Episode 56: SewExpo 2023 – A Gathering of Friends in the Pacific Northwest

This exclusive/all-access episode takes you through the 2023 version of SewExpo at the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup, WA.

In it’s 39th year, the Sewing and Stitchery Expo was back in full force after a two year Covid 19 hiatus.

Hear directly from Show Manager Janet McLoughlin and Education Manager about how they were brought out of retirement to make this all happen.

There are vendors who will talk about their wares and as always interviews with charities and non-profits who use sewing and quilting to serve unique needs.

Hear from Becky Groves of Project Linus tell about how they’ve delivered more than 9 million blankets to children in need since 1995 (www.projectlinus.org)

Visit with Kali Basi as she tells of the origins and work of Conscious by Kali, (https://www.consciousbykali.com) an organization that works to help human trafficking survivors. And then Leslie Unruh of Sew Powerful (www.sewpowerful.org)  shares the story of her organization and how sewing a purse can keep a girl in school.

Then settle into your front row seat for a night of fun, prizes and an exclusive fashion show hosted by Nick Verreos. Learn how he constructs dresses for stars such as Beyonce, Katie Perry, Heidi Klum and more.

As always, we catch-up with past Sew & So guests. This time we caught up with Pam Mahshie, Aaroica Cole, Amanda Carrita and Joe Vechiarelli.

As this event looks forward to a 40th year anniversary celebration in 2024, Janet and Ann take us back to the year 2001…to the highest attendance ever…and the big earthquake.

You won’t want to miss this exclusive journey through one of sewing’s premier events, where everyone learns, shops and in always among friends.

If you know someone who has an outstanding story that should be shared on this podcast, drop Meg a note to Meg@sewandsopodcast.com or complete the form on our website.