Why it's great to own a shop

Now that you have a little more knowledge on if you want to buy a shop already in business or start one up yourself, now let's talk about the benefits of having a store front location.

Feels more like a “normal” job

Being open from 9 to 5 makes it easier when dealing with clients when I need to set boundaries not to work outside of the hours. You can, of course, do this as well if you work from home, but sometimes it's harder because work is always right there — easy to access at any time. For me, this has been a lifesaver. It can be very demanding while I’m at the shop, so when I leave, I shut down mentally (or at least try to!). When I’m not at the shop, I try not to check emails or social media. This has really helped with not feeling like my business is running my life. That’s something I fight hard for because while I love my job so much and it is a huge part of my life — it’s not going to run my life. I stand very strong for that!

Having extra space

It’s great to have a space to meet clients and have business goods delivered. My shop is set up in three sections. In the front space is the shop part where I sell silk arrangements, wreaths, candles, other little gifts, and lots of sympathy related items (such as angels & memorial plaques). Then in the middle of the space is the work area with a huge work table and my walk-in cooler. I also have lots of shelves filled with ribbons, vases & supplies. The back room is my office which I hardly ever use! I used to see all these images of gorgeous offices and wanted one of those so much. So I got one, and it’s now mainly storage with my desk covered with vases and who knows what else! That’s another thing to be cautious about — don’t want something just because you see a beautiful image and think it’s going to be glamorous like that. As we all know, as florists, it’s not glamorous behind the scenes. However, I am thankful for this because when I needed to have a photoshoot at my shop, I was happy to have a cute office space!

You still have freedom

At the end of the day, you own the place so you can set your hours and if you need to leave for the afternoon — just lock the door! You might lose a sale or two (maybe), but you have the power to do what you want and that’s something most jobs don’t offer! During my first few years, I wouldn’t do this, though. Because I was so fearful of upsetting people, I would overwork myself. I was scared customers would say something negative if my shop were closed at an odd time. I’ve learned that’s not healthy, especially since I wasn’t at a place to hire someone. Now it doesn’t bother me because I’m mentally in a better place and fight to push away the guilt of being there all the time. Now, I don’t do this all the time, as I’m still open 98% of regular posted hours. Again, it's important not to let your work run your life. I can make the decision to leave an hour early, and it’s going to be ok!

I’ve only covered a few of the many factors that go into being a shop owner, so if you have any specific questions just let me know. I’m happy to help you all in any way I can! I just want to leave you with the thought that, yes, there will be some stressful times but if owning a shop is something that’s on your heart — chase it! We only get this one beautiful life where everything happens for some purpose, and I want you to have that life you love!