After 17 Years, Antoniette’s Alterations of Matawan Closes Shop

Antoniette's Alterations of Matawan has closed after 17 years. Antonietta Pruscino's family wrote this article with her to say "thank you" to her longtime customers. 

Antonietta Pruscino was born in Tresilico, a city within the region of Calabria, Italy.  She is one of fourteen children. At the age of ten, she began taking an interest in sewing and through the years she sewed clothes for all of her family members.  In 1962, at the age of 17, she immigrated to the USA for a better life.  She began to sew clothes working in a clothing factory.  She spent most of her years learning about the trade from her mentor Peter Vaccarella, while working for Paul-Terri Sportswear Inc., Long Branch, NJ.

On August 14, 1996, she opened her own business named Antoniette’s Alterations.  It was located on Main Street in Matawan.  The business eventually moved its location to Rt. 34 in Matawan.  Antoniette has formed many close relationships with her customers over the years.  She has had customers in and out of state.  She became a part of all their special memories including weddings, christenings, proms and communions.  She did alterations on everything from curtains to dresses, suits, pants, shirts, jackets, and more.  

Antoniette’s Alterations was known to be open almost 7 days a week at times and hours ranging from 8am until 10pm.  She gave her all to her customers. If a customer couldn’t be there at a certain time, she would wait for them even if it meant staying open til 10pm or coming in on Sunday.  She is by far one dedicated seamstress.  She can make anything work – if it’s too big or too small – she would make it fit. 

On January 31, 2014, Antoniette’s Alterations officially closed.  Antoniette plans to enjoy her retirement spending time with her family and her husband, Lupo who many customers had the pleasure of meeting as well. She has seven grandchildren that will keep her busy!  Antoniette would like to extend a very warm thank you to all of her customers over the years.  She is very appreciative of their business and will miss many of them!