SME News Southern Enterprise Awards 2024/ 32 Bridalwear Alteration & Restyling Business of the Year 2024 – East London Based in the creative campus of Trampery Fish Island Village, OneOffLondon is an exemplary small business that specialises in bridal and occasion wear alterations, restyling heirloom wedding dresses, and bespoke work. Here, we speak with Gessica Anzaldi, Founder and Director of OneOffLondon, as the business is recognised for its masterful works of art in the Southern Enterprise Awards 2024. Gessica Anzaldi, an expert bespoke tailor with a fine skill for transforming fabrics into unique treasures, founded OneOffLondon in May 2021. Following her dreams from Switzerland to London, Gessica became a bespoke tailor after displaying her unparalleled skills during an internship with a London-based fashion brand. Hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent lockdown, the fashion brand was forced to close its doors. This prompted Gessica and Myra, a designer and the Founder of the fashion brand, to form OneOffLondon to craft one-of-a-kind pieces with leftover fabrics. “I’m a big advocate for people following their dreams,” Gessica tells us. “I believe that if you do something with your heart, you will always win. I was fortunate enough to meet someone special when I came to London, Myra, my ex-boss who became my business partner. She played a crucial role in paving my path in this field. Knowing the right partner can make all the difference, and I am grateful for the journey we have shared, all the lessons I have learnt from her, and her invaluable support.” Myra and Gessica settled into a studio in Hackney Wick, operating with a small but dedicated team. However, Myra no longer works in the studio as she moved back to her home country. Gessica shares, “We still keep in touch and I can always count on her as a friend and business partner in regards to any questions regarding the company.” OneOffLondon has established a sustainable business model, sourcing its fabrics in the UK to support local businesses, and when needed, from a small family-run manufacturer in Italy. In addition to this, the business also reuses leftover fabrics and scraps to create accessories and décor. Offering one-of-a-kind pieces and veils, OneOffLondon primarily serves engaged women and wedding guests. The business offers all types of alterations and are ready to provide its sources throughout the year. “My mission is to make people feel comfortable in their clothes,” says Gessica. “I deeply value our clients, and whether its responding to emails and inquiries, providing assistance, or offering advice, I strive every day to make sure they feel heard, listened to, and understood. Customer care is my top priority. I sew with my heart first and then my hands.” Its approach to client-centricity is what enables OneOffLondon to maintain its competitive edge in the market. Gessica and the team treat each garment as if it were their own, taking the utmost care with their craft. This dedication builds a trusting relationship between the business and its clients, who can trust that OneOffLondon puts its soul into everything that it does. The business also puts a lot of effort into connecting with others and staying socially active across platforms such as TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, and even on LinkedIn. To keep its community engaged and inspired, and stay on trend, OneOffLondon shares behind the scenes content and insights that interest its audience. OneOffLondon has displayed a deep understanding of the importance of human connection for success, and this translates directly into the business’s internal culture. Gessica prides herself on being flexible and open with her employees, maintaining excellent communication and discussing a wide range of topics to ensure that they understand each other and their needs. “Their happiness is a top priority,” Gessica states. “I strive to create a workplace that’s always an open and supportive space.” Keeping an eye on emerging trends is essential when navigating the dynamic fashion industry. Gessica tells us that recently, OneOffLondon has seen an increase in vintage lovers restyling their garments or bringing in heirloom pieces, including wedding dresses. Many brides are also repurposing their wedding gowns into christening outfits for their babies or cocktail dresses, making full use of their special piece. Surrounded by a vibrant community of fashionforward and sustainably minded individuals, OneOffLondon is in the perfect position build connections and expand its brand across the region. “2024 was a milestone year for us; we doubled our workload, profit, and client base,” Gessica concludes. “One of my New Year’s resolutions was to win an award, and we did, which we are all so proud of. I am hopeful to continue growing, achieve new goals, expand our studio, and establish additional locations across London.” Contact: Gessica Anzaldi Company: OneOffLondon Web Address: https://oneofflondon.com/
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