Bridal designer, Kim Sanchez-Data has been sewing for as long as she can remember.

At the age of three her Grandmother, designer Evelyn Dichiera, gave her a toy sewing machine and soon after, the lessons began. Throughout her childhood, Kim would spend hours-on-end learning her craft, preferring sewing to almost anything else.

When Kim was nine, her Grandmother opened her own dressmaking shop. Kim worked there whenever she could, always begging for a challenge to use a new machine or learn a new technique. While in highschool, a FIDM representative shared with the students all of the opportunities FIDM had to offer. A seed was planted that day and Kim eagerly pre-enrolled into FIDM during her junior year.

Choosing a major for Kim was easy as she had always wanted to be a Fashion Designer. Years at her grandmother's dressmaking shop had developed and nurtured Kim's love for creating custom fashions. She attended The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising on the San Francisco campus and one year in Los Angeles. She graduated with a degree in Fashion Design. Kim says that FIDM was paramount in teaching her the key components needed to succeed and "blossom" in the fashion industry.

When Kim's grandmother retired, Kim purchased her business and continued with it until she and husband Jim started their family. Kim was a stay-at-home mom but she kept her sewing skills sharp by taking classes, sewing for her children, her home, for clients, and for friends.

In 1996 Kim started Anjoma, a home-based business in northern California specializing in wedding gowns, christening gowns, first communion dresses, eveningwear, and gown restoration. Kim's children were grown and she could now focus on her love for fashion. Kim's numerous clients appreciate the quality and personal attention they receive when working with Kim. Every Anjoma gown and dress is individually designed and handcrafted by Kim. She pays great attention to every detail, from the finest materials used, to the quality heirloom sewing techniques used in the construction. Kim's genuine love for fashion is noticed by everyone who walks through her front door.

Kim says, "There are a lot of critics out there. Once you find your passion, stick with it and always believe in yourself." Kim still has the toy sewing machine that her Grandmother gave her. It is on display in her house along with her collection of antique toy sewing machines and other sewing memorabilia.You can view Kim's portfolio along with a full description of the services Anjoma offers on the the web at www.anjoma.com.

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