Our Story

Welcome to The Secret Stitchery!

I'm Shelby, and I've been needlepointing for more than 25 years. What began as a hobby quickly became a lifelong passion—one that has connected me to family, creativity, and community. Some of my favorite needlepoint memories include making annual Christmas ornaments for my boys and carrying on traditions inspired by my mother, who created beautiful petit point pieces for our family. Those moments taught me that needlepoint is about so much more than stitches; it's about preserving memories, celebrating milestones, and creating something to treasure for years to come.

Over the years, I've built a career in retail management, merchandising, store planning, construction, interior design, and project management. Every role deepened my appreciation for creating beautiful, welcoming spaces and meaningful customer experiences. Those experiences have come together in The Secret Stitchery, where my dream is to create more than a needlepoint shop—it's a place where stitchers feel inspired, connected, and completely at home.

The name The Secret Stitchery was inspired by my favorite childhood book, The Secret Garden. Years ago, when my family moved to Hopewell, we discovered our home tucked behind a tall hedge with a gate that opened into a beautiful white garden. The moment I stepped through that gate, I was reminded of the magic and wonder I felt reading The Secret Garden as a child. When it came time to name the shop, I kept returning to those memories.

Needlepoint has always felt like a world waiting to be discovered—where creativity, friendship, learning, and joy can be found just around the corner. The Secret Stitchery seemed like the perfect name: a welcoming place where stitchers can gather, create, and share in a hobby that has brought so much happiness to my life. My hope is that every person who walks through our doors feels at home—where they can slow down, find inspiration, and become part of a wonderful stitching community.

Welcome—I can't wait to stitch with you.