Archive for August, 2008
Too Bad I Don’t Sell Swimwear
Sunday, August 24th, 2008A lot of gift stores in my area dabble in apparel items like t-shirts, lingerie, or swimwear, but I’ve always shied away from selling clothing. I’ve watched others struggle to get rid of odd sizes, deal with customers who get deodorant and makeup stains on their clothing, and generally lose a lot of money in clothing. That’s why I always left it up to the experts - actual clothing stores.
Of course, now that I find myself getting ready for the lake next weekend and looking for some sexy swimwear for the occasion, I’m having some mild regrets. It would be awfully nice to be able to shop for a bikini without that awful fluorescent dressing room lighting.
Have you ever sold apparel in your gift store? How did it go over?
My Labor Day Weekend
Sunday, August 24th, 2008Given that Labor Day is sort of the last weekend before the holiday inventory madness, I always close up shop for the long weekend (crazy, I know) and head out to some place warm for one last summer hurrah. This year, I had considered looking into Outer Banks rentals, but I ultimately decided to stay closer to home. Gas prices and all, you know.
So next weekend, I’ll be out at a nearby lake with family, food, and pets. We’ll boat, we’ll eat, and we might even swim if the weather cooperates. It should be a weekend to remember. If you’re able, I encourage you to gather with those closest to you and do the same. It’s a heck of a lot more enjoyable than a weekend at the mall, no matter how good the sales may be.
Holiday Stress: Incoming
Sunday, August 24th, 2008Next weekend is Labor Day, and everyone in retail management knows what that means. Summer is officially over. From here on out, it’s nothing but Christmas up through the new year. It’s time to stock up on relaxation CDs, hot tea, and acne cream, because it’s going to be stressful.
This Christmas should be a little different than other recent holiday seasons, given the sad state of the economy and the price of gas. Last Christmas was a pretty weak season, so I can’t even imagine what this one will be like. How are you preparing? Will you be ordering less inventory than usual?
Personalized Products for Your Store
Saturday, August 23rd, 2008If you’ve ever read many catalogs, you’re probably well aware of the popularity of personalized products. Whether it’s a rug, a yard sign, or a t-shirt, personalized items go over extremely well with certain segments of the population.
Since personalization is usually something done at a factory, it might seem like it’s something you can’t offer in your store. Really, though, there’s no reason not to. Just locate a few suppliers who would be willing to do the work, then take orders from your store and have the items shipped directly to your customers. You could do personalized pens, aprons, wreaths, or even toilet seat covers (though I wouldn’t recommend that one).
Wow - Just Wow
Saturday, August 23rd, 2008I had always thought that personal auto insurance was expensive until I looked into insurance for my business. Since I occasionally send employees out on errands in my car, I thought it would be wise to just get a vehicle for the business and arrange to compare auto insurance options for the best deal.
After doing a bit of shopping, however, I’m going to have to decided against the move. With the economy the way it is now, it’s just not a smart move. Both the car and the insurance would be much more expensive than I would have expected.
Is This Legal?
Saturday, August 23rd, 2008I’m curious. A friend of mine would like to sell eyeglasses in her boutique - not the actual prescription glasses, but the frames, and possible clear lenses. She’d like to cater to those who want the look of glasses but without a prescription.
Is it possible to buy frames like that? Is it legal to sell them? If you happen to know from experience, let me know here in the comments. I’ll pass the message along to her.