Today We Celebrate Clodagh Coker from The Quilt Store
This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating women who build businesses rooted in creativity, connection, and community care. Today, we’re proud to spotlight Clodagh Coker, owner of The Quilt Store West, a vibrant and welcoming space that has become a beloved part of Aldershot’s small business landscape.
Finding a Home on Plains Road
Clodagh’s journey in Aldershot began when she purchased an existing business in the area. Soon after taking ownership, she faced an unexpected challenge — the lease was ending, and she needed to decide where to relocate.
But by that point, the decision was easy. Clodagh had already fallen in love with Aldershot.
Plains Road offered the perfect combination of high visibility, commuter-friendly access, and a close-knit neighbourhood feel. Its proximity to Hamilton, major highways, and the GO Station makes it convenient for customers travelling from surrounding areas, while still preserving the strong sense of local community that makes Aldershot so special.
Giving Back Through “Fabric Therapy” and Community Care
This year’s International Women’s Day theme focuses on support and connection — values that are woven into everything Clodagh and her team do.
At The Quilt Store West, community is at the heart of the experience. Clodagh believes the shop is about far more than fabric or supplies. It’s about creating a space where people feel valued, heard, and cared for.
“Fabric Therapy,” she says, is a very real thing — and often, it’s the warmth of the experience that matters most.
Clodagh is intentional about building a team that prioritizes relationships over transactions, offering personalized support, honesty, and integrity in every interaction.
As quilters, giving back is also a meaningful part of their mission. The Quilt Store West regularly donates quilts to those in need — providing what Clodagh describes as a “warm hug” through something handmade. They also support Northern Indigenous communities through sewing supply donation drives and contribute to local women’s shelters through charitable initiatives.
International Women’s Day is a reminder that when women support one another, incredible things happen — and Clodagh is proud to run a business that strengthens the community in tangible, heartfelt ways.
The Challenges — and Joy — of Business Ownership
For Clodagh, one of the biggest challenges of running a business is also what drives her: the responsibility.
Owning a business means carrying the decisions, the risks, and the need to keep moving forward, even during uncertain times. Coming from the corporate world, where shareholder value often dominates, Clodagh has found it incredibly liberating to set her own priorities and focus on what truly matters.
Her personal motto keeps her grounded:
“If you’re not having fun, it’s time to do something different!”
That mindset helps her navigate tough moments while ensuring passion and joy remain central to the work.
She credits her strong support system — family, staff, friends, suppliers, fellow store owners, and loyal customers — as essential to the success of The Quilt Store West. The encouragement and trust of the community make every challenge worthwhile.
The Value of the Aldershot Business Community
Being part of the Aldershot Business Community has meant a great deal to Clodagh and her team.
As a small business, it can sometimes feel like you’re navigating things alone — but connection to a supportive local network changes everything. The Quilt Store West loves participating in local contests and events that bring new customers through the door and introduce more people to the wonderful world of quilting and creativity.
Advice for Women Starting a Business in Aldershot
Clodagh’s advice to women thinking about starting a business in Aldershot is both encouraging and grounded:
Follow your passion — but don’t try to do it alone.
Aldershot is welcoming and community-minded, and local business owners are genuinely willing to connect, collaborate, and support one another. Building relationships and becoming part of the neighbourhood makes all the difference.
She also encourages women to be clear on their “why.” Business ownership requires resilience, especially in the early days, and a strong sense of purpose helps guide decisions through challenges.
Most importantly: trust yourself, stay open to learning, ask for help when needed, and remember that growth happens step by step.
Aldershot is a wonderful place to build something meaningful.
Clodagh Coker
The Quilt Store
695 Plains Road E, Unit 1
📍 💜 Aldershot
