Aug.

4, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Young entrepreneur will carry on the tradition of Mary’s Quilt Shop with new sewing business
August 4, 2023, Bedford, PA - Taylor Wahl, a senior at Saint Vincent College studying
International Business and Operational Excellence/Supply Chain Management, is now the
owner of one of Downtown Bedford’s beautiful and historic buildings, the Hofius House. The
location is the future home of Twila’s, Taylor’s new sewing and quilting business. She plans to
carry on the legacy of Mary Koval, owner of Mary’s Quilt Shop, while exposing new generations
to the art of sewing.
Wahl worked with Bedford County Development Association and Bedford County Startup
Alleghenies Coach Jen Marsh who provided entrepreneurial support to help turn her dream
into a reality.
“It’s been an exciting process working with a young and talented entrepreneur like Taylor.
Twila’s will be a fabulous addition to downtown Bedford, and Taylor’s engagement with the
community and plans to support other small businesses will make a big impact,” Marsh said.
According to Marsh, the building has space to accommodate several small businesses, like the
new Juice Shack, which Wahl recruited. Wahl will open her sewing and quilting business Twila’s
in Mary’s Quilt Shop space when she graduates in June 2024. Additional retail space is available.
“Jen has been my biggest supporter from day one. After talking to her about my project, she
worked tirelessly to help get me there. I counted on her through all of the ups and downs.
There are a lot of different emotions when you take on a project like this, and Jen was with me
through all of them. I don't think that I can ever say enough about how great she is,” Wahl said.
“If it weren't for Jen and Startup Alleghenies, I don't know where I would be. They helped me
network, and they got me in contact with the right banks, lawyers, graphic designers, etc. They
have everything you could need to get started as a small business. It is an invaluable resource
to have, and I am so happy they have helped me through this process,” she continued.
Jim Gonsman, Vice President of Hometown Bank also believed in Wahl and her project. He
worked to secure financing for the young entrepreneur by getting creative and tapping into
traditional bank financing as well as a federal funding program designed to help entrepreneurs
get started.
“For as long as I can remember, I have been creating. I have been a self-proclaimed "artist"
since childhood. I was eventually taught how to sew, which developed into a passion for
garment making and quilting,” Wahl said. “I want to continue arts like quilting and garment
making to avoid them becoming lost. I am inspired to use my skills to educate others, and I
believe I can make a positive change to the people around me.”
“Opening a shop in Bedford just seemed natural to me,” she continued. “Mary Koval is looking
to retire after a very successful career in the textile industry. She approached me about opening
my own sewing store. She wanted to ensure the art would be carried on. I eventually decided
to purchase the entire building from Mary and her husband Joe to have adequate space to
bring even more art to the community.”
Wahl said her vision is “to create a welcoming environment that fosters creativity and
community among sewers, artists, crafters, etc. of all ages and skill levels.”
An Open House is scheduled for August 19 from 3 PM to 6 PM at the location at 113 W. Pitt
Street in Downtown Bedford.
For more information contact:
Jennifer Marsh, Vice President
Bedford County Development Association
Email: jmarsh@bcda.org
Phone: 814-623-4816, 301-331-1348 (cell)
Taylor Wahl, Entrepreneur
Email: taywahl5@gmail.com
Cell: 814-915-4192

About Bedford County Development Association

Bedford County Development Association’s (BCDA) mission is to improve the quality of life in
Bedford County through economic development while preserving our heritage and natural
resources. BCDA promotes and encourages industry and commercial development of trade in
the county; aids, assists, encourages, and promotes the location of industrial and commercial
employers in the county; promotes and encourages the growth of industry and existing
employers located in the county; coordinates and organizes the efforts of other organizations in
aiding and assisting in carrying out the purpose of this corporation.