Two thumbs up for Janny Bird Sewing Company on Main Street in Lovingston. She does a lot of costume and bridal work and has a great reputation for that among the locals. When we needed some zippers replaced in several cardigans, and two sets of window curtains resized after remounting, she didn't "look down" on our smaller jobs. Quite fair pricing and, for this time of year, great turnaround. Janelle Harrop can be reached at jannybirdstyles@gmail.com, 434-249-0914. Submitted by John and Nanci Taylor. February 2024

I learned about Janelle Harrop's sewing talents from the WBB. A year ago I used her talents to have a pile of everyday clothing altered and was blown away by her expertise. She has done freelance sewing while working other jobs until just a few months ago when she put her Jannybird Sewing Co. (434-249-0914. JannyBirdSewingCo.com) into a storefront in Lovingston at 179 Main St. (below the Blue Star Music). She was the runner-up finalist in a small business grant competition, she won a grant to start her business after one of the four top finalists dropped out. She now has regular hours offering custom bridal, alterations and tailoring, home decor, and reupholstery as well as group or private sewing classes. Submitted by Charles Batchelor. July 2023

I recommend Janelle Harrop as an excellent seamstress. I had seven sets of 9-foot drapes that I wanted to have repurposed for my two-bedroom Stone Ridge Woods Condo. Not only did Janelle measure and remake my drapery perfectly, but she helped me with rods, hooks, finials, weights, dimensions, and selections. I was able to have all the hardware sent to her, and she separated and labeled all for installation. She hung the drapes and sent me pictures of the finished rooms. Janelle is very professional and communicated every step along the way with me. Call her at 434-249-0914 or email her at jmharrop@live.com. Submitted by Lynn Dunn. November 2020