Social media is an odd thing. It allows us to compartmentalize the different aspects of our lives - good vs. bad, insta-worthy vs. everyday. It protects us from being vulnerable by only showing people what we want them to see. But time and time again, I'm reminded that keeping everything inside never leads to anything good. It's only through sharing and communication that we can learn and grow from each other. So here goes nothing...
2016 was a big year. This year, Nate and I got a puppy. I got a promotion at work and was able to do something I was excited about. I sold my condo. We bought a house. We moved out of the city and into the suburbs. And back in November, I quit my comfortable, salaried job in order to focus fully on La Mercerie.
I'll be honest, I'm scared. As any small business owner is, I'm sure. This is a huge change and one of the biggest decisions I've made that has left me vulnerable and somewhat out of control (which is a challenge for this only child)! But I'm also excited like I've never been. This is the first time that I really feel as though anything is possible. The world is my oyster. The sky's the limit. Oh, the places I'll go! You get the idea.
All of this to say, La Mercerie is going to be seeing some changes over the next few months. What started as a place for me to share my excitement about learning a new craft has progressed into so much more. A few years ago, sewing and knitting were past times that kept me busy here and there. Now I can't imagine life without them. They are skills that are not only productive in nature, but also have helped me identify my passions and reconnect with art and creativity. It's the ability to create an heirloom. It's tradition in the making. It's that feeling that I hope to translate in La Mercerie.
La Mercerie will soon be carrying fabrics and yarns from small and independent designers, dyers, and manufacturers. We aim to bring you new and exciting products, and to support other small businesses in the process. We hope to continue to be a source of inspiration and community.
As I start reaching out to potential businesses and planning a buying trip to LA next month, I'm reminded of how far La Mercerie has come because of the connections I've made - both through social media and in real life. This passion all started after my first trip to Fancy Tiger Crafts when I sewed up a Scout Tee from Grainline Studio. Since that time, I've become friends with the amazingly talented women behind both companies, been inspired by countless makers through Instagram, and gained the confidence to turn a hobby into something bigger. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Here's to 2017 and all that it will bring!
