Lori Gorham
Store Manager
Started at Bernina: 2006
"My mother sewed many dresses for me and matching dresses for my doll. I thought that was the neatest thing ever. I started sewing doll clothes at age 9; took beginning sewing classes during summer break when I was 12 and 13. I was hooked!
Today I enjoy sewing even more. I love my Bernina, the most dependable machine I've ever seen. I also enjoy trying new techniques and our talented customers always inspire me. On top of that, I 'work' with great people - I must have the world's best job."
Bessie Woodard
Associate, Teacher
Started at Bernina: 2007
"I cut my teeth on a treadle sewing machine, both my dear grandmothers taught me to sew. My Grandmother Redden always had a hand pieced quilt she was working on. Her favorite to make was the Lone Star, she was unable to see to thread her needles, so I would thread several for her each day and when I returned from school, they were always empty. I credit her for my love of quilts today. I am now making a special quilt for my husband, Philip, and myself to celebrate our 40th. Wedding anniversary.
"I made my first man’s suit as a new bride, my husband loved that suit and wore it until he out grew it. I raised my five children sewing various items for them; I used to shop the remnants, which you could get a piece of corduroy for 25 cents to make the cutest rompers for the babies. I also designed and sewed both my daughters' wedding dresses. I have made many quilts for my family (5 children, 2 girls and 3 boys) along with our 4 beautiful grandchildren. I started long arm quilting in September 2008, "HoneyBQuilting". I enjoy teaching the guide classes for Bernina, Virtual Bernina club and Begin to Sew classes in the Gladstone store. We have just started a Quilt Group that has 8 students so far this year of 2011."
