1st Anniversary

Today was a rather special day for me...

Its been one whole year since I opened the doors to my little shop on Shepton Mallet's Market Place and I wanted to mark the milestone with some of it's regular customers.

So I felt a little indulgence was in order...

Hubby was on hand all day serving teas and coffees (Thank you Sweetie!) and I displayed cakes in the window for visitors to help themselves...

I did have a few confused faces peering in; perhaps they thought I'd diversified and was going over to catering?! - But hopefully my message in the window and the balloons outside helped them to realise it was a 'thank you party'.

I am very grateful to all who have visited my shop over the past year...All the hours of sewing and early mornings out sourcing stock that I have done during that time, have been thoroughly worthwhile. I am so happy to have met so many lovely people and am very pleased to now have regular customers who stop-by to see what's new, to have a chat, and to spur me on with their encouraging words.

New faces are always welcome too, of course! ;-))

I would like to mention Sally, a local lady who I see most weeks - She uses the local High Street wherever possible, supporting the small businesses, rather than the big supermarket at the top of town. Her enthusiasm and kindness has meant a huge amount to me and I am very grateful to know her. Today she came into my shop with this gorgeous bouquet of flowers...

I had to bring them home this evening, so that we can enjoy them over the weekend.

I had another delivery of flowers this morning too, which came from my good friend Debbie...I know I am spoilt! (I'll have to try to take some better photos of these, as I haven't done them justice - the pussy willow buds tucked inside are a delightful addition.)

I'd like to thank Maureen and John who travelled to Shepton today, bringing a bottle of wine and a card with them.

It's wonderful how a love of vintage can unite us like-minded gals...don't you think? There's always that connection, because we get where each other is coming from...

Thanks too to Alison who stopped-by this afternoon, bringing chocolates and a card...I honestly had no idea that a shop's Birthday could be such an occasion!

If I can get away with saying just one more thank you, it would be to Belinda and Wayne at No.21, for the support, help and encouragement they have shown to me over this first year. Belinda's passion and enthusiasm for the town always lifts me on the occasional difficult day.

(Thanks B, for today's blog post too!)

I'm now looking ahead and hoping that Shepton can regenerate...I have 'survived' my first year, which proves it can be done...

It would be great to think that others might take the plunge and give it a go. I know how rewarding being your own boss can be. Its hard work, but fulfilling and fun every day...

Have a lovely weekend,

Niki x