Bree Drayden shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Bree, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I wouldn’t exactly say my days are “normal,” at the moment… from trying to keep up with three pre-teen boys to being neck deep in a huge move for my company, to the insurmountable growth I’ve experienced with the success of The Sewcial Box, nothing in my world is the norm!
Most of my days are spent playing with color! Lots and lots of color. I’ve expanded my professional world to include being the proud owner of a very unique sewing and quilting store, so getting to surround myself and my children with fiber and textiles has all but taken over my days!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi there! I’m Debraeyia, but those who know me call me Bree for short! There’s a lot to who I am, but the best parts are I’m a homeschooling triplet mom and a wife, a devout multi-tasker, a Veteran, a serial entrepreneur, and a quirky quilter and sewist!
I started Piper Lane Kids Co. when my boys were babies (they’re pre-teens now!). It was a way to express my love of color, comics, and unique style through a re-ignited adoration of sewing and quilting. Before long, my creations went from being worn by my own children to being sold in boutiques and independent retailers across the world! As my kids grew, so did my presence in the fiber and textile world, which opened up many doors (and closed quite a few as well!)
As my kids got older, I began pivoting my brand and expanded my reach to include teaching the art of sewing and quilting to the kids in our homeschool groups, and it took off! At the time, I didn’t realize the programs I experienced as a child in school were no longer available to most. The further I dove into my craft, the more I learned and experienced – some experiences were not so pleasing! It was from those experiences that PLKC grew, and The Sewcial Box was born!
The Sewcial Box (or The Sewcial Box by PLKC) is a very unique take on the traditional “quilt shop” experience. I learned over the years, that while it’s easy to stand by and complain about fiber and textile arts being a “dying brand,” it’s unfortunately due to lack of accessibility and inclusion – and above all, diversity- and the fix, in my opinion, is easy… make shops, programs, and purchasing options accessible and affordable & TSB is on a mission to do just that!
While we are a retail establishment, our primary focus is on bridging the gap between two worlds: the sewing world of what once was Joann’s, & the avid quilter who frequents the local quilt shop. From the fabrics & notions to machines and classes, we aim to be all-inclusive and a place where, whether you’re 5 or 85, you can walk in our doors and feel right at home.
Further setting us apart, we focus on the root of the art… education. We’re proud to host a plethora of classes, workshops, events… You name it – to make this amazing world of sewing and quilting accessible to anyone who wants to learn or just further their love of the craft. We partner with skilled talent and brands that align with our mission, and work hard to keep our programs and classes affordable.
So, while Piper Lane Kids Co. is still very much the brand that started it all, The Sewcial Box is front and center!
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
Ha! In keeping with the theme of this story and for this interview, I’m almost embarrassed to say that it was:
“Sewing isn’t fun. It’s boring & quilting is for old people.”
This can’t be further from the truth and what I believe today! I often look at things in stores and find myself inspecting seams or the quality of the make and gawking at the price. They rarely align.
Making something from scratch or myself just hits different as an adult. Creating is my outlet. I now understand that sewing IS absolutely therapy.
Quilting is therapeutic.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Of course! Many times. I’m human.
I don’t necessarily fit the bill of the demographic most commonly associated with sewing and quilting… at least I didn’t when I first started. Yes, it’s a lot different now (I’m sure COVID played a part in that movement), and it seems a tad easier; however, being an assertive small business owner AND a mom can be exhausting… even brutal. This world isn’t for the weak at heart, and while I certainly have thick skin, I’ve had to get thicker.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I had to ask one of my closer friends this question, because you never know how others really view you these days, given the divisiveness our world has created.
I was told that my inclusiveness is what matters the most.
I agree. I come from a very culturally and ethnically diverse world and upbringing, so I honestly don’t know how to be any other way. That same sentiment rings true in my personal and professional world… I hold the same values and principles, regardless of how you know or associate with me. I pride myself on being respectful and moving as gracefully as I can in a very cruel world.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Absolutely! I’ve lived most of my life moving without recognition for accomplishments and accolades. I prefer to do things naturally and genuinely, and that entails living outside the limelight.
I guess you could say I prefer peace over praise.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thesewcialbox.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesewcialbox
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/thesewcialbox/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesewcialbox
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-sewcial-box-houston
Image Credits
Bree Drayden of Piper Lane Kids Co.
