After more than 20 years of sewing for other companies, Jeaneth Deterling decided to take the entrepreneurial plunge in 2006.
That's when she and husband Harold purchased West Duluth Sewing and Design and began operating their own business. Located at 5505 Bristol St. in West Duluth (behind Italian Village off Central Avenue), Jeaneth specializes in clothing alterations, bridal and formal wear alterations, leather repair and Carhartt outerwear.
Jeaneth had worked for Aerostich for more than 13 years, so she knew something about commercial sewing, taking care of customers' needs and friendly service. Last year she expanded her entrepreneurial efforts, adding a consignment department focused on high-quality women's formal wear.
"Our consignment store provides the perfect setting for customers to purchase their formal clothing while reducing the cost of attending an upcoming event," said Jeaneth. "And we can help consignment customers recover some of the costs associated with a special event they previously attended."
The average price for formal dresses is $50 to $60. Prices for separates are typically $30 to $40.
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"We are very selective about the consignment pieces we accept, because we want only high-quality products for our customers to choose from," said Jeaneth, noting that 70 percent of the items in the store are actually brand new, yet affordably priced. "Plus, we provide alterations right here on site for customers when they purchase a consignment dress -- which is unique in Duluth."
She added that the store's new collection of prom, spring and summer dresses are in stock, featuring designer Calvin Klein, gowns and dresses exclusive in the Duluth area.
"West Duluth has needed a formal-wear store for a long time, and I am happy and excited to be able to provide this to the community," she said, adding that, because of growing demand, her sewing business is looking for experienced contract sewers.
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Hours for West Duluth Sewing and Design are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Bridal fittings are by appointment only. Phone: 628-0501.
