Well, it really has been a busy few weeks! Travelling to trade shows in London and Glasgow, planning and ordering for the festive period, sorting out heaps of admin alongside the day-to-day of shop life… I feel like I haven’t stopped. Huge shoutout to the rest of Team MBC for helping/supporting/covering too!
And while it’s all been good (and important) stuff, I’ve been trying to resist the ‘Overwhelm’ by staying mindful of all the amazing things I value about being the ‘keeper’ of a quirky wee boutique in Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire.
Here are my Top 5 MBC Motivations:
1. Bringing in GREAT products.
It’s such a pleasure finding the most beautifully crafted gifts, the funkiest card designs, new, unique, unexpected treasures - then seeing and hearing you guys appreciate them in store too!
2. Supporting Creatives in Scotland and beyond.
I LOVE working with so many talented artists, designers and makers from around Scotland, the UK and even further afield. They rely on independent retailers like MBC to keep their businesses thriving and their dreams alive, and we rely on them to keep producing fabulous products.
3. Connecting with customers (in what can often seem a very impersonal world).
We LIVE for the great chats and the funny little social interactions with our customers in store! Laughter, tears, setting the world to rights - it all happens in The Caravan and we think that makes life better for everyone.
4. Being part of a brilliant Stonehaven community.
Our town is a supportive place, with a strong community spirit, whether that’s in regard to other businesses, voluntary groups or you customers. MBC is very much part of that community, and that feels really important.
5. Doing things the MBC way.
Thinking outside the box is what it’s all about! We strive to stay true to the shop’s unique, quirky personality and we REALLY want MBC to be a lovely welcoming, fun and interesting place to visit (online as well as in person!).
So yes, it’s been a bit full-on, and that’s probably - hopefully - set to continue until You Know When (mince pie anyone?) … but that’s ok. ❤️
Being part of this wonderful community and seeing you lot enjoy the delights of My Beautiful Caravan makes every late night window change and each early morning chocolate run worth it.
Here’s to more laughter, discovery, and connection, MBC-style!
Love Jennifer x