BLOG & UPDATES

January 29, 2025

**Attention Valued Customers,**

Recently, we have had several customers visit us without appointments for fittings. To ensure a smooth and efficient experience for everyone, please make sure these following steps happened.

1. When you make an appointment, last page should say "Appointment Confirmed"

2. A confirmation email will be sent to you, clearly stating that your appointment is confirmed.

3. You will also receive text reminders for your appointment.

Please do not visit us without ensuring that your appointment is confirmed. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

- Sewccessful


January 29, 2025

Important Update 

Hi everyone! I want to take a moment to share some updates as we navigate the challenges of rising costs due to inflation. I truly value each of you and want to continue offering the best service possible. While I need to ensure my business can operate sustainably, I’m also aware of the financial pressures many of you are facing. My goal is to find a balance that minimizes the impact on you while still keeping the business afloat.

Starting February 1st, here’s what’s changing—and how you can SAVE:  

 What's New?

-Hemming costs will increase by $1 for each additional layer. This service is very popular, so I want to keep the increase low. Other types of alterations will increase by 7%, while some prices will remain the same.

- My hourly rate will now be $29/hr., typically for custom projects.

- Brides who refer three or more individuals in their wedding party for alterations will receive 10% discount. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to save!

- Enjoy a 10% discount on bulk alterations or mending when you bring in 5 or more for casual garments or household linens. This offer is available year-round, making it perfect for closet cleanouts!

- Receive 15% discount on non-urgent projects with a turnaround time of 8 weeks or longer. This is a reward for customers who take their time and do not rush.

Please note that only one discount can be applied at a time.

Thank you for trusting us with your wardrobe. We are committed to quality and fairness. If you have any questions, please email us or comment below! Let’s keep your clothes looking good without breaking the bank. 

Thank you for your understanding.

With gratitude,  

Sewccessful

November 7, 2024

Dearest Patrons,


In light of the recent election results, we wish to inform you of a potential price increase next year. This increase will not affect labor costs but may impact the cost of materials due to tariffs.


A tariff is a tax on imported goods, and when it's imposed, U.S. businesses that import those goods have to pay it. This can make the materials they use more expensive, which in turn can lead to higher costs for their products or services.


In the meantime, I will try to replenish my sewing supplies before the year ends. There might also be instances where I will reuse and recycle sewing supplies. Additionally, it would greatly help if you could remove buttons, fasteners, and zippers from garments you plan to throw away just in case we'll need it to mend your favorite garments.


My goal is to provide affordable service to my clients. Once my supplies are depleted, I plan to purchase from American suppliers. However, this doesn't change the reality that there will be an increase in sewing supply prices because American supplies are already more expensive.


I remain committed to providing you with exceptional service and quality, and I will strive for affordability despite these potential changes.


Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Sewccessful


October 13, 2024

It's frustrating when individuals haggle or undervalue the work of those who earn less. Recently, a customer attempted to underpay me, claiming that the value of my time and expertise in altering her dress was only $25.00. This was after I spent three hours on the alterations, not to mention the decades it took to perfect my sewing skills—a task she couldn't perform herself.

I've always believed that if I don't want to spend money on services, I should learn to do it myself. However, to be honest, this wasn't always a good idea because the cost of machinery, tools, and valuing my own time could end up being the same or more. I refrain from complaining about the fees others set for their services, particularly when it comes to small businesses, because the time and worry they save me equates to money saved.

Due to this experience, I decided to post inside my shop and added in the checkbox questions that clients are responsible to ask for estimates. even though its already written on the scheduling page not to make appointment if they disagree with my pricess.

 


October 31, 2024

Dearest patrons,

We are profoundly grateful and deeply honored to be recognized as the best tailor/alterations by the esteemed Warren County Records Readers' Choice Award. This accolade is a testament to the trust and loyalty you, our cherished customers, have placed in us.

Your continued support inspires us daily to strive for excellence in every stitch, hem, and adjustment we undertake, and it is your satisfaction and appreciation that drive us to maintain the highest standards of craftsmanship and service.

Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. We look forward to serving you with the same dedication and passion that has earned us your trust and this incredible honor.

With heartfelt gratitude, Sewccessful



September 27, 2024


Sewccessful has been named a 2024 Nextdoor Neighborhood Fave business, the annual awards program that recognizes local businesses loved by neighbors. Neighborhood Fave winners like Sewccessful will receive greater visibility and ranking on the Nextdoor app, a Neighborhood Fave badge on their Nextdoor Business Page, and a “2024 Neighborhood Faves Winner” sticker to showcase their win in the real world.

 

This year’s Neighborhood Fave businesses represent the outstanding service providers, local spots and eateries that are an essential part of our everyday lives. Selected by volume of neighbor ‘Faves’ and recommendations on the platform from the past year, the Neighborhood Faves awards recognize the most beloved local businesses on Nextdoor. Used by one in three households in the US, Nextdoor is the essential neighborhood network where neighbors, public agencies, and businesses connect around local information that matters.  In a May 2023 Nextdoor survey, 94% of Nextdoor neighbors report valuing recommendations for products, services, and businesses from their Nextdoor neighbors and Neighborhood Faves winners receive six times more recommendations on their respective Business Pages.

 

The complete list of winning businesses is available at nextdoor.com/favorites. Join the neighborhood network by downloading the Nextdoor app in your favorite  app store  or visiting nextdoor.com.


Thank You!

 


August 29, 2024

Exciting News from Sewccessful!


We’ve switched to Acuity Scheduling to make booking easier! 🎉


Benefits for You:


Easy Booking: Simply create an account or download the app to make a booking. You can verify if your appointment is confirmed, as well as reschedule or cancel appointments as needed.


Reminders: Get email reminders 24 hours and text reminder 1 hour before your appointment.


Coupons and Vouchers: When available, discount coupons will be distributed through Acuity.


Get Started:


Create an Account: Visit our Acuity Scheduling page https://sewccessful.as.me/ register after making your first appointment.


Download: The Acuity Scheduling Client app and enter sewccessful.as.me. Available on iOS and Android.


Thank you for your support!


Warm regards,


Erika 

August 24, 2024

Managing High Client Expectations: The Value of Allowing Rectification

In the world of tailoring and alterations, high client expectations are common. While striving to meet these expectations is essential, it’s equally important for clients to allow businesses the chance to rectify any issues that arise.

Why It’s Important

Tips for Clients

By working together and allowing businesses to rectify problems, clients can enjoy better service and businesses can continue to improve and thrive.


August 23, 2024


Hello everyone, I've updated my terms of service. Now, when you make an appointment with me online, you'll need to agree to the new terms, which include a policy for picking up garments without trying them on. As much as I strive to satisfy all my customers, I am only human and have my limitations. I can be forgetful and sometimes mix up clients and not getting things right on the first try. It's not an excuse, but it's the reality of operating a business solo. I'm learning and improving every day. I hope you'll find the new policy reasonable, and I am deeply thankful for my understanding and loyal clients. I assure you, I will do my utmost to assist with your sewing needs. 

July 11, 2024

To My Most Dearest Clientele,


It has come to my attention that a temporary closure of Sewccessful is imminent. Fear not, for I shall merely be undergoing a period of rejuvenation from August 31st to September 16th 2024.


For I, your loyal confidante in couture, would never leave you in such a state of disarray. I implore you to secure an appointment with all haste, lest you find yourselves bereft of the perfect attire for the upcoming social whirl.


Do not delay, dear clients, for time waits for no woman, especially one in need of a fitted gown.


With unwavering devotion,

Lady Sewccessful. 

June 5, 2024

I updated the price and added pictures to help you calculate the dimension of your patches/badges.

Thank you!

January 5, 2024

If you need sewing help for February 15-26 events, please drop them off this month. 

for inquiries, please email me. I will not be able to answer calls on the above mentions days. 

Thank you!

September 17, 2023

I'm not accepting venmo payments permanently. They suspended my business account for the 2nd time so I decided to permanently stop using the app to avoid inconvenience and service disruption. I recommend Zelle or Cash app they are secure and they don't cause issues like Venmo. Also we are now accepting Paypal and card payments with processing fees. 

July 20, 2023

Warrenton, Mo, July 20, 2023— Sewccessful has been named to the winning list of Nextdoor’s 2023 Neighborhood Faves/Local Business Awards, the only annual awards where neighbors vote to celebrate their favorite local businesses. This year, Neighborhood Fave winners like Sewccessful will receive greater visibility and ranking on the Nextdoor app as well as a sticker to showcase their win in the real world.

“Neighbors know best, and Nextdoor’s Neighborhood Faves are the only annual awards celebrating the businesses that are most loved by locals. This prestigious recognition is only awarded to 1% of the local businesses on Nextdoor and is a testament to the positive impact they have had on their community,” said Nextdoor CEO Sarah Friar.

Used by one in three households in the US, Nextdoor is the neighborhood network where verified neighbors and businesses connect to the neighborhoods that matter to them.

Thank you for supporting Sewccessful helping our neighbors  feel the best in what they wear.

May 27,2023

Turnaround time for alterations is now 3 weeks. However, we may need more time if the garment is complex, wedding dress, custom made or if we are busy.

Thank you.

May 26,2023

Hi guys, when it comes to hemming slacks I do prefer using machine regular stitch instead of blind stitch (handstitch) because its faster and with blind stitch the lint, sand, hairs and dust collects inside the hem because the stitches are bigger and not tight. So please let me know what kind of stitch you prefer when dropping them off.

Also the reason I charge extra for pressing and steaming and decide to charge lower in labor instead, compared to other alteration shop is because some of you guys can do it at home, or will pack the outfits for destination weddings/vacations. That saves you money and it saves me time, instead of me steaming or pressing, I can use that time to alter other clothes instead.

I feel blessed because business is really getting busy, So please whenever you have clothes needs mending or alterations but not need them done right away, please bring them to me during winter months. Its my slow season and definitely need more income for holidays.


Thank you.

April 29,2023

We made a detailed and updated Terms of Service. It will be located  on the appointment system when you make appointment and in every emails and text message we sent. 

Thank you.

December 9, 2022


I received a very bizarre phone call today, due to that me and my family decided to change my business hours for my safety. Starting next week we are open Tuesday-Friday 2pm-6pm and Saturday 7am-2pm. Thank you for understanding.

December 1, 2022


We will be closed for a week for holidays. I will still be in town and will focus on working on my personal projects. I will only consider to accept very rush work if necessary.


Thank you and happy holidays.

September 14, 2022


We have new phone number, the old number 323-863-3839 is no longer good.

I made a decision to change the number because the old number has california code and it confuses callers.

Thank you for understanding and I'm sorry for the inconvenience.


September 5, 2022


I removed Sewccessful's business hours online to prevent future costumers from walking in without an appointment. I am the only one who manages everything from fitting to sewing, answering inquiries, and social media management. Because of that, I can't be able to help two costumers at the same time. I still accept projects 5 days a week and turn around time is the same. Also I don't answer calls every Sunday and Monday. I only answer calls from Tuesday to Saturday. You can text, email, or chat with me on Facebook 24/7. 

August 4, 2022


We are finally adding a cancellation policy due to the number of clients who don't show up to their appointments lately. Out of respect for the seamstress and other clients who could've scheduled an appointment on that spot we ask you to give us at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel an appointment. 


The first time a client misses an appointment, we will make a note in your file. All future missed appointments will incur a 2% additional fee.


June 9, 2022


Sewccessful will be temporarily closed on June 17th and 18th for personal reasons and on July 10 to 18th  I will be out of the state. If you need alterations for an event on those days, please drop them off early. My turn around time is two to three weeks . I would like to help you with your rush alterations request, but I wouldn't be able to do help if I'm not in town. 

May 14, 2022

A lady asked me if I can make romper out of bridesmaid's dress. She asked a lady to make one but she was dismayed when she got the final product and she needs it by Saturday. I decided to take the challenge and make one from the remaining materials of the dress, it took me 8 hrs to make but mostly because I was learning how to make it.

I do believe I can make more of these using the materials from your wedding dress or bridesmaids dress or grandparents clothes. I think its very cute and perfect for baby photos.

April 29,2022

Please check your items before purchasing them in the stores. My mistake today is not notifying a customer that their dress has water stains. But it was because its a rush work. When it arrived in my shop I didn't notice the stain while she was wearing it, but when I started working on it I notice the subtle water stain like somebody spilled a drink while wearing it.

But when I steamed it, it became more visible I use distilled water btw. I thought it was a second hand dress because I don't remember it having tags and because it has stains. I refunded them for the steam as requested.

I NEED YOU GUYS TO KNOW THAT IF I MESSED UP YOUR ITEM I WILL FIX IT BEFORE I GIVE THEM BACK. BUT IF THE DEFECTS ARE THERE ALREADY IM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THAT it specifically states on my terms of service. 

April 7, 2022

You’re paying for the tailor’s time and skill, plus materials, meetings and fittings, regardless of what you originally paid for the garment. In order to provide the service, they still need to be adequately compensated. The trend of low-cost clothing has created a perception that fees for alterations are out of line because they’re not coming down to match the low value placed on the clothes. It’s not the alterations that are expensive, it’s just that we’ve come to expect all aspects of our clothing to be much cheaper, and match what we paid for them new.

Read this article from ronkita for full article.

April 1, 2022

I would like to explain a little bit. I am a homebased seamstress. I dont have employees. I am the only one who does everything, not only the sewing part, I do all the phone calls, text messaging, book keeping, social media management, purchasing etc. I CANNOT ALWAYS ANSWER PHONE CALLS. Its rude to answer phone calls while I'm helping a customer right in front of me. For sure one day I would be able to hire someone to help me but right now I'm doing it all myself because it will also saves you money. 

March 14, 2022

Dear Customers,

First of all, thank you for being a loyal and consistent customer. Your satisfaction means a lot to me, and I hope I’ve been successful in providing you excellent customer service.

I’m writing to let you know that I am going to be raising prices starting in April 2022. The price increase is due to the inflation (price increase of materials/services) also I will be working on business registration of Sewccessful, that means in the future I will have to charge for service tax if required.

The new prices will allow me to better serve you and future customers! If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am more than happy to help in any way.

Thanks again for your business, I appreciate it.