Want some insider information about Common Thread Saratoga’s big move to Broadway? Read this exclusive interview with Ashley Gardner, owner of your favorite yarn store!
1. When can we expect you to be open?
We are renovating our space now and hope to be open by the weekend of February 17, 2012.
2. Why did you decide to move to Broadway?
Our lease was ending and I really wanted to move to a place that had an on-site office space and would be in a location that made it easier for all of Saratoga’s convention goers and tourists to visit the shop.
3. Will you miss Beekman Street?
We will miss Beekman Street and will still partner with some of the wonderful businesses we got to know during our time there. The Arts District and its champions are a true gem in our community and we wish them all the best.
4. How is your Beekman space different than your Broadway space?
The two spaces are virtually the same size but the Broadway space will have a very different layout, despite having the same furniture and fixtures. The new space has an office, which was of critical importance to me in order to effectively run the business. Storage was an issue in our old location on Beekman, as we had to store our yarns in the basement, which is not an ideal location. We had to run dehumidifiers year round.
5. What are you most looking forward to on Broadway?
I am very excited to be a part of the energy and excitement of Broadway. Beekman Street has wonderful people and energy as well, but I am looking forward to walking out my door to find friendly acquaintances, coffee shops, lunch places, and just being able to walk around.
6. What do you want your current and potential clients to know about Common Thread?
We love providing a wide variety of products for fiber crafting, but we really thrive on the community aspect provided by a comfortable and welcoming place to gather and create. We have something for everyone, from inexpensive washable yarns for a quick baby blanket to wildly fun or glitzy yarns for really being able to express your personality through knitted garments.
7. Will Common Thread have a grand opening party?
We will be having an opening party in mid-March, but I am not yet sure of the date.
8. Will you have any special events coming up that we can look forward to?
We are in the process of scheduling some fun trunk shows and yarn tastings for the summer.
9. I heard that you will have classes? Can you tell me about some of them that are being offered?
We have a number of drop-in classes that happen consistently each week, that are perfect for those first learning to knit, picking up the needles after a long hiatus, or looking for help with a project they are stuck on. We hold technique and project-specific classes on a quarterly basis, attempting to offer something for every skill level. We are currently looking for new teachers to bring in some exciting new techniques and classes, and people are welcome to contact me if they have an idea for something that might be fun and exciting for our customers.
10. If anyone has any questions, how should they get in touch with you?
Please call 518-583-2583 or feel free to email me at commonthreadsaratoga@gmail.com
There is no doubt that Common Thread Saratoga is going to bring a unique touch to downtown Saratoga! Ashley Gardner is working hard to bring Saratoga a friendly and comfortable place, for all of your fiber arts needs!