Princess Shiloh learned about the Civl War Ball about a year ago.

It’s become an obsession, or a dream.

She can’t stop talking about it.

I, on the other had, was dreaming about how much a dress would cost!

The registration fee was only $42.

Dresses online, for that era, were about $300.

Then, I had a brilliant idea.

My dear friend, Melanie Hutchinson, used to create costumes.

After living in India for 10 years, she has now moved to Loveland, CO.

In fact, we attended 3 craft shows together this year and have had such fun together.

So, I asked her.

She first came December 12-13 to choose fabric and sew the bodice.

She came back December 26-27 to complete the dress.

Wow.

Melanie is an artist!  This dress is perfect.

Shiloh looks lovely!

The Ball is January 14th and she’s ready to go!