INTRO

Long story short, I did not have no clue what I was getting myself into. No one does. I was nervous, anxious, and all the above. I decided to start during the pandemic because I wanted to start a hobby since I was at home all day with the kids. I was always the creative type, but never did I think I would do what I am doing today. Making bows.

Many small shop owners start off using Etsy. It’s a great tool to gain your customers from all over the world. I had my shop for several months then I decided to branch off using Instagram as my main source and then I created a website of my own. I currently use Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook, Pinterest, & Offer UP. I am still learning, & I did get some help from other small shops but not much. I did research on my own, I was determined! I noticed this became something serious. I really enjoyed what I was doing. I would stay up until 3am constantly researching and trying to perfect my small business. It was and still is an addiction. I truly love to what I was doing to quit my job and fully dedicate myself. I am not going to lie, I would much rather work 24/7 than a 9-5pm shift. My small shop gives me such an adrenaline rush. I look forward to creating new products for my customers every single day.

I simply LOVE what I do.

BEHIND THE SCENES

There is a lot of work to put into a small shop. Some make it look so easy but it’s really not. I shall list several of the things that I must keep track of….

• Inventory
• Orders
• Making sure every order is sent within your TAT
• Fabric
• Shipping Boxes/Packaging
• Thank you cards
• Business Cards
• Cutting Tools
• Hot Glue Sticks
• Crinkle Paper
• Social Media Posts
• Customer Service
• Record/Photography of Products
• Engaging With Customers
• and it goes on and on and on

It truly is never ending, but somehow it must get done. I applaud every small shop owner because the amount of work we do is incredible.

OBSTACLES

It is really hard for myself to learn how to manage my time. I am not going to lie I am not perfect. I sometimes ignore the kids to get work done. Even before, night time was alone time for my fiancé and I since we barely see each other during the day, but my shop took over. Once the kids are asleep I head to my desk and work until 3am. It took me about 1.5 years to finally put my foot down and work shorter amount of hours. Then the holiday hit, and I am back to working until 3am. This led to me taking on another job as a mommy blogger. It forces me to spend weekends with the kids attending events with them. Not going to lie it was the best decision I have ever made. My kids enjoy themselves and create memories and friends along the way. I do have to set aside time for not only my small shop now but content for my blogging page. It is difficult but hey what can I say?! I love it.

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED

What I have learned being a small shop owner is that customer service is key. I treat my customers with respect. I have to be professional in order for my customers to always come back. I have gained the most understanding and loyal customers and built great relationships with some and I will be forever grateful to those. It truly makes me happy. I am beyond proud of who I am today. Thank you so much Briella’s Bowtique.

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