Empire Room Alterations

23/07/2026

23/07/2026

My books are currently closed for new jobs until September 25.
I can take bookings for Santa suits and wedding alterations, but no work will be started until September

14/07/2026

I’m currently three weeks out from Newsies hitting the stage and doing final costume checks for ACT ONE today.
Heard in the hallway after the Nuns all got into their costumes.

‘WOW, you really look like nuns!

So glad I didn’t fail at my job

09/07/2026

I am deep in school production mode with Newsies opening in a month and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang 4 weeks later, so unfortunately I am closing my books until the September 25th.
See you on the other side of the stage.

02/07/2026

When hunting for the ultimate wedding dress, remember that bridal shop staff are sales wizards, not alteration experts. Their main goal is to help you find the one dress, that you will say yes to, at any cost.

To avoid a dream dress disaster, bring a trusted BFF or contact a sewing expert who can give you the lowdown on what's fabulously feasible and what's just a pipe dream in terms design constraints and budget blowouts.

Take, for instance, dresses that need major sewing surgery, like resizing a gown that's two or more sizes too big or too small. It will cost a fortune and may compromise the design that you fell in love with.

When they say ‘Sure you can make this dress strapless’, they don’t mention how much internal structure the dress will require to defy gravity.

And let's not forget intricate details like lace and beading – which can be an alteration nightmare, with hours of unpicking before any changes can be made.

Knowing this insider information and being aware that in store alteration rates can be around $100 an hour, or that hemming a simple single-layer dress shouldn't start at an alarming rate – we're talking not $500, will make you a well informed bride-to-be, who finds a stunning dress that fits both your dreams and your budget.

18/06/2026

Opening the books for Santa suits. Limited places available until 1 October. $200 deposit to secure your costume suit.

18/06/2026

Santa Suit Orders

Last year I had the great pleasure of making a custom made summer weight Santa suit for a gentleman who is the CFA Santa each year, in my local area.

I had lots of feedback about people wanting one, so I thought I would open my books early for Santa’s this year.

I have 35 years of costuming experience. My suits are custom made to size, with quality fabric and faux fur and fastenings etc, not cheap costume website versions.
It will last for decades of Christmases.

Therefore they are expensive and take about a month to make with several fittings.

I will be taking a maximum of 4 orders in 2026. You will need to secure a booking with a $200 deposit by 1 October.

The total cost will depend on the number of pieces ordered, style of the suit and chosen fabrics.

Suits may include-
Jacket or coat, Pants and Hat

Optional Extras -
Short vest
Long vest
Boot cuffs

The suit pictured was based on a traditional European style suit - a long fully lined coat, long vest, hat, pants and boot cuffs. Made with Stretch viscose suiting, cotton elastane lining, top quality faux fur, bronze metal buttons. $1245.
Belt, boots & gloves not included.

08/05/2026

Today’s little set up for a Myer denim fitting. Got me some jeans and jackets to alter.

25/04/2026

Love a bit of validation. And yes, I did build a house too