Jo is a self-proclaimed dabbler. She learned to sew at age five starting with doll clothes, then graduated to people clothes, wedding gowns, men’s suits, custom window treatments, slip covers, totes, handbags and some upholstery. She has taught sewing in public school as well as private students. Years ago, Jo apprenticed as a sewing machine repair technician and loves the challenge of keeping vintage machines running. After 24 years as a soldier and a soldier's wife, she returned to Massachusetts to do an internship in textile conservation. Jo worked at the New England Quilt Museum in Lowell, MA for 7 years and now spends her days doing machine repairs, teaching sewing lessons and collaborating with customers on unique custom projects at The Village Studio.

Sally has a background in education and operating small businesses.  She started her career as a teacher and a placement coordinator and switched gears to stay home with her kids. She got back into the workforce by running the operations of multiple small businesses and currently is the store manager at The Village Studio. She has dabbled in the creative world as the former owner of Tray Chic, a handmade artisan business designing upcycled home décor.

Sally has volunteered for multiple organizations and is a long-standing member of the North Andover Merchants Association. She resides in North Andover with her husband, two children and multiple cats (both her own and the many cats that her family fosters!).

Melissa co-founded MomCat Handmade in 2010 with her mom and aunt as a creative outlet. Drawing on her 30-year background in Operations, Process Management, and Project Management she manages the back end of The Village Studio.

Melissa grew up in North Andover and even though she now lives in NH with her husband and very spoiled cat, she is proud to work alongside Sally and Jo to bring The Village Studio to the community.