Women By the Water: Local Business Owners by Megan Wilson
Lee Taylor, owner of Sewlovelee
The waters and roads of Lancaster call to a diverse array of families, entrepreneurs, adventure seekers, art lovers, foodies, and more. All in one day, you can break a sweat, pick up a whole new wardrobe, learn how to sail, and learn about the latest wellness trends. Many of these experiences are possible because of the area’s women-owned businesses. Each one offers a unique twist as they showcase the best of the region’s character, resources, and humans. We talked with some of our leading local ladies about their businesses. They shared their plans for the years ahead and reflected on a challenging year behind them. Magic in the Making: Sewlovelee Fuels Creators Near and Far There’s magic in the fibers of quilts, says Lee Taylor. “The stories that can be created by cutting it up, combining different fabrics with a pattern are amazing,” explains Taylor, owner of Sewlovelee in Irvington. “Quilters take bits and pieces of fabric, sometimes with a plan and sometimes without, and they magically put the pieces together in a new way. Individuals use their creative juices to transform fabrics into a new and different thing.” Since she opened the shop in 2014, she’s also seen the magic bring people 12
together in the Lancaster community. Taylor first opened the destination quilting and crafting shop in White Stone. In 2018, she moved the store to Irvington, which has a large back yard where the store can host quilt shows and other events right on the main street of Irvington. “I love Lancaster County,” says Taylor. “Everything I want and need is here: inspiration everywhere, a pace I adore, and the best customers!” Her customers are embarking on their own quilt-making and fashion design projects. At Sewlovelee, they can buy fabric, batting, patterns, needles and thread. She also carries ready-made
Visitors & Business Guide to Lancaster County
items, such as quilts, tote bags, and decorative items. During the past year, she says her loyal customers are making even more. “I’ve been totally surprised at how many customers have doubled down on quilting,” she says. “True, they can’t travel or get together, but they have really been making a lot. We’ve sold a lot of fabric, more than I thought.” Taylor also said some of her older customers have been teaching their grandchildren to quilt via video chat apps. It’s indicative of the generational knowledge that keeps the quilting craft alive. Taylor says she and the Sewlovelee team are “truly interested
