These things...
What a wonder it is when a store owner forks out her hard-earned money and chooses new vendors only to be excited and somewhat surprised when the shipments arrive and you unveil the box to discover yummy new store essentials.
Since we are considered manufacture as well as a retail store most of our inventory is made in-house so we know that our selections are one of a kind and unique. When we purchase from other companies I've always felt that it was the luck of the draw when it came to quality and satisfaction.
We've hit on something...
Fall and winter at the Apothecary Store and the sun is shining as we usher in new items that have exceeded our expectations! These new items will not only make you smile but that smile will continue as you wear your new leather bangle, recycled sweater skirt, or sweater scarf, embroidery face mask, etc. Nowadays, I allow extra time to ponder our orders before actually placing the order knowing how many times I've been disappointed.
It's easy in manufacturing to re-order. You know exactly what ingredient you need to complete a creme or skincare formulation. When I run low on beeswax for example I know that I need to re-order more. I also know that the reason I'm re-ordering it because I have sold whatever it is that contains beeswax.
When you order from a vendor, it can be a toss-up and there have been many times that I've been disappointed in not only the quality and craftsmanship, or lack of, but also not knowing whether it is going to be popular with my customers. I know that Bittersweet products are popular with my customers because I build them with the best ingredients and offer them at a reasonable price. I expect the same from vendors but have been disappointed many times.
Am I repeating myself? I probably am, but I want to convey to you how a small retailer puts themselves out on a limb when ordering new items for our stores.
Those things...
Ah, this candle smells good, but does it burn evenly and made with safe waxes? This top is adorable, but does in hold up to mild washings without shrinking? This necklace is unique and attractive but will it break easily? These questions are usually not asked at a big box store where everything is mass-produced. Don't get me wrong, I love big box stores, but in all honesty, small independently owned stores seem to capture my heart. I've learned to appreciate them even more since having my own shop some twenty-three years.
You see, I have none of these questions as manufacture. The reason is simple, I craft everything that I make from the ground up. I know where the ingredients come from. I know that only the very best is well, required, and that customer satisfaction is key to whether a customer returns and purchases a Bittersweet again. I base my business on these values.
Being a small retail store owner and being fastidious go hand and hand and run parallel. A small business owner takes great pride in all that they wrap their business in. Our customers are family and our inventory isn't just randomly chosen. It's carefully handpicked and well thought out not just for us, but for you. When you arrive home and open your shopping bag we want you to smile and be excited about your purchase. It should make you feel extra special! Because you are special! This is how we really feel!
Some food for thought...
Jill
Keep the faith
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