6 Questions for a San Marino Local: Alison Hodgkiss

It’s no secret that Alison Hodgkiss after studying journalism in college in Texas. Now a local business owner for more than 20 years, Hodgkiss doesn’t mind that her two sons don’t plan on taking over the family businesses: and the neighboring gift shop.

“I’m going to have to find someone else to take over when the time comes,” said the San Marino resident. “My older son is studying microbiology and my younger son is getting ready to graduate from Loyola High School and is interested in studying alternative energy sources.”

While friends often tell her it’s a shame she didn’t have a daughter, Hodgkiss is more than content leaving the store in well-equipped hands come her retirement. While she never thought she would own a needlepoint store, Hodgkiss did work at a fabric store down the block from her childhood home.

“I always sewed and have always been interested in sewing,” said Hodkiss. “I think I just love owning my own business and the challenges it comes with.”

A San Marino staple for more than 40 years, A Stitch In Time has moved to several locations on Huntington Drive. Now in its current location at the former Andover men's clothing store, Hodgkiss has seen the transformation of San Marino’s main thoroughfare.

“Huntington Drive has become very service oriented but A Stitch in Time is a place where people can sit and feel comfortable,” said Hodgkiss. “My customers have invested interest in knitting. I think they like the feeling of having a place where they can come and partake in their favorite hobby.”

Like many retail owners, Hodgkiss says business has been difficult during the recession. She encourages new customers to stop by her store--whether it be to take a class or to have a place where they can come and knit.

“People have definitely cut back and business is not like it was eight years ago,” said Hodgkiss. “We’re being a lot more creative to find new customers outside the area.”

The local business owner shares her thoughts on the community.

What do you like most about San Marino?

The way it looks. The city is not too crowded, the streets are wide and it's just easy to get around.

What is your favorite restaurant in San Marino?

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What is your favorite place in San Marino to take a stroll or go for a run?

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What is a little known fact about you?

I won the blue ribbon for my apple pie when I was in Future Farmers of America as a fourth grader in Sacramento.

What is your favorite ice cream flavor?

Peanut butter and chocolate.

What is the best part about being a local business owner in San Marino?

The best part about being a business owner for a business that people don’t have to come to–it’s not like we’re solving any world problems here–is that people are happy to come in. Our customers truly enjoy what they do here.