Paying It Forward

By Delores Kuhlwein

We frequently hear about paying it forward by the act of purchasing another’s coffee, or perhaps their lunch.  But sharing our unique talents with others can offer the best gift imaginable – skills to last a lifetime.

Amateur Amber Daniel grew up sewing her own show clothes with her mom, Amy Reinhardt, and her roots of the horse show world sprang from 4-H. Now that her show clothes company, Blond Apparel, has established itself as a world class custom clothing retailer, she turned to where it all began to help others.

Together with Brittanie Norman of B Sew Fancy, the entrepreneurs hosted an absolutely free, private DIY Shirt Class recently for active 4-H members ages 12-18.  Amber worked with local 4-H leaders in Michigan to spread signup information, and she offered an online form for ease of signup.

“My mission in creating this class was for the girls to have fun embellishing and leave with a top they could wear at the fair,” explains Amber.

So for two afternoons, June 12-13, 2024, at the Grace Dow Memorial Library Midlab in Midland, Michigan, Amber and Brittanie taught the basics of selecting materials, cutting appliqués, sewing appliqués, tinkering with crystal placement, and securing crystals. “Each girl picked out their shirt color and crystals, cut out their appliqués, and attached their crystals. All of them did a fantastic job on their tops,” says Amber.

All materials were provided, as well as the shirt base, thanks to multiple generous sponsors, including the fashionistas themselves. Upon reflection of the event, Amber reveals, the standout word to her is definitely grateful.

“I am grateful to all the generous donors that helped make this idea a reality. Grateful to Brittanie Norman for making the trip to help. Grateful for Jonathan VanDerhoof and the rest of the GADML staff for helping me plan. Grateful to Hobby Horse – Kristin Darnall Titov, for helping us get everything ordered. Lastly, I’m grateful to the 4-H program for teaching the lesson of giving back to your community.”

Most of all, the girls took away more than just a show shirt.  “The girls learned many skills that they can use in the future to create another custom top,” says Amber.

 

We have a feeling this won’t be the last time we’ll see Blond Apparel pay it forward – congratulations to everyone involved!