Good Measure and Bridal Alterations opens new store in Portadown

Owner, Jackie Hill says it is thanks to her Granny she has her sewing skills.

Though originally from Lurgan, Jackie has spent the last 18 years living in Portadown and considers it now as home.

She said: “I thank my Granny for my sewing skills which I have honed and perfected since.

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“Granny taught me when I was very young and as I have a creative mind this was something that suited me for my career as an adult.

"I not only do alterations, I revamp old clothing and work with all fabrics including leather and of course anything bridal.

"I love working with the brides and their entourage. You are as a seamstress helping make their day as special as possible. You are part of their excitement and that is priceless.”

Jackie is also making memory bears and cushions. She said: “They have become extremely popular over the last few years using a loved ones clothing. It gives the feeling of having your loved one with you always and I can use my creativity to make something very personal and special.”

Jackie said it was a ‘huge decision’ to break out and open her own business in Portadown but one she does not regret.

She said: “Brides come from all over N Ireland to Bridal Alterations NI which is a huge part of Good Measures business to have the most important dress they will ever wear altered to fit like a dream.”

Jackie said she had dreamed of one day having premises big enough that each department of her business could have dedicated rooms.

"Finding the right ‘fit’ took until now to find and Good Measure & Bridal Alterations NI have moved from 35 Castle Street, Portadown to fabulous premises which boasts two huge floors at 22 Church Street Portadown which for anyone who doesn’t know is near the town library.”

There are dedicated rooms for general alterations , a stunning luxury Bridal room, a work room and a haberdashery shop.

The haberdashery shop started when a local business closed its doors and Jackie decided to incorporate this into her own business. Now with the bigger premises over time this side of the business will grow and will stock haberdashery that will suit everyone from simple zips, buttons to sumptuous fabrics. This is a work in progress.

At the moment the business has alongside Jackie two part time workers but she is looking for more staff to help. If you can sew and would like to use your skills and learn more then feel free to send in your CV and join a relaxed happy workplace.

Jackie said: “This is such a big undertaking which is scary but also very exciting. We look forward to seeing all our regular customers and welcoming all our new customers. As the sign says… walk in as strangers …. Leave as friends.”

Bridal Alterations NI have limited availability for the remainder of the year and are now taking bookings for 2023 weddings.

You can use their online booking system via the website at : alterationsni.com and bridalalterationsni.com Or via Facebook or by telephone on 07467 224366