Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amanda Cluett, Owner of Black Bow Gift Co., located in Dartmouth, NS, CA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Black Bow Gift Co. is a luxury gifting service providing curated gifts for all occasions and offers custom and branded corporate gifts with delivery anywhere in Canada. We are founded on the belief that something magical happens when time is taken to prepare a gift thoughtfully; a genuine connection can be made, and these moments and memories can last a lifetime. We assist gift-givers by creating one-of-a-kind gifts we know people will LOVE to receive because creating magic is our specialty! Our clients are those who are looking for upscale and one-of-a-kind gifting options and, ultimately, gifts they are proud to give.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been the kind of gifter on a mission to make my recipients feel special. Sometimes that can come in the form of how the gift is presented and sometimes by way of choosing items I am certain they will love. Over the years, I found that I was always focused on quality and not giving something that felt quick and/or random. The presentation quality is also always something I found myself spending a considerable amount of time and money on. I always wished there was a more cost-effective way for my gifts to look upscale and over the top without spending just as much on the presentation as I sometimes did the gifts. I eventually found myself in a busy corporate job working 12+ hours daily. I did not give or celebrate special milestones and moments in my friends' and families' lives because I essentially did not have the time to shop and source gifts I was proud to give. This was not making me feel great about myself. When I went to the market to find a service that might be able to help with my gifting needs, I was overly disappointed with the selection and offerings from other gifting businesses in the Canadian market. Everything felt cheap and low quality, and I had my lightbulb moment knowing I would be able to fill what I saw as a major gap in the Canadian market in offering upscale gifts handmade to perfection using only quality supplies and products.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Mastering being able to offer an exceptional gifting experience for gift recipients consistently.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Maintaining an incredibly high and consistent standard as the business and team continue to grow.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a clear vision and detailed business plan (including your launch project plan) before making the official decision to start the business.
- Be certain that everything is set up for maximum efficiency as time is your biggest asset.
- Prioritize early on establishing processes and standards that are clear and that are scalable.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Having a passion for what you do and learning to become your biggest cheerleader are the two things every business owner must embody to get through any challenging time or stressful day.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://blackbowgiftco.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackbowgiftco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackbowgiftco/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3yOvH6X
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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