For the forth year in a row, we had the incredible privilege of Kicking of Stitch Up Chicago 2020 In Style at one of my fave places in all of Chicago - Nina Chicago yarn shop. This year, Hilary and the gals treated Stitch Up attendees to something really special in the new location.

I had not yet been to the new Nina Chicago location due to an array of travel and schedule conflicts so I was personally excited to be in the new space and finally see it. I had no idea what I was in for though. WOW is a small word with BIG impact and that is what the new Nina Chicago is: WOW!

It is so well lit and spacious that even though there were over 75 of us at the kick off party, it felt spacious and not crammed. We had room to shop, sit, knit, crochet and really enjoy the afternoon together.

As always, Nina Chicago came through with the snacks too! Prepared by Chef John Hughes of Chef On The Roof, attendees were treated to delights and hour’s devours of the highest caliber. It is true - there are many pics of me at the food table that I am not mad or ashamed of. IT WAS YUM!!!!

The yarn was great too! Nina Chicago has always done a fabulous job curating some of the finest fibers and offerings for the Chicago area community. In the new space, that has not changed one bit. In fact, it is growin to add sewing and more notions and treats for stitchers. It is a good sign when the line to make purchases goes down the hall! WE LIKE IT!

But in all, one of my favoritye things was seeing and experiencing the MAKE wall. Now, when Hilary first described this to me when she was building the new space I was like “oh, ok that sounds fabulous” - but in my mind I was thinking “what the heck is this woman talking about”. As I started to see photos on social media it started to make sense and I was like “… OH I GET IT”. But in person… In person I thought: MY GOD SHE IS A GENIUS!

The MAKE Wall is a permanent installation on the front wall at Nina Chicago and place for ALL fiber enthusiasts to contribute, leave our mark so to speak, and show our love for this community. Each of the hosts was given a ball of yarn to leave our mark of love and contribute to the work of art. Not just us as I saw MANY attendees adding personal touches as well. When the photos came in of the wall I was like “GENIUS”. It is one of the most incredible out of the box and perfect ideas ever!

I cannot tell you how much I look forward to our Afternoon Tea and Stitch Up Chicago kick off at Nina Chicago each year. It is truly a personal highlight for me. I am so grateful to continue to partner with Hilary and the team at Nina Chicago and thank them for always welcoming us with open arms.

If you are in Chicago - this is a MUST on your list. Stop by and tell them I sent you for a secret treat discount too!

xoxo