We had the good fortune of connecting with Mick Mercer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mick, how do you think about risk?
Taking risks in life is essential if you want to get ahead. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that there are both positive and negative risks.
I distinguish between potential risk, which has two outcomes: one, you get the desired outcome, and two, you’ve learned a lesson and need to improve something and try again. Both outcomes provide equal growth opportunities.
Then there’s reckless risk, which also has two possible outcomes: getting away with something while causing harm or getting caught and causing harm.

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.
After completing my first quilt, I encountered an unexpected challenge: finding a quilting service that was straightforward, transparent, and quick. Every website I visited left me frustrated with its vague pricing structures, long wait times, and confusing service offerings. I knew there had to be a better way. I envisioned a service that made finishing quilts easy, transparent, and fast—one that I wished had existed when I started. This vision led me to create a website where quilters can enter their quilt’s information, select a few options, and receive an instant, hassle-free estimate. I wanted to offer a solution that simplifies the process and makes it accessible to quilting enthusiasts everywhere.

At the heart of my success and the success of Long Arms Quilting Co. are compassion and honesty. Each quilt I work on is more than fabric and stitching—it’s a tangible symbol of someone’s life, memories, and emotions. When I unfold a quilt, I see a story woven into every thread, and I approach each one with the compassion and respect it deserves. Quilters are storytellers, and it’s a privilege to be entrusted with their personal stories. I believe the authenticity of the emotions embedded in the fabric makes each quilt a piece of someone’s heart. My commitment to providing the highest quality service is rooted in these values, where listening, honesty, and bringing true value to the table are paramount.

I can’t tell you how good it feels to wake up every day knowing I’m doing something I love, and I think it shows in my work. I have the freedom to take full responsibility for my successes and failures, and there’s an incredible sense of reward in being in control of my own path.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting the Gwinnett area, I’d plan an unforgettable week filled with adventure, relaxation, and local culture. We’d start with a peaceful morning walk at Sims Lake Park in Suwanee and lunch at Rico’s World Kitchen in Downtown Buford. After exploring Buford’s charming shops and galleries, we’d enjoy drinks and dinner at Bare Bones. We’d hike the scenic trails at Amicalola Falls State Park and swing over to one of the vineyards for wine tasting and lunch. Returning to Sugar Hill, we’d stroll along the Sugar Hill Greenway before a delicious dinner at Sperata, The Pizza Place, or Aqua Terra. Maybe do some cart racing at Atlanta Motorsports Park in Dawsonville and spend the afternoon shopping at the Mall of Georgia.
We could visit the Dahlonega Gold Mines and explore some local quilt shops. Get pampered at M4Salon in Buford and spend an evening at Suwanee Town Center. We could catch a Gwinnett Stripers Game at Coolray Field and afterward enjoy dinner at Oyster Bar in Suwanee.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When it comes to acknowledging the people who have had a positive impact on my journey, I can’t help but mention my dear friend, Courtenay Christian, from Threaded from Heaven (Suwanee, GA). Her influence has been nothing short of transformative. It all began when she introduced my daughter to the world of sewing. As I watched my daughter immerse herself in this craft, I found myself drawn to it as well. Before I knew it, I had unearthed a genuine passion for sewing and quilt-making, all thanks to Courtenay’s initial spark. However, her support didn’t stop there. She persistently encouraged me to turn this passion into a business, never ceasing to believe in my potential.

Website: https://www.longarmsquilting.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longarmsquilting

Other: Best of Gwinnett
https://www.guidetogwinnett.com/georgia/sugar-hill/shopping/long-arms-quilting-co

Google
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Long+Arms+Quilting+Co./@34.118365,-84.0891169,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0xaaf96bfa030f9351:0x9969b838936c4fe1!8m2!3d34.1183606!4d-84.0865366!16s%2Fg%2F11smd_53km?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MDgyOC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D

Image Credits
Mick Mercer

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.