We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Bradshaw and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Chris, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I just knew in my heart there were women out there who would value a custom made wedding gown. After all, it’s one of the most important days in your life and you absolutely want to look your very best. As a designer, patternmaker and seamstress, I’m able to create a one-of-a-kind gown for them that fits their unique body perfectly with all the elements they truly want in their gown. The wedding industry is tough, items are sold at a premium just because it has the word “wedding” attached to it. Wedding gowns are no exception. Many brides are floored when they learn what that gown they just tried on is going to cost once you they add on the bridal shop’s alterations fees.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I spent a lot of years in Corporate America unrelated to my craft. It was tough to make a good wage as a designer/patternmaker back then, so I needed to find another way to make a living. That creative spirit has always been a part of me though, so I did a lot of projects, and freelance work on my own time, which also helped feed the entrepreneur in me.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Colorado has really changed in the decades that I’ve lived here. Obviously we’d have to take in some of the beautiful mountain sights….Estes Park, Breckenridge, Aspen to name a few. We’d also need to head downtown, check out LoDo, the Highlands since it’s really grown and changed over the years. Take in some of the restaurants down there then circle south to Colorado Springs and the AirForce Academy followed by Garden of the Gods. And finally, fingers crossed there’s someone good playing at Red Rocks so we can take in a concert. Everybody has to experience that at least once in their lifetime.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family has always been very supportive of my craft. From my folks, to my husband, to my daughter. Frankly, though I think my shoutout goes back to my 7th grade Home Economics teacher. Learning to sew is one of the single best decisions I’ve made in my life. It’s brought me joy, a career, and provided me the creative outlet to serve my client base.
Website: www.sheamariedesigns.com
Instagram: sheamariedesigns
Facebook: sheamariedesigns
Other: www.etsy.com/shop/sheamariedesignsltd
Image Credits
kbdigitaldesigns