The Pivot

Everybody has a story about how this COVID pandemic has impacted their lives and the lives of loved ones. It seems the world at large spent about 2 days in flux and then the rest of the year establishing measured and counter measures for health, financial and mental survival. We began hearing newly coined phrases such as flatten the curve, essential and masks save lives. No matter where your beliefs lied about pandemic management, there was one word that no one could avoid. It was Pivot.

Pivot refers to the modifications in functionality and operations families and businesses had to employ in order to survive the indefinite, starkly changed way of life. It was no different at In Stitches. Over the course of one weekend, all special events— for which we were making garments, were cancelled. We couldn't work in close proximity to each other. Spreading out was impossible in our tiny shop. Thankfully, after brainstorming, prayers, and even a few tears we pivoted along with the rest of the world. Our pivot made way for us to participate in moments of joy and development we might have otherwise missed.

The first pivot was a very unexpected move. We've relocated across the street from the shop you know. Currently, I am seeing clients inside a lovely space across the street called, Pieced on Earth (615 Florida St. Vallejo, CA). Janet, the primary shopkeeper, has made room for us in a way that is welcoming and very necessary for financial feasibility during the indefinite shutdown.

We were able to participate in a few weddings that had to substantially cut back or modify their ceremonies. The creative energy required to accommodate certain needs was a pleasant infusion of excitement and distraction from current events. Below is a picture of one of our brides who pivoted her grand wedding to a road trip to the Colorado mountains. The essential guest list included her, her Mr. and their dog. For the "something blue" component we used Royal Blue silk lining which peeked out from within her high-low skirt. Another cool thing about the skirt is that it was reversible! The bride was able to avoid packing an additional outfit for their mountain top dinner.

Another amongst many pivots was my return to my beloved teaching. It started when one client wanted virtual sewing lessons for her nieces. Their first project was a mask. Then they moved up to aprons in preparation for their family's annual cookie baking event. From there our Sip-and-Sew virtual lessons and classes were officially a thing. 

Lastly, and perhaps the most enjoyable, was the chance to see clients we hadn't seen in a while, by way of curbside pickups. Apparently sitting around the house staring at a bag full of clothes needing alterations morphed into a call to action for several people. One lady literally tossed her bag into my back window. For another client we did her fitting in her spiral ascending driveway atop the Berkeley Hills. Were it not for the COVID pivot, I may have never experienced that spectacular view!

Perhaps you have a garment idea you'd like to bring to life. Maybe you want to bring focus to a Zoom party by way of our Sip-and-Sew projects. In any event, all of our contact information survived the pivot and we're hoping to hear from you soon.

Pivoting until my head spins

~ Ms. In Stitches