Wednesday, September 07, 2011

Nothing is really work unless you would rather be doing something else.

James M. Barrie (1860 - 1937)

Its always a little bit difficult going back to work after a week off...I found the reminder that the break offered me, of 'sometimes its good to relax', was still sounding loudly in my head yesterday.
But then I was soon back in the swing as I worked finding places to display some of my latest vintage finds on to the shelves in my shop. (I also moved in most of the treasures that I found at the flea market at the beginning of my week off.)

I changed the window displays to show off some of the latest pieces...

And I started working on some new handmade items for the Vintage Bazaar, Frome. Its not until the end of next month, but its good to be organised, as it takes the pressure off a little...I want to find time to make some special Christmas fairy dolls and possibly some large rag dolls, which I'd like to dress in a more antique style this time.

It can be difficult to keep coming up with new ideas, when there is so much background stuff that needs to be done with the running of the shop...Or maybe its just my age?! ;-)) But its fun having something to focus on to keep me on my toes!
I'd also like to make another collection of hanging heart brooch pillows, as its been a few years since I came up with them, so I'd like to develop the idea a little further.
I generally use my shop now as a workshop/studio. To have a place to go to be motivated is good for me...If I sell a few pieces during the day, then that is a bonus. Times are hard for most, and with my stock being of a mostly frivolous nature, it can be difficult to secure a sale. Yesterday, almost entirely, my sales were to several dealers in the antiques/vintage trade.
I'm not completely certain that Shepton Mallet will regenerate its High Street, particularly given the current climate...
(I am asked A LOT why I have my shop there)
BUT, I will say that having my shop on the Market Place works for me, for now...My rent is reasonably low, and so I can justify using the shop as my workshop. I can be regularly found there when people want to visit, but can focus on my sewing when its quiet.
Its possible that if I was in a much busier place, that I would not be able to run my business in the same way. If customers were constantly coming in and out, my time to handmake my stock could become non-existent, and so my shop would no longer reflect my style and what is important to me. Maybe in a few years time, when hubby and I are 'empty-nesters', we may have an opportunity to move house and possibly change our lifestyle to include a more ambitious business plan...but that's a few years down the line...

If you happen to be in the neighbourhood and would like to visit Nostalgia at No.1, then you will always be made to feel welcome! You'll always find plenty of reasonably priced stock and lots of handmade gift ideas. :)
Niki x
Thought I'd just add these quotes for fun:
"By working faithfully eight hours a day you may eventually get to be boss and work twelve hours a day!"
Robert Frost.
**
"Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don't turn up at all."
Sam Ewing
**
"The supreme accomplishment is to blur the line between work and play."
Arnold J. Toynbee
**
"When your work speaks for itself, don't interrupt."
Henry J. Kaiser.

6 comments:

  1. If you can get up in the morning and look forward to going to work then you are indeed lucky. Sadly many people wake up and feel depressed at what the next 8 hours will bring.
    Carol xx

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  2. love that saying.
    Great post!

    blessings
    barbara jean

    PS luckily, I have a 'job' I love.
    Running my sweet little gift sop. =)

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  3. Hi Niki.
    Wonderful post, that nostalgia! ;o))
    The pots Victorians are magnificent!
    A dear greeting, Maria.
    (with translator)

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  4. ...I forgot to write: I am happy for your decision! ;o))
    Hugs, Maria.

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  5. SO right, Niki! And for all others who have not yet been visiting your lovely shop in Shepton Mallet: GO, GIRLS! It's so much worth it!
    Am glad, you have the right approach for things and I totally agree that all work done with joy turns into shear joy and is no more work.

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  6. Having somewhere to do your work is great whatever you use it for - inspiring too to be surrounded by lovely things!

    x

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Thank you for finding the time to visit me...
Niki xx