So I have been off shop shift for three days. Today was my day back in, then I will be on Mo, Tu, We and Sat for the next fortnight. We had gone for a walk pre work and got our vitamin sea fill. Then a coffee at Java before I opened up.
First things – change into thermals and hand drawn boiler suit. Install screen stand and screen on counter, then drawing board and drawing board screen. Box bay door with hand sanitiser, leaflets and business cards. Covid rules on door and today my negative covid test notification from Thursday 15th. Open back window and front door of shop for through ventilation covid measure. Set up mobile hotspot and link card reader with tablet. Fill dog bowl with clean water and have dog snacks ready on counter.
The shop is open…
A few people came in and browsed, one couple bought my Old Harry from Brownsea Island card as a birthday card for someone else. I gave away a Jurassic beach postcard for a young man who was patient while his grandmother chatted with me. During the day interaction with other shopkeepers and some friends who passed by.
That essentially was the sale of the day – a greetings card for £2, so not a successful sales day. Meanwhile I put up the four new original art postcards drawn over the last three days. I also put on display an original framed piece from home and two original pieces in mounts were added to the basket display.
I also drew a new card which is a commission for a view of Java for someone’s birthday. Checked against other card drawn this week and there were clear distinct differences.
Then I put up my sticker for the new Swanage and Purbeck dog friendly group which links to a private Facebook group which I had created during lockdown after seeing that Weymouth and Portland were already doing this and thought another thing to remind visitors that there are many dog friendly businesses here two – this will be a long term project. Today three businesses took stickers to display. I am doing this for the shop. I do not know how the other artist really feels about dogs coming in so I will run it in my days because it is an important cause for me.
I also discussed a new idea with another local business for something we might jointly sell to promote the ‘Art for fun’ idea based around Swanage. So, although the day was very disappointing in terms of sales I actually got several things done.
I will be back in the shop on Monday. If in my area drop by and say hi, give me feedback on my art, shop layout, and how I respond to visitors – it’s all useful for me taking my business forwards. If you like something enough to buy it I won’t try and change your mind.