Where did you grow up? How long have you lived in the area? Tell us about your family

I was born and raised in Indianapolis then moved to Arizona in 1979 and settling in Gilbert and the in the Val Vista Lakes area since 1989. I have seen the Gilbert community grow tremendously over the years.

Our daughters have built impressive careers:

Wendee is Working with CommonSpirit Health as the Nurse Residency Region Director for the Pacific Northwest, which is part of Dignity Health System, and raising her boys keeps her life busy.

Rose is serving as a Captain at the Lewis Complex Men's prison system in Buckeye, Arizona, which is a demanding leadership role.

They both graduated from Highland High School—just two years apart in 1999 and 2001.

Tell us about the events that led up to where you are now…

I started my college years at Indiana University with the goal of becoming a PE teacher, but life had other plans. I got married and transferred to Arizona State University, where I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Education in 1982. I first worked as a PE teacher in Gilbert, and later transitioned to the Technology Services Department for the Gilbert School District. I retired in 2022 after 30 years of service this year was my Best Year Ever. I truly enjoy being retired, and it seems like I’m busier now than ever.

What is your business, how/why did you start your business?

My husband and I have always done creative projects, creating competitive costumes, sewing, building floats. I started my embroidery/sewing business to stay busy and have a creative outlet.

What is unique about your business?

My business niche came from a personal experience. When I only wanted to get one or two items embroidered, the cost was often too expensive. It all started when I wanted to create custom labels for quilts I was making. Because of that, I decided to buy my own embroidery machine and began making unique gifts for family and friends. Soon I was creating items like Christmas towel gifts, names on aprons, bridal shower banner, custom senior tee shirts names on special underwear, unique bath towels, names on bags, single initial on a bath robes, theme book covers and more. I offer reasonably priced embroidery with a fast turnaround time, and I can even sit and design with you if you don't know what you want. I can also sew projects as well just ask me if I can do it.

Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what advice can you offer to Val Vista Lakes neighbors?

Most of my customers come through word-of-mouth referrals, which keeps me consistently busy. I enjoy taking on new challenges and can usually accommodate a wide variety of items and custom design requests.

To contact Small Order Embroidery,

Call (480) 249-2789, visit them online: www.smallorderembroidery.com