JM COUTURIÈRE
CUSTOM GOWN DESIGN

Your Own Way

What is the name of your business? JM Couturière was chosen because JM stands for my maiden initials (JV reminded me of junior varsity sports). Couturière because couture is what I do, and couturière is the feminine form of couturier.

How did your business get started? I studied fashion design and product development at Stephens College in Columbia. Bridal and formal wear have always been a love of mine. In 2018, JM Couturière was born as a side job and it has been evolving ever since. Last March, JM Couturière became my full-time job. I finally believed in myself enough to do it. My long-term goal is to design bridal wear.

What’s your favorite part of your business? The creative problem-solving and the final fitting when seeing my client with the biggest smile on their face. I often get emotional. It makes me so happy to see them happy.

How do you define success/celebrate a win? I define my success by how happy and content I am. A win to me is a referral contact. I get really excited to see a new inquiry from a client who’s been referred by a past client that raved about me. I definitely have a big smile on my face while I do a little dance in my living room.

What sets you apart from your competition? My education in garment design and construction. Many can alter a garment, I can make just about anything from scratch.