The quilt shop opened May 1 and it's been a phenomenal ride so far!
My boyfriend, Duane, has created a peaceful, classic space utilizing the bones of the 1891 building. The original floors have been sanded and preserved, the dropped ceiling has been removed so the original 12-foot height is restored. The main floor can breathe again! With the warm gray walls, some of the woodwork freshly painted white and replacement antique schoolhouse lighting fixtures, the ambiance is relaxing. Before too long, we will have an old-fashioned picture rail installed to display more quilts.
Many of my friends arrived the weekend before opening to stock shelves, clean, cut fabrics and in hundreds of ways support and facilitate unlocking the door for customers. I couldn't have started without them--thank you, thank you, thank you for favors large and small! My first newsletter listed all these people by name. (By the way, if you'd like to be added to my mailing list, email me at theburlingtonhotelalma@gmail.com and you will receive updates. Thanks!)
Customers have been excited to have a quilt shop in the area. The closest shop is about 28 miles away. But even non-quilters are very pleased that someone has been restoring this gem of a building. It was vacant for some time, so people love seeing the lights on and activity happening.
We have held a nice line-up of classes and response has been great. I am in the process of finalizing classes through the end of the year and a new newsletter containing the list will be released by mid-August. If you are looking for a specific topic, please call me and let me know what interests you and I'll try my best to accommodate you.
For phase two of the building remodeling, we are now starting renovation of eight hotel rooms and a bathroom. Our hopes are to host quilting retreats, as well as small groups for family reunions, scrapbooking, book clubs and other hobbyists, and anyone traveling through the area needing a few nights of rest and relaxation.
Alma is hosting "Stepping Into Art" events the third Friday of each month from July 20 (this Friday) through October. Eleven shops will be hosting regional artists and their products for you. Shops will have refreshments and/or music for your enjoyment. Stop by and see us! The Burlington Hotel Quilt Shop will be sponsoring Deb Herman this Friday from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Please come and visit to see her photographs and greeting cards.
I'll be updating more soon. In the meantime, happy quilting!
No comments:
Post a Comment