Meet Elena —

Elena Victoria is a young fashion designer from Chicago who is using her love for fashion and design to positively impact the lives of so many. Since 2010, Elena has hosted sewing classes and camps for youth. Elena finds reward in her work because of her biggest mission, building self-confidence in young children.

After completing her bachelor's degree in Fashion Design & Technology at Purdue University, Elena worked as a designer for Abercrombie Kids, creating digital patterns and unique designs for their denim line. From there, she left the company to chase after her dream of designing for her private label and teaching youth how to sew.

Now, students all over the country are participating in her fun-filled sewing and design classes, leaving with a new sense of accomplishment and joy. The private label, Elena Victoria, is a specialty custom dress business that helps women of any age look good and feel great in a gown specifically made for them.

WHAT OTHERS HAD TO SAY:

Testimonials

Elena provides the platform, the environment and the emotional support for our children to express themselves in a way that is fun, safe, creative and inspiring.
-Megan C.

Elena has greatly inspired our children in her role as a sewing instructor. She encourages creativity in their design, fearless skill in machine sewing and sends our children back to us with a new sense of confidence. She is extremely patient with her groups and has a special connection with her students that allows them to be themselves. -Maria

Making time for myself is important to me. And there was no better way to spend it than with close friends learning to sew and use my creative side. Elena made our night fun, easy and most of all memorable. Looking forward to my next Sip & Sew! -Gina

Elena worked with my daughter and I to create and design the most beautiful first communion dress. She incorporated my wedding dress and both of our grandmother’s wedding dresses. This dress means so much to us and I hope we can pass it on for generations to come. -Danielle K.

faq’s

| CLASSES |

+ Does my child need anything in order to attend a class?

Not a thing! All supplies and materials are provided for the students who attend. Students who own a sewing machine are encouraged to bring it to class with hopes that by learning how to thread and operate their own machine, they will sew outside of class. No experience necessary. This class is great for any beginner seamstress.

+ My child has been sewing for years, is this a good class for them?

Yes! This class caters to all levels of experience. Many clients of EV have attended over two years of sewing instruction at Elena Victoria and still continue to find value in the class offerings, learning more every time they attend class.

+ I am looking to learn how to sew as an adult, what are some class offerings for adults?

Elena Victoria offers private 1-1 lessons with both kids and adults, sharing her knowledge and passion for pattern making and sewing with others. Elena also hosts parties called "Sip & Sew" where clients open their home to 5-12 friends for an evening of sewing and fun. Lastly, Elena offers a Mommy & Me class for students who are too young to learn on their own. This way, the parent and the child can learn together.

| EVENTS |

+ What kind of equipment should a hostess have on hand?

I provide all equipment for the sewing portion of the party. All supplies and materials such as machinery, fabric, trims, thread, and scissors are included. The hostess is responsible for providing a room in their home for the sewing machines to be set up, preferably on a table near outlets.

Absolutely not! Different levels of experience can make this party interactive and fun. Whether or not members of the group are experienced in sewing, the party can be fun for anyone no matter the skill level. I adjust my instruction to meet the needs of each individual in the group, ensuring they are confident and proud of their project. The goal is for everyone to leave the event feeling accomplished.

I love working with my clients to come up with a project that they’re excited about. A few of my favorites are home décor projects such as: a set of embellished cocktail napkins, kitchen towels, or more apparel-based projects such as a cozy scarf or a cute top. At themed parties where we celebrate life milestones such as a bridal or baby shower, we can create unique items such as a swaddle blanket for a baby or a cosmetic case for a bachelorette party.

+ What’s your favorite thing about throwing this kind of party?

One of the best parts about throwing a Sip & Sew is watching everyone come together to learn a lifelong skill while creating something beautiful. Sewing is usually something you do on your own, but when you sew in a social setting it becomes something bigger. Sip & Sew gatherings provide value and meaning to these women because they are learning a lifelong skill – and they’re learning it together.