Living the Dream in Stitches: Susan MacKenzie of Liberty Hill Needleworks

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp welcomes Susan MacKenzie, owner of Liberty Hill Needleworks in Williamsburg, Virginia. From stitching doll dresses at age seven to running one of Virginia's most beloved cross-stitch shops, Susan shares her journey of passion, resilience, and community building. She opens up about turning a lifelong hobby into a thriving business, balancing entrepreneurship with family, and why mentorship and generosity matter so deeply in women-owned businesses. This conversation is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and joy—woven together just like the needlework Susan loves. Key Discussion Points: (02:23) How Susan's grandmothers sparked her love of needlework (02:58) The early dream of owning a shop and lessons from visiting other businesses (04:28) Opening her first shop, The Busy Needle, after 9/11 (05:15) Closing her shop to care for her mother and starting anew in Williamsburg (06:30) Building Liberty Hill Needleworks into a premier destination (07:18) Turning a passion into a profitable business vs. a hobby (09:57) How pursuing her dream has changed her personally (11:27) Hosting "Stitch-Ins" and giving back to the community (14:42) Creating connection and healing through needlework (17:12) The empowering moment of family support and encouragement (19:08) Susan's go-to self-talk on tough days (20:04) The joy of walking into her shop each day (22:38) Advice for younger women pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams Notable Quotes: "I live the dream. I am the dream." – Susan MacKenzie "There is a difference between a business and a hobby. A business must be profitable—your customers will teach you what they want to buy." – Susan MacKenzie "Teamwork makes the dream work." – Susan MacKenzie "Surround yourself with supportive people. You don't need the naysayers." – Susan MacKenzie "Joyous. That's how I feel every day walking into my shop—it's soul affirming." – Susan MacKenzie Takeaways: Passion paired with preparation can turn a hobby into a thriving business. Customer service and community connections are the heartbeat of small business success. Supportive people—family, team members, and mentors—make the journey possible. Challenges and setbacks are part of entrepreneurship, but resilience and vision carry you forward. Women entrepreneurs succeed best when they lift each other up and share knowledge freely. Connect with Guest: • Website: Liberty Hill Needleworks • Instagram: @liberty.hill.needleworks • Email: [email protected] Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher • Stay updated on new episodes: www.fanaticaldreamher.com • Email April: [email protected] Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!