At Gita’s Alterations, Webb tailors suits and formal dresses – including prom, bridesmaid, and wedding gowns – to each client’s specific measurements. Webb can also hem pants, repair zippers, and fix up other small imperfections in clothing.
Webb’s services are by appointment only. For more information, visit her Facebook page at Gita’s Alterations Clothing.
1. Where are you from?
Webb was born in Guyana, South America and lived there until moving to Aberdeen in 1993.
“In Guyana, people start working at a younger age to help support their family,” she said. “I picked up hand embroidery piece work from local factories.”
After high school, she worked in a factory that exported clothing around the world and discovered that she had a passion for business. Webb said that universities in Guyana aren’t quite like the ones in the United States, so she made the move to study overseas. She picked NSU because some relatives living in the Aberdeen area told her that a small college would help her feel like she was at home.
2. Why did you open a business?
After graduating, Webb worked at Menards until she had to undergo unexpected brain surgery in 2001. On her way to the hospital, she saw a sewing machine in a store’s window. It became her very first sewing machine, and she still uses it for some projects to this day.
Her son Alex was also born around this time, and she realized that being able to stay home with her family was important to her. Having her own business allowed her to spend more time with her children.
At first, Webb only offered embroidery services. A local dry cleaner reached out to her and asked if she would be able to help customers that needed small repairs for their clothing. As more and more people sought out her services, she found out that her true passion was clothing alteration.
“As the request for alterations increased, I had to refocus my energy towards that,” she said. “Alterations has become a full time job.”
Her business continued to grow and so did her workspace. Eventually, she converted her home’s garage into her own studio.
3. What are some of the services you offer?
In addition to work on formal wear, Webb offers small repairs for clothing. She can make holes disappear on jeans in just a few minutes.
Webb has several different machines in her shop, each one with a specific purpose. The machine used for each project depends on the garment’s type.
Much of her work is seasonal. Webb said that since there’s always something going on, she stays consistently busy. Prom season is by far the busiest time of year for her. After that, wedding season begins, which is followed by events like Roncalli’s ball and Northern Night. As winter comes around, snowbirds call in to get their clothing altered before heading down south for the winter.
“I like to switch up my projects,” Webb said. “I’ll work on hemming and small repairs in the day and then switch to dresses at night.”
Having her business in her home also helps her offer flexible hours for her customers.
“I like to personally take care of someone so they don’t feel rushed,” she said. “My mom said if you can’t do something the right way, then don’t do it at all. I like to work alone to keep a personal touch and connection with my customers.”
4. Where is one of your favorite places in Aberdeen?
Webb and her family enjoy spending time at the Aberdeen Community Theatre. Her husband Vince’s family have been big supporters of the theater.
“There’s always good entertainment, and arts and music are a big part of our family,” she said.
Her daughter Cassie was involved with show choir when she was in high school, and Webb helped with the group’s costumes for many years.
5. What do you love most about your work?
“I don’t get bored sewing,” Webb said. “It gives me a sense of contentment and fulfillment. It’s nice to have it out of my home, because I can work late if I need to.”
It’s no surprise that Webb loves what she does, but her enjoyment comes from more than just sewing. Working with people has also been a highlight.
“I’m a people person and I love what I do,” she said. “I love to see the satisfaction on their face. When you enjoy what you do, everything else falls into place.”
6. What is one word you would use to describe yourself?
Innovative.
7. Is Aberdeen a good town for small businesses?
“Yes. It’s a small town and I feel like I’m at home,” Webb said. “Aberdeen is a place that appreciates small business. When we travel, it always feels good to come back. It gives me great pleasure to serve this community.”
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