The Long Story

Retired with two spoiled dogs, Rose, a Great Pyrennes and Cheese, a Pomeranian, I often wondered how I could continue to have an income, yet still enjoy their company during the day.

The women in my weekly knitting group regularly complained about the lack of a yarn shop nearby. This is Machias, Maine, and it’s almost a two-hour drive to the nearest dedicated craft or yarn shop.

This ongoing dilemma got the wheels turning. I could picture myself in a cozy shop surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colorful wool yarns with my beloved dogs underfoot.

I reached out to Professor Rebecca Bragg at the University of Maine at Machias in search of small business resources. That same day while getting my hair cut at Annie Hall’s salon, I told her about my idea. She asked if I had seen the vacant shop on Main Street in Machias next to Sew Fetch Dog Collars and the Machias General Store. Annie said it was perfect with big windows, lots of light, and a view of the Machias River.

I stopped by Sew Fetch Dog Collars and spoke with Caissie Roberts, who is a co-owner of the building. Her enthusiasm for a yarn shop matched my own, and we explored the space together. Built-in shelves were perfect for displaying yarn, and the back room was just the spot to host classes. I begged Caissie not to rent it until I was able to return with a check for the deposit.

I arrived home that afternoon to hear from Professor Bragg, who directed me to Ruth Feldman at the CEI Women’s Business Center. And so began the tumble down the cozy rabbit’s hole that is now Wooleez of Maine.

Bank accounts. Insurance. Seeking out area artisans. Wholesale accounts. Purchasing product. Logo. Signs. Advertising. Point of Sale. Square Account. Website. Whew! A whirlwind eight weeks from that serendipitous day in the beauty salon and I opened the doors at Wooleez of Maine.

Melissa Molinari
Owner