Lea Saccomanno of South Philly on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Lea Saccomanno. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Lea, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m most proud of building community. When most people stumble upon our events, I think they see the embroidery or creative aspect first. Sharing a craft that I love is so important and central to Sippin’ and Stitchin’, but what brings me the most joy is creating a space for people to connect with and support one another. Nothing makes me happier than seeing folks connect with one another through trying (or honing) a craft.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Lea and I’m the owner and artist behind Sippin’ and Stitchin’. I’ve been embroidering for over 15 years and have been hosting embroidery classes for about seven years. The workshops started on my living room floor in Philadelphia and have grown to expand to eight different states. We aim to share something we love in fun, laid-back way.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
When I first started my business, I definitely ascribed to the “hustle” mentality. I worked constantly and felt guilty any time I stopped. I think that our society definitely instills this “all or nothing” approach when it comes to work (especially when building a business). When I look back on the person I was when I started my business, I’m proud of the woman who built a business from nothing. While I’m grateful for all of the experiences I’ve had when building Sippin’ and Stitchin’, I’m happy that I’ve been able to change my perspective to one that values a healthier work-life balance. We all need time to recharge and do things to refill our cup.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been many times that I’ve almost given up. When I worked a 9-5 job, I was constantly told what I should be doing. I was also told if I was doing that job successfully or what I should do to continue to grow as an employee. When you have your own business, there’s no “manual” for how to be successful or make that business grow. What I’ve learned through experience is that success comes from trial and (sometimes, lots of) error. You can’t grow as a business owner or person without setbacks. I’m grateful now that I see those for what they are and not a sign that my business “isn’t working”.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
One thing that I’m really proud of is that I genuinely feel that who I am during my events, to my employees and in my day-to-day life reflects my true identity. When I think back to working my full-time job, I remember feeling like a different person at work and in my free time. It’s so freeing to be able to be able to express myself and have such a great space to do so.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I truly feel that I’ve found “my meaning” in sharing something that I love. It’s so profoundly meaningful to me to be able to create a space for people to try something new and express themselves creatively. When I started this business, I never thought that it would be as successful as it is today. I think that one of the biggest contributing factors to that success is that I truly love and find meaning in what I do. I definitely feel that people can tell when you truly believe in what you’re doing and are drawn to that.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sippinandstitchin.com
• Instagram: @sippinandstitchin

Image Credits
Photo of me taken by @meatballparm (IG) Don Vincent Ortega