Meet Lesli Anderson and Ilona Cathalan | Owners of The Ginger Cat

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lesli Anderson and Ilona Cathalan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lesli and Ilona, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“And when life became too frenzied, she took up her knitting and breathed a while to the rhythm of the stitches and rows until her smile returned and her mind was calm.” -unknown We love this poem, and it strikes a chord with our business. Our primary focus is a space where individuals come together and work on their own projects on their own time, and we believe that this poem verbalizes the peace that comes with using your hands creatively.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
We both have loved knitting since our youth, and we’ve both dabbled in many other fiber arts, such as embroidery and sewing. Our goal with our shop is to encourage anyone, young old or in-between, to try something new and join us in our love of fiber arts! We offer classes for all ages here, and we’re always so proud when our students finish their projects; it’s such an exhilarating feeling. The biggest difference between The Ginger Cat and other craft stores is the fact that our focus is on the social aspect. Other places you’re there because you’re missing something for a project, but we’re here for community. Bring your projects and sit down with us! We love hearing the stories of everyone who comes through our doors.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Northern Colorado has it all! Looking for drinks? Visit Syntax Distillery in downtown Greeley.
Bookstore? Midnight Oil, also in downtown Greeley.
Coffee? Aunt Helen’s or John Galt are both excellent choices and both in downtown Greeley.
Need more plants? Take a detour to Happy Life Gardens in Evans.
Looking to just hang out? The Ginger Cat is the perfect choice, just bring your fiber arts project. Located in downtown Greeley.
There’s also a railroad museum, a Greeley museum, and Centennial Village! Learn about the history of the area, and you can even take fun classes like candle making.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Cris Nicklas has been a wonderful guide in the world of fiber; Colette Pitcher has been so flexible with our use of her space; and of course our family has been so encouraging, helpful, and supportive of our venture!

Instagram: thegingercatllc

Facebook: facebook.com/thegingercatllc

Other: Our email address and phone number can also be posted. Thegingercatllc@gmail.com 970-793-8119

Image Credits
Rachel Miller, Ilona Cathalan