We're several months into this.
Most everyone who comes in the store says it's fun, they like it.
...
Some say they always wanted to do this, have a store like this. They usually come back. But, half of the visitors, come in to try and sell me something or want me to take things on consignment. Many customers come back because they see lots of things they want and can't buy them all at once. But here are just not enough customers. Although the prices are fair, many want me to give them a discount or just complain that they can do better at a thrift shop. It's a tough job, having a store, and takes most of my time, because you have to be open most days and long hours. Sometimes a whole day will go by, with not one single customer. Sometimes a few days go by......... uh oh...
I get concerned when I don't make enough to pay the rent, let alone the insurance, utilities, supplies, etc. Then someone will tell me that it takes time, that it's a great little shop, and people just haven't found me yet. I just recently got my sign up, that's going to help, right?
I love the shop, I put my soul into it, doing displays, fixing things changing up with the seasons and holidays. I'm constantly posting, planning sales, dreaming up events, slogans, themes.
I want to go shopping so badly, but I can't spend anything, until I start making some money, and feel like I am missing good deals, and not getting fresh stuff. But that's okay- I have lots of merchandise, plenty to look at, and much more in storage, ready to come into the shop, when there is more room.
Each day, I pray I'll do better, sell some things, make some money.
We buy take-outs from the diner and usually share one sandwich special because it's all we can afford. We make a lot of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, or just eat leftover cookies from my tea parties. We get along, have plenty to eat, get invited to share meals with family often. God provides for us, in surprising ways.
But, it's really tough, having this type of business. I must be out of my mind. All the other similar stores have closed, we're all alone in this type of business around here. The neighbors are a jewelry store, beauty salons, a florist, and a game store, and they occasionally send a customer in to us. Older people usually tell me they are down-sizing, so they won't be buying anything. Young people don't seem to have money. This is not a "monied area". I can't afford rent in a more prosperous area, though. Will vintage lovers come to me, from other places? Will I be able to establish a regular client base?
I thought the Christmas season would get people interested in alternative shopping. "Buy Vintage this Christmas", I extolled. It's less expensive than the mall and big retail stores, We have inexpensive, unique gifts- one-of-a-kind items, many from the past, but it looks grim now. Will we be able to stay or will we have to close? What will we do with all the stuff that's in the store, my storage is already full.
How can people look at thousands of things and not buy one little trinket for a couple dollars? How do I get people to come to this store? Why do they swarm to the big box stores instead of buying nice things cheaper, from a small business owner who's nice to them? What do other vendors do? How do you pay for advertising, when you have no money. How do you get noticed?
I googled my store and it shows up.
We'll just keep trying.
I'm celebrating 9 years of blogging this month.
Love, Linda
