Today we’d like to introduce you to Burke Brewer
Hi Burke, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My story began with immense frustration, attempting to fit my uniquely sized and proportioned body into ready to wear clothing. Clothing usually fit one area of my body but not others, and I couldn’t find what I call classic pieces in quality fabric. I decided in 2011 that I would learn to sew and make my entire work wardrobe. Looking back, this seems awfully ambitious and slightly unrealistic but I quickly fell in love with all things sewing. I read all the books, blogs, studied patterns and manuals. I was obsessed.
I was working full-time in social services, but my time during lunch and after work was filled with sewing. I made so many horrible garments, with seams that busted, and zippers that fell apart. I yelled and stomped when something wouldn’t fit, and cursed my machine more than once. But I lived and breathed all things fabric, stitches, and garments. Sewing became this kind of therapy despite its frustrations – even though I was still learning, the art and skill of making things for myself had a way of getting me to ask difficult questions about where my energy was going and to whom.
When my marriage ended, I decided I wanted to take a leap and try to make money from sewing. In 2015 I taught my first class to three students in the dining room of my small home. Together we sewed a winter coat, and had a blast! That spawned classes with hundreds of students, bespoke garments, and finally, alterations and repairs.
Modern Seamstress was always a part-time thing I did for extra money, and I didn’t consider it as a full-time career choice until I left social services in 2022. I knew I wanted to have more autonomy over my schedule, clients, and income, but I also felt ready to lean into doing work that brought joy rather than stress. I’m so thrilled that business is consistent and I have the best, most supportive clients that allow me to have the most beautiful job in the world!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I’m a pretty empathic person and I prefer to interact with the world in a positive way. Maintaining boundaries around this is incredibly difficult so I’ve struggled. I definitely try to suss out negative energy before I work with someone since we are going to be within such close proximity.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Modern Seamstress specializes in Bespoke Garments, Alterations & Repairs, and Sewing Education. I create everything from wedding gowns to jeans to every day garments. I handle all alterations as well as complex repairs like replacing handles, stitching up leather, etc. And finally, I love to teach others to sew!
I pride myself on providing a unique experience in a safe yet creative environment. Looking at our bodies in detail and picking apart how clothing fits the body can be stressful so I try to make the experience as enjoyable and fun as possible.
I want your readers to know that their body is beautiful. Chances are, I can work some magic on whatever garment is collecting dust in their closet. And if not, we can make something from scratch!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I actually have a small group of friends and past/current clients who do a great deal of cheerleading on my behalf on social media and among their friend groups. They probably have no idea how helpful it is for them to mention me or share my posts – it literally takes them five seconds – but it accounts for 75% of my business. They deserve all the love!
Pricing:
- Alterations are charged by the time involved, plus the cost of any specialty supplies
- Bespoke garments are priced based on the fabric, labor, and supplies
- Sewing lessons are charged by the hour with a discount for buying three hours of instruction at a time
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.modern-seamstress.com
- Instagram: @ModernSeamstressTN
- Facebook: @ModernSeamstressTN
- Youtube: @ModernSeamstress
