Interview by Emily Hessney Lynch.

Published October 25, 2018.

Where are you originally from? How did you end up in Rochester at this time in your life?

I’m from Rushville—outside of Canandaigua, a more rural area. I lived in Colorado briefly, but have mostly lived in the greater Rochester area my whole life. I have lots of family here.; it was my job that brought me to Rochester. I went to a birthday party in the city and my friends’ neighbors were moving, so I took their apartment.

What is your favorite part of living in Rochester?

It’s very manageable. I get anxiety in big cities, so the small city feel is perfect for me. I live in the Wedge now and I love running into friends around town.

What are some of your favorite/secret Rochester spots? 

Highland Park is a favorite, I love the Sunken Garden. I’m always on magnolia watch in the spring, and I go to the park almost every day. I love The Little for movies, Voula’s for brunch, and Hart’s for breakfast sandwiches.

What's the most unique or interesting event you've attended in Rochester? 

South Wed-ucation. It’s mostly directed at students who are new to Rochester. It introduces people to the great shops and food on South Ave in the Wedge. Students get a swag bag, there are discount for everyone, which I’m a sucker for, and I love getting carrot cake at Cheesy Eddie’s.

Movies with a Downtown View is another great local event series. This year we saw the Greatest Showman on Parcel 5 and it was so much fun.

What are some of your favorite local nonprofits to support? 

Girls Rock! Rochester is such a cool thing. I volunteered taking photos at it one year. It’s amazing to see young girls coming out of their shells and doing something they’ve never done before. It’s empowering.

If you had $100, how would you spend the money in Rochester? 

I just went to Swan Dive for the first time recently—I walked there with my boyfriend from our place in the Wedge. I’d go there for food and drinks, and maybe hit up Cheshire on the way home. The decor at Swan Dive just slays me!

What is your personal coping mechanism for cold/gray weather? 

Sewing. That’s my coping mechanism for a lot of things. I go for a lot of walks too, regardless of the weather. I just like to go out and walk in it anyways. Especially on the weekends when you get sunlight! When I hit my breaking point, I go to Lamberton Conservatory.

What is your favorite Rochester memory? 

I love to go on picnics in Highland Park. We always have tomato basil sandwiches on ciabatta bread. We’ll make cocktails in mason jars and bring those too. In my early Rochester days, we went to a lot of house shows. Last winter, we got snowed in and had a fun date day at home!

What makes Rochester unique? 

It feels so small, and like a true community. If you want to get out and do something, you can find it. I’m a five minute walk from seeing the skyline, and that’s pretty cool. I also appreciate the fact that it’s not overwhelming.

What do you think could be improved? 

Better public transit would be helpful. One time, when my car was in the shop, I thought, “I should just take the bus.” It was tough to figure out, and ended up being quicker to walk there.

If Rochester was a drink, what would it be? 

It would be my favorite standby cocktail, a gin & tonic. It’s classic, and has a distinct flavor. Not everyone who tries it loves it, but those who love it really love it.

Tell me a little bit about your business, Hannah Corey Handmade. 

I started to learn to sew about three years ago on a whim. I saw an e-course, and it was on sale. Sewing an apron was my first project, and I loved it. I tried quilting, but I liked garment sewing more. I attended an adult sewing camp called Camp Workroom Social, and I learned to make a button-up shirt there. I increase my skills with every project I do. My brother asked me, “Hey, can you make me a hat?” and I tried it! I had the idea to start a business before I had even made my first hat. Once I put it in motion, I started to make a bunch. I’m on my second batch now. It’s a fun challenge and people seem receptive to them.

What inspires you? 

I’m very attracted to bright colors and patterns. I’m inspired by a lot of the art in Rochester, like our WALL\THERAPY murals—I especially love the one by Boxcar at the Public Market.

Where in Rochester do you go to get inspired? 

WALL\THERAPY is a big one. Walking helps clear my head. I’ll walk in Highland Park, or by the river. I like to run down to the Ford Street Bridge to catch the sunset when I can.

Do you have any advice for artists, makers, or entrepreneurs in Rochester? 

You’ll figure it out once you start doing it. Everyone has so many questions, but you learn by doing. I’m glad I didn’t let my questions hold me back from starting. I wouldn’t have started otherwise. Just start.