Iconic Simsbury Sewing Shop Announces Closure

SIMSBURY, CT — A beloved little quilt shop in town that served as a beacon for quilters and sewers locally for two decades will soon be no more.

Vivian "Viv" Lazich, the owner of the "Sew Inspired Quilt Shop & Studio" at 8 Wilcox St., Simsbury, announced her retirement Tuesday, Sept. 16, with a heartfelt message on Facebook.

The announcement even moved Simsbury First Selectman Wendy Mackstutis to weigh in on the news.

Lazich said the store's lease for the site runs out on Dec. 31, and the shop will close "at the end of the year" while she heads off into retirement. She's operated the store since 2005.

"The announcement of my retirement may come as a complete surprise to many of you – especially those who recently celebrated our 20th anniversary with us," wrote Lazich to the Simsbury community.

"However, this decision was not made lightly but instead with much prayerful consideration and heartfelt gratitude for the 20 years of creating so many connections and a vibrant quilting community."

From now until the last day, Lazich said, nearly all of the store's offerings will be for sale and the shop will remain open for its regular hours.

She said her retirement will allow her to spend more time being a "grammy" and allow her to indulge in her hobbies more, such as "cooking, gardening, knitting – and yes, quilting."

"But mostly, I’m looking forward to being a full-time 'grammy' available for swimming lessons, sports, school events, and however else I can be a part of these precious children’s lives," Lazich said.

Reflecting back, Lazich thanked her supporters and touted the friends she's made locally.

"Over the past two decades, my team and I have met so many wonderful people. We've chatted, we've helped with projects, we’ve taught you, and we've learned from you," Lazich wrote. "We’ve shared stories about children and grandchildren and news of illnesses and recoveries. Many friendships have been created here, and I hope they endure for years to come."

Mackstutis reminisced about the shop.

"Viv, we will miss your iconic shop in the heart of Simsbury," Mackstutis wrote. "Our family will miss having her as a part of the local community.

" I'm thankful I got to see the fabrics, quilts, and people that made your shop a second home to many."

For more information on Sew Inspired, click on this link.