Our store went from hosting cooking parties and ladies shopping nights, to me trying to navigate the sea of endless paperwork for small business relief packages - which I either did not qualify for or the money was quickly gobbled up. Just like every other extremely small business, the pandemic certainly took a toll on my store. No walk in traffic, classes cancelled and refunds given, supply chain slowed down, and shipping was even slower. I knew if I was going to survive I had to learn to do business differently. Up until then, I relied on foot traffic, word of mouth, and social media for sales. After all, everything I do is custom designed and the variety of products I offer is best viewed in person. But, I quickly realized, that wasn't going to happen for quite some time.
I had no choice but to figure out how to do business in this new environment. Through the holidays and the first part of the year, my store was busy and the merch was heading out the door as quickly as I could produce it. Design work and orders were fairly steady, and upcoming classes and events were filling up...that was until COVID-19 decided to rear it's ugly little germs. I had to think fast and pray hard that you, my tribe, would follow along with me. And boy, did you ever. I had been playing with a shirt-of-the-month concept for a while, but never really had the time it to get off the ground, until now. It's funny how a situation or circumstance can create motivation. If this lock down has a silver lining, it has to be our shirt-of-the-month boxes and bags. I truly LOVE planning the theme and creating the products that go into them. But I'm not gonna lie, there has definitely been some issues. Our first SOTM was shaky, I ran into shipping problems and product availability. You guys were patient and kind through it all. And when your boxes and bags arrived, you were quick to post pictures and share your excitement. People wanted to know more about it and how to order, which lead to even more success the following month. The May boxes are all delivered, and once again, you posted and shared your excitement with your friends and family. As I write this, the anticipation of the June boxes has already started. I am blown away by your response to my crazy SOTM concept. All of the generosity and kindness everyone has extended to me with this product has truly been amazing. Who knew the boost I was sending you would in fact be exactly the boost I needed. And that is why I am feeling pretty...grateful. Grab your June FDbox54 here, The theme will be Pay It Forward. Laur
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AuthorI am inspired, and amused, by a lot of things around me. Welcome to a little glimpse inside my world. Archives
October 2021
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