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Something Old, Something New: Reinventing The Wedding Gown

Liby Ball sewing in studio

Liby Ball runs a dressmaking studio out of her Bloomington home.

Ball began sewing as a child, and after graduating from high school, went on to work for David's Bridal.

"At the time, it was a dream come true," Ball said.

Ball moved on from David's Bridal to begin sewing and designing her own pieces. As a seamstress operating her own small business, Ball has the freedom not to adhere to the status quo.

People don't realize that they're putting these gender roles on things, or their expectations of what it should look like, or the traditions you should go through in your wedding.

"I accept everybody here. All genders, all bodies. It doesn't matter - everyone deserves to have clothes that fit them well."

For Ball inclusivity comes naturally, as a self-described alternative, or nontraditional person.

As the wedding industry changes, Ball's services become increasingly valuable to members of the community who might not want the traditional wedding.

Rebecca Prato, a plus-size woman with a vision for a bright, floral, halter-style wedding gown, sought out Ball's help in designing her perfect dress. Carrie Albright, who is marrying her female partner, sought out Ball to make her wedding outfit - a strapless white pantsuit with a sweetheart neckline.

"It was really nice feeling, like she got it," Albright said.

Ball said she identifies with those who go into traditional settings and feel uncomfortable, and it's why she feels passionate to give all clients the ability to feel beautiful on their wedding day.

"I feel like I just need to be doing this,"offers Ball.  "I know that that's not why I should be running a business, but  if I weren't here to help people, who would do it?"

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