Black Friday

My first official Black Friday! Yes, I’m in Hickory Point Mall in Forsyth, Illinois, just outside of Decatur. I decided to try this endeavor after careful research and consideration about shopping/fashion trends, availability of space, and existing stores and their products. I have to say, I have been very well received here in Central Illinois, and the horse people have been especially welcoming. I love the reactions of shoppers as they come upon the store! What a surprise!

After this weekend of endless retail hours, I have a much better appreciation of what these folks do to get their stores ready for shoppers, especially around the holidays. Endless hours of work and preparation!

Black Friday was great here at Susan B’s. We sold belts, jewelry, shirts and décor. I’m getting a huge shipment of boots this week and I can’t wait to get them in the windows. As always, one of the best parts of working this type of business is chatting with the shoppers. I have heard all kinds of horse stories, Thanksgiving stories, and even a young couple came in to share their date night (Saturday) with me. I’d like to say that Susan B.’s is a casual, yet unique place where people feel welcome to hang out and check out the huge variety of products.

Thanks Forsyth and Decatur for welcoming me to your home. Stop in – I’m here through December 23^rd.

Happy Trails!

Over the past few days I have been in 10% of the country! That may seem impressive, but it’s really not. Last weekend we went to see our son for Parent’s Weekend at the University of Michigan. That’s four states away, but a quick drive! Although the home team lost their football game, the time we shared was fabulous! It was great weather for a November weekend, and we were able to take in the campus lifestyle. I have to say, on campus is one place to find out what young people find fashionable. Although temperatures flirted with the 70’s, boots tucked into jeans were all the rage. Also, lots of layering with tee shirts and hoodies. It is always fun to see how far “bling” has come, and it certainly is mainstream. Not only was there Michigan apparel with rhinestones, but also a slew of shirts and jeans sporting sparkle. I felt right at home with my attire!

Fast forward a few days and here I am in Southern California for a few days away and time to work from another location! I was honored to be asked to tag along with a company outing last night with my husband’s group. We went go-cart racing. Reliving my NASCAR days this summer, I smugly felt right at home. My confidence was quickly dashed, however, when I got behind the wheel and attempted to keep my “vehicle” on the track. Never mind that everyone was passing me (more than once, I might add).

However, in trying to find the bright spot, here are my observations:
• When coming in dead last, try to do so with composure.
• Use the glass is half full analogy whenever possible (I was “Most Improved” over the three runs!)
• Finally, it’s not always as easy as it looks! I’ll leave the NASCAR driving to those guys and gals we met this summer!

Hope you all find a bright spot in your day, and happy trails!

The word that comes to my mind recently is “Collaboration.” Seems we can’t get much done without it, or rather, not get as much done, or as well. I recently experienced collaboration with my business. As most of you know, I spent the month of October in Tulsa with the Tulsa State Fair, as well as the Arabian National Show. However, while I was there, I also had my business set up at Touche Salon in Libertyville, IL. I was honored to be asked to work with the folks at Touche in their endeavor to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. October, being the month that we typically acknowledge breast cancer, was the month they dedicated to fundraising for breast cancer research. Several businesses were asked to bring in products, and a portion of all proceeds were donated to this cause. All sorts of businesses were represented, including jewelry, shoes, stationary, etc. I was the only cowgirl-related business, not surprising being that Libertyville is a relatively urban area.

In conjunction with the month long event, there were in-shop specials on beauty products, and visits were made throughout the community by the staff for on-site beauty services. The money generated was dedicated to their breast cancer initiative.

Yesterday, I headed over to Touche, not only to get my hair done, but also to collect the rest of my products, to reconcile sales, and make my donation accordingly. I was pleasantly surprised to find that most of my products had sold! Had I turned a north shore suburb of Chicago into a cowgirl haven? Probably not. However, I think that Touche, as well as the other participating businesses were able to elevate the importance of breast cancer research and encourage patrons, and the community at large, to embrace the idea of collaboration. The smallest of contributions, when added to all the others, really can make a difference.

Thank you Touche, for allowing me to be a part of your efforts in this collective effort to make a difference for women. I look forward to working with you in the future!

Happy Trails!