Dear Sewing Friends,

I want to thank everyone for a wonderful winter season.  It was a fast paced, whirlwind 3 months!

January brought our annual Stars Event:  Martha Pullen and Sue Hausmann stole the show along with the supporting cast of an five additional  educators.  Everyone had a great time.  It will be hard to surpass the accolades we received this year – BUT – we are already working on the 2009 line up and I’m sure no one will be disappointed!

During the winter quarter we also participated at 3 quilt shows,  hosted A Serger Retreat & a Dinner and a Sew, offered a  Floriani  Event at all 4 stores, brought in the Quilting Expert:  Marti Michell in Naples and Port Charlotte, and taught at the Brooks Enrichment Center.  I hope everyone took advantage of the talent that was introduced in S.W. Florida.

Now, we need to focus on the next quarter.  We are all waiting for the unveiling of the new top of the line sewing machine that will set a new standard for the industry at the Husqvarna Viking Convention in San Antonia, Texas in June.  We have started a Customer waiting list  – and details will be forthcoming!!  Remember, we are also taking reservations for preloved Designer S.E.’s that are traded in on the new sewing machine.  Is your name on the list????

Besides attending the Husqvarna Viking Convention, we once again will offer many special events.  To name a few we will be hosting:  A Serger Retreat in Port Charlotte, Convention Extension at all 4 locations, Sulky seminars in 3 counties, and a celebration for the 1 year anniversary in Port Charlotte known as “Ricks Day”!!.  As always, don’t miss Open House/Class Preview Day at all locations.

I need to thank all my staff who works “sew” hard to make everything work!!  You’re terrific and I thank my stars I’m blessed with a great team – You’re awesome!!

Happy Sewing,

Carol Vealey-Ellis