It will be ten months next week that we launched Big White Farmhouse, our online home decor and gift shop. As I type this, I really can’t believe how fast the year has gone! With 2015 just weeks away, I’ve been reflecting on life as new business owners and looking back on all we’ve accomplished. Take a peek into my journal:
+ We are proud to be a debt-free company. Andrea (my cousin and co-owner) and I have each invested money into our store and we are determined to use our money wisely. The decision against borrowing money has caused slower growth for us, but it’s been good growth. Each purchase from customers gets us closer to new products and an expanded line.
+ My favorite part of owning a business is packaging up orders. A close second would be wholesale purchasing; I love searching for the best new products!
+ My weakest part of owning a business: marketing. For example, I rarely post news about our shop on my Instagram feed, but each time I do, without fail, I always lose a few followers. For a long time, I really struggled with that. In 2015, I hope to brainstorm creative ways to market our sales/new products, but I’m not longer going to feel guilty for promoting a company that I’m so proud of! + Facebook is complicated for businesses. We have over 300 “fans” and yet our posts only reach a handful of them! Frustrating, for sure.
+ We were surprised to realize that it’s really hard to sell candles online! Trying to describe scents is tricky and I’m still trying to figure it out.
+ The Vintage Finds section of the store has been a big hit, but I struggle to find the time to check thrift shops and antique stores on a regular basis. This is one area I hope to improve on in 2015.
+ Big White Farmhouse stands on the belief of quality vs. quantity and because of this, I’ve really changed how I look at my own purchases. I find myself venturing away from buying as much as I can for the lowest price and instead embracing the idea of saving my pennies to purchase that one special piece. My love for Target still stands, but I think there can be a balance.
+ I can’t wait to see where Year Two takes us!
I agree: marketing is HARD. I've pretty much realized that Facebook is doing less and less as a marketing tool. Unfortunately, due to how FB has restructured the way viewers share things, it's just IMPOSSIBLE to reach anyone. I tried an experiment the other day and shared a post on my business page. I was told only 20 people could view it. Then I shared it on my personal page. It went up to like 22 views. I had my sister share it. 24 views. Another friend shared it. 34 views. AHHH, so frustrating. :p If you find out the secret, definitely let me know!! haha
xox
giedre