04/29/2025
We are closing our store. I know it has only been a few years as a brick and mortar. It was a ton of fun. I did it more as a service to bring a local business and also put my shopping addiction into perspective for others versus me. I loved helping others and supporting them.
As a small local business, Here’s a few things I learned
Some clients become friends, some friends become clients.
You can’t buy for everyone’s needs.
It’s incredibly difficult to try to run two businesses that require marketing….both suffer
Most people don’t buy in their own community
It’s great to give it a shot
I found some of the most outstanding girls in the community
I so love to encourage other businesses it’s hard to have one similar
It’s ok to pick family first
It’s so so so important to have great landlords
Local landlords work hard to keep spaces filled
Shout out your local businesses even if you won’t buy something maybe a friend or contact will
Being kind is free and also priceless
When small businesses constantly get ask to donate from people who don’t shop there it’s a bit of an insult
When people go on social to say there’s no where to shop or eat or whatever… where are they
When people complain things aren’t open when they need them to be, well maybe a business owner has found it to be too slow and decided it was too costly
Support your community and all the efforts people put into it. Get to know those owners. Mitzi has tons of great stuff Mitzi Mo's. Brandy is a total social rockstar at Bluebird Apparel. Amber has such unique items at Juniper Metal Works. The most gorgeous proms ever will happen because of Julie at Enspire Boutique. Burria tacos are addictive but worth it Javi-El Porton Mexican Grill Glenwood IA. I have to say the best margaritas ever are shaken by JC at Parea Cocktail Lounge. Need a car? I cannot say enough nice things about Chris Smith and the man, the legend, Scott Barrett who is absolutely one of the kindest and most generous of heart man! Barrett Auto Center, Inc. is the GOAT. Need a tshirt, custom signs or anything go see Joe Designer, Inc.-Joe still works too much and gives his all. Gluten free 🍕 must have Adrianos Brick Oven. Much love to Julie Kuhl Kalambokidis and Adrian for their support of local business development. Rebecca Stoll is a magician and one of those incredible people who supports other businesses online. The Remedy Room Massage Spa -NEW PAGE- Glenwood, IA Christopher The Round Table Tea Bar.
Whew, I can keep going but I think you get it. We have great friends who sell the same stuff. I have policies with one but sure do love to work alongside and support another. We see lots of businesses. Locally owned and operated matter. Realtors- absolutely we know tons and have one we will use but for the others- give them a 👍, it’s easy. Grab a bite, get a drink, stop for a gallon of milk or a new feed bunk. Grab a lottery ticket, drop off dry cleaning, wash your car. Get your eyes checked, teeth cleaned, pick up your prescriptions and do your PT locally. Yep, there are plenty of choices If we don’t work together we will have to get everything on Amazon. It’s up to us but I know 200 business owners I could have shouted out and had more to mention.
Join chamber and love ❤️ local!
