Our Story
Ashby Sewing Machine Company began in 1943 when William “Pap” Briley, a determined salesman with The Singer Company, decided to open his own store in Atlanta. At a time when new machines were scarce due to the war, he refurbished and delivered used ones himself, often riding the streetcar to customers’ homes. He sold them on credit and trusted people to pay him back, building a legacy of honesty, craftsmanship, and community that still defines Ashby today.
Ashby’s most significant evolution came in the hands of Marc Briley, William’s grandson. Marc grew up surrounded by the hum of sewing machines and spent weekends and summers helping his father, Maurice, in the family shop. In 1986, Marc returned to the business full time. He purchased the store from his father and ushered in a new era for Ashby, focused on innovation and expanding beyond the city into new locations. In 2009, Ashby moved to Kennesaw, where the store has thrived ever since. Under Marc’s leadership, Ashby became a trusted hub for generations of sewists, known not just for machines but also for expertise, education, and exceptional service.
A New Chapter Begins
More than 80 years after Pap Briley first sold a machine on a handshake, Ashby entered its next chapter with Kristin and Mark Kunzman, a husband and wife team committed to honoring its history while expanding its future.
Their journey into the world of sewing began when their daughter Sadie, just four years old, asked Kristin for a matching dress for her American Girl doll. Kristin, inspired by the creative spirit she inherited from her own mother, simply said, “I can make that.” That one dress sparked a passion that grew into years of sewing, from custom clothing and coats to bridal wear and formal gowns to theater costumes, and eventually into teaching sewing classes and camps for children and adults.
Mark, a seasoned sales guy with over 15 years in tech and media startups, had always dreamed of building a business rooted in creativity, community, and purpose. When the opportunity arose to continue Ashby’s legacy, the couple knew it was the perfect fit. Kristin’s artistry and teaching background paired seamlessly with Mark’s strategic vision and business experience, setting the stage for Ashby’s next evolution.
Today, they are carrying forward Ashby’s proud legacy while expanding its reach. They are introducing new classes, partnerships, community initiatives, and a modern online experience for the next generation of makers. With deep respect for the past and an eye toward the future, Mark and Kristin are dedicated to keeping Ashby’s spirit of craftsmanship, care, and creativity alive for decades to come.
Our Mission
Since 1943, Ashby Sewing has been more than a place to buy a machine. It has been a creative home for makers of all kinds, from those threading a achine for the very first time to expert sewists, quilters, and embroiderers who trust us to keep their passion thriving.
Our mission is to honor this legacy while inspiring what comes next. We are here to introduce the joy of sewing, quilting, and embroidery to a new generation of creators and to support seasoned akers with the tools, knowledge, and service they need to keep doing what they love.
We believe that creativity is contagious. Whether you are learning to sew your first garment, designing a custom quilt, or mastering the art of machine mbroidery, we are here to help you dream bigger and make more. Our team is dedicated to offering expert guidance, hands-on education, and personalized support every step of the way.
At Ashby, customer service is our foundation. Our staff stays up-to-date with the latest innovations, techniques, and trends so we can offer the most informed advice and highest quality support in the industry. And just as we have for the past eight decades, we treat every customer like part of the Ashby family.
Our goal is simple. We celebrate the craft, fuel your creativity, and ensure that sewing continues to bring joy, purpose, and connection to every generation that walks through our doors.