Julianna Chary owns Quick Stitch Alteration Shop in Millcreek Village near Central and Rock Road with her husband, Satish Chary.

Because hundreds of brides and bridesmaids depend on them for alterations, they constantly hear about destination weddings in which members of the bridal party went barefoot or wore flip-flops.

"I don't like flip-flops with a wedding gown," Julianna told me, shaking her head, "so I came up with a barefoot sandal."

Technically, her designs are jewelry for the feet -- added sparkle with no shoe necessary.

Each pair costs around $15 and all are handmade. "First I think how I want it to look, then I start working with the beads," Julianna said.

Not only are brides putting their best beaded feet forward, so are bridesmaids, and this year a gaggle of prom-goers have had Julianna busy matching their prom dresses.

"They take off their shoes at prom, so this is better than being totally barefoot," Julianna said.

"These sandals also look great around the pool, and I can match your swimsuit or your cover-up," Julianna said.

Wow, when was the last time you had anything custom-made for $15?

Just make sure you get those tootsies sandal-ready because soon it will be time to expose those toes.

Feet that have gone through a long, hard winter need more than Julianna's Barefoot Sandals. They also need a thorough pedicure, whether professionally done or done at home.

Think about it. Even the greatest sandals won't look good with grubby toenails and dry skin. This time of year, you have to beware of the pedicure police.

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