Hopping into May with another amazing Influencer Spotlight. Our influencer this month makes some of the coolest dance outfits for her children. She is a kindred spirit with a passion for sewing and helping others learn the craft. Kayla Murphy shares so much joy for not only people but animals too. Enjoy a glimpse into getting to know Kayla just a little bit more!
TSM: I really want to thank you for hanging out with us today.
Kayla M: I am glad to be able to chat with you.
TSM: Let's start off with something unique about you. Is there something that people don't know about you?
Kayla M: My family sold everything in June 2021 to travel, and we still live in our RV on 20 acres.
TSM: You live in an RV? That sounds like an adventure within itself. What sparked the reason for traveling? To see the world?
Kayla M: My husband used to work 10–14 hour days and had a long commute. He has worked remotely since Covid so we took advantage of the flexibility. We've visited 33 different campsites since.
TSM: Which was your favorite?
Kayla M: There's so many! We had the most fun in Salt Springs, Florida.
TSM: This experience with family and time together sounds amazing. Complete bliss.
Kayla M: It has truly been great for us.
TSM: Did you sew while traveling?
Kayla M: Yes!! I sewed full-time and kept my business going while on the road.
TSM: How did you manage sewing with less space?
Kayla M: It was difficult at first and I had to be very strategic with how I stored everything. But I made it work and I was able to store it all under my bed. I had to be more strategic on projects.
TSM: That is cool you were able to keep everything going while traveling. That is pure talent.
Kayla M: Sewing brings me a lot of joy.
TSM: Joy is always good. Speaking of sewing, who do you sew for the most?
Kayla M: Definitely my daughter. I sew pretty much everything she wears.
TSM: Almost everything. I bet that brings a smile to her face every time she gets something new. Does she prefer specific items?
Kayla M: Yes! She prefers Activewear because she's a competitive dancer. I sew her class outfits, leotards, and costumes.
TSM: You sew for her dance class? That is fantastic and a lot of sewing.
Kayla M: Yes, I've created several team items. It's neat to see it all come together on stage.
TSM: I can only imagine watching it come to life through dance. What is your favorite thing to sew?
Kayla M: My absolute favorite thing to sew are dance costumes followed by handbags as a close second.
TSM: You have made some amazing pieces in dance, dresses, and handbags.
Kayla M: That is very sweet, thank you!
TSM: You are welcome.
TSM: What started your sewing venture?
Kayla M: I started sewing almost 7 years ago because my son had very sensitive skin to all diapers. I found sewing groups and started by sewing him cloth diapers.
TSM: Wow! That is a great reason to start sewing. Are you passionate about anything else?
Kayla M: I am passionate about too many things. I love to teach sewing classes and have taught from ages 8-80. I also love raising all the baby animals on our property (chicks, goats, and dogs).
TSM: Teaching classes must be so rewarding. Watching the student learn a skill and come out with a finished item. You have a little farm of animals. How cool is that!
Kayla M: I love that I can share sewing with the world and how rewarding it can be to make your own items. I love that I'm able to share my love of all things with my family and we can live our lives together closely. Sewing gives me that flexibility.
TSM: What is your favorite sewing tool or technique, or quote?
Kayla M: My favorite sewing tool is my projector. I couldn't run my business without it.
TSM: A projector is a great tool and cuts down on time. Talk about time management!
Kayla M: Yes! It speeds things up tremendously.