So here it is, my very first blog post!
In a couple weeks, The Makers Keep will be THREE! I'd like to say that I don't know how this happened, but I know exactly how it happened; hard work, sleepless nights, learning curves, teamwork, amazing vendors and SO much more!
For all you business owners out there, you know what an emotional rollercoaster it can be running your own gig. On one hand, growing your business is the goal and so you take any opportunity you can. The adrenaline kicks in and its all go go go! Its exciting and scary at the same time. Then on the other hand, you're stressed, overworked and don't see your family as much as you'd like. Its like you're on a teeter totter, balancing it all.
So, what do you do when an opportunity comes up and you KNOW you have to take it but you have so much going on and you're at the end of your rope? Well, for me I've decided to make the hard decision to choose me; to make myself and my family a priority. This doesn't mean I am closing The Makers Keep. Far from it. It means, I am choosing to slow down, take on less and just work smarter not harder.
So what does that mean?
Because big things are coming for The Makers Keep family, we have made the decision to close our Windermere location.
Although disappointing, I'm happy we had the chance to open our Windy store and experience the vibe of the Southside. Its been an incredible learning experience and I am so glad I went with my gut and opened there. Despite this, I have definitely felt pulled in different directions about this decision. Will people think I failed? Will this decision impact our growth? Will we lose customers? Let me tell you, I've been a mess over here. Trying to find harmony and joy in my life, all while making very hard decisions. I love working and keeping busy but then the guilt sets in that I'm not home more with my kids. Then I overthink things and question ALL my decisions. My emotions are all over the place, but deep down I know this is the right move.
Although I am sad to see it go, this means there is more space for bigger things to happen! I have always wanted to create something more for makers and change the face of handmade shopping. Our amazing stores are just one part of that plan!
So there it is. The sad news about our Windermere location. I know this news will disappoint a lot of you, but I hope you can understand the reasons for this closure and continue to shop with us at our other storefronts.
In the meantime, come by our Windermere store, enjoy the beautiful environment we've created there and get in a little local shopping before we close the doors for good on Sunday August 25th.
Thank you again to all of you. You're support is everything to us.
With love,
Katrina and The TMK Team