Why Substack?

or why I started one...

While every year is busy at Lycette, this year we experienced a surge in business due to the joy of needlepoint spreading on social media. I am immensely grateful, because this surge allows us to grow. However, keeping up with this influx has taken long nights, early mornings, and lots and lots of coffee. Any semblance of work life balance I had spent the last few years establishing disappeared & I started to become burnt out (& thus unpleasant). I needed an outlet & I found Substack.

I love Substack, because it allows me to truly disconnect from my job. I run social media for Lycette (with the help of some talented individuals), so I do not turn to Instagram or Tik Tok when I want to unwind. The articles on Substack are short and easy to read- perfect for taking a break in between painting or answering emails. Substack is a fun, educational, and inspiring distraction.

When I started “Mrs. Needlepoint” I knew I would talk about needlepoint (it is a huge part of my life), but I also knew that I wanted to talk about more than just needlepoint. I wanted to share what I’m currently loving, what’s inspiring me, aspirations & goals, and, of course, chat a little bit about needlepoint.

While “lifestyle” posts will normally be reserved for paying subscribers, I thought it’d be fun to make this for everyone!

CURRENTLY LOVING

listening to

Normal Gossip on Spotify. My sister in law introduced me to this funny podcast. It’s great to put on while driving or doing a mundane task. It’s lighthearted and focuses on how ridiculous people are. I highly recommend.

reading

I’ve been trying to read more books. You know, those things that don’t have a screen? However, I often find myself scrolling Substack instead. Whoops. I am loving history Substacks, they are such an escape. My favorites are Deep Dive History and Dirtbags through The Ages (read if you want to laugh). I also loved this Substack article on Grace O’Malley, and this series on the wives of Henry VIII. Please let me know if you have any history Substack recommendations!

purchasing

I told myself that I was going to do No Buy April, which of course meant that I HAD to scroll J.Crew’s new arrivals. I am a sucker for caftans and how pretty would this be with a pair of strappy sandals. I love love love Emme Parson sandals. They are expensive, but good quality. I have had this pair for over a year, and recently purchased these as my sandals for spring and summer.

& since I started this Substack to focus on small businesses- below are some small business wishlist items!

This pretty caftan from Rhode, this gorgeous lamp from a favorite Newport store, & this breezy top. I’m also trying to resist taking home one of these gorgeous mugs from the shop (pottery is a weakness of mine).

scrolling

I don’t often go on Instagram for pleasure (I find it stressful), but when I do I find myself visiting Cucina Melissa, Monty Don, or Gray Antiques.

trying

Journaling- I love to write and used to journal when I was young. I ordered a large moleskin & a pack of my favorite pens… and still have yet to write. Any tips for writers block?

& what makes me happy

My dogs, there is truly nothing better than our furry friends. Oreo and Bailey have become best buds, and it makes me smile. I love seeing them lying in the yard together, and cuddling on the couch.

Thank you for following along, for subscribing, and for supporting me on Substack. I definitely feel vulnerable sharing things that aren’t needlepoint, so thank you thank you taking the time to read!

xo,

Mrs. N