Get To Know...Linda Whittington of Fabrics Unlimited
Fabrics Unlimited originally opened back in 1993 but was eventually purchased by current owner, Linda Whittington, in 2014. We asked Linda to tell us a little bit about herself and about what it's like to own & operate a small business:
Name: Linda Whittington
Business: Fabrics Unlimited
Title: Owner
How would you describe Fabrics Unlimited to someone who hasn't had the chance to visit yet?
We are a retail interior fabric store with a bright and open space, friendly associates and interior designers to assist with your selections. We sell fabric off the bolt as well as from books and samples. We offer a selection of trims, tapes, and fringes for interior design. We also sell pillows and accessories along with drapery lining, pillow forms and drapery hardware. We have a workroom that creates custom drapery, bedding, pillows, and re-upholstery work. Local artist Lana Lopez works are represented in our store for sale. We are a stocking dealer for Antique Drapery Rod in the area. We are a Laura Park Design showroom for fabrics and accessories.
Tell us about how you became the owner of Fabrics Unlimited.
Fabrics Unlimited was opened in 1993 and I purchased the store in 2014. I am an OKC native with an interest in interior design and wanted to expand the offerings of the store. I am in the oil and gas business as well.
What do you love about operating a small business in Oklahoma?
Working with clients to create their custom ideas into a design that will accentuate their personal design aesthetic. I believe it is important to touch, see and feel in person the product you are purchasing. The internet does not offer that function and we pride ourselves on having a wide variety for our clients.
What challenges or risks have you faced operating a local business?
The internet is a detriment to the local retailer. We are consistently working to raise awareness about shopping local. We offer delivery and shipping to our client base. It remains challenging to invest in inventory and be competitive with the internet...we work on this daily.
What advice would you give to someone who dreams of starting their own business someday?
Go for it!
What are the most popular items that you sell? What are your favorite items?
Custom drapery is our staple along with the artwork we carry. Favorite items that are always popular are premade pillows and home accessories.
What’s your favorite thing about your job?
Providing a positive experience and beautiful product that make our clients' homes beautiful.
What’s the hardest thing about your job?
Choosing fabrics that meet the needs of all design aesthetics.
Who do you admire in your line of work? Do you have any professional heroes?
The fabric mills that are competing to remain relevant and current in design, while providing the best product for the end user. All the interior designers that work to bring ideas to life and the fabricators that convert those ideas into a beautiful product.
What motivates you to keep doing what you're doing?
The clients that are pleased with the work we do making their homes a beautiful place to live.
In your opinion, why is it important for people to support locally-owned businesses?
When the people do not support local business, the personal touch and true customer care is lost.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Someone who makes a difference in my community.
What was your first job?
My father's medical office.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Read, travel, theatre, entertain family and friends
Fabrics Unlimited is located at 2229 NW 138th St. in Oklahoma City, just east of Quail Springs Mall. Use your Keep It Local Card when you shop at Fabrics Unlimited to receive 15% off your purchase, excluding fabrication & hardware. fabricsunlimited.com
