Puppet Making Workshop
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Interview with Ruby Sanchez, the owner of "Puppet Pals Workshop" in downtown Portland, Oregon.
1. How did you get started with puppet making?
Ruby: It all started when I was a kid and my grandfather gave me a puppet of his own making. I was fascinated by how he brought to life a little wooden block with just some strings and fabric. I started creating my own puppets soon after and found it to be a way to express my creativity.
2. What inspired you to start a puppet making workshop in Portland?
Ruby: After I graduated from college, I wanted to find a way to share my passion for puppetry with others. Portland is such a vibrant and creative city, and I felt that it was the perfect place to start a puppet making workshop where people could come and learn how to make their own puppets.
3. What challenges did you face when starting your business?
Ruby: The biggest challenge was finding the right location and getting the word out about our workshops. Many people didn't know what puppet making is and how fun it can be.
4. How did you overcome these challenges?
Ruby: We started attending local art fairs and festivals to showcase our puppets and promote our workshops. We also partnered with local schools to offer after-school programs. And, we eventually streamlined our operations by creating an online store using Shopify, which helped us reach a wider audience.
5. What role did Shopify play in the growth of your business?
Ruby: Shopify has been a game-changer for our business. Having an online store allowed us to expand our reach and attract customers from all over the country. We were able to sell our puppets and materials online, which helped us increase our revenue and grow our customer base.
6. What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a creative business?
Ruby: My advice would be to stay true to yourself and your vision, but also be adaptable and willing to pivot if things aren't working out. Take the time to research your market and your competitors, but also be willing to take risks and try new things.
7. What's next for Puppet Pals Workshop?
Ruby: We're continuing to expand our product line and our workshops. We're also exploring new partnerships with schools and community organizations to bring the joy of puppetry to more people. And, of course, we'll continue to grow our online presence and reach new audiences through our Shopify store.
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