Martinez Woman Turns Childhood Dream Into Thriving Small Business

A Martinez teacher has turned a childhood passion into a thriving small business, making her dream come true while she helps children hang on to the wonder of childhood.

Christine McKillip has created a business called Custom Designs by Cris. She designs and creates outfits for infants and children, and also makes Tooth Fairy pillows.

“Each pillow is made with fairy-friendly fabric,” she said, “and has a pocket. The pocket contains a small pouch with “fairy favors,” or trinkets for the child to leave the fairy along with the tooth.”

The love for fashion and design started early for McKillip, who teaches at Martinez Jr. High.

“When I was six, I made a floral, ruffled bedspread and pillow sham for my doll’s bed,” she said. “Then a matching ensemble was custom fitted for the doll to lounge around in. Since then, I’ve been commissioned to design children’s clothing, wedding gowns, evening wraps, Homecoming ensembles, suits and costumes. The outfits have a European fashion flare, specializing in coat and hat sets for both boys and girls.”

Each design is created and made from scratch, and takes time. But for McKillip, it’s time well spent.

“The time to design and create any outfit varies, depending on the uniqueness in style, fabric, and that sort of thing,” she said.

Custom Designs By Cris items can be found locally at Noodle’s For Kids and White Rabbit Boutique. Her items are also available at Angel Heart 4 You in Benicia, Gabby Girl in Old Sacramento, and Celestial Flowers and Dreams in Yreka.