Tell us a bit about yourself:
My name is Wendy Davenport. I live in Fergus Falls, MN. I volunteer in immigration law for a refugee resettlement agency in Fargo. I love embroidery (obviously), historic textile design, and reading (especially about other cultures). I would say that my main passion is to try and build bridges between people of diverse viewpoints.
Describe your creative business:
My embroidery business is named Authentic Embroidery. Tag line is “Artisan embroidery for the modern age”. I mostly embroidery vintage graphics onto upcycled canvas patches and pillows and canvas tote bags. I also do custom work. My favorite projects are recreations of historic embroidery designs. I work with friends who have a custom clothing business, Matti’s Millinery & Costumers.
What is one of your most favorite items you have made?
I recently completed embroidery for a 18th century-style suit (see photo). It will be worn by the groom at a masquerade-themed wedding. It was hours of work but very worth it!
What are your most essential tools?
Embroidery software and a 10 needle embroidery machine.
How has your business evolved over the years since beginning?
I started by making free-standing lace jewelry, then transitioned into the vintage graphic embroidery. Now I have been getting a lot of custom requests. I seem to have a semi-devoted (but not large) base of return customers. For example, fans of Rutherford B. Hayes get REALLY! excited when they find Rutherford B. Hayes embroidered goods for sale. (For real, happened twice in one week). I got a large ongoing custom order for the Grangers through one of the R.B.H. fans. Probably best not to use this as a model marketing plan though. Might not transfer well.
What is a word that best describes you?
Creative.
What advice would you have given yourself 5 years ago?
Yes, you need Instagram. Just get over it. This is the modern world of “Brand Identity”.
Any super random tidbit about you?!
I am almost phobic about self promotion/publicity. Working on it though.
Website/etsy to keep in touch:
Instagram: authenticembroidery
Thank you, Wendy!! We’ll see you soon to do a live Facebook video on our Fargo page!