From the Classroom to the Workshop: Literacy NRV Students Open Sammy Upholstery in Blacksburg

Maria and Samuel from Sammy Upholstery (pictured with Literacy NRV ESL Program Coordinator Blake Hritz)

Samuel and Maria’s journey is stitched together with hard work, big dreams, and a shared commitment to learning. This spring, those threads came together in the grand opening of Sammy Upholstery in Blacksburg - an exciting milestone for the couple who are both dedicated students in Literacy NRV’s English programs.

Whether restoring a cherished family heirloom or outfitting major clients like Radford High School’s auditorium, Virginia Tech labs, or the UVA Cancer Center, Sammy’s Upholstery offers craftsmanship that’s gaining attention across the New River Valley. Clients are often surprised and thrilled to find a high-quality upholstery shop right in town. And behind every job is a close-knit, three-person crew, two of whom are adult learners improving their English with Literacy NRV.

Samuel and Maria began their English studies just as they were building their business. They now attend multiple English classes each week and recently began working with a private tutor to focus on business-specific language skills. Samuel listens to English videos online and studies vocabulary to better communicate with customers and understand contracts. “It’s difficult for me to read in English,” he shared. “But I need to read to understand my business contracts. It’s important for me to speak and write.”

Maria, who manages client communication and budgeting, focuses on pronunciation and vocabulary. “For me, it’s important to improve my pronunciation to work with clients and suppliers,” she said. “Even though it’s difficult, I won’t give up.”

When asked how they navigate conversations with English-speaking clients, they smile. It’s a team effort: Samuel discusses materials and pricing, Maria records details and prepares quotes, and a bilingual staff member who is also experienced in upholstery is on call to help translate or meet in person if needed. Their collaborative approach helps them build trust with customers, many of whom are entrusting them with beloved antique or sentimental pieces.

Their dedication to both craft and communication shines through in the quality of their work, the loyalty of their customers, and their determination to keep learning.

“Primero Dios lo haré,” says Samuel. “God willing, I will do it.”

Maria agrees: “I believe I’m going to improve. Even though it’s difficult, I won’t give up.”

We believe in you too.

Sammy Upholstery is now open in Blacksburg!