Seamstress specializes in making the big day just right

Caron's Bridal Alterations may only officially be open for business four days a week, but the Brookfield shop is anything but a part-time operation, its owner Caron Sherer said.

"For a while now, I've been working 12 to 14 hours a day, seven days a week," said Sherer, who was employed as a receptionist and in the accounting department at her husband's company before opening her store in 2006. "I like meeting with customers, but I'm so busy that I need to close the door and sew in order to keep up."

The demand for Sherer's seamstress services, she said, comes primarily from referrals from Savvy Bride, which is in the same Stonewood Village shopping complex, other bridal shops and satisfied customers.

A practicing seamstress for more than 25 years, Sherer performs alterations on formal wear, including bridesmaid dresses, prom gowns and christening outfits - but she particularly enjoys working with prospective brides.

"Planning a wedding is such a stressful time, so I try to make the alteration experience as comfortable for my clients as possible," she said. "I'm alert to their needs and experienced enough to predict potential areas of concern.

"For example, I want to ensure their happiness, so I always do two fittings for a customer, because when brides get nervous they tend to lose weight. But I tell them not to worry - what's most important is that on their wedding day they'll have their dress, their groom and loved ones present, and if anything goes wrong, no one will ever know. But just in case, have an emergency kit with a needle, thread and pins handy."

Oftentimes, she said, clients show their appreciation for her work by sending her their wedding photos.

"I treat every client like an adopted daughter, so it means so much to me when they're happy with my work," Sherer said. "I like to see their smiles and know that I've contributed to making their big day special."

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JUST THE FACTS

BUSINESS: Caron's Bridal Alterations

ADDRESS: 17700 Capitol Drive, Brookfield

PHONE: (414) 333-3172

ONLINE: CaronsBridalAlterations.com

TYPE OF BUSINESS: seamstress

OWNER: Caron Sherer

INCORPORATED: 2006

PEARLS OF WISDOM: "Dream the dream. Anything can happen if you put your mind to it and open up your heart."