Who I am as a sewist:
I have been sewing since childhood on mom’s cabinet sewing machine. She bought me my first sewing machine as a wedding gift because at that time, every homemaker, wife and mother needed a sewing machine! That original machine is still with me and it still runs like brand new. Those machines came with instructions on how to properly lubricate, and maintain every part. My mom instilled in me the idea that if you took good care of your machine, it would last a lifetime, and so far she has been right. My sewing machine has never been to a professional service center for any kind of service or repair. I have maintained that machine for decades on my own.
I have sewn everything from upholstery, prom dresses, jeans and maternity clothes to purses, pillows and quilts. I’ve worked in fabric stores, taught sewing and quilting, and done alterations. I learned young to sew from patterns and alter patterns to fit. The art of creating something beautiful from a few folds of fabric is mezmerising. I also just love to hear people tell stories, and when you get people together over sewing, you are bound to hear some great stories!
Who I am as a stylist:
I have been blessed with three amazing children. One of which has some special needs. When he was small, I couldn’t take him to a regular barber or style shop because he couldn’t stand the stimulation of the clippers and trimmers. He also couldn’t sit still long enough for a manual trim. So, out of a sense of desperation, I learned to cut his thick curly hair. After a few years, I started cutting hair for other men in the family, and trimming facial hair. Now that my son is grown, he still prefers for me to cut his hair and so does my husband. I learned early that, just like my other machines, keeping my clippers, scissors, and trimmers clean, lubricated and sharp is the key to a great hair cutting and beard trimming experience! I also enjoy listening to people tell me stories while I cut their hair!
Who I am as a business:
My husband is my inspiration for starting this business. Years ago he bravely stepped away from the stability of the corporate nine-to-five to pursue his dream. That was in 1998, and he has been his own boss ever since. Running our own company brought many challenges, but we had great mentors and we always found a way to get through the few rough patches and celebrate the numerous achievements. As I have stood by and encouraged him in his dream, he is now ready to encourage me to launch mine. We have always believed in doing fair business at a reasonable price with exceptional service. This is how we earn customers and keep them.
As far as the service and repair business, my father was a maintenance technician and a tinkerer. I was helping him with everything from rebuilding engines to electronics from the time I could ask how things worked. So, I have always had a deep respect for properly caring for the equipment and tools that work so hard to keep us doing our jobs. These mostly simple machines and tools are usually designed to last decades if not lifetimes when properly cared for. Like him, I learned to listen and watch. Many times, I can detect when a problem is starting, and can adjust or service a tool long before it needs a repair. I also believe that you get what you pay for. Cheap tools made with inferior materials will not stand up to years of wear and tear. Buying quality tools and properly servicing them will save a lot of money over the years.