Granny's Origin

Granny's Cottage started as a dream I had in High School - a place for my community to find joy and comfort with BEing in the moment of a craft or passion. A space cultivated to instill the same Safe, Supportive, and Creative environment my Granny held for me.

But "running a business is hard," "most businesses fail in their first 5 years if they even make it that far," and "I'll never be able to make enough to retire by selling yarn." (I've listened to those naysayers for far too long!) I kept "pushing it right;" dreaming to "built it in retirement when I have the time and the money to enjoy it, without sacrificing my future's financial stability." After High School, I joined the Army as an Intel Analyst and built myself a strong career in Cybersecurity Policy.

Then came 2025. After 20 years of a career where I'd found purpose, one I'd actually grown to enjoy, I found my work-life drowned and the ground turned to sand before my eyes. Next came the closure of JoAnn - my yarn and fabric and craftybook Haven; my safe space - and then... another catalyst - the furlough.

The first week? A breeze. My husband and I had already planned a belated anniversary vacation in Maine. Planned relaxation is productive.

Another week goes by, and my depression hits a new low - I feel irresponsible being unproductive, but there's nothing I can do for the team back at work beyond an ear and words of encouragement. I might as well give in, universe, you're obviously pushing me to do something about this old dream of mine.

Beautiful things can happen when the neurospicy get going!

Two weeks into our 43 day shutdown, I throw myself "All-In" on building my vision board and business plan for Granny's Cottage. I find new inspiration and confidence through Project Opportunity. I hear of change coming in 2026 from the Town of Bel Air who's graduating two success stories from their Incubator Spaces behind The Armory...

I see my opening and I'm off to dodge every tackle and run this puck across Home Plate! The momentum is palatable, not even a return to work can get me down!

My business pitch for Granny's Cottage at the Project Opportunity Graduation Ceremony, Dec 2025

So brings us to today - Business: registered, Plan & Financials: almost to my high standards, and our Space?: The application is burning a hole in my inbox, itching to be sent.

I am beyond excited and so proud to bring YOU along this journey with me! I'll keep y'all posted as we secure Granny's Wings, ready to take flight!