Ever wondered why some stores feel magnetic while others just blend in? The secret is when you Create a Manifesto that makes your purpose shine. The answer isn’t in more products or sales, it’s in your purpose. And the fastest way to make that purpose shine is to Create a Manifesto for your store. Your store is more than just … Read More
Momentum Before the Madness | State of Retail: October 2025
Christmas feels close, doesn’t it? You’re not alone. Many independent retailers are already on edge, wondering what’s selling, what isn’t, and how the season will unfold. But here’s the truth: it’s only October. And that’s good news. October is the real starting line for holiday retail. Shoppers haven’t fully arrived yet, which gives you an incredible opportunity. Use this lull … Read More
How CEOs Balance Time Management and Customer Connection
I can’t tell you how many times I looked at my to-do list and thought… How on earth am I supposed to balance all this AND still see my customers? I know you’ve felt that too. One minute you’re knee-deep in emails and vendor calls, and the next a customer walks in and you just want to drop everything to … Read More
How Retailers Beat Online Competition with Story & Experience
Retailers, I know how frustrating it feels when a customer comes in, falls in love with something in your store, and then says, “Oh… I saw this online for less.” Ouch. I used to think that meant brick-and-mortar retailers like us didn’t stand a chance against the giants of online retail competition. But here’s the truth: we’re not in a … Read More
Media That Moves Merch: PR Tactics for Store Owners
Small Business PR Tactics That Actually Work (Even Without a Big Budget) I’ll be honest with you, for years, I thought PR tactics were only for the “big guys” with massive marketing budgets. You know, the brands splashed across glossy magazines or featured on morning shows. I figured small retailers like us couldn’t pitch local media, build relationships with journalists, … Read More
