Today we’d like to introduce you to Rita Workman.
Rita, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always wanted to be a designer. Ever since I was a little girl, I can remember spending afternoons with my mother sewing dresses for my Barbies, some which I still have.
I have kept this passion for design and for making clothes. I went to school and graduated with a B.A. in Fashion Design. I knew I had a calling for bridal. I loved the different feeling of lace and the intricate designs that can be achieved with beading and embroidery, so I decided to start my own company making custom wedding dresses. I have been showing my work through various bridal events and meeting as many people as I can.
My company has slowly grown by word of mouth, introducing brides to the idea of letting their own individuality show in their wedding dress. My goal is for every woman that comes to my store to get the wedding dress of their dreams.
Great, 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?
It hasn’t been easy. The biggest struggles I have encountered are finding the right resources to make the business successful, how to introduce my designs and the concept of couture and personalization, and letting the brides know the key features and differences from a couture gown and a pre-made dress.
Hana Couture Bridal – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We specialized in custom bridal and special occasion wear. We are known for the quality of our hand-beaded work, designs, and embroidery. We are proud to provide the quality of handmade work with a family environment. We don’t rush our brides in 30-minute fitting. We want them to take their time and ask questions, to be part of the process. This is their special day, we help and we take part in their adventure. We take the time to listen to our brides and guests and combine their vision with today’s trends, which is what sets us apart from others.
We don’t only take care of brides. We also strive to help young designers by providing a starting point for their careers. I have been mentoring since I started my company. My newest intern, Lyann, is a great example of the young talented designers that are part of the Hana Couture family.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
There are many memorable moments that make me proud. I think the one that I will always cherish is the first bride I ever made a dress for. There was a certain moment of joy and satisfaction when I handed the dress over and she got to try it on one last time before she walked down the aisle. Her eyes started to tear up, she looked at me and she hugged me. At that moment I knew that I had made “the dress.”
Pricing:
- We can go from $1000.00 to $10,000
Contact Info:
- Address: 4264 Sudderth Rd Unit B
Buford Dr. Buford, GA 30518 - Website: hanacouture.com
- Phone: 847-830-2673
- Email: rita.workman@hanacouture.com
- Instagram: @hana.couture
- Facebook: @Hanacouturebridal!
- Twitter: @HanaCouture
Image Credit:
Hlee Moua Artistry, Makeup Artist + Photographer, www.hleemouaartistry.com, Carrie Jean Photography, Makeup artist and hair Michelle Thao
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