Nestled in the serene village of Saligao in North Goa is Connie’s Hooks & Yarns, a brand which tells a remarkable tale of resilience and creativity. Founded in November 2019 by Connie Godinho, this home-based enterprise has evolved into a haven for meticulously crafted crocheted items, offering a diverse range of unique products from wearables to home decor.
Connie’s Background
Hailing from Saligao, Connie holds a degree in Business Management and an Advanced Diploma in Travel and Tourism studies. Her professional journey began as a Customer Service executive with the Taj group of Hotels, followed by a role as an Executive Secretary to the Chairman of an Oil Company in the Middle East. However, her life took a drastic turn in June 2011 when a tragic accident left her with a spinal injury, changing her life irreversibly.
The Impact of Adversity
The consequences of the accident were profound, affecting both Connie’s physical and emotional well-being. The loss of mobility and independence was a significant blow, leading to the challenge of adapting to a life confined to a wheelchair. The emotional toll was equally daunting as Connie grappled with the loss of her established career and the inability to engage in activities she once enjoyed.
Coping Mechanisms and Crochet as Therapy
To cope with the emotional trauma caused by the accident, Connie turned to her family, faith, and a newfound passion – crochet. The craft became more than a creative outlet; it became a form of therapy. Crochet not only provided a means to occupy her time but also a way to channel her energy into something positive. Teaching herself the craft through online tutorials, she found a creative space that distracted her from her disability.
The Genesis of Connie’s Hooks and Yarns
In 2019, Connie decided to turn her newly found passion into an enterprise by launching Connie’s Hooks and Yarns. The brand offers an array of handcrafted crochet items, from home decor to wearables for babies, toddlers, and young adults, fashion items, Christmas decor and lots more.
Public Response and Notable Clients
The public response to Connie’s handcrafted products exceeded expectations. The allure of unique, handcrafted items resonated with patrons, including renowned establishments like Fernando’s Nostalgia. Connie’s Hooks and Yarns became a testament to the appreciation for craftsmanship in a world often dominated by mass-produced goods.
Challenges and Triumphs
While the journey of Connie’s Hooks and Yarns has been marked by success, it has not been without its challenges. Sourcing quality raw materials was a hurdle, given Connie’s physical limitations. However, she persevered, relying on online purchases and undergoing a process of trial and error, research, and a determined search for reliable suppliers.
Support Received
The “Made in Saligao” program, led by well-known artist Clarice Vaz, played a pivotal role in the growth of Connie’s Hooks and Yarns by providing a platform for Connie to showcase her craft. This initiative, aimed at empowering village artisans, gave Connie’s enterprise the exposure it needed to thrive. Word of mouth and the power of social media further propelled the brand into the spotlight.
Future Aspirations
Looking forward, Connie envisions a dedicated studio for her craft, where she can delve into more complex and intricate projects. Her journey serves as an inspiration for individuals facing challenges, urging them to em race their capabilities and confront adversity with unwavering determination.
Empowering Message
Connie Godinho’s story is not just a out crochet; it’s a narrative of empowerment, turning disability into a ability, and refusing to succum to life’s challenges. Her advice to others is to believe in oneself, make adversity a stepping stone, and face every challenge with resilience. In the tapestry of Connie’s Hooks and Yarns, every stitch tells a story of courage, creativity, and the transformative power of resilience. Connie’s journey is a living testament to the idea that, through craft and determination, one can weave Beauty out of life’s challenges.
To place an order for some of the amazing handcrafted crochet offerings from Connie’s Hooks and Yarns, contact Connie at:
(Phone/WhatsApp) 9545479516
You can also follow Connie’s Hooks Yarns on social media
Facebook Connie’s Hooks Yarn Instagram connies_hooks_and_yarns
