Local Quilt Shop Day - described as "a worldwide celebration of local independent quilt shops" - is held annually on the fourth Saturday in January.
Created by Fabric Shoppers Unite, this event is "designed to raise awareness of the importance of independent quilt shops to the local economy. It is a day for consumers and retailers to celebrate the creative pursuits of quilters, sewers, fabric enthusiasts, and crafters everywhere and to support the local quilt shops that make it all possible." Visit the announcement here.
In searching for information about independently-owned shops focusing on fabric, sewing and quilting, I came across this amazing article. Please check it out, read and share as it speaks to what we already know; that if our small business owners are not supported, they will one day simply cease to exist. "Support Your Local Quilt Shop Before It Is Too Late"
In addition to the post mentioned above, here are three more useful blogs by Scott Fortunoff.
• Great Advice For Quilt Shop Owners From Consumers 3.2.20
• More Great Advice For Quilt Shop Owners From Customers Part II 3.9.20
• The Last Bit Of Great Advice For Quilt Shop Owners From Customers Part III 3.16.20
About the creator of this holiday:
"Fabric Shoppers Unite is a worldwide network of independent quilt and fabric shops, e-tailers and design studios who have joined forces to help you find independents who have pledged to provided superior service, expert advice and quality products. By shopping with the independents who make this commitment, you support a dedicated community and join with consumers just like yourself to ensure that you will have access to the best specialized quilting and sewing supplies, no matter where you live.
Tell your quilting and sewing friends to unite, and shop independents! Fabric Shoppers Unite is brought to you by The Fabric Shop Network, Inc.—the trade association for independent quilt and fabric retailers."
Visit their website or find them on Facebook.
I hope you make the effort to get out and support your locally-owned and operated craft, quilt or fabric shop this weekend. There's really no substitute for doing business with people you know - and who know and understand you and what you have a passion for. Small businesses still matter and in our recent challenging times, I believe they have become more of an anchor and place of sanity during the storms of life. As I always say on the Facebook page, "Love Your Local", because such relationships and connections are PRICELESS.
Thank you for reading,
Andrea Baumann
