Good Morning Everyone!!
A big thanks to all of you who have hopped on the Zoom bandwagon with me. I can remember scoffing, at the beginning of this pandemic, during one of Zoom meetings Andra had organized for her LYS owners throughout New England. She'd suggested doing classes, one on one help, knit night etc. her enthusiasm was a bit overwhelming for me, it was just too far outside of the box. I honestly didn't think that anyone would be interested in communicating this way, I certainly wasn't. It felt like a lot of effort with a rather steep learning curve, all of this new technology was more than I could handle. Andra invited Patty Lyons to one of our meetings, she went on and on about buying a camera, tripod and lighting equipment, enough for a regular production company. All I could think was, UGH I could never do this, I don't want to do this, make it go away. I already felt I was jumping through hoops to keep my business going, little did I know it was just the tip of the iceberg and I wasn't about to be the Titanic.
Aside from relocating my shop, I decided that my online presence needed some serious attention. So I redesigned my website, attached a shopping cart and moved my business online, YIKES!!! Never did I ever think I'd be selling online, but here I am and it's been yet another positive business decision. Then I upped my social media game and started posting regularly on Instagram and Facebook, which I'd kind of felt were forms of self promotion for the insecure and needy, wrong!! But apparently that wasn't enough, there was talk about going live on Facebook, nope not my thing at all. I was, however, convinced that doing videos and posting them on Instagram and Facebook were a fun way to communicate. After a bit of arm twisting, Carrie convinced me to start posting one video a week, what a success, I'm up to two! Of course I couldn't have done any of this without the help of a few very talented women. First, Andra for always being so inspiring and innovative, she leads with confidence! Second, Rachael for being patient and helping me fully utilize my newsletter platform, website, social media and her never ending support, she's my biggest cheerleader. Third, Carrie for being my videographer, shop remerchandiser and friend. Fourth, ALL OF YOU! This has been one of the most challenging, but rewarding years I've been in business. I've learned so much this past year and have been shoved completely outside my comfort zone, but it didn't kill me. Things have actually turned out pretty good, so take that COVID-19!
Last Wednesday's first Zoom Stitch and Bitch was AWESOME!! It was so much fun seeing everyone and gathering as a group again. I do look forward to warmer weather when we can sit outside, but until then, I think this works out really well. I have the meetings set up as recurring every Wednesday evening, be sure to click on the link for Wednesday and not the KAL link for the Saturday morning meetings once a month. I can add you to the list easily, and you can come when it's convenient, there's no obligation to be there every week, or even for the entire time. I believe if you add it to your calendar, I use Google, then you will have the link, don't quote me on that lol. I'm following up with Rachael to make sure I get the information out correctly, I'll send the link later today.
I've seen many of the Il Grande Favorito sweaters on the needles, SO BEAUTIFUL!! The color combinations are simply stunning, I can't wait to take a group picture when we're finished. I've been working on mine when I need a break from my Birkin color work. I am in love with the colors, they are even more beautiful than I thought, phew...I am almost ready to add the navy blue into the mix, it's going to pop against that green. I already have my next three sweaters planned, are you surprised? While nothing is written in stone, I'll be casting Julie's Twist Tee in Malabrigo's Silky Merino when I finish my Favorito. Once my Birkin is finished or perhaps a little before, I'll be casting on Caitlin Hunter's Tegna in that lovely bright blue linen Wanda gave me. Then maybe I'll have the courage to start my Foxthoughts with 16 colors. I don't understand people who get bored, I'm so thankful I knit.
We will be Zooming tomorrow evening from 6-7:30 I hope you can join in the fun! Make it a great day and I hope to see you soon!
Katy