Questions and Answers with Local Business Owner Lucy Sanchez of Azaleah's Handmade Shop.
1. What is your name? What is the name of your business?
My name is Lucila “Lucy” Sanchez and I am the proud owner of Azaleah’s Sewing Academy LLC and Azaleah’s Handmade Shop
2. What inspired/encouraged you to start your business?
I started sewing when I was 17 years old. Since then, sewing has always been one of my passions. Last year, during the pandemic, I started sewing masks, donated a lot of them and sold many as well. Then after a few months, I launched a line of handmade cozies, book sleeves, and totes- among other items. Seeing the quality of the items I sew, many of my customers started asking me to teach them how to sew. I realized there’s not a lot of places in our area where they could learn. That took me by surprise and encouraged me to open Azaleah’s Sewing Academy.
3. What do you love about your work?
I love many aspects of my job. I love when people come to me and tell me that my passion for sewing is contagious! I love connecting with people. One of the things that I love the most is being able to share my sewing knowledge; I want sewing to never ever be forgotten. Sewing should be a trade we continue passing to other generations.
4. What advice do you have for others wanting to start a business?
I love encouraging people to follow their dreams! Becoming a business owner might seem a little scary, but you need to believe in yourself and be surrounded by positive people. Do your research before opening any business and build good connections with people who are knowledgeable in the field or type of business you are planning to start.
5. What do you do to take care of yourself and how do you make time to do it?
I love taking what I call “me-me time” - when it’s just me going out with my friends. Taking care of myself also means spending time with my family members like a simple cookout or going to the beach. I also LOVE going camping! Connecting with mother nature always recharges my energies.
6. What can we do to support you in the community?
Please spread the word about Azaleah’s Sewing Academy and come visit us at 1728 Boston Road Springfield, MA. This summer we have a special sewing class for kids 9 years old and up- and of course, we offer classes for adults. We also host sewing parties where people can gather their friends or kids and celebrate their birthday with us while sewing something fun. Follow and connect with us on Facebook or Instagram @AzaleahsHandmade or call us at 413.455.2460.
7. Favorite spot to go around town?
I love trying different local ice cream spots! Some of my favorites are Elsie's Creamery in Ludlow, Mr. Cone in Chicopee, and Moolicious in Southwick.
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