Today we’d like to introduce you to Regina Rath of Gray Studio Alterations by Regina.
Hi Regina, 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?
I started sewing at 15, and fell in love with the fact I could actually bring ideas to life. At 16 I had my father sign me out of high school, in order for that to happen I had to have a full-time job. I started working for RKS, a supplier for Harley Davidson, sewing patches on wallets, hats, and anything else that needed to be sewn, I did that for 2 years. At 18, I started for my future ex-mother-in-law, I perfected my skills by learning from mistakes that were made and having to redo others’ work. I stayed for 18 years and decided it was time to be able to live my own life and bring my dreams to reality. I worked any job I could to get back on my feet, I delivered mail, I worked at a tuxedo factory hemming pants and a flower shop delivering flowers, also worked as a bartender, all while sewing for my customers from home. When a space became available to rent I jumped at the opportunity to be in that location….3.5 years later, covid hit and hit the wedding industry hard, I had just bought a house and wasn’t quite sure what the best move for my little business should be…so I decided to close and buy a 14×40 she shed to put on my property and work from home. It’s the best decision that could have been made. This is my 25th year in this industry and I have no plans on stopping anytime soon, my life has just begun.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to my success hasn’t been easy, I was in a mentally abusive marriage that really set me back emotionally. It literally drained the life out of me and I lost who I was as a person. Because I left him, I lost the relationship I had with my daughter. She was the most important part of my life and the reason I stayed for so long.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in bridal attire, specifically bridal gowns, bridesmaids, and mothers’ dresses. I’m known for putting my all into my work and doing it the correct way. I’m proud of the work that leaves my building knowing that a dress leaves perfectly fitted and they can relax and enjoy the day of their event. What sets me apart from others, I try to look at a dress in every way possible when I’m told something can not be done. I believe everything can be altered and I enjoy the challenge.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Honesty and integrity, without that you have nothing.
