Stained Glass Studio

         

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Interview with Emma Thompson, Owner of Stained Glass Dreams in Portland, Oregon

1. Can you tell us how you got started in the stained glass business?

I discovered stained glass was my passion while taking a class as a hobbyist a few years ago. After making pieces for friends and family, I realized there was a demand for unique stained glass art in my community. I opened Stained Glass Dreams in 2017 to share my love of stained glass and offer classes for other enthusiasts.

2. What were some challenges you faced while starting and running your business?

Starting a business is never easy, especially in a niche market like stained glass. One of my biggest challenges was sourcing quality materials for my shop. It took a lot of research to find reliable suppliers that met my standards. Another challenge was getting the word out about my shop and classes; I had to rely on word-of-mouth and grassroots marketing tactics.

3. How did you bring attention to your shop and grow your customer base?

I started to gain a larger following after partnering with a local art gallery for a joint exhibit. This helped attract new customers and build relationships with other artists in the area. Additionally, I began to utilize social media to promote my classes and unique art pieces. I also started an online store on Shopify, which allowed me to reach a wider audience and increase sales.

4. What's the importance of social media and e-commerce for small business owners like yourself?

As a small business owner, I find that social media and e-commerce platforms are essential. They offer an affordable way to market my business and reach potential customers who may not have found me otherwise. Shopify has been instrumental in helping me increase my sales by providing an easy-to-use platform to sell my products.

5. Can you explain how Shopify specifically helped grow your business?

Shopify allows me to easily manage my online store and reach customers across the country. I can easily add new products, manage orders, and process payments from one central location. Additionally, Shopify integrates with my inventory management system, making it easy to keep track of my materials and products. The platform has boosted my sales and helped me reach customers beyond my local area.

6. How has your business changed since opening?

Since opening, my business has grown beyond what I ever imagined. I now offer a wider variety of classes for all skill levels and have expanded my product offerings. I also have a team of instructors who teach classes and help with production. It's been wonderful to watch my business grow and to see the impact it has had on the community.

7. Any advice for aspiring small business owners?

My advice would be to follow your passion, take risks, and be patient. Starting a business is not easy, and it takes time to build a loyal customer base. But with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck, anyone can turn their dream into a successful business.

         

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