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If you’ve ever owned a business there’s one thing you’ll know for sure: there’s never a dull day.
From the exciting highs to the stressful lows, life as a business owner can be a crazy rollercoaster, and all you can do is strap in and enjoy the ride.
For me, that rollercoaster came in the shape of my online homewares and furniture store, Gingerfinch. But now, after six wonderful years, I’ve decided it’s time to step off the ride and close the doors on Gingerfinch for good (before you keep reading, write this down: the code CANBERRA will get you 50% off site-wide).
Nearly six years ago to the day, I sat across from HerCanberra’s very own Beatrice and shyly talked about my brand new, experimental online homewares business, Gingerfinch.
At the time, I had only a few dozen products, a slow and clunky website, and little more than hope and a dream. Now, all these years later, I’ve worked with some incredible designers both here in Canberra and beyond, navigated a global pandemic, met incredible people, and hit some huge business milestones.
As I end this chapter of my life and start making way for the next one, I’ve spent some time reflecting on my experience as a small business owner in Canberra. Here’s what I learned:
Fake it till you make it
The most important lesson I learned after six years in business is you just need to do it. It may sound like a Nike cliche, but it’s so true. It won’t be perfect, easy or straightforward, but do it anyway. Perseverance really does pay off.
Treat ‘em right and they’ll stay
We all know customer service is the key to a good business, but in Canberra, that sentiment is tenfold. This town is loyal, and developing good relationships is key.
I found that no matter how much I grew, it was so important to stay grounded in my Canberra roots. Offering small incentives to maintain the ‘local’ feel will mean you have lifelong customers.
Image is everything
Canberra is a small place filled with highly educated, discerning people, so it’s vital to make your business look fabulous—no matter how humble your beginnings.
Invest as much as you can to ensure your shopfront, branding, website and products are as shmick as possible. Our city has good taste, so make sure you rise to the occasion!
Collaboration is key
We may be known for our government roots, but make no mistake: Canberra is a creative place.
Collaborating with creatives of all kinds—from makers to photographers to writers and more—was a key part of building Gingerfinch. Get out there, meet people, see what they can do and how you can work together. Trust me, magic will be made!
My time as a business owner in Canberra may be coming to an end, but I wouldn’t swap it for anything. If you’re looking to get into business, our small but mighty city is a fabulous place to start.
If you’d like to buy any goods from Gingerfinch before we close our doors, use the code CANBERRA for 50% off.