About Garden of Daisies
Irish Dance Embroidery  

My name is JoAnn Connolly. I am located just north of Boston, Massachusetts, USA. My daughter began Irish step dancing lessons in 1999. Her school was fairly new and at the time she started, her teacher had just begun her search for someone to make school costumes. When she approached the moms in the waiting room to see if anyone knew how to sew, I was the one who raised my hand. I have sewn my entire life and find the creative challenge of making Irish step dancing dresses one I enjoy immensely. My good friend and partner, Sally Ellingsen, and I have created over 300 dresses, both school and solo. I continue on in this passion for what I call “extreme embroidery”.

Please take a look at the Clients' Creativity page for ideas and inspiration. My Gallery shows some past projects.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions you might have. I am happy to talk "embroidery" with anyone who might be interested in this service -- whether you're ready to purchase, looking for more information, or just need Irish step dancing dressmaking advice. I have come across every possible dressmaking 'situation' you can think of. So feel free to email any questions, concerns or ideas you might have.