I had the pleasure of meeting Deanna, of Stitches Quilting, in Houston last year and I cannot adequately do her justice when describing how effervescent her personality is. As I stood there talking with her in front of Anna Maria Horner’s booth I couldn’t help but think, “I wish I could bottle this energy and take it home with me.” Deanna is passionate about her craft and even more passionate about the community she loves and supports; it’s inspiring.  If you follow Deanna on Instagram (and if you don’t you should) you’ll know just how crazy she can be and just how excited she is about everything we do in this industry. It’s contagious and I’m so happy to be able to share a bit more about who Deanna is, what her business is about and a super generous discount code with you all! So let’s meet Deanna!

How did you come to be in business?

I got divorced in 2002 and opened my brick and mortar quilt store… Weird I know. After I remarried, then my business was online. I spent hours in a quilt store so I didn’t meet very many men. I met my husband online! Crazy eh?

Are you a quilter?

I’m a quilter, seamstress and maker of all things that marvel me! I just hope I live a very long life to make all the things I daydream about.

What is it that you love about being a quilter?

I love being a quilter because I can make something that looks really good and will last forever. As a young gal, I would sew and not always find success. With quilting, I found a sweet spot that I could make something then lean back in awe that it turned out incredible. Gifting a quilt just guarantees a smile of warmth.

What gives you the most joy from being in business?

At Stitches Quilting, the greatest joy is connection with others. Nothing makes me happier than sending “Happy Mail” that makes women smile. I gift up each and every package with such love, that I hope the warmth is felt when received. There is such a thrill from teaching others that they can do something by breaking it down into simple steps. I love to inspire others that they capable of doing anything. The greatest value to me, is the rewarding engaged connections made on a day to day basis. All of you women, inspire me to be my very best self.

What’s the hardest thing about being in business?

Being an entrepreneur gives me a lot of hats! There is rarely time to do everything I daydream.

What are you most proud of from your business experience?

I’m most proud of the positive engagement in such ordinary exchanges. I want every customer to feel important and valued. I’m always accessible with classes, visits, phone calls and emails.

What’s the one product that you stock that you think everyone should have?

The ever so simple but practical Clover Point to Point Turner (click here to purchase). It’s the perfect tool you love to reach for when you want to turn something gently inside out.

How do you choose which fabrics to stock?

I wish I could stock every single fabric! In some ways, I fall in love with a designer and their style. I try to watch trends and make available what my customers will appreciate. I’m always looking for suggestions! Click here to email Deanna with your fabric suggestions!

What do you wish people knew about your business, but don’t?

I really like my customers when they visit Stitches Quilting to feel like they are shopping at their local neighbourhood fabric store. I love to know what you are making and how your life is going. I even like to hear how your family is doing. Of most value to me is the connections you make with others. I’m that gal always looking for a bargain and love to share deals with others! I’ve set Stitches Quilting regular prices low because nothing feels better than sharing the passion of a bargain! AND I’m always open to suggestions to make Stitches Quilting a better place!

Do you ship internationally?

I have been shipping internationally since 2009 to almost every continent. I’m always amazed how we can live so far apart but yet be so close.

Do you have any clubs, BOM, kits or subscription services?

Click here to join our Stitches Quilting Facebook Group to stitch and visit together. Do you have something you want to learn? Let me know and I’ll set up an online class for you. Click here to email Deanna with your class suggestions!

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

I love finishing up an interview by asking a quick ten questions. They’re a great way to see how much we all share in common regardless of who we are, where we are or what we’re doing.

If you could only have one or the other for the rest of eternity what would you choose?

1. Fabric: Solid or Pattern? Love them both!
2. Quilt Styles: Pattern or Improv? I love and appreciate it ALL!
3. Seams: Open or to the Side? Side
4. Stitching: Hand or Machine? Machine
5. Binding: Hand or Machine? Hand. But kids quilts are machine so they can be washed and dragged around. I want my kids to love their quilts so much that when they are sick, it’s the blanket they want right next to them.
6. Food: Sweet or Savoury? Sweet
7. Entertainment: Books or Music? Audio Books – I love to fill my mind with smart people as I work.
8. Entertainment: Television or Movies? Movies – love true stories ( why make up stories when there are endless incredible true ones)
9. Computer: Mac or Windows? Windows Computer – everything else Apple
10. Social Media: Facebook or Instagram? Instagram and Facebook