This month (September) is the beginning of a new Season. It's nearly Autumn, which comes, not only with new colours and a crispness in the air, but it is also the run up to the Season we call
CHRISTMAS!!
Oh yes, it is here, and for this Season, I have decided, that I need a bit of a fresh start. I will be designing and creating some new Christmas Makes, recreating some of last years, but also I have set myself a Goal! Oh yes, it's time for me not just to be the 'Sewing Lady' as I know many call me, but I now need to put on those 'Big Girl Pants' !
This is after all a business and well, I sometimes to be honest forget that, because I love to create so much. Creating special Keepsakes for you and your loved ones to treasure, makes my work so special.
I will also be continuing to work through my Waiting List, creating your Keepsake Bunnies, Quilts and Cushions, for you to treasure your memories, as always, but I need to get a little more 'smart' with my numbers - booo!
Anyone who knows me, knows I have a phobia against numbers and maths, but as a 'grown up' and a 'small business' I need to use them - booo again!!
Sooooo...... I signed up to do a little challenge.
It's a 100 Day Challenge, and for it, I had to set a goal - and Achieve it!!
So I popped on my 'Big Girl Pants' and reviewed my previous years in business.
These were my findings:
- I really enjoy, designing, sewing and creating
- I really love my customers and appreciate their custom
- I really love my family and appreciate the opportunity to work around my childrens needs
But..
- I haven't taken a proper wage for a few years and we can't afford for me to do this anymore
- My Commission Work, does not earn me enough to take a wage
- I have not reviewed my numbers regularly enough to be 'Business Wise'
- I forget all too easily that this is a business and not a hobby. I may enjoy it, but I also need to feed my children and contribute to our household bills
- I can't continue, just putting all money earned straight back into the business for stock etc, I need to live and provide for my family - Properly!!!!!
Conclusion: I NEED to feed my children, pay for their hobbies, and pay our household bills. Unfortunately, money does not grow on trees, and I needed to set out a plan.
Who knows what I will achieve, and whether I will get there, but if I don't get smarter, I will have to rethink my whole business, so I have to achieve it. I really hope you will continue to support me, as I really appreciate each and everyone of you
Achievements so far: Website, is now up and running and has lots of new Goodies listed. Ranges include Christmas, Weddings and New Arrivals, with more to come soon too.
Etsy, is now link to this Blog, has some new additions, and is regularly being updated
I also, have some new ideas and products in the planning stage, and with the help of 2 very good friends, I think they will be worth waiting for.
I'll keep you posted on my achievements.
Much Love
Michelle
xxx
