My First Sip & Stitch event

If you had told me a year ago that I’d be hosting my own sewing events — with people sipping wine, cheering each other on, and proudly holding up bags they made with their own hands — I would’ve laughed and said, “Yeah, okay… maybe one day.”

It's definitely been something I've wondered about, but actually seeing it come to fruition was beautiful. Hosting this event had been on my heart for a long time. I’ve always wanted to teach bag making — not just because I love it, but because I want people to see how doable it really is. I want everyone to feel how amazing I felt after taking my first sewing class and to be able to say, “Hey, I actually made this!”

On October 25th, I hosted my very first sewing event — Sip & Stitch: Tote Bag Edition — at What's She Creating Studios in College Park, Georgia. And I won’t lie — I was a little nervous. This was my first event, after all. But I reminded myself that I’ve taught plenty of people how to sew, make bags, and use different sewing techniques at other events before. So, I knew an event giving attendees something tangible to walk away with — like a tote bag they made themselves, with fabric they chose — would be worth every minute.

The studio, owned by Neci, a fellow sewror that I'd only just met a few months earlier at a Sewrority retreat in July. It felt like our meeting was divine. Teaching is a passion of both of ours, and she has developed such an amazing community of sewists of all ages who she inspires to create and teaches to sew.

I was thankful to be able to rent and utilize her space, which is located just outside Atlanta, very close to the airport. It was truly the perfect space for the 3 hour class. Plus, having the machines already set up and ready to go gave us the perfect amount of time to complete the tote bags.

Once everyone arrived, my nerves faded. The energy in the room was pure joy — music, laughter, and the hum of sewing machines doing their thing. Every single person loved it, at least that's what they told me. I received text messages and emails afterward saying how much fun they had, how proud they were of their bags, and how they couldn’t wait for the next one.

I had a bit of an “a-ha” moment as an instructor. I’ve been sewing for years — I could make these bags in my sleep — but teaching is a different kind of challenge. Especially when you’re managing multiple students, each with their own pace and questions, it’s easy to forget small details. So now I know: always have notes, a play-by-play, and a clear outline for reference so I don't overlook anything when the class gets hectic.

Preparation gives you the freedom to relax and enjoy the moment.

One of the biggest highlights for me was seeing two complete novice sewists — finish their tote bags from start to finish. Neither had ever used a sewing machine before, and by the end of class, they were holding up finished bags with the biggest smiles.

Those moments right there? That’s what it’s all about.

The only thing that caught me off guard was how fast those three hours went by.

I spent about two months planning, researching fabrics, cutting fabrics, making samples, and preparing kits. But once class started, time just flew. It’s funny how something that takes so much of your energy, worry and time to prepare can feel like it’s over in the blink of an eye.

Walking away from my first Sip & Stitch, I felt so full — full of gratitude, inspiration, and excitement for what’s next.

The sky really is the limit. People from literally all over — not just Georgia, but Texas and beyond — sent messages and comments stating they would love to attend something like this in their area...

So now, I’m dreaming bigger. The next one will happen in Texas, but maybe future events in other state or cities. Maybe there’s a virtual Sip & Stitch. Maybe this is just the beginning of something even greater.

Until then, you can catch a glimpse of the Sip & Stitch: Tote Bag Edition vibes in my vlog here:🎥 Watch the recap on YouTube