This month marks the one-year anniversary of La Vie en Rose, and to call our first year a whirlwind would be an understatement. We’ve learned so much, met so many, and feel eternally grateful for our place in the community. So while it’s been a whirlwind, it’s been one of the best kind.
To celebrate the first birthday of La Vie en Rose, we’re looking back on lessons learned during the store’s infancy so we can share our growth, honor our journey, and look forward to the future.
Partnerships are Crucial
One of the most challenging facets of a business is the countless decisions that need to be made. Inventory, hours, events, staff, client outreach – the list goes on and reinvents itself each day. Without a solid network, facing those decisions can feel insurmountable.
“There are SO many decisions to be made,” explains Megan Boardman, owner of La Vie en Rose. “Since I’m not always the best at being decisive, that’s where Jen and I work well together. We bounce ideas off one another, she helps advise me on ideas I might have or products to carry in the boutique!”
Megan attributes so much of the store’s success to the strong collaboration among her staff, family and friends.
“I’m proud of the space and the environment Jen and I have worked SO hard to foster and love! I hope our customers sense it too,” says Megan.
Fight Hard but Stay Flexible
So many things come up (and go wrong!) with a new business. And while it’s important to work toward what you want and what feels right, you also have to be willing to roll with the punches.
“Fear can be so crippling sometimes!” says Megan. “Not everything is going to always be perfect but you can’t wait until all your ducks are in a row to act.”
Time is of the essence when running a business, and if something isn’t just the way you want it, find a workaround you’re comfortable with and keep on trucking.
“My courage and passion have grown immensely over this year and man, I can’t wait to see what year two brings for us.”
Courage Comes with Time
“I feel like opening the boutique and seeing it take off has given me a confidence that I’ve never known,” says Megan.
Working through problems on the spot, making the best of things when they don’t go how you planned, figuring out how to do what’s right for your business and community – all of that contributes to a deep sense of accomplishment for what you’ve done and the courage to do something even crazier the next time.
“Goodness, I am so freaking proud. And thankful. Thankful beyond words,” says Megan. “Our community has been SO supportive, and I have met so many new faces and made lifelong connections. I’m proud of it all, the little things, the scary times, the struggles.”
leave a comment