She’s Sew Talented

Local tailor Rufina Maximo opened her storefront, Rufy Max Creations, back in February, but she’s been sewing for longer than we’ve been alive. In recent years, she had an at-home tailoring service but she got her start back in Mexico when she was 12. Now with over 30 years under her belt, she can do all kinds of alterations from regular clothes and curtains to bridal and formalwear. She’s even worked on equestrian attire — for the rider and the horse. 

Rufina is the shop’s sole tailor but her daughter, Araceli Benitez, helps her run the business. The shop also sells formal attire for events like prom, quinceañeras, weddings, christenings and baptisms. “I think it’s nice to wear a dress whenever the occasion comes up,” says Araceli, who enjoys seeing all of the ‘fits that come through the doors. Clients have come from as far as Virginia for Rufina’s services. She often hears that sewing is a dying art.

Rufina sees many clients from local gown shops such as Bride of the Pines and Hazel and Grace; she has also worked on emergency dress alterations. How does she do it all? “It’s easy when you like something, you know?” she says.

Rufina’s favorite thing to work on are wedding dresses. We don’t know her secret but for her, it’s calming. “It brings me joy to see the brides,” says Rufina. “It’s like getting to be a part of someone’s special day in a way,” adds Araceli.

Soon, the shop will expand into the space next door to offer more men’s options such as suit rentals and Vaquero stylings such as boots, shirts, hats and belts. “The Hispanic community has grown so much in this area. It’s nice to have somewhere for them to come shop and feel comfortable,” says Araceli. “We really have a little bit of everything.” Hours are Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1680 N.C. 5, Suite 170, Aberdeen.