Daily Inspiration: Meet Stacie Sturdivant, MS, DVM

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacie Sturdivant, MS, DVM.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a veterinarian turned sewist. Yes, you read it right. I’m an animal doctor who makes clothes! My brand is known as Sew Sew Stacie and I must admit that it is my pride and joy! My sewing journey started nearly three years ago. I found myself needing an outlet as a result of constantly moving around for my job. When I bought my first sewing machine, I did not have the nerve to open the box for SIX MONTHS. I was afraid and excited at the same time. However, around that sixth month, my mother fell ill, I simply could not cope. It was around that time that I decided it was time to rip off the band-aid. I am so glad that I did! I found an online sewing class and went to work. It was exactly what I needed. The classes literally started with how to pick the right machine. The projects were assigned in layers to build your skill… and it worked!

In early 2019, I stumbled across a sewing meetup via Eventbrite for the Project Sew in Atlanta. I attended the event and fell in love with the awesome ladies of Atlanta Sewing Style. That coalition of outstanding women helped to sharpen my skills as a new sewist. I’m so proud to belong to them. Within a few months, I took a leap and made an evening gown. I still can’t believe that I had the nerve to do that!!! Since then, I have literally made 90% of my wardrobe. It’s been an absolutely rewarding experience thus far! Regarding my career, I work daily as a public health officer to ensure the safety of foods that we consume. I absolutely love my occupation because it allows me to make a direct difference in the lives of consumers. It is beyond rewarding to combine the skills that I have obtained as a scientific researcher at Alabama State University with the training I received at Tuskegee University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. I am such a proud graduate of both HBCUs!

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
For the most part, it has been smooth. The biggest struggle that I have faced is trying to sew while working my day job. What I am basically trying to convey is my hobby started attracting unexpected attention. I thought that was absolutely flattering, but very trying to sew a garment for hire. I was happy sewing late nights just to have a new blouse. That’s where time management really comes into play. If not, ye shall surely crumble. Trust me!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I make all of the things (lol), but I definitely gravitate towards making dresses. I do not know what initiated it, but dresses are my jam! All lengths are great, but a knee-length dress gives me superpowers. The drape of silk or a stretchy satin against my skin is a feeling that I can’t describe. So, most often, those are my fabric of choice. With warmer temperatures in the near future, I will be making a run to Fine Fabrics in Norcross to indulge in all of the new silks and satins that tickle my fancy. Aside from dresses, I’ve grown to love making my own athletic wear.

Last year I joined a sewing challenge in which I made my first two-piece exercise set. Workout clothing is super cute but costly, so I felt it was worth a shot. Not only did it turn out great, but I immediately realized that it was easier to make workout clothing than everyday apparel. Since that time, I’ve made several two-piece sets that fit like a glove. The secret is to size down, use athletic wear knit and make a high waistband for those deep squats! I have two athleisure outfits ready to be sewn as we speak. What sets me apart from others is that I am completely comfortable in my skin. It is no secret that I am plus-sized, but I own it. I know how to sew and style my pieces while being sexy yet not going overboard. In recent times, I’ve found much comfort in self-drafting some of my pieces. That’s a liberty that I never knew that I would enjoy.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The most important lesson that I have learned due to the Covid-19 crisis is that it is beneficial for your mental health to have an outlet. As I age, I find myself become more of a homebody. Unfortunately, Covid-19 forced us all to become homebodies. Voluntarily staying home versus being forced creates a new dynamic that may manifest some unwanted ways. Having sewing as a hobby has honestly been a blessing. Staying home has developed my creativity in ways that I’ve never imagined. Now, I keep a small notebook on hand to draft ideas as they come to me! I miss sewing meetups, but Zoom “sew and chats” has helped to fill that void.

Contact Info:

• Email: sewsewstacie18@gmail.com
• Website: https://sewsewstacie18.wixsite.com/mysite
• Instagram: @sewsewstacie
• Facebook: @sewsewstacie
• Youtube: Sew Sew Stacie