The next VDTA/SDTA Convention & Show will be in
New Orleans, LA
February 27 - 29, 2012
at the Ernest Morial Convention Center

Celebrating 50 Years in Business

In November of 2007, English’s Sew & Vac celebrated 50 years of business. It was a special anniversary year for this family and their store, and in November they celebrated with their customers by hosting two days of in-store events.

The business has been blessed over the years with a wonderful, creative staff, quality products, and a beautiful work environment.

Looking back on their history, the store first opened in November of 1957 as “The Fabric Shop” in Paducah, KY. Owners were Joe and Tula English and Jimmy and Rubye Feezor. Together they built a foundation of trust that would last for three generations.

When the business first opened, only fabric and notions were sold, but in 1960 Pfaff sewing machines were added to the store’s inventory. In 1977 the Freezors retired and “The Fabric Shop” became “English’s Sewing Machine Company.”

Joe’s experience in servicing machines and Tula’s love of sewing was a combination that could not be beat, and their business grew. Then in 1978, more family joined in the business -- the couple’s son Keith and his wife Linda became involved. Around that same time, the family moved the store from downtown Paducah to Reidland. This move resulted in growth for the store and higher demand for services that English’s could offer their customers.

Sewing classes were soon offered and the Brother Pacesetter computerized embroidery machines were added. The family worked together to build the reputation for unsurpassed customer service, and honesty.

To promote their business even further, Keith and Linda developed a newsletter for the store called Stitchin’ Times. The newsletter goes out three times a year to 8,000 customers, promoting classes as well as the store’s events and specials. This method of advertising mixed with the development of TV advertising helped grow English’s.

When Keith and Linda’s son, Joel, graduated from college in 1998, he chose to join the family business. Joel’s education in marketing strengthened the company. Around the same time, the family decided to add vacuum cleaners to their product mix. Brands available at English’s include Miele, Sebo, Oreck and Fuller Brush.

With the addition of vacuums, the store’s name was also altered to “English’s Sew & Vac” to signify the change.

The family’s strategic business moves proved successful and they continue to enjoy growth. To keep up with their larger inventory and growing classes, the family built a strip mall in 2004 which included a new 8,000 square-foot-store and a warehouse.

50 years in business ~ it’s been wonderful for this family. The store has won top sales awards with most of the sewing and vacuum lines they sell. Sewing classes are taught by great teachers, and they have become a full floor care center.

Keith and Linda said, “Looking back, we are thankful for all the good times we’ve had. We have made so many friends through our customers and staff, and our customers have shared in our lives in so many special ways. We are so appreciative and we look forward to the next 50 years with anticipation.”

Most of all, they noted, “It is the joy of working with family and being able to pass down a legacy!”

Reprinted from SQE Professional, February 2008