Golab Nabipour, a talented tailor and designer in Sedona, Arizona, found a path to success after relocating from Iran to the United States. Faced with limited opportunities for women in her homeland, she pursued her passion for fashion in a new country. After years of dedication and hard work, Golab’s Tailoring & Design has become a thriving business, offering custom clothing alterations, embroidery, and more. The story of Golab and her husband, Hojat, reflects the transformative power of following one’s dreams, even when it requires a bold leap into the unknown.
A New Beginning in the U.S.
In 2009, Golab Nabipour and her husband, Hojat, left their home country of Iran for a fresh start in the United States. “There are many restrictions on women in Iran,” Golab shared. Despite studying garment and textile design, she was forced to work as a graphic designer due to limited career opportunities in the fashion industry. In contrast, America offered the freedom and potential for Golab to pursue her true passion.
Upon arriving in the U.S., the couple initially settled in Muncie, Indiana, where Golab continued her studies in fashion design at Ball State University. While earning her master’s degree, she also taught pattern making and sewing construction. “I was able to expand my knowledge and gain experience in ways I couldn’t back home,” Golab recalled.
Overcoming Challenges and Pursuing Dreams
Five years after settling in Indiana, the couple made a life-changing decision. They relocated to Cottonwood, Arizona, and opened a Persian restaurant. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic struck, they were forced to close the restaurant. Yet, this setback became an opportunity to focus on a different dream.
In 2019, Golab took a significant step by purchasing Golab’s Tailoring & Design in Sedona. The business offered a chance to tap into the fashion industry she loved and build her career. “I decided to dedicate myself fully to tailoring and design,” she explained. “And my husband, who had been my biggest supporter from the beginning, started helping me full time.”
Golab’s Tailoring & Design became a place where the personal touches and craftsmanship of every garment told its own unique story. “A tailor’s dedication to fashion is a testament to the belief that true style is crafted, not just worn,” read a post on the company’s Facebook page.
A Commitment to Quality and Creativity
Golab’s Tailoring & Design is well-known for its high-quality services, ranging from bridal dress alterations to custom embroidery. The shop also offers services like leather and heavy materials alterations, cushion and bedding adjustments, and restyling draperies. Clients value the attention to detail Golab and her team put into every project.
Dan Schreiner, a Sedona local, praised Golab for her outstanding work on a custom beaded coat made for his wife. “When she wore it to a party, people were in awe of the meticulous craftsmanship. Golab’s attention to detail is unmatched,” he said.
Golab takes pride in her creative approach to tailoring. “While we do simple tasks like hemming and resizing, most of our work involves creativity,” she explained. “I believe my clients appreciate the perfection we strive for. We enjoy the process, and I think they enjoy the result, too.”
A Growing Business and a Loyal Team
The business’s growth is also attributed to the hardworking team Golab has built. Cristian Jaimaes, her assistant for five years, was trained from the ground up. “I came here with no experience, and Golab taught me everything,” Cristian said. “Now, I’m a master tailor, and I take pride in the work we do.”
Golab is equally appreciative of Cristian’s dedication. “Cristian is my right and left hand,” she said. “He’s learned so much and continues to exceed my expectations every day.”
Her husband, Hojat, also plays a crucial role in the business. A skilled computer technician, Hojat learned to sew and repair machines to support the business. “He is incredibly talented, and I’m grateful for everything he’s done to help make this dream a reality,” Golab said.
Expanding Services with New Locations
As the tailoring business continued to thrive, Golab expanded her offerings by adding custom embroidery and monogramming services. Initially working out of a small space in her garage, the embroidery side of the business grew rapidly. The couple eventually purchased property in Cottonwood and opened a new shop focused on custom embroidery.
The Route 89A Shop, as it is called, specializes in custom embroidery, monogramming, and digitizing. “We can take a picture from a cell phone and instantly print it on a hat, T-shirt, or any other textile,” Golab said.
A Gratitude-Filled Journey
Reflecting on her journey, Golab expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities she and her husband have had in the U.S. “We are blessed to live here, and we appreciate the people who have supported us along the way,” she said. “It truly is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and the American people are amazing.”
Golab also acknowledged the role that local support has played in her success. “If it weren’t for the kindness and trust of the people here, we wouldn’t be where we are now,” she added. “I wouldn’t have been able to do this back in my country.”
Golab Nabipour’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of a dream despite the odds. Her success in the U.S. not only demonstrates the importance of following one’s passion but also the incredible opportunities that await those who are willing to step outside their comfort zones. As Golab’s Tailoring & Design continues to flourish, it’s clear that her journey is one of inspiration and hope for others who dare to chase their dreams.
For more inspiring stories and updates on Golab’s Tailoring & Design, visit inews.