As fashion designer Lu Drury prepares to unveil her new store, Lu’s Tailor Shop, on September 8th, the journey that brought her to this milestone is nothing short of inspirational. From a high school passion to a burgeoning fashion business, Lu’s story is woven with resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to both personal and communal growth.

Lu’s love affair with sewing began in high school in Edmonton, where a dedicated teacher saw potential in her that extended beyond the classroom. You need to go to design school,” her teacher advised, a directive that set Lu on a path she initially viewed with trepidation. Convincing her parents to support her dreams, she moved to Calgary to attend fashion school at the age of 18. It was there, amidst the cutting of fabrics and stitching of patterns, that her professional journey truly began.

Convincing her parents to let her move to Calgary and attend fashion school was no easy feat, especially as a teenager who had never lived away from home. But Lu’s determination prevailed, and she embarked on a three-year fashion design program. It was in the classrooms of Calgary that she began to weave the threads of her future.

Like many young graduates, Lu found herself juggling various jobs after completing her fashion degree. From retail sales to payroll management, she explored different avenues while keeping her sewing machine humming away at home. But the pull of her true calling never waned.

I wasn’t thinking about anything big,” Lu recalls. I just thought, oh, I can make a little extra cash and I can help people.” Starting small, she offered alteration services online, gradually gaining traction. Her first significant business partnership came when she was commissioned to create hijab scarves for another company. This experience gave her a taste of what was possible, but it was the constant stream of custom dress requests from individual clients that convinced her to take the leap.

In January of last year, Lu made the bold decision to quit her full-time job and dive headfirst into her passion. Working from home, she found herself overwhelmed with orders, her modest alteration service blossoming into a full-fledged business. And now, as she prepares to open her first standalone store, Lu reflects on how far she’s come.

Lu’s Tailor Shop, her new endeavor, embodies more than just a business – it’s a manifestation of her journey and values. Lu Drury is not just a designer; she’s a curator of experiences. Her white-glove service sets her apart in a world where personal touches often get lost in the hustle of mass production. For her, the relationship with a client extends far beyond a transaction. She’s known for personally accompanying her clients to fabric stores, guiding them through the selection process so they can see and feel the fabrics that will ultimately become their dream garments.

This meticulous attention to detail and commitment to client satisfaction is at the heart of Lu’s design philosophy. She understands that fashion is not just about clothing; it’s about expression, comfort, and confidence. Every stitch, every seam, is crafted with intention and care.

This seamstress’ dedication to sustainability is also reflected in her work. She fondly recalls turning her wedding table runners into a maternity dress, something that only a true creator would know of recycling and simultaneously reducing waste. I don’t know if I’m contributing anything to the environment, but it makes me feel good that I’m not just buying new things,” Lu says, humbly downplaying her impact. Yet, in a world increasingly concerned with sustainability, her practices stand out as a model for conscientious creation.

But Lu’s ambitions don’t stop at clothing. She envisions her store as a vibrant community hub, a space where creativity can flourish. Every Friday night, she plans to open her doors to aspiring artists, offering them a platform to showcase their talents, whether through music, visual arts, or other forms of expression. I know it’s hard for new artists to get experience,” Lu says. I want my shop to be a place where they can come together, share their work, and grow.”

Looking to the future, Lu Drury is excited about developing her own fashion line, which will serve as a tribute to those who have supported her journey. Named and inspired by the people who have played a pivotal role in her success, this line will reflect the deep connections and gratitude that underpin her career.

As she prepares for the grand opening of Lu’s Tailor Shop, this designer’s story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of following one’s passion. Her journey from a high school student with a sewing machine to a successful fashion designer with a community-focused store illustrates the boundless possibilities that arise from dedication, creativity, and a heartfelt connection to one’s craft.

Lu Drury’s new store is not just a business venture; it’s a celebration of her past, a testament to her present achievements, and a hopeful glimpse into a future where creativity and community thrive together.