The name of my shop came to me via my youngest daughter. When I started sewing upcycled dresses I was addicted. For the first time in a very long time I was doing something that made ME happy. I spent and still do a lot of time in my office sewing.
One afternoon, my boyfriend was in the living room and asked my 10 year old daughter where I was. She told him,”She is in the office.” He said, “Go get her.” My daughter quickly replied, “No, she is happy sewing a dress.” Hence, The Happy Dress. Aside from that, what girl isn’t happy wearing her favorite dress!
Lori Carter
I have four amazing daughters, three of which are teenagers. I grew up with four older sisters and lived to tell about it! I was a high school dropout and teenage mom...and it wasn't aired on T.V. I live in Southeastern Oklahoma, the most beautiful place I've ever lived.
What got you started crafting?
I was working at a job that I had grown to hate. I woke up one morning and decided this is it I'm done, I quit. Quitting my job meant one less income. I decided to have a garage sale and upon going through clothes it occurred to me I could upcycle shirts and turn them into children's dresses. I reuse buttons, ribbon, fabric, ties, etc. I also make dresses from new fabric or sometimes blend the two.
What is your source of inspiration?
My daughters are and have always been my inspiration. They are also my soundboards. They are all unique and talented individuals with different perspectives.
What have you made recently?
Recently, I made a two-tone black and white floral pillowcase dress. I also made a purse and hairbows that compliment the dress. I made the dress with a particular person in mind. They like black and white. Which can be boring sometimes. With the print I chose it livened the lack of color and made the dress fun. I don't sew the shoulder straps into the dress. This allows the dress to grow with the child. As a parent of four girls, saving money on clothes is a must. Finding a item of clothing that will allow your child to grow with it, is a plus.
Where do you sell your crafts presently?
I recently opened an Etsy shop, The Happy Dress in March 2012. I could not afford to open a brick and mortar shopfront so I am giving online sells a try.
Why are handmade crafts important to you?
Handmade items are unique one of a kind. I live in a small town that offers few places to shop. The nearest large city is an hour away. So the chances of a person owning the same dress as their neighbor is highly likely. Handmade enables a person show their style, taste, and likes. This is a one of the main reasons I do custom orders. It allows the customer to create to their specifications.
Find Me
LocationOklahoma
Email Address
Lori Carter
Personal Website
http://www.etsy.com/shop/thehappydress
@sheshoney
http://www.facebook.com/thehappydress