Welcome to the next lesson from: The Stitch That Taught Me—

real stories from my sewing workroom and business journey that take you beyond the pretty finishes to the true lessons I’ve learned in 38 years of creative workroom life. Each one taught me something worth passing on. I’m Donna Cash, and I’m glad you’re here.

The Thanksgiving Eve Installation

There’s a certain pressure that builds in the workroom and design world as the holidays approach. Clients want homes ready. Designers want installs finished. Everyone is racing the calendar.

And a few years ago, I found myself installing beautiful window treatments the afternoon before Thanksgiving.

The install went well. The treatments looked lovely. The client was thrilled. So was the designer.

And then came the add-on requests:

“Can you help with this?”
“Would you mind adjusting that?”
“Could you take care of just one more thing?”

One after another.

And we kept saying yes.

Until my installer and I looked at the clock… and realized our spouses and children were home, preparing for a holiday we were missing.

We were still working on Thanksgiving Eve.

Holiday deadlines are not permission to override boundaries.

That night taught me something I’ve held onto ever since:
It’s okay to say no to last-minute add-ons.
It’s okay to have a cut-off time.
It’s okay to protect your energy and your family time.

As creative professionals—especially during the holidays—it’s easy to give, and give, and give. But at some point, the best gift we can offer ourselves is the grace to stop.

Watch  Thanksgiving Eve Installation now on YouTube.

Who this video is for:

* Designers trying to meet tight pre-holiday deadlines
* Workroom pros learning to hold boundaries
* DIYers overwhelmed with holiday projects
* Creatives juggling seasonal burnout and business growth

Want support through the holiday season?

Inside the Designs by Donna Membership, we discuss timelines, expectations, and how to stay grounded as the season ramps up.

Join the membership here

Thanks for reading—and for choosing grace over hustle.

—Donna Cash

Want to build a business that clients trust for decades?

Inside the Designs by Donna Workroom Membership, we cover systems, quoting accuracy, and recovery strategies so that you can grow with grace.

Join the membership here. Become a Member

Thanks for watching—and for choosing integrity,

—Donna Cash

Listen to Donna tell her story.

Stay tuned for the next post of The Stitch That Taught Me, where we’ll dive into more real stories from my sewing workroom and creative business journey that take you beyond the pretty finishes and the proper lessons I’ve learned in over 38 years of creative workroom life.

If this post has given you insight or encouragement, please share it with others.

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Until next time –

keep learning,

keep stitching.

As you keep learning, remember to rest and trust the process.

Sending you all my best,

Donna Cash