THE COSTUME GODDESS SERIES
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    In this segment, the spotlight is on . . .
                                                                                                
Sandra Marshall is the owner of Egyptian Essences, a
popular vendor at the MECDA Carnivale, the Belly
Dancer of the Universe Competition, Rakkasah and many
other local events.  In addition to vending, she has
become well known for producing several showcases
around town.  As a belly dancer for more than 17 years,
she has performed on the Nile ships in Egypt, and as the
house dancer at Simon’s Café in Encino.  For the past 6
years, she has been sharing the talents she learned from
her grandmother, who was a fine seamstress, to produce
unique, one of a kind costumes.  

We recently asked Sandra about her costume design
business.  Here is what she told us:

Why did you start designing belly dance costumes?

I was a Hollywood studio and film artist for 36 years; so I
am a true artist and I have wonderful and unusual ideas
for costumes.  In fact, that's why I started making
costumes.  I recognized a need for different costumes.  I
am tired of the usual; and I think others are too.  
Besides, there are very few costumers who still do
alterations to other people’s costumes or who will
deconstruct a costume such as a Turkish style one and
turn it into an Egyptian style costume or any other look
the customer might want, and I do it all the time.

Do you meet with customers in your home?

I meet with customers in my home in Calabasas by
appointment only; but, I am unusual because I have a
fully loaded van and will also go to my customers for
their shopping pleasure.
by Melia
SANDRA MARSHALL
(Calabasas, California)
This is the third part of our series showcasing our talented local belly dance costume designers.
Do you have ready made costumes or are all costumes
custom made?

I have ready made costumes that range from $150.00 on
up and I will personally design a custom costume for
anyone.

What is the average price range for your costumes?

It depends on the design of the costume, amount of
beading and detail work, etc.  I normally charge $10.00
per hour -- unless it is very involved; and then I will
pro-rate according to the detail, fabric, cost of supplies,
etc. Sometimes, it is very hard to give an accurate
estimate, but I do the best I can.

How long does it generally take for a customer to get her
costume?

I work very closely with my clients so they understand
what is involved with the making of their very special
costume.  A simple costume can take one to two weeks.  
Something more complex can take one to two months.  I
encourage my clients to pay for the pieces as they are
finished so they are not hit with the whole bill at the end.

What type of costumes do you make?

I like to make retro-looking costumes, but I am happy to
do any design.  I make head pieces, arm bands, wrist
bands, gauntlets, necklaces, earrings or any accessory
my customer wants to match.   I also make veils, coin
scarves and foot wear (gungroos, etc.), cholis, skirts,
gypsy skirts, etc. and I specialize in making children's
costumes.  I also have ready made items for children.
To make an appointment with Sandra for alterations, a ready made costume or a custom design made just for
you, or to see her extensive inventory of skirts, tops, Egyptian oils, and other imports call (818) 448-5144, or
contact her via email at EgyptEssence@yahoo.com.


If you missed Part 1 of this series on Anja or Part 2 on Najah, just click on their name to read the article.