Hi Friends! Welcome back! I’m ready to settle back into a routine that includes blogging on the regular (did I say that already? I was just checking to see if you were there!). I still have a lot of work to do behind-the-scenes, as in write my business plan and marketing plan, but I think we can settle into a routine easily enough while working on the plans. One thing I’m going to do more of, because I know it needs to be done, is promote my products. I sold (or tried to sell) my products at a local farm market last week. I really liked the market. It’s small and in its first year, but the people were nice and asked questions. It got some good traffic too. Right on the main drag through town. But it’s winding down for the season but I’ll definitely be back next year. I even had someone ask if I was going to be there again! Excellent!

So for starters, I’ve updated the webshop. All my current inventory is listed there. One of my favorite products are the postcards. I’ve taken some of my favorite pictures and turned them into postcards. I love postcards. I collect them wherever I go. I collect new ones, old ones. Doesn’t matter. I just love them. Sometimes I frame them too. So it seemed like the right thing to do–making postcards. Oh, and it should be noted that all pictures are taken by me, in Upstate NY and Northeast PA, with the exception of any beach photos. Those are taken in and around Truro, MA. Anyway, you can find them here.

I’ve also learned a lot over the past few months about selling products. And saying yes too much. I felt like in order to make a ‘go’ of my little business I needed to say yes to every opportunity that was presented to me. What ended up happening was a very tired Chicken Librarian! While I’m very thankful for every opportunity that was presented, I need to take a step back and evaluate how that opportunity aligns with my business plan. Hence the need for a business plan! I also learned that if someone offers an opportunity and they get defensive or short with you when you ask questions, that might not be the best fit. I learned that one the hard way. So for those of you out there thinking of starting a business, no matter how big or small, ask questions. Take the time to think about the opportunity. Don’t just say yes. If someone won’t give you time to think about it or answer your questions, chances are good that that opportunity isn’t a good match. And start with a business plan. Or take the time soon after you start your business to write that plan. And then follow it, update it as needed, but have it ready and look at it often.

Another thing I’m doing is creating an exclusive item. These candles are only available at the flyshop or at one of my markets. The candle holders are vintage and they come in three flavors: lemongrass, juniper berry, or lavender. They are made with three ingredients: NY State beeswax, NY State sunflower oil, and essential oil. I love these little guys! I sold one last week at my market and hope to continue to sell them. It’s good to try new products.

You can find all my products on the webshop or at the flyshop. I also have a few items at Kaybirds in Hancock. If you’re local, stop by the flyshop and see me. I’ll also be at the Walton Farm Market on September 27th and I have a few upcoming classes. Check my class page for all those dates and more! I also do custom work so if you are looking for something in particular, send me an email. I’d love to work with you on this or any other collaboration. And heck, while we’re at it, let’s offer a discount code! Take 15% off the whole shop, between now and October 1, using the code: restock15. You are welcome friends!