Vickie Lowder of a Crafters Dream was the Feb 2009 Artist of the Month. How long have you been in this area? I have been in the area about 20 years this time. My husband, Bill, is a retired Marine. This has been our third time stationed here. * Tell us a little bit about yourself and about what you create. I taught myself to crochet and knit when my 4 girls were little. I made and sold things to make extra money. I also made gifts for Christmas, birthdays, etc. I knit, crochet, beading, scrap book, basically, whatever gets my attention. I won 10 ribbons in October 2008 at the Onslow County Fair for my entrys. I make hand crocheted necklaces, military bears, baby items, jewelry, and house accessories. *What motivated you to start your own business? I met a little lady in a cross stitch store that impressed me alot. I thought I wanted to do that - have my own shop (with rocking chairs), teach people, and make my own things. *How did you get started? I worked at McDonald's for 20 years and decided I no longer "had ketchup running thru my veins" and gave notice. Not knowing what I was going to do, my husband asked why didn't I go ahead and open my own shop and fulfill my dream. *What is some advice you could share with someone thinking about starting a business or preparing to start their own business? One should ALWAYS have a dream. Dreams can give you something to look forward to. Right now I am living MY DREAM! Believe in yourself and what you do.
