When Polly Carter Vandall began showing horses in 1986 as a freshman in high school, she wanted a look different from all of the other exhibitors. At that time, she began designing her own outfits.
She teamed with her mother, Carolyn Berry, a graduate of Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in textiles and clothing, and they made six blouses from Polly's designs. When they saw them, Polly's friends wanted to purchase the blouses, so she designed more. Seeing her gift for designing, Carolyn encouraged her, and in 1987, Berry Fit Co. was formed to fill the existing need for quality horse show clothing.
Three moves later, the latest to its current location at 255 Second St. NE; Berry Fit Co. has become a well-known name nationally and internationally.
While we may sound like one of those "overnight success" stories, it is one that has been in the making for 12 years. Carolyn was doing custom dressmaking in her home while her daughter was showing horses. As Polly moved closer to college age, Carolyn realized that she must get serious about getting a job -- or starting a business. She did just that, and we had about 50 designs and a small customer list until 1991.
As the business grew, Carolyn trained others to handle various aspects of the business, many of whom sewed in their homes. In 1995, Berry Fit Co. moved out of the family's home into a small house and garage in town. In 1998, the business moved to a larger location that housed the showroom, alteration business and manufacturing facility. After completing her college degree, Polly joined her mother full-time as designer.
In October of 1998, Berry Fit Co. exhibited its riding apparel at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress, the largest horse show in the world held annually in Columbus, OH. As a result of its success at "Congress", Berry Fit Co. ordered a trailer and truck to take the business on the road and gain exposure in other breed shows as well as at Quarter Horse shows.
Today, Berry Fit Company, LLC employs 45 people, and our employees operate much like a large family. Not only do they work very hard, but also have a lot of fun together. Many of them have been with the company from the very beginning. Our greatest satisfaction is seeing our customers pleased and in the winner's circle.
Berry Fit is at a point where we are continually expanding to meet the needs of our existing customers, as well as our growing group of new customers. As the company advances to each new level, the excitement for the possibilities of what is yet to come is shared among all involved.
For many years people had little or no selection of show clothing. The lucky ones were the ones who knew of someone who could sew, enabling them to design their own custom clothing. There have not been many companies in business for more than a five year span who design, manufacture, and sell custom clothing.
Berry Fit Co. llc manufactures custom designed show clothing. Each garment is individually drafted for a better fit and a unique look in the show ring. Because our designs are very unique and professional, we have become the number one producer of custom show clothing.
Our business has grown by 50% or more in each of the past four years. We have been able to ship garments with very few returns. We also offer alteration services to further be of help to our customers.
Currently, we offer for sale custom chaps, jackets, blouses and vests, slacks, belts, bows, earrings, custom dyed gloves and saddle pads. Berry Fit Co. llc manufactures custom designed show clothing. Each garment is individually drafted for a better fit and a unique look in the show ring. Because our designs are very unique and professional, we have become the number one producer of custom show clothing.
