Our Fall Event is on Nov 1st 5-9pm + Nov 2nd from 12-4pm.
DUFFY + LEA BOUTIQUE
handmade clothing and accessories for children
Meet The maker
WHO ARE YOU, WHERE ARE YOU FROM, & WHAT DO YOU DO?
Hi, My name is Vanessa! I have a wonderful husband of 11 years, Travis, and three beautiful children together. I was born and raised in northeast Pennsylvania, and have spent about the last five years living in the south – almost one year in Evans, and the rest before that in Alabama. My youngest is at home with me during the day, and in my spare time (whenever that may be) I love to sew my heart out!
DESCRIBE YOUR PROCESS.
Most of my creations start at the fabric store. I love being able to feel all of the fabrics and get a real life view of the quality and softness. Sometimes I have an idea in my head of what I like to make, but sometimes I just love a fabric so much that I bring it home with me even if an idea hasn’t struck yet. Then I wash and dry the material in clear scent free detergent to get rid of yuckies and to preshrink the fabric. This helps not only me while sewing, but ensures the end product doesn’t get wonky after washing, like some store bought items may.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Having three children of my own, I love to see the joy on their faces when Mommy creates something they designed themselves. Whenever I make something to sell I try to keep that in mind, and hope the same for whatever child gets the pleasure of wearing it.
FUN FACT ABOUT YOU.
I grew up with my mother’s sewing machine in my bedroom. It’s something that I had completely forgotten about until recently. Being the youngest, my mother gave up her sewing room in order to give me my own room. Luckily for me, this was the 80’s and there was no need to actually remove it from the room. I remember playing with the hand wheel and watching the needle move up and down, over and over again.
FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA.
Being new to the area, I have not been in downtown Augusta very often yet. I have been to a few restaurants which were amazing, and look forward to exploring the riverwalk next.
WHY DO YOU LOVE TO DESIGN, CREATE + MAKE?
I have always had a love of art. Drawing (specifically animals and house floorplans) was my favorite thing to do when I was younger. Over the years things have evolved, and now having children of my own, I fell in love with sewing and being able to create beautiful things for them to wear.
WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER ARTISTS + MAKERS?
I don’t think other artists really need advice besides keep doing what makes you happy!