As a little girl, Ashton Miller learned sewing from her dad. By the time she was a teenager she had developed impressive stitching skills. Now a mom of two, she is not only making items for her kids, but she has opened her own embroidery business – Tucker & Thread.

“I have always had this creative itch and love for personalized stitching and appliqué; creating pieces that feel specially tailored to you,” said Miller who will soon become Mrs. Ashton Tucker.

From baby outfits and bibs to pillow covers and makeup bags, Miller can embroider names, initials, logos, or whatever your imagination can dream up.

“Really anything. I can take a picture of your dog or kids, form it into a .pes file and upload it to my machine to make into a graphic,” she said.

Dozens of fonts are available. Miller also utilizes the applique process – attaching pieces of fabric onto a larger piece of fabric to create a design.

She has stocked a few items that can be purchased and personalized and hopes to build up that inventory as she goes along. But other items can be pre-ordered and personalized. Customers can also bring their own items to Miller for customization.

Recently completed orders include items featuring the Bridgeport High School Indian logo and a set of bachelorette bags, each personalized with a name as well as a graphic that represents the girls’ personalities.

Miller said the business not only suits her interests and skillset, but it is ideal for earning income while she has young children at home.

“I was working for Birth to Three, but after maternity leave, I decided to stay home,” she said.

She has been eyeing the machine for some time and watching videos to become familiar with its operation. She has also been following Tik Tok to gain inspiration for her own business.

“I’ve been able to get a feel for what’s popular and what people like right now,” she said.

Follow Tucker & Thread on Instagram for ordering options. Though she is most active on that social media platform, she also has a Facebook page. Miller works out of her home in Bridgeport. Local customers can pick up items. Shipping is also available. In most instances, turnaround time is one to two weeks.

A 2018 BHS graduate, Ashton Miller is pictured with her fiance Logan Tucker and children Nash and Scottie.