Our Shop of the Week is Kitty and Polly, an online store that offers handmade gift items. This week's feature is exciting because Polly has offered to give one giveaway winner a $10 voucher to spend from her shop along with this cute birdy shopper bag.
win a $10 voucher and this birdy bag:)
Please read the simple rules on how you can enter the giveaway below the Q&A. Meanwhile let's get to know more about Kitty and Polly.
What's the inspiration behind your shop's name?
Kitty is my mum's nickname, Polly is mine, so it made sense to bring the two together as mum has been a great source of support & encouragement in getting the shop up and running. Sounds kinda sweet too...!
How old is your shop?
Kitty and Polly is approx two years old.
What inspired you to start your own home business?
I always relished the idea of running my own business, and having input into all aspects of it. As well at that, I've worked in industry for a long time and really wanted to do something more creative.
Polly, at a craft fair
How do you find products to sell on your store?
I do a lot of research online, visit craft fairs and find new sources through the likes of Twitter and Facebook. There are lots of makers/craftspeople who get directly in touch with me as well.
What was the toughest challenge you faced so far?
I work full time as well so the toughest challenge is finding enough time to dedicate to Kitty & Polly and make sure I focus on the priorities - it's very easy to get distracted by Twitter and all the lovely blogs out there (such as yours !)
How did you get over it?
Not sure I have completely mastered this challenge, but I have developed a good routine which ensures I work on the business but also take time out to relax and enjoy life too !
Please Name:
the things you do when you're not busy in your shop -
walk my Basset hound Oscar, read (currently reading My French Life by Vicki Archer), a bit of cooking and gardening
Oscar
aww, how handsome this guy! :)
stuff inside your bag you can't leave home without -
my mobile, my hairbrush, any sort of pretty notebook (to jot any ideas that might come into my head!)
your favorite shops -
tough one this but Plumo, Marks and Spencer, Avoca, vintage and charity shops
your top 3 favorite picks from your shop
Black polka dot clutch,
Make Tea Not War sampler,
Star Earrings
What tips would you want to share for aspiring home based entrepreneurs like you?
Go for it , believe in yourself, stick with it !
Any message to your customers and the people who support you?
To customers, family & friends - a BIG thank you. It's always a thrill to get orders and happy customer feedback.
~*~*~*~
There are three ways to enter the giveaway or you can do all three and get 3 entries. Let me know in your comment if you did all three:)
1. Just hop over
Kitty and Polly and tell us which is your favorite item from the store by leaving a comment on this post.
2. Be a follower of The Shopbug. Just click the Follow button on the sidebar.
3. Help us spread the word about the giveaway by making a blog post. Don't forget to leave a comment with the URL of your post.
As for me, these are my faves. Thank you so much Polly for taking part of the interview and for hosting the very first giveaway:) The winner will be drawn on Monday next week through Random.org. Don't forget to include an email add where I can contact you. Thank you in advance to everyone who will join.
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