Interview with Denise McDaniel of Memory Lane Boutique

Denise McDaniel, owner of Memory Lane Boutique, started sewing in high school. After marrying at 18, she learned to do alterations, as well, and made most of hers and her children’s clothes. She worked as a seamstress in the garment manufacturing industry, too. Making Memory Bears and other items allows Denise to use her passion for sewing to create keepsakes for her clients. I interviewed Denise to learn more about her and her business. Here is the interview:

Q1. What kind of sewing machine do you use to make Memory Bears and the other memory creations?

A1. I use a Kenmore sewing machine. It is the machine my husband bought me 33 years ago. Before he bought me my sewing machine I would go to an older lady’s house that went to our church and use her Singer Pedal machine, which took some time to learn how to stop the machine.

Q2. About how long does it take to make a Memory Bear?

A2. For a Memory Bear from the time I cut the bear out to finish around 1.5 hours. For a Necktie Bear – which will soon be on the website – about 2 hours, because I have to make the fabric after I take the 6 neckties apart.

Q3. The photography on your website is lovely. Who does it?

A3. All photography for the website I have done myself. Mostly with my Galaxy S4 phone.

Q4. What hobbies or activities do you enjoy besides sewing?

A4. Besides sewing I love to play tennis, go the Lake Lure, NC and go on cruises. I also love to read when I have the opportunity and to spend time with my family. I have a daughter, a son, and daughter-in- law. Also I have a wonderful dog, Charlie.

Q5. Are you a native North Carolinian? If not, where are you from originally?

A5.  I am a native of Mocksville, NC. My husband and I were next door neighbors and married when I was 18.

Visit Denise’s website to learn more about her memory keepsake creations, and be sure to look at the gallery to see before and after photos:  Memory Lane Boutique.

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