Exploring Life & Business with Lynda Ballard of Stitch and Fit Alterations

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lynda Ballard.

Hi Lynda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m Lynda Ballard, the owner and founder of Stitch & Fit Alterations, located in Lithia Springs, GA.
I have over 43 years of experience in professional garment alterations.
My Mother and Grandmother were both seamstresses. Growing up, I would always watch them sew. I was always fascinated at how the right fit can elevate a person’s entire look. I would begin to notice when garments needed the proper alteration for a more tailored look.
I would say “Wow, their pants are too long” or “Their sleeves are not fitting properly”
This allowed me to imagine how I could really elevate the garments I would see daily.
My Mother and Grandmother were good at dress-making. I always saw beyond that, and wanted to take it a step further with alterations.
I began modeling at 18 years old, and was never far from the world of fashion. I attended modeling school, while simultaneously working as a seamstress, right down the street. This is where I began to hone my skills with integrity woven into each garment I touched. My supervisor at the time told me “You have excellent hands with garments. You will do great things with your hands”
That was the spark that ignited my career.
I began working at a well-known alteration shop in Buckhead GA, learning how to alter and/or correct garments that were previously altered incorrectly. I became exceptional at garment alterations and tailoring. I saw the vision of sustainability in an ever-changing world. I was ready to spread my wings and open my own alteration shop.
As divine timing would have it. In 1999, I began looking tirelessly for the right location. Once I found a shop nearby. Stitch & Fit was born, and has been voted the #1 rated alteration shop on the west side. Known for its professionalism, personable atmosphere, and cool earthy vibes. I was always intentional on creating a peaceful, uplifting space, where my customers would feel satisfied with the level of service I provide.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nothing worth building will come easy. There will be sacrifice. For me, it was having to balance managing a business independently, with home life, and having young children to raise. Long days, having to wake my children up early to go to the shop on Saturday mornings to catch up on work for the week. I have always held myself to a high standard. I knew at the time, the sacrifices would pay off in the future, and I remained committed to my business, stayed focused and resilient. During the pandemic era 2020, when a lot of small businesses were dismantling. Stitch and Fit saw growth and was able to withstand. Which gives me the confidence to see we can make it through any economy.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Stitch and Fit Alterations ?
I would have to say, the one thing that sets Stitch and Fit apart, (according to general customer feedback and reviews), would definitely be the level of professional work that we provide to our loyal customer’s. Also, the flexibility we have when working with deadlines, so say, if a customer needs a service expedited. We will do everything in our power to get it done, professionally, in a timely manner.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I’ve had minor risks as an entrepreneur. Running a small business, will naturally come with some risk. I personally believed in my vision, and I worked very hard to achieve the success that I knew I was capable of obtaining. I’ve truly been blessed on this journey. Having strong faith will allow you to see and move past any challenge. I have met some really incredible people throughout these years. My customers have been trusting me with their garments for years, and I will continue to uphold a high-quality of service.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.stitchandfitalterations.com
• Yelp: Stitch & Fit Alterations & Tailoring