City Chick Online

Yesterday was my store, Samantha's Consignment, 1 year Anniversary and I am so happy and grateful that I made it. The first year of any business is the toughest and this year was pretty tough for me. I had to fire an employee, sue someone, deal with crazy customers, etc. I had to be an accountant, a plumber, a cleaning crew, an employee, and a boss all in one. Honestly some days I was (and still am) mentally and physically exhausted. At times I questioned if this was the right thing I was doing. I had invested my entire life savings in my dream and feared that it wouldn't work out. I've worked in retail a long time ago, but nothing could prepare me for opening up my own store. Yeah, I knew it was going to be tough but I just didn't know how tough it was truly going to be (especially when you open up during a recession!).

But despite all the things I previous said, I absolutely LOVE it! My store is pretty damn awesome lol. I love the location (downtown Glen Cove), I love my customers who I know by name, I love my employee Kat who is like a mentor, friend and lifeline all rolled up in one (lord knows I couldn't do it without her). I simply love everything about it. Never once in the one year that I've been open have I ever said "damn, I have to go to work today!". NEVER! The freedom you get from owning your own business is priceless...you just can't buy it. If I have to open late, I do. If I want to close early, I do. If I don't want to work that day, I just tell Kat and she always covers me. I answer to no one (except my bill collectors hahaha). I adore the fact that my store is cute and quirky and that it has enable me to be a real stylist. I love helping women find the perfect outfit for a date night, for prom, or as a gift for a loved one. I love being surrounded by beautiful things on a daily basis..tons and tons of jewelry, clothings, antiques, bags..I love the fact that now, I almost shop exclusively at my store so that the money is coming right back to me (hey, that you can't beat!). I am truly happy and I know that this is what I was meant to do. If it's God's will, (please Jesus!!!!), I hope to be here for the next 25 years at least. Do I see myself opening up another store in the future? NO... but I do see myself having this one for a very long time and I hope that does come to fruition. :-)