“Jobs of the Future” is a series focusing on career paths, local job opportunities, programs, and tales of success that highlight North Bay's diverse job market.
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For Tiffany Broome, owner of The Singing Seamstress Clothing Alterations in North Bay, sewing is more than a profession; it’s a way to connect with her roots and share her creativity with her community.
Growing up, Broome watched her mother—a talented seamstress—transform fabric into beautiful, practical items. “My mom taught me how to sew when I was a kid,” Broome recalls. “She made her own wedding dress, outfits for me and my sister, and elaborate Halloween costumes. For her, it was more than just sewing—it was about bringing people joy through her work. That stuck with me.”
It wasn’t until Broome became a mother herself that her passion for sewing reignited.
After moving to Alaska, she took on small projects to hone her skills. “I started with fleece hats and baby shirts,” she says. “Then one day, a friend brought over a garbage bag filled with patterns and fabric. She wanted bags made for her family Christmas gifts, and that’s when I really dove in.”
Those early projects taught her the dedication and precision the craft demands and values she carries into her business today.
Returning to North Bay, Broome joined The Sewing Machine, a local alterations shop where she learned clothing alteration from her mentor, Jackie. “Jackie took me under her wing,” Broome remembers. “I made plenty of mistakes, but she was patient and encouraging. There was one week I cut the same pant leg twice by accident,” she laughs. “I thought, ‘Well, that’s it. I’m done.’ But Jackie gave me a second chance, and that experience made me a lot more careful and confident.”
When the pandemic hit, Jackie decided to retire and offered Broome the opportunity to purchase equipment and take on a portion of her clients. “It was a big leap, and I kind of panicked,” she admits. “But I thought, ‘If I don’t do this now, I’ll regret it.’ So, I jumped in with both feet.”
Adapting to COVID-19 restrictions proved challenging, but Broome quickly innovated a contactless drop-off system that many clients continue to use. “Clients are incredible in their support,” she says, grateful for the loyalty that carried over from her previous role. “There was definitely imposter syndrome at first. You know, I kept thinking, ‘Is this real? Am I actually pulling this off?’ But the support of clients, family, and friends kept me going.”
Broome's vision goes beyond basic alterations; she’s committed to promoting sustainable fashion and empowering her clients to invest in quality pieces. “It’s hard to tell someone, ‘This alteration might cost as much as the garment,’” she explains. “But that’s the difference between fair, local labour and exploited labour overseas. Once you have a garment tailored to your body, it’s something you’ll wear proudly. Choosing quality over quantity means supporting artisans and protecting the planet.”
Sewing isn’t Broome’s only passion; she’s also an accomplished musician and a mainstay in North Bay’s music scene. After moving to North Bay in 2001, she joined the rock band 3 Legged Cat and regularly performed with them at Wylder’s, a popular local music venue. Today, she’s part of The Broome Turners, an acoustic duo she formed with a close friend. “Clients often ask if I sing while I sew, and the answer is yes!” she laughs. “My sewing time doubles as vocal practice—it’s a great way to keep both skills sharp.”
Broome finds that her dual talents complement each other, allowing her to network and connect with the North Bay community in unique ways.
“It’s a small city, and there’s a good chance I’ve sewn or sung for someone you know,” she says. “It’s nice seeing clients at shows or realizing we know the same people through music. My clients know me beyond just the seamstress role, which builds a deeper trust.”
With a blend of skill and sincerity, Broome has cultivated a dedicated client base by delivering personalized service and transparent pricing. “The best way to keep clients is to offer quality work and fair prices,” she explains. “I take the time to understand what each client needs to make a garment fit just right. And if I can’t deliver, I’m honest about it.”
In her line of work, she emphasizes the importance of community over competition. “If I can’t complete a job, I’ll refer clients to other skilled professionals. It’s not competition, it’s community,” she says, advocating for a supportive network of artisans and service providers in North Bay.
Reflecting on the pandemic, Broome has noticed a new wave of interest in sewing as people learned how to make masks and began exploring other projects. “Sewing became a survival skill for a lot of people, and it opened up a whole new world for them,” she says. “You start with simple projects, and soon you’re trying things you never thought possible. I’m hopeful that this resurgence will inspire a new generation to embrace sewing, not just as a skill but as an art form.”
For those considering starting their own business, Broome advises courage, authenticity, and patience.
“You have to just jump in with both feet,” she says. “If not now, when? Mistakes will happen, and not everyone will be happy, no matter how hard you try. There’s always going to be someone who can do it cheaper or faster, so don’t compare yourself. Focus on what you can offer and treat everyone with respect because that next client could come from anywhere.”
For Broome, The Singing Seamstress is more than a job; it’s a way to share her family’s legacy, express her creativity, and connect with her community. “Whether I’m altering a dress or performing on stage, I feel grateful for the chance to share what I love,” she reflects. “If I have to work for a living, I couldn’t ask for anything better.”
If you have a story idea for “Jobs of the Future” send Matt an email at [email protected]
