Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Marshall.
Stephanie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was a Special Education teacher that wanted to spend more time with my own children. I wanted to have the opportunity to eat lunch with my children, go on field trips, and volunteer at their school. I have always loved children’s clothing, and I was tired of driving everywhere else for them. The closest thing was an hour North to Atlanta or an hour South to Macon. I started talking to my boss at the time (her family owns several successful gift shops), and she told me to go for it.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has certainly not been an easy road! I was a teacher with zero retail experience! I walked into the first show at the mart with no clue on what to do. You think it is easy to just go in pick out what you like and buy it… boy was I wrong. There are tons of clothing lines and vendors there, and narrowing it all down is a daunting task. It takes several seasons to figure out what the customers do and don’t like, and exactly what they are willing to pay for those items. It has definitely been a huge learning curve for me.
Please tell us about Buckles & Bows.
Buckles & Bows is an upscale children’s boutique that specializes in clothing, shoes, and accessories from newborn to tween sizes. We are known for our unique selection of items that can’t be found just anywhere. I think the thing that really sets us apart is the close relationships with build with our customers. Our customers become like an extended family to us. I love being able to help celebrate every special occasion with each and every one of our customers.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Well… where do I begin? I would have definitely done more research on how the ordering and shipping process works. One of the biggest things I would do if I had to start over would be to visit other stores all over. I would have also done a few interviews with owners of similar stores for pros and cons.
Contact Info:
- Address: 117 W Taylor Street
Griffin, GA 30223 - Website: Bucklesandbowsboutiqe.com
- Phone: 678-572-4223
- Email: Bucklesandbows2016@gmail.com
- Instagram: @bucklesandbowsgriffinga
- Facebook: Facebook.com/bucklesandbowsgriffinga
Image Credit:
Cindy Stansberry Photography
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
