06/22/2026
Today I have some sad news, after nearly four years, YarNOLA will be closing at the end of July.
This decision isn't an easy one, especially because it's not a matter of the store being a failure or not doing well. It's also not the classic New Orleans tale of a greedy landlord trying to raise rents.
The decision is ultimately a personal one. When I started YarNOLA in 2022, the goal for me, personally, was to create a successful business that I could run in my retirement. At that time, I was supposed to retire in a few years, making the "two jobs" thing viable.
Unfortunately, since opening the store, I've received a diagnosis of MCAS, an autoimmune condition that requires expensive treatment. As such, retirement isn't feasible for at least another decade. Obviously, this wouldn't be an issue in a modern country with universal healthcare, but in the US I am now attached to my corporate health insurance through so-called "golden handcuffs."
The other major change has been a life one, the birth of my grandson in 2024. Sean 3, or Tres as we call him, is an absolutely beautiful baby boy who is just now getting to the age where we can love him as. much as he loves us. The only problem is that he's in St. Louis and, with the yarn store, making trips to see him has been difficult.
Between these two things, working seven days a week with almost no real days off is simply not sustainable. I love YarNOLA deeply and it was the fulfillment of one of my lifelong dreams. But I have to accept that I need to prioritize my health and family.
The final day of the store is currently schedule for July 31. We will be starting sales on July 1. Initially we will be offering 25% off all inventory with sales increasing as the closing date approaches. The closing date isn't 100% final, but it is the target.
So please come by and pick up some yarn. Everything must go. Shelving units and other fixtures will be decided on a case-by-case basis.
To be clear, this isn't the complete end of our yarn adventures. I plan to still offer crochet and knitting lessons by appointment and Crystal will likely continue to dye yarn. We may even consider doing pop-up events in the future.
However, the store, in its current form, will be closing. While it's a sad moment for us, it's also a new beginning and everyone is excited for the future.
Hope to see you soon.
