Ten

Ten years, hundreds of clients, thousands of joyful conversations, and SO MANY GREAT OUTFITS!

Friends, 2020 marks the 10 year anniversary of Daydream Believers Designs. Now feels like the right time to officially close this chapter. 

It has been my great pleasure to design clothes for so many wonderful people. My clients have become dear friends and I will remember the dbd years with great joy. 

THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.

Thank you for entrusting in me the privilege of designing for your loved ones. Thank you for supporting me, encouraging me, and cheering on this little company for an entire decade! 

When I started, I had one $100 sewing machine, two babies under two, and a vision; to help other moms celebrate life with their families in extra-special ways. I did this the best way I knew how: with fashion and parties! I am sincerely proud of all that has been achieved these past ten years, personally and professionally. 

I thank you, sincerely.

My friends, life is awesome and every day here deserves to be celebrated! I wish you good health and great joy. May you eat great food, wear beautiful clothes, and love on your tribe with all of your heart!

Peace,

xx M

PS
I have thousands of photos from these years, snapshots of outfits, client shares, modeled looks... I could never share them all and can’t possibly choose a favorite! Please enjoy this little tribute to a few of the most pipular pieces and photos from DB social. xx

Friendly Frankenstein Halloween Dinner

It's time for another FUN Halloween theme dinner! These ideas (see more HERE and HERE) are all my mom's creations. She is the ultimate DIY party planner and an incredibly generous Grandma; each week in October she creates an awesome Halloween-theme lunch for the kids. Her ideas are always clever and she truly puts these all together with ingredients and decorations she purchases locally (Meijer, Target, Homegoods) - I share them here and on instagram #gigisoutrageousoctoberlunches to hopefully inspire you to make a little extra magic with your family this season. Now, on to the lunch!

This week's theme was FREAKY FRANKIE FEAST
Featuring a Frankenstein guacamole served with blue corn chips. Entrees were chicken BLTs that the kids added monster faces on to using olives, cheese and tomatoes. Dessert was "Eyeball Pie" aka cheesecake topped with cherries and embellished with edible eyes.

Halloween Fun Food Ideas. Four Full Menus for Halloween Party Inspiration

It’s October! Bring on the decorations, costumes, and parties! Many of you know that my mom is incredible and that every week in October, she treats the kids to an amazing Halloween themed lunch! It is a tradition that we adults love as much as the kids. This year’s lunches kick off this Friday - yay!  You can see them weekly by checking out #gigisoutragousoctoberlunches on Instagram or following here where I will (try) to post them weekly. Before that, I thought it’d be fun to share some snaps from last year’s lunches -  I hope these photos serve as inspiration! xx M

Week One: Mummy fettuccine alfredo served with broccoli, green peas, bruschetta eyeballs, breadsticks and mummy whoopie pies for dessert.

Week Two: "Sugar Skull" Hummus and Veggies served with blue corn chips, along side of grilled chicken and rice. Cupcakes topped with sugar skulls for dessert. Cheese popcorn treat to enjoy while watching Coco.

-

Week Three: DRACULA theme! Steak (STAKE) Sandwiches with FANG fries with a cool vampire blood drink and a cream-cheese-cake dip served with cinnamon "BATS" for dessert.

Week Four: This one was beyond amazing! Gigi prepared an entire turkey dinner in theme! That amazing Witch's head is a turkey (wrapped in melted cheese with radish eyes, a pepper nose and lips carved from a beet. Her hair is curly parsley and that hat was shaped from tortillas painted in edible paint) -- along side this witch were cranberries, corn, stuffing, gravy, rolls, and mashed potato ghosts!

If you have any questions, please comment/message me! I'm happy to help you plan your spooky celebration!

#diyhalloween #halloweenparty #halloweenfood

If you enjoy this post, check out “Festive Food For Halloween 3 diy menus”

Little Designers 2.0 Twirl Skirt Edition

I had so much fun making the last round of "Little Designer" creations - I'm launching another opportunity TODAY! Yay! 


Who wants to design their very own twirl skirt?!

Here’s the scoop- print out the picture, color it in, snap a pic of your creation, and send it to me. I will bring the vision to life and ship it out by October 1st, for just $30.00 (Sizes NB - Youth 12. Retail value $40.00) This ETTA style skirt features a flat front waistband with enclosed elastic back and a FULL gathered skirt. In order to give each design my fullest attention, this offer is limited to the first 10 submissions. 💛

Finished designs can be sent to Daydreambelieversdesigns@gmail.com or on Facebook  by August 30.

Happy designing! xx 

Design Your Own Dress Feature

Last month, I offered kids the chance to design their own dress. Eight budding designers submitted illustrations, and each one was fabulous!  Giving creative kids the opportunity to release their vision and see their art come to life was PURE JOY for me. THIS is what it’s all about, my friends!

Just look how precious these little designers are modeling their finished dresses!

Thank you to their mom, Samantha, for sharing these photos! Mamas - be sure to tag your photos #daydreambelieversdesigns for a chance to be featured! xx M.

Shop Christmas in July Event

Click to shop the Christmas in July Event

Christmas in July

Merry Christmas in July!
For this year’s Christmas in July event, I’m excited to drop FOUR new products as Christmas in July EXCLUSIVES! These items are extremely limited and only available this weekend!

The first is this “SCUBA SANTA” Pinafore!
This traditional pinafore comes from a truly vintage 1960s pinafore pattern – I love how timeless this style is! This super versatile piece can be worn on it’s own or layered. It features a classic a-line silhouette, rounded hemline, and precious open back. The piece closes with two gold buttons on the shoulder, but most likely can slip right on and off without the closures. For this event, I chose an incredibly FUN Santa fabric! This print has it all! Scuba diving reindeer, a pirate ship decorated with holiday lights, a gorgeous pink octopus decorating the most amazing seashell Christmas tree… look closely and you’ll even find a mermaid in the shadows! You won’t find anything like this in the stores and the quality of the cotton is top notch too! Take a peek:

Available in the Etsy shop – this weekend only (JULY 25-28). I’ve adapted the pattern and can make this top in sizes 6m – girls 8. Christmas in July price just $25!

Next up I have three handmade goodies that I love and use in prints that I adore! Available for this event only! My fav lanyard, key fob, and zip pouch. These pieces make GREAT gifts! It’s never too soon to start thinking of teacher gifts, am I right?!

The lanyard will be made from cheery red with white, cranberry, and gold glitter confetti dots. I use four layers of 100% cotton fabric sandwiched with durable interfacing, for a piece that is durable, but still comfortable to wear.  They measure  inch wide and approximately 40 inches around making them  about 20 inches long. Each lanyard is finished with a silver metal swivel clasp. A split key ring can be added if you’d like. $9.50

Is it wrong to start using this key fob in July?! The sweet pink backdrop topped with black and white vintage ornaments, each topped with a sweet red bow; this fabric is an all time favorite of mine. I HAD to find a way to enjoy it as an adult, haha!  Lucky for you, I have 10 more available! :: This wristlet style key fob is my everyday favorite. It measures 6 inches long and is finished with durable steel hardware. I use four layers of 100% cotton fabric and a soft, flexible lining to create a piece that is built for everyday use. Though I’ll be honest with you, I have one for every season and once you try it for yourself, you’re going to want a dozen too!  $8.50

Confession  - I am zipper pouch obsessed! I have little pouches all around my house, in every bag, in my car. I fill them with so much more than just coins, makeup and pens – oh man – little zipper pouches are my secret weapon for organizing my busy life! Except not such a secret now because I’m sharing them with you!  I hope you’ll enjoy my favorite size 7 x 7.5. The outside fabric is an out of print cotton that features delightful Christmas shopping scene – 1960s vibe clothing, smiling Santa, fun pops of mod yellow, orange, and kelly green. I’ve lined each bag with a green and white dot print cotton, and topped it with a deco metal zipper. I put these bags to work, so each bag is fully lined with organic fleece for added strength and durability. $18.50

In addition to these fun event exclusives – I’m revealing NINE brand new holiday fabrics and offering y ’all 25% off your bespoke Christmas orders when you order this weekend! YAY! All you have to do is choose your fabric and choose your style. We’ll chat about sizing and details, then I will create your exclusive print and have it ready to ship (or pick up) by October 1st so your little one can rock it for Holiday card photos! I will add a listing in the shop – but here is a look at the fabrics:

The bespoke design catalog can be viewed HERE for info on available styles. If you have any questions, please email me.

The sale goes live Thursday morning and closes Sunday at 12:25 pm. CLICK TO SHOP

Be the Designer!

It’s my birthday, let’s have a little fun! 🥳

•

This sweet dress is coming to my shop in August - I’d love for YOUR girl to be one of the first to have her very own!

•

Here’s the scoop- print out the picture, color it in to her/your liking, snap a pic of your creation, and send it to me. I will bring your vision to life and ship it out before this style goes public, for just $36.00 (Sizes 12m - Girls 14. Retail value $55.00) 💛

Finished designs can be sent to Daydreambelieversdesigns@gmail.com or on Facebook  by next week, July 25.

Happy designing! xx 

Pirate Birthday Party at home

We celebrated E’s sixth birthday yesterday with putt-putt golf at a local pirate-themed course, followed by lunch, cake and presents at home. Here are some party pictures to inspire your next pirate theme shindig. You are welcome to message me for more details on anything we made. xx M

:: Eats & Treats ::

Birthday Breakfast:
French Toast Sticks (aka PLANKS) served with Cap’n Crunch whipped cream and a pirate banana

Birthday Lunch:
Fruit Salad in a Watermelon Pirate Ship, Pirate Booty, Tuna Salad, and
PEG LEGS (aka Corn Dogs) these were E's idea - SO fun!

:: Decor ::

 

April Showers bring...

April Showers bring... CUTE skirt season! ;)

Let’s have some fun!

TODAY in the shop I have a  HUGE Grab Bag deal for You!

Here’s your chance to score a  one-of-a-kind skirt• made exclusively for YOU for HALF OFF!

::The Details::

You choose the size and style and I will create a SURPRISE skirt for you! 

In true “grab bag” style, pieces will be discounted 50% from their retail price!

This is a GREAT way to stock your gal’s wardrobe with OOAK skirts for Spring! 

Here’s the scoop on each style:

ELLE skirts (sample photo #2)

Elle is a high waist “paperbag” style skirt with a slim a-line style and fully enclosed elastic waistband. 

ETTA skirts (sample photo #3)

Etta is a classic twirl skirt made mod with it’s flat front waistband, enclosed elastic back, and full gathered skirt.

ELOISE skirts (sample photo #4)

Eloise is my most popular piece, and for good reason! Featuring a flat front waist band and adjustable “suspender straps” that criss-cross and tie thorough loops in the back for a comfortable, completely adjustable, fit! Eloise is a semi-gathered skirt with plenty of twirl! Tie the straps higher for a vintage, baby-doll, look or wear them loose for a more ‘90s vibe.

::The Fine Print::

Each skirt will be made to order, making it truly unique for each child! No duplicate fabric combos will be used! 

Available in sizes Nb through 12.

The fabrics will remain a surprise for these pieces; that’s part of the fun! No fabric requests, returns or exchanges will be made. IF your girl refuses to wear flowers or really can’t stand gingham; please let me know and I will avoid said prints :) I want y’all to love your custom pieces! Rest assured that all fabrics are Daydream Believers approved high quality cottons in prints that are current with today’s trends. PLEASE LEAVE A NOTE AT CHECKOUT WITH YOUR TOP CHOICE OF PRIMARY COLOR. I will select a fabric that features the color you tell me. If no note is left, I will select for you.

Sound fun?! Here is the link to shop! xx M
https://etsy.me/2VV2BNs

Spring Break Inspired

Just returned from a gorgeous Spring Break vacation  with my family. My heart is full, and I am feeling recharged and ready to create! The sights and sounds of South Carolina  have inspired my fabric choices for this month.

I am opening orders for custom pieces only.
To commission a special outfit made from the fabrics shown here, shoot me an email daydreambelieversdesigns@gmail.com with the subject SPRING BREAK INSPIRED.

You can view the Bespoke Clothing catalog to select your style HERE

Orders for these fabrics will close on Friday, April 12.

xx M

I believe in timeless fashion...

I believe in timeless fashion, in purchasing better-quality items less often.

In creating pieces that are environmentally and ethically conscious, rather than trend-driven.

Through Daydream Believers I modify classic clothing patterns to create pieces designed to grow with your child, so you can enjoy them and pass them on for many seasons.

By hand crafting each item myself, I ensure these garments are durable and lend themselves to repairs, not disposal.

While the process is time consuming and the amount of clothing I create is limited; I am confident it is worth it.

Thank you to my many clients who share this mission! xx M

Last year's dress is this year's tunic!
High Quality, Handcrafted clothing designed to grow with your girl! That is Daydream Believers!

How to place a custom order

At it’s core, Daydream Believers is a celebration of each child’s personality. Through the bespoke design process, I collaborate with my clients to create one of a kind garments that perfectly suit each child.

Maybe it is a special occasion dress for a wedding, or a themed piece for a birthday.  A coordinating sibling set for family photos, or a personality filled outfit for the first day of school. A special dress for vacation, or a mix and match capsule wardrobe for comfy everyday wear. No matter the reason, every child deserves a one of a kind outfit designed just for them.



Each piece is created, by me, for your child. Each pattern is drafted based on your child’s measurements, ensuring a perfect fit, every time. No need to worry if your child is between sizes; I am experienced in pattern drafting and tailoring for children. Each heirloom quality piece is handcrafted, by me, in my Michigan studio.


HOW DOES IT WORK?
The process begins with reserving a design spot. In order to give each order my fullest attention, I must limit the number of orders I take on each month. I encourage you to reserve your spot as early as possible. There is a $25 deposit required at the time of reservation.



Once your spot is reserved, you will receive a design-consultation-worksheet. This simple form will help me to understand what you are commissioning to be made. I review each worksheet and then put together a design proposal that outlines your options (fabrics, embellishments, prices, timeline) for your order. I love collaborating with my clients! Hearing them share stories about their child, then dreaming up the perfect pieces to make; it is an absolute joy and privilege.

After you review your proposal, we finalize the details for the order. I will write up a detailed listing for you to purchase directly from the Daydream Believers Designs Etsy shop. Then I get to work creating your special piece and you get the excitement of the signature pink bag arriving in the mail with your unique creation! 

Interested in commissioning a custom piece for a child you love? Check out the Bespoke Orders page for more details or email me directly to reserve your spot!

xx M