Kickstarter Backer Feature: Molly Akin

Above: Molly's daughter, Freya, in her latest Geranium Dress.

A very wise customer suggested we share some of the reasons why a variety of the folks that have pledged to back our Kickstarter campaign  made that choice. As if it wasn't enough to get all weepy each time someone new makes a contribution, the answers we've received to our request have been kind and thoughtful just like each of you.

Today we'd like to introduce you to Molly Akin. Molly is the Director of Marketing & PR for the Cambridge Arts Council. We've loved having Molly in class and learning about Cambridge's public art collection, Open Studios, and upcoming exhibits. In the three hours of cutting and sewing in a workshop, there's time to learn about one another and our contribution to the community.

When did you discover gather here?

I came to gather here within a few months of your opening in 2010 and fell in love. The space was lovely, the fabrics wonderful and the people super welcoming.

What is your craft and how does gather here support it?

I learned how to sew, knit and embroider from my grandma when I was small, but never progressed beyond a beginner skill level. I started sewing in earnest when I was pregnant with my daughter. Creating beautiful things for her to wear was one of my favorite "nesting" activities. After Freya arrived, gather here became a treasured place to enjoy time to myself and develop my crafty skills. In fact, one of the first times I spent significant time away from her was at my first skirt class with Virginia! I took the first session of Maritza's Baby Bunting quilt class on January 3rd and I'm excited to add quilting to my sewing repertoire.

Above: Freya in the first Geranium Dress Molly made. Held by Molly's grandmother.

Have you backed a Kickstarter campaign before? What was it?

I supported Multicultural Art Center's Mid-Week Shuffle program on Kickstarter this past fall.

There are thousands of Kickstarter campaigns that could use funding, why did you chose this one?

Because I love gather here! I am glad to help gather here expand and remain a treasured part of Cambridge.

Is there a particular reward that you think makes this campaign unique?

I was super psyched to snag one of the pattern-drafting lessons, but all the rewards sounded pretty great.

What would you tell someone who isn't sure about funding a Kickstarter Campaign?

Go for it!

Above: Molly's Belcarra blouse and Freya's Geranium Dress. Two of her favorite makes.

The Kickstarter Campaign ends on January 15th. If you can and feel so inclined, please take a moment and back us. You contribution supplements the generous funding from the building owner and grants from the City of Cambridge. Don't underestimate the value of sweat equity, either. We've poured a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into this DIY project and we think you'll be able to tell. We can't wait to make 1343 Cambridge Street our home and we hope you'll think of it as your second home, too.