The moment that I stepped inside Jinza's salon, I was mesmerized by a gown displayed next to the entrance. It was a strapless French-beaded lace gown with a metallic silk organza sash at the waistline. Classic, yet modern, this beautiful silk satin dress is definitely one that stands out. Jinza laughed when she saw my expression, and said that a bride with another vision for her gown changed her mind when she saw this beautiful creation.

Soft-spoken with a shy smile, Jinza is extremely modest about her talents. She told me that her mother had been a wonderful seamstress who made all her clothes when she was a little girl. Inspired by her mother's creativity, Jinza dedicated herself to fashion and art. She graduated valedictorian from a reputable art college in China and was sent to Japan for special training. Later she became an instructor in fashion design at the same college.

Almost ten years ago, Jinza had the opportunity to attend a fashion show in San Francisco. She instantly fell in love with the city's diverse culture. With a small amount of savings and a lot of courage and passion, she moved to San Francisco determined to become a successful designer. During the first few years she worked diligently to improve her English. Using most of her savings, she purchased a sewing machine and earned money by making clothes for friends. Word quickly spread, and soon she was asked to sew a few prom dresses, and eventually she was making them for entire high school classes.

When one of her first clients got engaged, she asked Jinza to design and make her wedding gown. Excited and nervous Jinza created her first bridal dress and sold it for $600. The bride was so pleased that she also ordered all the bridesmaids' dresses, and Jinza knew that she had found her true calling.

As I admired one beautiful gown after another, each with its own distinctive characteristics, a particularly gorgeous gown caught my eye. It had a design I had never seen. I asked Jinza, and she explained that it is a hand twisted satin gown, a secret technique that she learned from her mother.

When Jinza first meets with a client, she makes careful observations and notes on her body type and preferences, so that she can design an exquisitely flattering gown.  She begins with a sketch, and then finds the perfect fabric for the design. Production may take anywhere from 3-9 months, with 2-3 fittings during that time. She also designs "qi paos," bridesmaids gowns and attire for the mothers. Jinza welcomes walk-ins, but appointments are required if you want to try on the gowns.