Careers at Maria Gabriela Couture
Join the Atelier Behind Modern Filipiniana Bridal
📍 Location: Auckland NZ (in-studio required)
About Us
At Maria Gabriela Couture, we create modern Filipiniana wedding dresses for brides around the world — blending heritage, couture craftsmanship, and timeless femininity.
As our brand continues to grow internationally, we are constantly looking for talented specialists and creatives who align with our values and want to contribute to meaningful, high-level work.
We are based in Auckland, New Zealand, and currently operate through a hybrid atelier model:
Our specialists work from home while collaborating closely with our studio during active production cycles.
This is ideal for highly skilled individuals who value flexibility, independence, craftsmanship, and excellence.
Our Production Cycles
Maria Gabriela Couture operates in focused couture production seasons to protect the quality of our work and allow our creativity to stay replenished.
Our main production cycles are:
♡ January – February
♡ July – August
During these periods, contractors collect allocated projects from the studio and complete them from home within the agreed timelines.
Our Core Values
Spirit of Excellence
We believe bridal couture requires intention, precision, and pride in craftsmanship.
Strong Communication
We value individuals who communicate clearly, ask questions when needed, and proactively resolve concerns.
Attention to Detail
Luxury bridalwear requires precision. We look for specialists who notice details, minimize mistakes, and know how to problem-solve when challenges arise.
Reliability & Integrity
We value individuals who respect timelines, honor commitments, and operate professionally.
Patience for Repetition & Mastery
Specialization is important within our atelier. We value people who enjoy refining and repeating techniques beautifully over time.
Important Work Structure
This is an Independent Contractor opportunity.
All roles are project-based compensation structures, meaning contractors are compensated per project or unit completed rather than hourly employment.
Our contractors:
• Work from home
• Pick up allocated projects from our Auckland studio
• Must have their own industrial sewing machine and sewing setup
• Must be based in Auckland or nearby areas with the ability to travel to the studio when needed
Current Opportunities:
Skirt Construction Specialist
(Independent Contractor)
This role focuses on the construction of ceremony and reception skirts for our bridal gowns.
Responsibilities
• Sewing ceremony skirts with couture-level finishing
• Constructing reception skirts and detachable overskirts
• Working with satin, lace, tulles, linings, and structured fabrics
• Following Maria Gabriela Couture construction standards
• Completing projects within allocated timelines
Ideal Candidate
• Strong sewing experience in bridal or formalwear
• Excellent consistency and finishing quality
• Comfortable with repetitive specialist work
• Organized, efficient, and detail-oriented
Corsetry & Filipiniana Sleeve Specialist
(Independent Contractor)
This role focuses on structured corsetry and Filipiniana sleeve construction — two signature components of Maria Gabriela Couture gowns.
Responsibilities
• Constructing bridal corsets and structured bodices
• Creating Filipiniana sleeves with precision and symmetry
• Working with boning, structure, and delicate luxury fabrics
• Following established couture construction methods
Ideal Candidate
• Experienced with structured garments and corsetry
• Precise and patient with detailed work
• Strong understanding of garment structure and finishing
• Comfortable specializing in repeated garment components
Atelier Production Assistant
(Hybrid Studio Support Role)
This role works closely with Ella during active production months and supports the preparation and execution of custom couture pieces.
This is perfect for someone wanting deeper exposure to couture bridal production and atelier operations.
Responsibilities
• Assisting with cutting patterns and preparing production components
• Supporting Ella during custom dress development
• Organizing fabrics, materials, and project allocations
• Assisting with fittings, mock-ups, and garment preparation
• Supporting studio organization during production cycles
Ideal Candidate
• Strong sewing foundation and willingness to learn
• Organized, proactive, and calm under pressure
• Enjoys hands-on creative environments
• Passionate about couture bridal craftsmanship
• Able to follow direction while taking initiative
A Warm Note from Us
At Maria Gabriela Couture, we truly value the time, effort, and passion that goes into applying for a role like this. Whether you join our team or not, we wish you the very best in your fashion journey. ✨ May you always find fulfillment in your craft and the confidence to keep creating beautiful work.
We look forward to getting to know you. 💌
- Ella ♥