Gbelley Taylor LLC brings more than 20 years of fashion experience to custom bridal and special-occasion design, while teaching sewing and fashion through its Stitch Society studio. Founded by designer and educator Gbelley Taylor, the business spans one-of-a-kind gowns, hands-on classes, and creative programs developed with schools and community organizations. Taylor has showcased and directed fashion productions on international stages as well as at Baltimore and Dayton Fashion Weeks, giving the studio a perspective that runs from concept through completion.
Victoria Karr Fashion LLCFor more than 30 years, Victoria Karr has designed and engineered couture bridal and formal gowns, with corset-based construction at the heart of her work. From its Columbia boutique, Victoria Karr Fashion LLC creates custom gowns and carefully alters dresses purchased elsewhere, building internal structure that supports and shapes clients from petite through plus-size. Private fittings and a limited number of bridal appointments keep the work personal and hands-on.COLUMBIA, PA
Katherine RuggieriAfter seven years coordinating high-visibility productions at The Walt Disney Company, Katherine Ruggieri brings a professional costumer’s discipline to her independent fashion practice. For 15 years, she has developed made-by-hand apparel for people who need clothing to move, perform, or stand out, with fit and practical construction guiding the work. Her Kent State fashion design training, including study in Florence, complements a portfolio that ranges from community parade collections to theatrical recreations.PITTSBURGH, PA
SewSlick, LLCFounded around owner and creative director Dawn Kennedy’s mission to revive sewing as a practical, creative life skill, SewSlick, LLC teaches sewing through hands-on classes and workshops. Its Linthicum Heights studio also provides one-on-one lessons, sewing machine service, small-scale embroidery, and space for community events and co-working.BALTIMORE, MD
Gert & Bert CreationsGert & Bert Creations grew from Rebecca’s first quilted purse into a Geneseo, New York, studio making custom garments and accessories while handling embroidery and clothing repairs. Established in 2005, the business works with everyone from individuals to schools and civic groups, including customers across the United States. Its custom work once included a dress and jacket made to match a purse for a private audience with the Queen of England.GENESEO, NY