Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracey Ryder.
Tracey, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I worked in a sewing machine store for 6 years teaching and selling high end computerized sewing/embroidery machines. After selling some designer pillows I had made to a realtor, who went on and recommended me to her client that had just purchased a huge apartment on the ocean front in East Sunrise. After completing the first two windows in the main area, I went on and finished the entire apartment! That started it all!
I was born in London in the United Kingdom, lived all over England came here in 1995. Started my custom workroom in 2004.
My workroom is well equipped with the latest equipment some purchased, some made by myself to help both efficiency and time.
I have custom made everything from Marine yacht cushions, slipcovers, Drapes, full window treatments, upholstery, bedding, table linens for residential, commercial and marine projects.
I stock fabrics for purchase, Kravet, CoCo, Walfab, and others. Decorative drapery hardware, embellishments, leathers, vinyl … a true one stop shop for all custom needs.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Life, in general, is never “Smooth” over the years I have had some major challenges.
Underestimating how long or difficult a project is to complete. Sometimes overwhelming. I have just learned to take each day at a time. Focus on the details. If I like the completed look then I know the client will.
Based in Wilton Manors a gay community, my clientele is fabulous but demanding and perfection is demanded! Which is not been a problem so far.
I also work for Interior Designers, building a relationship between a Designer is very important. I have many “tools’ including computer software generated renderings of before and after projects. These renderings can also be quickly changed into a work order for our installer. It all helps prevent costly time-consuming mistakes.
London Stitchery – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
London Stitchery is a custom workroom.
I custom make in my well-equipped organized workroom Custom made, window treatments, drapes, upholstery, slip covers, bedding, table linens, indoor/outdoor cushions for residential, commercial and marine projects.
I also can design window treatments, help the client select fabrics from my extensive fabric library of the latest designer fabrics, leathers and vinyl.
Fabrics can then be combined with decorative drapery hardware, motorization, embellishments such as the latest contemporary tassels – giving a unique timeless custom project.
My workroom is unique as it is independently run and full-service, small workrooms are slowly becoming a thing of the past. They are either “Giving – UP” or being swallowed up by bigger companies.
I receive many compliments about my work, the most used is my ‘Attention To Detail”, I pay particular attention to “Fit” and then the longevity of my work due to using the best quality notions threads available on today’s market.
A client does not need a designer to deal with our workroom, I am able to help with the design and produce pictures using the latest computer software of before and after if needed. If the client feels they would like an interior designer, we can help them with that also!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I am looking to expand needing a bigger space, want to go into education – It is most important the “How To’s” of this industry whether it be a professional Drape maker or an “Upholsterer” – it is a dying trade not being taught in many places – Tragic!
Contact Info:
- Website: thelondonstitchery.com
- Phone: 954-709-0238
- Email: londonstitchery@yahoo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/london_stitchery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/londonstitchery/?ref=bookmarks
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/london-stitchery-fort-lauderdale-5
- Other: https://www.houzz.com/pro/londonstitchery/__public
London Stitchery – Art Does Not Just Hang On The Wall.
Union Jack Flag Chair!
Custom Stationary Drapery Panel, Combination of Animal printed fabric and decorative beading.
Image Credit:
Tracey Ryder
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
