Inaugural Open House a Big Success

Guild member Couleen M. shares about our recent November Guild Open House from her perspective, which she coordinated.

One spring day in 2025, I had what I call one of my “blow-dryer” moments. You know, those a-ha moments you get when you’re doing simple, every day things like blow-drying your hair. Sometimes the thoughts are quilt patterns, or tasks I need to get done on the weekend, but this time it was an open house for the guild, to gain more exposure to the Comox Valley, and why we exist.

So, the idea was run by our executive team and everyone quickly got on board - and excited about the potential of doing an open house. In my short three years with the guild, I've learned so much - I've learned new quilting techniques and tried pieces I never thought I could tackle. As a newcomer to the Comox Valley, it's been a great way to get to know people, and an easy community to be a part of. I love quilts, these ladies love quilts, and I imagine… there's probably a lot of other people who probably love quilts and sewing too. So, what better to showcase what we're doing and extend the invitation, then with an open house?

Planning got underway and guild members were very supportive in assisting in every aspect of the open house. Invites were printed and also added to our November sale poster - the timing of the open house was purposeful. We wanted those who had attended our recent November Quilt & Craft sale to have a tangible and timely way of seeing firsthand what we were all about. Invites were sent out to the community organizations that we have donated quilts to, and also to local dignitaries.

The open house was well attended by both guild members and guests. We had a full house of guild members with a full day of activity. A count of 40-45 members at one point during the day. We even ran out of tables and had to do some scrambling for more table space!

Members pitched in with set up, take down, a beautiful display of our community quilts and breast cancer bags. A number of our members assisted with greeting our guests as they arrived and making them feel welcome. We didn’t end up doing an actual count, but a guesstimate would be approximately 30 guests throughout the day. We were also able to feature the first quilt that was made 40 years ago by one of the guild’s founding members. A special memento, indeed!

Delicious sweet treats, coffee and tea were generously provided by a number of our members and enjoyed by all.

Submitted by Couleen M., Open House Coordinator