ABOUT ME

 
 
Image of Anessa

For me there is nothing more special than seeing a bride in a gown that makes her feel incredible. Dear Stranger Studio was born from these moments with brides, combining my love for craftsmanship and people to create gowns that fit exactly right. That’s why I do this to create this moment for every client that walks through I door.

My path here started with a design qualification from Massey University in Wellington, where I built the technical foundation for everything I do today. From there, I spent time working alongside a bridal specialist in Palmerston North, learning the particular skill of bridal alterations, and fitting gowns to every body. A craft that's as much about precision as it is about patience, crafting gowns for every person that is as unique as they are.

Now that I’m based in Christchurch, I've brought that training and experience into Dear Stranger Studio, built around working closely with each client. I'm not interested in rushing you through a fitting I want to understand what matters to you in your gown, so the final result feels less like an alteration and more like it was made for you from the start.

Whether you're having your wedding gown altered, redesigning a family heirloom, or bringing a custom gown to life from scratch, my approach stays the same: care, honest conversation, and craftsmanship you can trust.