Southern Belle Magazine May 2013, Issue 1 | Page 92

Business SPOTLIGHT

An interview with Debbi Dwyer , Founder & Owner of Holding Memories .
6
SB : Tell us about your business . Holding Memories is about making bears and pillows from your loved one ’ s clothing . It is about turning an item of clothing ( or anything fabric based ) into YOUR unique memorable gift . Bears and pillows from loved one ’ s clothing . When they aren ’ t physically there , temporarily or permanently - you have a part of them , something you could cuddle and hold , and make you “ feel ” that they ARE there ! That memory you cherish of that loved one will be right near you , to hold forever ! It is also about having bears made from your baby ’ s special clothes , for example coming home from the hospital or special occasion outfit . It could be a bear made from your child ’ s baby blanket or a piece of the blanket . I have also made several bears out of military clothing for family members of someone who has deployed . SB : When & how did you get the idea for the business ? I worked in hospice for awhile and during that time we did a project for work . I made pillows out of clothing items we gathered for several hospice families - and was overwhelmed by the joy they experienced . I believe God planted the idea in my head . I ’ ve always sewn and enjoyed it but I especially love to give to others or help make them smile . It was a year after the idea came to me before I actually started the business . SB : Why the business name ‘ Holding Memories ’?
I came up with a whole list of possible names and this one kept sticking out as a good one . Clothing or the item someone wore or used represents memories . Those things were special or a part of the person that you love . Once made into something , the most favorite thing to do with it - is to hold it ! Thus , Holding Memories began . SB : Is there one particular bear you ’ ve done that stands out as the most
special ? I honestly can ’ t say I have a single favorite . They are all so special and important to me . Each one has a story . Sometimes they tell me the stories and I love that because it gives meaning to what I am making . Sometimes I