MaCrae Putnam admits to being a material girl struggling in a digital world.
Owner of a charming El Reno quilting shop, “Make it Sew,” Putnam sought a boost to help her business escape the post-Covid blues.
The award-winning quilter has expertise in everything from batting to backing and blocking to binding. But she once lacked the knowhow to reach and draw in the fabric faithful.
Putnam sought consulting help from Emily Beesley, Business Development Specialist for the state-backed Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The center’s Canadian County office is supported by a consortium of area businesses, including Canadian Valley Technology Center.
Beesley conducted a business website review for Putnam and offered tips to increase storefront traffic. Putnam said sales increased as a result of the improved web presence.
Folks at Quilt Sampler Magazine (published by Better Homes & Gardens) took notice of the store and named “Make it Sew” a top 10 quilt shop in the nation.
Folks at the SBDC also took notice and recently presented Putnam with its 2024 Encore Entrepreneur Award. The honor recognizes small business owners who started a business after the age of 50 (or started a second career).
Putnam is a former corporate manager and teacher. Four years ago, she opened the quilting and sewing supplies store that is located at 107 S. Bickford Ave.
Beesley, who nominated Putnam for the SBDC award, has assisted a number of small area businesses increase their sustainability and stimulate job growth by using her skills in marketing, social media, e-commerce and grant writing. She can be reached at emily.beesley@oksbdc.org or by calling (405) 422-2271.
