Needlepoint has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. I learned from my precious Grandma Bernice, I stitched in girl scouts, and I’ve kept it up over the years. Stitching is a part of my every day, whether I’m sketching new design ideas, shopping for things I can attach needlepoint to, planning for a class, or actually stitching. It’s a part of my being.
I also have a full-time job as a nonprofit consultant. It’s a job I really love, helping nonprofits build strategies to bring people closer to the causes that matter to them. Successful fundraising boils down to an ability to help donors save the world. It’s not about the nonprofit, it’s about connecting people to the mission so they can make it possible. I could go on, but bear with me here…
About four years ago, when I had the chance to buy a brick & mortar needlepoint shop, I jumped at it. And my darling husband smiled and nodded! He’s been a part of my life nearly as long as needlepoint has been and he knows how much joy it brings me. Long story short, we bought “my” shop and we haven’t looked back.
So here’s where my passion for needlepoint and my professional life meet. The truth is, running a needlepoint shop is really similar to successful fundraising. Help people connect with their passion and everyone wins! My incredible shop teams knows this too. Our joy is helping people do what they love.
In the early days I was surprised when customers asked if it was “ok” that they came in to buy thread for a canvas they bought elsewhere. Are you kidding?! Of course it’s ok. It’s more than ok, we’re glad you’re here! If you’ve been in our shop you’ve probably heard me say, our goal is happy! Needlepoint brings me joy and that’s my hope for everyone who picks up a canvas, needle and thread.
So here we go! I hope you’ll follow along as I share my passion for creating through needlepoint. I’ll share my thoughts and also share techniques and ideas you can add to your needlepoint practice. Maybe I’ll share a thought from time to time about philanthropy and giving back. It’s all about making our world a better place.
Happy stitching, my friend!