Sewing for the people of Corpus Christi is an honor, says seamstress Myrna Salazar, owner of Myrna’s Alterations at 5250 Weber Road.
From altering designer gowns to repairing blue jeans, Salazar has worked with all types of fabrics, sizes, clothing and customers since she opened her shop 18 years ago. She started the business because she was told she was a good seamstress, and she wanted to work for herself.
“Overall, it’s my sanctuary,” Salazar said. “It’s me, my own place. I’m proud that I did it myself.”
Salazar sews anything for her customers including altering wedding and other formal dresses, replacing zippers and adjusting pant, skirt and dress hems. She works with men’s suits, pants, shorts and shirts. She can even sew leathers and animal skins. She once made alterations on a gown for actress Eva Longoria. She also takes on big uniform contracts.
“It is beautiful to work with people and be complimented by people for my work,” she said.
Born and raised in the Philippines, Salazar settled in Killeen when she first came to the United States. In 1993, she moved to Corpus Christi. She gained a great deal of her sewing experience at factories in both Killeen and Corpus Christi.
She started her business at an early age but, as Salazar tells it, not as young as some people thought she was. One of her earlier customers brought in a dress and asked Salazar who would be doing the work. When Salazar replied, “I am,” the woman looked surprised. “You’re too young,” she told the then-34-year-old seamstress.
Salazar promised the woman if she didn’t like the work, she wouldn’t have to pay for it. When she returned to pick it up, she was amazed and very thankful for the expert alterations, Salazar recalled. Her business was under way!
Being near the water in Corpus Christi reminds Salazar of her homeland, she said. As a child, her family lived on the water.
“The beach was my backyard playground,” she said. “And we looked out across to a volcano.”
She returns to the Philippines on occasion and most recently was there in 2012. Her mother, who is in her 80s, and other relatives still live there, staying in close contact with each other via video chat.
Corpus Christi is her home now, she said emphatically.
“I love the people here,” Salazar said. “It’s not too big and not too small either, for it’s easy to get around.”
Myrna’s Alterations
5250 Weber Road, #B
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
361-225-4433
