A little Edith Head, a little southern belle, Sally Smith creates distinctive Christmas and seasonal décor and handmade, personalized gifts.The granddaughter of a cotton mill owner in North Carolina, Sally delighted in color, textures and designs at an early age. Photos of this all-but forgotten textile era, along with prized pieces from her grandmother’s sewing box and vintage couturier gowns, serve as inspiration, reminding her of an age built on quality and attention to detail.
With every design, Sally brings not only a legacy of textile insight, but also decades of hands-on experience. When she lived in the New York Metro Area, she designed costumes for Off Broadway productions—not for work, but for the fun—for the artistry. From the fashion and fabric districts of the Big Apple, to the roadside fabric stands of southern mill towns, she has cultivated relationships with families and buyers alike in her constant quest for discovering unusual, wonderful fabrics.
Working with unexpected textures—like vintage car upholstery or feathers—Sally describes her work as “heirloom quality elegance with a touch of whimsy.” However, she is quick to add that “'heirloom' doesn't have to mean old-fashioned. It's timeless beauty.” From embroidered pillows to baby gifts, silk, velvet or even denim Christmas tree skirts, each design is handmade and carefully stitched with the skill and detail of a trained artist. Though several items—like embroidered pillows with seasonal phrases or words—are already created and ready for enjoyment, many come to her wanting to add a touch of warmth or personality to their holiday and home.
Sally understands that style is more than a fabric or color choice, but an attitude, a reflection of who we are. She describes herself as not just an artist, but a listener—seeking to understand personalities and working with customers to design one-of-a-kind pieces. “Everyone has their own image of the perfect holiday and home. I can help bring those ideas to life.”