We recently connected with Sheena Whitlock and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sheena , thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Hafa Adai! That means hello where I’m from—Guam. Sewing first sparked my interest in 2012, when I saw other young ladies sewing at a craft night at church. That Christmas, after my parents bought me my first sewing machine, I taught myself to sew by watching youtube videos and joining Facebook groups. As I learned, I made clothes for my four kids and posted photos of them in their new outfits on social media. It wasn’t long before friends and family started suggesting that I start a business they could purchase my creations from; so that’s what I did.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

When I thought about opening an Etsy shop, I wanted the name of it to deeply mean something to me. Cruz is my maiden name, and for me, it represents who I am: an island girl from Guam living away from her roots. The orchids in my logo are for my grandmother, who passed away while I was here, because she loved having orchids all around her house.

These days I don’t sew custom outfits as often since I have taken on several full/part time jobs since 2020. However, you can find clothing that I do make in my free time at Tootsie Too’s Children Boutique and The Red Wing Artisan Collective. Sewing brings me joy and when my customers are happy, it makes my day!

Alongside owning a business, last October I founded the nonprofit Goods for Girls Red Wing to help women and girls affected by period poverty. During our first event, we put together almost 800 period kits and raised $700 for Hope Coalition through a silent auction. We then donated the kits to Red Wing’s public schools, our local food shelf, library and community pantries. I can relate to those experiencing poverty since I grew up in poverty as well. My nonprofit is very special to me and I have a drive to make sure we support those in need. No one should have to miss school or work by not having period products available.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect in creating clothing is receiving the reviews and photos from parents of their children wearing what I created. That is so fullfilling for me and always makes my day! Especially since I didn’t grow up with the skills, support, money or education like some take for granted. It’s something that I can be proud of knowing that I taught myself to do these things and I am still amazed by what I can accomplish in my life. Keep learning and growing is my motto. Also, give yourself grace. No one is perfect.

I am also starting a new journey as a Real Estate Agent with Edina Realty. Having a creative background helped me to make this career jump. I love looking at houses, decorating, coming up with unique themes and giveaways, hosting gatherings and giving guests a great experience in my home which is helpful as a new Realtor. So, if anyone needs any help with their real estate needs you can contact me at [email protected] . I’d love to help you!

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My mission in doing anything is to do it with love, kindness, give when I am able and be a good role model to my children. I want them to know that by helping others rise up from their struggles, it will help them to make the world a better place. One act of kindness at a time.

Contact Info:

• Website: cruzbysw.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cruzbysw/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cruzbysheenawhitlock/
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/homeswithsheena/ https://www.instagram.com/goodsforgirlsrw/ https://www.facebook.com/goodsforgirlsredwing/ https://www.homeswithsheena.com/ https://www.edinarealty.com/sheena-whitlock-realtor https://www.homeswithsheena.com/

Image Credits
Credit to the parents and customers giving permission to use photos.