Business profile: Gentler Times Stitching

Small business profile

10:20 AM CDT, September 4, 2013


Brenda S. Gildemeister, 58, owns Gentler Times Stitching, a fabric and yarn store that also sells sewing machines. The business has been in Naperville since July 2011. There are two locations: 476 Illinois Route 59 and 124 Webster St. in downtown Naperville.

Hometown: I was born in Somerset, Ky., but grew up in Sharonville, Ohio.

What sets you apart from similar businesses?

The unique design to our store. It has a cozy feeling, and lots of customers say it is like walking into a home and not a store. We think of it as a country club for women. We sell quality fabrics and yarns, items you will not find in big-box stores.


Being a mom of eight children has provided me with several skills for running a business. You would be surprised how much of a manager you become when you have to juggle eight children and their daily activities. You have to be a scheduler and conflict resolver, motivator and compassionate person who needs to listen lots. You have to set nonnegotiable standards that need to be adhered to as a family for their safety and wisdom as they grow into adults.

Why did you decide to open your business in Naperville?

Naperville had an opening for a store of our kind. I couldn't be happier that it played out that way. Norman Rockwell must reside there because it is one of the cutest towns in America. The people are friendly, and I love meeting friends when walking downtown. 

Why did you pick this specific location/storefront?

Our Route 59 store is located next door to Archivers, which is a similar hobby to sewing. It is like the ice cream and the cone. They fit well together. As for our decision to locate in the Webster Street spot, it is the cutest building. We have the bay window. Couldn't be happier with our decision!

What obstacles did you find when you started?

The usual ... completing the lease agreement and the buildout within the time limit we had, which never happened.


Keep up the good job! I love this adorable little town!

What mistakes did you make?

Not being prepared for staffing. Hiring employees is a very difficult process and needs to be refined and studied before jumping into a business.

What did you do right?

Staying true to what was in my heart and how I wanted to design the stores. If I would have listened to others' advice, it would have been the same dull store which did not pay attention to the surroundings of the business and the relationships that would be built with our customers as we greeted them into our store.


Stay close to those who are willing to help, such as the Naperville Chamber.


—Compiled by Kristy Kennedy