Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Heckman
Hi Sara, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
The idea of owning a yarn shop came to me when we lived in a small town in New Jersey. There was a little shop there which combined yarn and vintage items, two of my favorite things. This little shop was one I would frequent often while we lived in the town. Later I had the opportunity to create a shop of my own here in Point Loma. This was the place I grew up in and I really wanted our little shop to be part of our local community here.
We decided on a small space in Liberty Station because of the bright light of the space as well as opportunity to be a part of the Arts District here at Liberty Station.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There is a big sense of community in the fiber world. It took us some time to create our own community here in Liberty Station. We have been able to do that by offering a friendly space for anyone find beautiful yarn and tools for kniting and crochet as well as classes for those wanting to learn to knit and crochet.
We are so thankful to those who have been supporters since day one. These core community members helped keep us going through the pandemic period which affect so many small businesses.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have a BA in Fine Arts and worked as an artist, painting in oils, for some time while working retail to support myself and family. I learned a lot about running a shop and merchandising during that time. Later I stayed home to raise our kids. During this time, I helped out in the classroom, supporting the teacher and teaching a garden program.
From all of these things, I grew a lot and it gave me confidence to “just go for it” when I decided to open Apricot Yarn & Supply.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My bit of advice for someone starting a small business would be to treat every aspect of the work as a business. Have consistent hours, be professional and give yourself the opportunity to take time off as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.apricotyarn.com
- Instagram: @apricotyarn
- Facebook: @apricotyarn
- Youtube: Apricot Yarn & Supply
