We had the good fortune of connecting with Kaitlyn Stram and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kaitlyn, why did you pursue a creative career?
From an early age, I had a creative side where I submitted many crafts and art related activities to the county fair. It was my involvement with 4-H and the knowledge from my mom that I learned how to sew.. At 8 years old, sewing included pin cushions and pillows. Once my skills progressed, I moved onto pajamas and even homecoming dresses. When it came time for college, I knew I wanted pursue a career in fashion design. I spent the next 4 years attending the University of Nebraska at Lincoln where I expanded my knowledge of design. In my final 2 years I found a job at a local alterations shop and learned the ins and outs of the construction of garments. Upon graduating, I landed a job with a Dallas designer where I eventually became the manager of the atelier department. I fell in love with the process of custom made garments and enjoyed learning this roll for 4 1/2 years. Today Kaitlyn Coufal Couture allows me to continue this creativity with my love of custom garments, alterations, and floral.  

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Sewing is becoming a lost art, and I’ve had many clients comment, “Oh wow, you’re so young”. I believe my age helps me connect with my clients on a more personal level while also staying up with trends and new techniques. Every business comes with challenges and learning a long the way. While taking care of clients is the main focus, I also manage all the moving parts: social media, emails, phone calls, styled shoots, ordering fabrications. Time management is key!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My husband and I both grew up out of town, so we have the pleasure of hosting different friends and family. We first love to show our guests our favorite local spots around the Weatherford area: Atebellum Ale House for a casual hang out, Drakes Yoke and Fire Oak for great food and drinks, and Oaxaca or Boo Rays for delicious Mexican and cajun. We also enjoy the local wineries: Dove Ridge Vineyard and Umbra Winery. On days we head into the city, Dallas offers great museums: The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas Museum of Art, and the George W Bush Presidential Center. Other fun site seeing includes Reunion Tower and a tour of Cowboys Stadium. For a fun experience, we love a good evening at GEN Korean BBQ House in Carrollton. During the summer our guests also get to experience the beauty of Possum Kingdom Lake. DFW has endless options for all ages!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There have been so many people that have helped grow my skills throughout my life. 4-H and my mother were the start of my sewing career. I had so many wonderful professors that believed in me at the University of Nebraska. I’m thankful for Nicole at Colea Alterations for my alterations knowledge and Khanh at Nha Khanh for my custom garment knowledge. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the help of these individuals that were willing to pass on their knowledge. Lastly, I am so thankful for my family, friends, and my husband for pushing me and supporting me every step of the way!

Website: kaitlyncoufalcouture.com
Instagram: @kaitlyncoufalcouture
Facebook: @kaitlyncoufalcouture

Image Credits
Photography by RA Claborn Sarah Nies Gudeman Amy Zumwalt Jadie Jo Photography Madison Marygold Photography Michaud Films

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.