PPB April 2020

Donna Zahn, owner of distributor Sew N Sew, celebrated 10 years in business this year—an accomplishment she was determined to achieve. by Danielle Renda T hree years ago, a medical scare caused Donna Zahn to rediscover her passion for life and her business, and the experience inspired her to boldly leave her comfort zone. Zahn introduced her garment embroidery and digitizing business, Sew N Sew, to the promotional products industry, and has seen her business triple, despite the company’s semi-remote location. Sew N Sew is located on Orcas Island, a horseshoe-shaped island that’s the largest of the San Juan Islands, an archipelago off of Washington State. Zahn’s business plays a major role in helping to sustain the island’s local economy and serve its tourism industry during the summer season, fromMay through September. “You can only get here by ferry, boat or plane,” says Zahn. “Because of our location on the island, clients can come and get what they are looking for here, so that helps our local economy stay strong, as locals are supporting local businesses.” Zahn entered the promotional products industry recently—a decision prompted by her clients’ requests for custom hardgoods—but she celebrated 10 years of business this past August. Her custom embroidery and homemade knits shop was formerly Nature’s Art, owned by Linda Hamm, who retired in 2009. When Zahn took over the business, she transformed the store, opening up the workplace environment so prospective customers and visitors could see Zahn at work. Not only is this milestone an accomplishment she’s proud of, but it’s one she worked extremely hard to achieve. “Many people told me I wouldn’t make it here. Well, I am here to tell you that me, myself and I did not give up when many told me, ‘Stop doing this. You can’t make money at this.’ Recently, I moved into my new shop and living space. It’s my dream space and brand new. (Pinch me!) I’ve been letting go of fear and what does not work and replacing it with what does.” Zahn’s enthusiasm for her business comes from a place of great change and even greater transformation. “I had a medical scare a few years ago where I almost died, and it made me take a hard look at things and how I was living/working. I met my business coach, completed her bootcamp and came home and left my 10-year relationship. Since then, my business has tripled over the past three years. It was about time to regain my passion for life and work.” She adds, “My clients tell me often I have a glow, and they love that I am smiling again. To me, the best thing I can do is be grateful and thankful for all those in my life and business; to treat everyone the way I want to be treated; to continue to learn, grow and help my clients to The Courage To Grow Donna Zahn CONNECT 78 | APRIL 2020 |