Sandra Suling Sanford

Chair of Raleigh Convocation ECW

Sandra Suling SanfordThe year was 1995 when I moved from Southern California to Charlotte, North Carolina. With just my husband and 3-year old daughter, leaving family and friends behind, we started a new life on a different coast. Being a cradle Episcopalian, my first task was to seek out a new church home. I attended a service at St. John's. It felt like home! Then I was invited to an ECW meeting and have been involved with ECW ever since. It is my passion. It is the ministry that completes my purpose on this earth.

Besides leaving family and friends in California, I left behind a well established graphic design studio. I was completely focused on being a mom to my daughter, so for about five years I picked up "mom" jobs. Working at Harris Teeter or Something Classic Catering offered flexible schedules. But the desire to be my own boss once again raged within me. What to do?

I have a BA in Fine Arts and lots of business savvy. With my husband of 17 years, I created a retail store called Wide Shoe Warehouse. We are now the leaders in the specialty shoe market for wide, extra wide and large sizes. Established in 2001, we are due to open our fourth store this Fall. I have a great partner. Rick does the finances and I handle the media.

We moved to Wake County in 1999. In 2001, having attended another Episcopal church in the area for two years, I found my home at St. Michael's in Raleigh. I have been active in ECW activities at St. Michael's. I belong to the St. Margaret's Chapter and served on the board as treasurer for two years. Now with that position ending I am pleased to Chair the Raleigh Convocation ECW. I see good things ahead and look forward to serving on behalf of the greater Raleigh area.