Burning Desire Still there after 20 Years
Customer relations, dedication, commitment to education and training have greatly enhanced this business woman's success.

Janet Seivers, owner of The Quilt Shop in Wakefield, Nebraska, started her career working with fabric over 20 years ago. Starting at a young age, Janet was taught to sew and make items using fabric. Over the years she continued to expand her knowledge and expertise working with cloth.

Janet started a home-based sewing business 20 years ago. After several years the business specialized in custom wedding dresses. Seven years later, the opportunity to open a main street quilt shop in Wakefield, Nebraska presented itself.

In 1995 Janet and two others opened The Quilt Shop, Inc. They purchased a quilting machine and other equipment to complete custom quilting for customers. Within the first year one owner sold her shares to the other two.

During the first year the storeowners determined that in addition to custom quilting, customers also needed fabric and other supplies. A REAP loan through the local association assisted in purchasing the start-up inventory.

Inventory expansion has continued. The Quilt Shop provides customers with a complete fabric store carrying a large variety of material and supplies.

Janet also designs patterns, with many being published. Advertising for The Quilt Shop is through local publications, national quilting magazines, and a web page, www.thenetpages.com. The shop has customers in all states and several countries around the world.

In 2002 the other shareholder had to dispose of her shares in the business due to health reasons. As a REAP member and former officer in the local association, Janet contacted REAP requesting assistance.

REAP helped to update the business plan and supporting documents. A collaborative loan was obtained, and Janet is now the sole owner of The Quilt Shop.

With the assistance of a new employee Janet plans to continue operating the store as in the past. She is willing to spend whatever time is required with each customer to help with their special projects.

Janet will continue teaching quilting classes and being involved with youth work through 4-H and other activities. She is a firm believer that everyone needs to give back to their community as well as receiving.

Recently Janet relayed that she loves working with fabric and can think of nothing she would rather be doing. The burning desire is still there after 20 plus years. That’s a business success!