Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Whitfield.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
I came up with the original idea of opening a yarn shop in 2018, and it gradually evolved to include my DEI training and love of community. Two things were essential to me:
- Everyone felt welcome, respected, and treated with dignity, regardless of race, religion, orientation, or gender identity.
- The yarns and other products I carry represent the same diversity I welcome into the shop.
This past April, For Ewe celebrated its second birthday. I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve built as a retail shop and community.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s been a journey unlike any other I’ve ever undertaken, so I have nothing to compare it to. There have been good, great, and rough days, but never anything I couldn’t handle. I’ve been grateful for the advice I’ve gotten over the years about being nimble, knowing my numbers, and pivoting on a dime as needed. Change is inevitable and can be difficult to roll with. Growth is necessary, but it can be uncomfortable. For Ewe is currently in the change and growth phase, which involves risk. It’s exhilarating and scary, but I’m glad to be here.
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My original training and profession is in the area of Classical music. I’ve been a performer and teacher since my late teens/early 20’s. Music is my first and primary love, but the business of music has been wearying. Also, I have arthritis in three crucial joints, which means the future of my performing career is limited. Crafting has always been a vital part of my life. My grandma taught me how to crochet when I was very small. A “yarn angel” taught me how to knit on a bus ride home from school. In her honor, I have a “yarn angel” program at the shop that gives people the chance to anonymously change the lives of young people and the financially disadvantaged by donating yarn or money for projects or lessons. If I had to pick one thing I’m most proud of about For Ewe, I would say the broad cross-section of crafters who have come together to create our “ForEweKnitty.” I’m so happy to welcome Oberlin College/Conservatory students, faculty, staff, community members, and other folks from all over the surrounding area. Our online community stretches across the US, Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe. Bringing people together continues to be my priority, and I am proud to say it is happening!
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Ooh, that’s an interesting question. Since I’m a chatty person who loves to tell stories, I wonder if many surprises are left. If there’s anything I haven’t voiced openly yet, it may be my deep desire to visit Africa someday. As an African American woman, I feel a pull toward the continent of my ancestors to find the link between cultural traditions as I’ve received them and their origins. I would love to go to West Africa and explore the music, dance, food, and fiber arts traditions for inspiration and self-discovery.
Contact Info:
- Website: for-ewe.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/for_ewe
- Facebook: facebook.com/forewecommunity
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_6JT5e1nXIfv5kMGny496Q
Image Credits
All photos were taken by me, Lisa Whitfield
