Hi! I’m Bethany Rylaarsdam, the seamstress behind Bethany’s Alterations. I have over 30 years of sewing experience and more than 20 years of experience specializing in garment alterations.

My Story:

My love for sewing began at a very young age through 4-H, where I spent years learning garment construction and making many of my own clothes. I even made my own prom dresses! At age 12, I bought my very first sewing machine, a little Husqvarna Viking 320, and I’ve been sewing ever since.

During my college years, I was trained in bridal alterations at Edith’s Bridal in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. I quickly fell in love with the bridal industry—the satin, the lace, the sparkle, the accessories…all the beautiful details that make each gown so special. I felt incredibly lucky to work with such gorgeous designer dresses every day.

Before long, friends and family began asking if I could alter their dresses too. Word spread, and I found myself taking on more and more sewing work while juggling a job, raising a young family, and doing alterations on the side.

When my husband and I purchased our farm, I felt a strong pull to stay home with my children. In 2015, I decided it was time to officially open my home-based alterations studio and make sewing my full-time work. It has truly been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I love being able to work from home, stay present for my family, and help wonderful clients with their beautiful garments.

A little about me:

Outside of the studio, I’m a wife and mother of three. Our family lives on a farm where we raise cattle and love country life. In addition to sewing, I enjoy knitting, crocheting, and weaving on my 4-shaft table loom. I also enjoy raising free-range chickens, gardening, camping and reading.

My favorite part of this work is getting to know my clients and seeing how each dress reflects their personality. Every woman is uniquely beautiful, and it’s so rewarding to enhance that beauty with the right alterations—and to see that smile when everything comes together perfectly.

My Philosophy:

My clients are extremely important to me. I feel so honored that they trust me with their garments, and I strive to give each one the personal attention and respect they deserve in preparing for their special day.

I promise to:

• Always be positive when discussing the fit of your garment, and never hurt your body image. It is my job to fit the garment to your unique body.
• Listen carefully to each concern, offer suggestions, and mutually agree on the best way to get your perfect fit.
• Strive to get your garment done promptly and be mindful of deadlines.
• Be flexible with appointments to work within your schedule.
• Offer quality work at competitive prices.

My Studio:

I work from my private home studio in southwest Minnesota. Having a dedicated workspace allows me to focus on each gown individually and provide my clients with a calm, personal fitting experience.

Appointments are scheduled so that each person receives my full attention and time during her fitting.