Mom taught me sewing, Dad taught me carpentry
My parents instilled in me the value of hard work and craftsmanship, sharing their own hobbies and professional talents with me. Mom is a skilled seamstress; Dad is a talented carpenter. By age nine, I was not only sewing clothes for my dolls but also learned to make a dress for myself! No one was surprised when I majored in Home Economics and Sewing Education in college. I am a certified high school sewing teacher, and have studied clothing construction, tailoring, pattern-making, and millinery—all skills which I draw on in my creation of custom window treatments.
My cheerful personality and desire to be of service in my work took me away from the sewing machine for a while, as I traveled the world as a stewardess for 20 years. While traveling the world I always noticed and studied window treatments, from those in a simple cottage in Denmark to those in the finest palaces in Vienna.
Eventually, my love of sewing called me to start my own business. I have operated Best Dressed Windows in Town in Saratoga Springs since 1986, working with hundreds of homeowners to improve their quality of life.
My Victorian home in Saratoga Springs
In 1980, I settled into this charming Victorian home, which was originally constructed in 1884. It took almost 10 years for me to restore it to the condition you see it in today. Eventually Bob asked me to marry him and he joined me in this gracious home. (I think it was my carpentry skills that prompted him to “pop the question.”) Saratoga Springs is known for its gracious residences with inviting porches. We have enjoyed sharing our home, inside and out, for historical tours and numerous events over the years.
Our notable pink-and-green Victorian is a design showcase for my window treatments, and houses my studio and workshop. Product samples, hardware, photo albums, and over 1000 fabric and trim books—as well as a central work table measuring 5’ x 9’ feet, seven sewing machines, and a garage full of power tools—allow me to craft original, high-quality products for each customer.
Magical results, no wand needed
Drawing on my creativity and knowledge of color, fabrics, and home decorating techniques, I make short windows appear taller and neglected spaces come to life with draperies, cornices, valances and more. Beautifully-designed, custom-made, hand-crafted window treatments are my specialty.
Moving to a new house and want to take your curtains with you? I can help re-size them to your new windows. Need a favorite shade or blind repaired or trimmed down? Give me a call at 518.587.8988.
Giving back to help others
As a small, local business in Saratoga Springs, I am often asked to support and contribute to community organizations. While it is impossible to say “Yes!” to everyone all of the time, I do what I can, when I can. It is a privilege to lend my skills to improve the quality of life for others.
About the photos on this site
Remember, I’m a professional at designing and sewing custom window treatments, not taking photos. Please use the photos on this site just for your quick reference and let me show you my work in person so you can fully appreciate its quality.
Ho, Ho, Ho
Last but not least—this is a fun little bonus—if you need to hire “The Best Santa Ever” for a holiday party, you have come to the right place. Michele Erceg and her husband Bob are “Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus” each December in Saratoga Springs for the tree-lighting ceremonies and at the Christmas Cottage for the city’s popular Victorian Streetwalk. Michele was responsible for designing and making the tree ornaments and the Christmas Cottage, which she built with the help of her friend, Ed Sakos, many years ago.
It’s never too early to book for the holidays, and Santa and Mrs. Claus could be jolly additions for your festivities.
