new stationery line inspired by v...2024-07-2333 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressInstagram Strategies for Bridal Seamstresses: Navigating Creator vs. Consumer ModeDoes posting on social media feel stressful to you? This episode about using Instagram as a business tool without the stress is for you!
Recently in the Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress membership, we did an Instagram challenge and I share the same strategy that I share with my to help them level up on Instagram!
This challenge focuses on mindset, big picture goals, and the differences between engaging as a creator versus a consumer. You will walk away with tips on maintaining a balance between too personal and too sterile posts, staying organized, and unde...2024-07-1634 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressLive Coaching: Real Questions from Bridal Seamstresses from the SBS Open HouseIn this special episode of Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress, we share highlights from our recent SBS membership open house. You will hear from SBS members about their experience, as well as hot seat coaching from seamstresses who attended the open house.
SBS members share their business strategies, recent wins, and how the community and membership has helped them grow.
Whether you're interested in joining the membership or seeking inspiration for your own bridal business, this episode offers valuable insights and motivation for you!
In this episode:
What is Secrets of a...2024-07-0954 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressUpcoming 2024/2025 Bridal Trends, from the Experts at Brilliant Bridal, Melanie & Malea, Hosts of White Dress Optional PodcastTrends in the bridal industry are ever changing, so this week I am speaking with two guests who are constantly keeping things FRESH with brides and couples: Melanie & Malea from Brilliant Bridal and hosts of White Dress Optional Podcast!
In this episode, we talk about their podcast, White Dress Optional, how they opened 7 bridal shops in 13 years, what dress trends brides are currently shopping for, the decision fatigue many brides are experiencing, and advice for bridal seamstresses wanting to grow their business and stay up to date with trends.
In this episode:
Why Me...2024-07-0337 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressThe Seamstress Evolution: Attracting Gen Z Clients, Building a Bridal Seamstress Business & Managing Systems and Workflows with Rose McGregor, The Alteration ShopIn this episode, I chat with Rose McGregor, a bridal seamstress from western Kentucky and member of Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress.
Rose shares her journey of learning to sew from her mother, the steps she took to leave David’s Bridal to start The Alteration Shop, the importance of updating her marketing strategies to attract Gen Z clients, and the exciting transition to a new commercial space. We also discuss setting prices, managing workflow, and the significance of staying open to new ideas and techniques!
Rose is a native of Western Kentucky, growing up in...2024-06-1148 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressConfidence With Sewing, Instagram Reels and All Things Fabric with Kate McIvor, Founder of The Confident Stitch and Palmer/Pletsch EducatorYou may feel confident with sewing, but do you feel confident with all things running a seamstress business?
In this episode, Kate McIvor, the founder of The Confidence Stitch joins us to talk all about how she grows her business through Instagram Reels, her favorite pattern designers, her own fabric shop in Missoula, MT, and how she got into sewing in the first place.
At Confident Stitch, they believe that sewing is for people of all abilities, shapes, ages, genders and personalities. We’ll meet you where you are, whether you’ve never picked up a need...2024-06-0438 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressStarting a Sewing Revolution with Mimi G, founder of Mimi G Style, Inc, Sew It Academy™ and co-founded Melanated Fabrics & Creative CenterMimi G, the world’s #1 Influencer & expert in the DIY sewing revolution joins the podcast today to talk all about how she started her business, pattern making, and advice she has for bridal seamstresses and sewing pros!
Mimi G is the famed entrepreneur behind the award-winning fashion, lifestyle, and D.I.Y. blog Mimi G Style, the world’s leading online fashion sewing and design school Sew It! Academy, and co-founded Melanated Fabrics & Creative Center, a black and brown, female-owned business that provides creatives a unique space to create, inspire and support each other. She is known as th...2024-05-2851 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressHow To Avoid Social Media Overwhelm, Attract New Clients and Maintain Your Current Clients With Business Coach, Hailey RoweHailey Rowe joins the podcast to talk all about how to avoid social media overwhelm and how to actually attract new clients with social media! Hailey is a Business Coach and the host of the Health Coach Nation Podcast. Bridal Seamstresses wanting to grow online to book out more clients, this episode is for you!
In this episode, we talk about:
How to start showing up on social media more.
Where to show up online to reach the right clienttell.
Social media tips for bridal seamstresses.
Collaboration opportunities every sea...2024-05-2137 min
Wedding Pros who are ready to grow - with Becca PountneyHow to make your wedding clients feel special with Nadine BozemanEver wonder how to make your wedding clients feel special? In a recent 2024 study by Wedding Dates they found that 74% of couples responded to say they felt like a number and not made to feel special by their wedding suppliers. In today's episode I am talking to founder of 'Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress' Nadine Bozeman about how we can ensure we give out clients the best experience so they feel seen and special every single time.Follow Nadine on InstagramGrab Nadine's private podcast resource.Want to meet other likeminded wedding pro's...2024-05-1646 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressPattern Making for Profit, Costume Making for Large Productions and Teaching Your Craft with Tricia Camacho, The Patterned SeamstressTricia Camacho is the owner and head draper for The Patterned Seamstress, a costume build shop. Previously located in Las Vegas, Nevada, she now services clients from Nevada/California and the East Coast out of North Carolina. Tricia has built her business over the last six years with fifteen years professional wardrobe and costume experience. She spent eleven years in Las Vegas working on large productions such as “Jersey Boys”, “The Lion King” and “LeReve”. Proceeding Las Vegas, she spent two years on the national tour of “The Full Monty”. She specializes in pattern making and difficult builds for acrobatic perfor...2024-05-1455 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressDealing with Copycats, Competition and The Good and Bad of Working in the Wedding Industry with Becca PountneyBecca Pountney, a London based Wedding Pros Mentor joins the Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress Podcast to talk all about the not so glamorous side of working in the wedding industry - from clients to peers.
Becca is a consultant for wedding pros, and loves working with people in the beginning of their journey. Becca believes and teaches that life is not all about working yourself into the ground. She is all about balance – working hard doing something that you love alongside making memories and spending time with the people you love.
In this episode:
...2024-05-0750 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressHow to Professionally Deal With Difficult Situations as a Bridal Seamstress with Monique's Sew UniqueMonique, a Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress Member and the founder of Monique's Sew Unique, a New Brunswick based bridal seamstress joins the podcast today. We talk all about when she started sewing, how she started her bridal seamstress business, opening a consignment shop, and how she has professionally dealt with difficult situations in this industry.
Monique has over 20 years of sewing experience. She started Monique's Sew Unique in Ontario in 2008, and now continues to offer her professional service in New Brunswick. Monique now offers a bridal consignment service that complements her expertise, and offers designer gowns a...2024-04-3049 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressMastering Your Craft With Veil Expert, Julie Harris DesignsFind what you love and go for it - this is Julie Harris’s advice for entering the bridal industry.
Julie Harris, the owner of Julie Harris Designs helps modern marriers express their personal style with classic, romantic and dramatic bridal veils, capes and hair accessories.
After finishing design school, she created a pearl-encrusted cathedral veil for a friend and from that first wedding three more brides-to-be contacted her to create handmade bridal veils for their big days! She went on to create a line of wedding veils for Nicole Miller Bridal Boutique in West...2024-04-2354 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressCostume Design to Bridal, with Rizner CostumeIn today's episode, we hear from Rizner Costume, a Texas-based master seamstress. This podcast episode features her fascinating journey from costume design to specializing in bridal seamstress services.
Rizner started sewing at a young age, and got her start in costume design. While she is still sewing up costumes, she has added bridal seamstress to her repertoire. She has a strong following on TikTok, and shares insights as to why she chooses to market herself on there, and how she keeps up with TikTok trends. Rizer also shares how she dealt with a hand...2024-04-0946 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressBuilding a Business Worth Celebrating with Carin Hunt, owner of Celebration ProsCarin Hunt is the founder of Celebration Pros and is a Wedding Pro Strategist. Carin helps business owners in the wedding industry build businesses worth celebrating, with her hands-on done-with-you “Champagne Logic” Strategy for growth and success.
Carin describes “celebration pros” as a creative entrepreneur whose passion to succeed is limitless, viewing setbacks not as roadblocks, but as opportunities for learning and growth. A business owner who knows the value of building relational bridges, intentional collaboration, and nurtures their community. A pro who celebrates their business as much as others.
In this episode:
Carin’s sto...2024-04-0245 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressBranding and Web Design for Your Seamstress Business with Emily FosterDoes your branding show who you really are, and attract the clients you are dreaming of? If the answer is no, then you might want to consider rebranding!
Emily Foster, a Branding and Showit website designer for wedding professionals, photographers, and creative businesses, joins the podcast today. Emily is based in Portland, Oregon and has 7 years of design experience. She has done a lot of different design work - everything from big blow ups for events to animations to Facebook and Google ads to branding for digital companies.
Despite so many different projects, her heart al...2024-03-2641 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressLeveraging Social Media to Grow Your Seamstress Business with Rachael Peterson, owner of Heming and FitzIn this week's episode, I am speaking to Rachael Peterson, the owner of Heming and Fitz in Draper, Utah. Rachael is one of the OGs when it comes to sharing the sewing process on social media, and she explains exactly how she grew her business with this strategy.
Throughout the years of owning Heming and Fitz, she has also grown her team through hiring sewer and customer service members. She has also started an additional business, Lady Love Bridal, a consignment shop where she sells sample shop dresses.
Topics in this episode:
How He...2024-03-1947 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressCreating Tailored Events for your Bridal Salon [+ Giveaway Announcement]Have you ever thought about hosting events in your area to bring the wedding community together, make deeper connections with your brides and get your name out there?
I recently hosted an event at my store where I invited some local wedding vendors, my upcoming 2024 brides, my followers and women in the area who are getting married soon. In this episode, I share all about this event, how I marketed it, what results it brought my business, and what I would do differently next time.
I also share an exciting giveaway that I am hosting n...2024-02-2739 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressFrom Big Box Store to Home Studio to Storefront, Catching Up with Kirstyn GilliesIn this week’s episode, we are catching up with Kirstyn Gillies, a New York Bridal Seamstress who was on the podcast 2 years ago! So much has changed in her business over the past two years, so we took this as an opportunity to catch up!
Two years ago, Kirstyn shared how she left her career at a big box store to start her own bridal alterations home studio, and in this episode, she shares how she left her home studio and opened a storefront!
We talk about how she makes more money now by addi...2024-02-2042 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressSewing Up a Variety of Offers with Vintage, Bespoke and Celebrity Seamstress, Grace LaneGrace Lane joins the Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress Podcast all the way from London, where she is sewing up a variety of different offers! From vintage restoration to bespoke bridal, and even sewing for celebrities, Grace shares her advice on how to balance it all.
Throughout this episode, Grace and I are amazed by how, even though we live in different countries, a lot of our seamstress business experiences are the same - such as similar goals, similar roadblocks, and similar experiences with clients and vendors.
Grace also shares great advice for all seamstresses, li...2024-02-131h 07Secrets of a Bridal SeamstressRecap of the 2024 Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress RetreatBridal Seamstresses joined together in Austin this past week to attend the 2024 Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress Retreat.
The weekend consisted of 3 days of trainings with keynote speakers, small group breakout sessions, learning from each other and networking and connecting with each other on a deeper level! In this episode, I recap the amazing experience of the retreat and share my biggest takeaways from the event.
If you missed this event, be sure to follow this podcast and instagram to know when the next event will be live!
Connect with Nadine:
Beco...2024-01-3125 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress4 Ways to Raise Your Average TicketCurrently this is the slow season for the wedding industry in the Pacific Northwest, so I have time to evaluate my plan for the upcoming busy season of my bridal seamstress business!
In this episode, I share 4 ways to raise your average ticket price as a bridal seamstress, because we should all be charging what our work is worth and making the most of our time! This month in the membership, we are discussing the Profit First method to business, and this is just a part of that.
If you have financial goals that you w...2024-01-1628 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressCreating SMART Goals For Your Bridal Seamstress BusinessDo you have big goals for your bridal seamstress business in 2024? In this episode, I walk you through how to break down your goals into more manageable steps with the help of SMART goals.
If you have never heard of SMART goals, they were developed by George Doran, Arthur Miller and James Cunningham in their 1981 article “There's a S.M.A.R.T. way to write management goals and objectives.”
This episode is the perfect way to start the new year. To help you with this, I have created a free downloadable template with journal promp...2024-01-0932 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressSomething for Every Sewist at Washington State’s Sewing & Stitchery Expo with Jen Geise & Brittany LabbeIn this episode, I am joined by Jen and Brittany Labbe, the show managers for the 2024 Sewing & Stitchery Expo located in Puyallup, WA from February 29 – March 3, 2024. 2024 is the 40th anniversary of this expo.
I will be at the expo next year teaching some classes, so if you attend, let me know. I would love to meet in person!
The Sew Expo is the largest annual gathering of the sewing community in the entire country. Every year since 1984, people from all over the world have gathered to learn from industry experts, meet sewing celebrities, and experience the...2024-01-0238 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressCreating a Bridal Line with Designer, Lara KnightIn this episode, I speak with Lara Knight, a bridal designer. Lara started her bridal career straight out of FIT. She worked alongside some major talent, who allowed her to learn the art of creating gowns.
Laura shares her story about how she got involved in the fashion industry, and how she was able to work with amazing celebrities like Michelle Obama and Vanna White. We talk all about how to start a bridal line, how bridal seamstresses can begin creating custom gowns, building relationships with brides and so much more.
Topics discussed in this ep...2023-12-1943 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressEnhancing Your Craft & Alteration Mentorship with Dee Dee Anderson, Founder of Anderson Alterations AcademyIn this episode, I speak with Dee Dee Anderson, the owner of Anderson Alterations Academy.
Dee Dee has been in the bridal industry for over 30 years. She has performed alterations for thousands of brides in a way that looks like a natural extension of the original dress. Being in such high demand, brides have traveled from all over North America to her small town in Northern Utah to worth with Dee Dee.
The Anderson Academy teaches bridal seamstresses how to stand out as an elite bridal alterations expert in a high demand bridal industry! The p...2023-12-1247 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressFirst Year as a Bridal Seamstress | Getting Clients, Setting up the Business, Finding Support with Marianne MaciejewskiSo you want to be a bridal seamstress, but where do you start?
In this episode, I speak with Marianne Maciejewski, a bridal seamstress in Berks County, Pennsylvania.
When Marianne first thought about starting her bridal seamstress business, a lot of things seemed like big question marks - how do I run the business? How do I price my services? Who can I lean on for support? What she was missing was community - and so when she found Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress’s Online Membership, everything fell into place.
Marianne had bee...2023-12-0538 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressDo You Speak Bride featuring Wendy Rivera | Join us in Austin, TX, Jan 24-26, 2024Join us January 24-26, 2024 in Austin, Texas for 3 days of keynotes, networking, and reimaging the potential of your bridal alterations business. Registration closes November 30th!
In this episode Wendy Rivera, the owner of Do You Speak Bride, chats all about the way of communicating with the bride in what she calls the Language of Bride. Wendy is the keynote speaker on day 1 at the retreat!
Register here: https://secretsofabridalseamstresspodcast.com/retreat
What is included?
3 Days of Trainings, featuring Stellar Keynotes:
Do You Speak Bride? CEO Wendy Rivera
Th...2023-11-2837 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressBringing Your Seamstress Dreams to Life featuring Bianca Trevino | Join us in Austin, TX, Jan 24-26, 2024Are you a bridal seamstress looking to take your business to the next level? Join us January 24-26, 2024 in Austin, Texas for 3 days of keynotes, networking, and reimaging the potential of your bridal alterations business. Registration closes November 30th!
In this episode, Bianca Trevino, CEO of The Wed Strategy, chats all about what’s to come in this event-packed weekend.
Register here: https://secretsofabridalseamstresspodcast.com/retreat
What is included?
3 Days of Trainings, featuring Stellar Keynotes:
Do You Speak Bride? CEO Wendy Rivera
The Wed Strategy CEO Bianca Trev...2023-11-1420 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressThe Wedding Gap, Planning for 2024, and Upcoming Bridal Trends with Brandee Gaar, host of The Wedding Pro CEO PodcastIf you are in the wedding industry and feel like you are in a weird phase of business right now where leads have slowed down for no reason, you are not alone. There is actually a reason for this! It is called “The Wedding Gap”.
Today’s episode features Brandee Gaar, the founder of Blush and the host of The Wedding Pro CEO Podcast. Brandee is the go-to business coach and resource for wedding professionals and creative business owners who want to transform their small business from an expensive hobby into a thriving and successful career that gives...2023-11-0748 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressFirst Impressions: From Online Engagement to In-Person Bridal ClientsWe all know first impressions matter, but as a bridal seamstress connecting with people online in a world full of visual simulation, how can we leave a first impression that lasts?
In this episode, I share three tips for grabbing the attention of clients online in a short amount of time. What do you need to be posting? What needs to be on your website? How should your bride feel when they come to you in-person for their fitting?
Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this...2023-10-2426 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressPlanning for Unexpected Changes in Life & Business with Genna Engeman, the Wedding Gown TailorHow to plan for the unexpected - what a contradictory statement, but as a self-employed bridal seamstress, it is critical to think about. In this episode, I chat with Genna Engeman, the Wedding Gown Tailor. Genna started her seamstress career as a part-time gig, and then when she became pregnant and her husband was laid off, she decided to go all-in full-time in her business, The Wedding Gown Tailor.
In this episode:
Planning ahead for life events while running your own alteration business.
How to adapt to unexpected life events f...2023-10-0345 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress‘Seamless’ Business Moves with Sarah KolisAs a bridal seamstress, we go through seasons. Busy seasons, growth seasons, slow seasons, and super creative seasons. Today I am speaking with Sarah Kolis, the founder of Sarah Kolis Design, about everything involved in being a successful bridal seamstress.
In this episode we discuss:
How Sarah built her successful bridal seamstress business, and the pivots she made along the way.
Building up excitement around new offers, or revamped offers.
Sarah’s new take on vintage fashion.
The importance of always learning and growing in our sewing techniques.
Ti...2023-09-2633 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressModern Marketing, with The Wed Strategy’s Bianca TrevinoMarketing is one of those things that is constantly changing with the times! It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and quit before you try. Or maybe you have been trying, but the results aren’t exactly pouring in.
In this episode, Bianca Trevino shares her wisdom as a wedding planner and wedding business strategist, to give us applicable steps for our own bridal marketing.
You will want to take notes on this one!
Here are a few items we cover:
How can we reach our ideal audience in the most effic...2023-08-3147 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressRetreat Sneak Peek!Have you heard?
We have our next SBS retreat coming up in January, in Austin, Texas!
Intentional, impactful trainings and peer connections will prepare you for your most successful season yet.
Registration will be open until November 30, or until seats are sold out. We’re over half way there, so this is your friendly nudge to snag your seat!
In this episode, you’ll hear what we have planned for 3 days packed with education, breakout sessions, goal mapping, and of course some fun Au...2023-08-2426 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressSewing for the Joy of It, with Faith St. JulietteRemember when we would have time to sew just for the fun of it? Maybe it was the love of sewing and creating that first led you to the industry years ago. But many professional creatives will tell you that it takes intentional effort to keep your passion for the creativity itself.
In this episode, sewing influencer Faith St. Jul shares how she makes time for it all- her professional sewing workload, and the fun projects and design! Faith is a brand ambassador for several recognizable sewing brands, so you can imagine the to-do list that keeps h...2023-07-1947 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressI’m Sharing my Favorite Scheduling Secrets!One of the most asked questions I hear is: How do you block your time?
The second most common question: How many brides do you take per month?
The fun part about our industry is that everyone has a different answer. We each have found (or are still trying to find) the perfect balance between work and relaxing time off. Whether bridal sewing is your full time gig, or a side hustle to bring in vacation money, balancing your sewing and fitting time is key! It’s always so helpful for me to hear how my...2023-07-1128 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressTips for the Happy and Healthy Bridal SeamstressRaise your hand if you’ve had sewing projects that require so much brain power, you forget to eat! Or what about your water intake- how is that going during your busy season? Do we even want to mention the physical habits we establish sitting for hours at the sewing machine…?
The good news is, you’re not alone if these health factors are raising red flags for you. As small business owners, we have a lot to think about in our day-to-day routine. Working with clients, designing plans for gowns, and using our sewing skills to finish...2023-06-2844 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressKeeping it Real: behind the seams of Monde’s ThreadsI am so thrilled to share this interview with fellow sewist Monde Mutumba, the sewist behind Monde’s Threads. Monde is famous for her impressive overhauls of bridal gowns and formal wear, and of course her entertaining play-by-plays of the process! But today she’s sharing her own story: how her sewing journey began, how she filters out the right work commitments, behind the seams of pattern making, and what her plans are for the future.
Monde displays an attitude that every successful entrepreneur needs in order to succeed: she’s flexible, and she doesn’t take herself t...2023-05-311h 01Secrets of a Bridal SeamstressUnveiling her Story: how to bring our bride’s vision to life with Matt BaneverTune in to learn from master storyteller Matthew Banever, owner of Bards Clothing.
Matt has built a brand around the integrity of quality materials and workmanship, and the unique stories of his clients.
When he started the business in 2020, you can imagine the unexpected roadblocks that he had to overcome! Bards Clothing represents tenacity and grit, and intentional focus on the individual client. You’ll feel so inspired to keep going after hearing Matt’s story!
The reason I was most excited to chat with Matt tho, was to hear how he artfully celebr...2023-05-091h 04Secrets of a Bridal SeamstressLet’s Make Things Easier, with Automated Systems: featuring Fran MillerWhat do you get when you have one bridal sewing business owner, plus 37 different jobs to do to keep the business afloat? One busy (and probably overwhelmed) seamstress!
In this episode, Sew Glorious owner Fran Miller, PhD, gives us the full scoop on Dubsado, a program that provides automated assistance for your business. Fran shares all of the benefits of this digital treasure, including:
-personalized, automated email responses
-contract delivery
-online payment service
-online booking system
-bookkeeping services
…and so much more!
We hope...2023-03-2143 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressHow To Grow Your Local Sewing Business with Leslie PresnallThat’s a great question…How CAN we grow our local sewing business? With so many resources out there to reach the entire world online, our marketing strategies for local clients can be a bit muddled and confusing! As local businesses. it is so important to keep our eyes on the local prize- on our potential clients, and the relationships we can build within our respective communities. Today, we’re hearing from Leslie Presnall, host of the Grow Your Local Business Podcast. Leslie’s here to debunk some of the myths surrounding social media marketing, and instead, offer actionable steps to cl...2023-03-0936 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressHow Do You Know it’s Time To…Hire Professional Services?Today we’re hearing from Bree Mcqueen, and she’s giving us the inside scoop on when to know it’s time to hire professional services. She reached a point in her own business where she needed assistance with daily communicative tasks so she could spend more precious time at the sewing machine.
Does this sound like something you need to do too?
In this episode, Bree shares
-how to decide what to delegate
-how to actually delegate daily tasks
-how to budget for help
-how to find t...2023-02-2446 minSecrets of a Bridal SeamstressHow Do You Know it’s Time To…Find a Professional Studio Space?As bridal seamstresses, it’s not uncommon to start our businesses in our homes. We spruce up a spare bedroom or an office space, arrange the family schedule to accommodate clients, and steer clear of fried foods or garlic-infused recipes when fittings are on the books!
But for some of us, the time comes when the business outgrows the home. Whether the gowns physically cannot fit in the house anymore (that was me!), or the home life/business life balance can’t be maintained, some find themselves in need of a professional space. Whatever your reasoning for find...2023-02-1535 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress3:31 - How Do You Know it’s Time to Invest in Your Business?We’ve all heard the saying, ‘Time is Money’, and as an entrepreneur, ain’t that the truth?! But as tenacious DIY-ers, it can be difficult to determine when it’s time to pull the trigger and invest in the business. Whether it’s investing in a new tool, or in education or coaching, we carefully weigh out our options before making the move.
So how do you know it’s time to invest in your business? When you’ve exhausted your current resources, and you’ve come as far as you can with what you’re working with. You see...2023-02-0232 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress3:30 - The Countdown is On! A Refreshed and Rebranded Online MembershipSet your alarms! Secrets of a Bridal Seamstress is celebrating a NEW and reinvented membership, and you’re invited to the party! On Wednesday, February 1st, our website will be live for you to see all the fun new available resources for bridal seamstresses. To celebrate, I’m hosting a little scavenger hunt so you join the party. I’ll have a list of things to look for within the new site, and the first 50 friends to complete the list will receive a Starbucks coffee on me! Follow me on Instagram @nadine.bozeman to join the fun. If you’re on my...2023-01-3114 min
Secrets of a Bridal SeamstressHow Do You Know it’s Time To…Start the Business, with Kati GrimesThis week, we’re kicking off a new mini-series, How Do You Know it’s Time To…
As independent business owners, we’re faced with big decisions in the course of our career. Sometimes these are the times we wish we had a boss to make the decisions for us!
So if you find yourself about to take a leap of faith and make changes for the better, this mini-series is for you! We’re covering popular topics that have been hitting my inbox.
Today I’m chatting with Kati Grimes, the effervescent owner of Topa...2023-01-2151 minSecrets of a Bridal Seamstress4 Unexpected Ways to Find Rest and RejuvenationHappy New Year! We’re one week into 2023, and this season is already looking so promising. I hope you’ve been able to soak up some much-needed rest! In this episode, I’m sharing 4 ways you can embrace rest and rejuvenation during this sweet season of down time (besides catching some extra Zzzs!).
In nature, so much is happening under the surface in wintertime. What may look dormant on the outside, is actually thriving and developing at its core. We’re not so different! This time of year is perfect for us to return to some healthy habits...2023-01-1420 min
Secrets of a Bridal SeamstressStrengthening Your Bridal Sewing Business with Megan Garmers2022-11-2934 min
Secrets of a Bridal SeamstressBasics of Branding with Dusty HeggeWant to know how to appeal to your ideal client? Why is it important to have an efficient website? Dusty shares all her tips and experience in the basics of branding in this chat. To learn more about Dusty Hegge and her branding strategies, find her on Instagram @caffinatedsites or follow @dustyhegge FREE Masterclass Alert! Have you registered yet? On Friday, December 9th, we're diving back into our Masterclass Series with your topic of choice: Pre-booking Strategies. Click the link below to receive your exclusive link! https://view.flodesk.com/pages/635c0cf48...2022-11-2354 min