Our Storytime series is based on the premise that stories are one of the most powerful ways to learn and so this series explores topics we think matter greatly to the success of small business owners and artists and creatives. One of those topics is showing customers that you appreciate them because there is a vast body of research as well as countless anecdotes of how showing customers you appreciate them directly impacts the degree to which your business will succeed and grow. Below, you’ll find stories of how some very talented entrepreneurs have made their clients feel appreciated.

Melanie Legamaro

As a long-time sales and client relationship manager, I’ve spent years perfecting the craft of making clients feel heard and appreciated. Strong communication almost always circumvents disappointment and frustration and builds trust as you work as a team. Read More>>

Ariel Sutton

From working in a restaurant to being a business owner, I believe you can gain an understanding of hospitality in both circumstances. They both give you a sense of how to manage the situation at hand. When I worked at a restaurant I got to see the nature of the business first hand. Read More>>

Jonathan McClain

The best thing we’ve done to show our patrons we appreciate them is refusing to ‘nickel and dime’ them for basic amenities. It is a core value of ours to provide a complete, high-quality festival experience for the price of admission. Many large-scale events have moved toward charging extra for things like seating, shade, or even basic comfort zones. We are firmly against that. Read More>>

Kia Deja

After our events, we frequently donate a percentage of our proceeds to local charities and non-profit organizations. This is also a way we show appreciation and support to the community. Read More>>

Chandra Ellerson

When I started my business I wanted to make sure my customers felt the reality of buying handmade jewelry from me. My focus is on creating designs that are inspired by ancient artifacts and I wanted the packaging to feel ancient as well as personal. Read More>>

Racheal Rickman

Running a non-profit that helps the homeless community it is important to show up. Showing up means staying consistent, listening to our clients’ needs and making a personal connection. I thrive to do that with every single person we meet in our outreach. I show up when I am tired, in pain, and have a million other things to do. Read More>>

Charnell Timms

Last year I received an enquiry from a mother looking for a photographer to take her son’s graduation photos. She was determined to find a photographer who would be up for the challenge of photographing her transgender son as he was in the process of gender-affirming surgery. Read More>>

Jessica Luevano

A customer is the same as a guest in your home. Whether they be new or returning they want to feel welcomed. What I’ve done for returning customers in past it was given my time. Read More>>

Lisa Fitch

One of the best ways I’ve found to show customers genuine appreciation is through unexpected, personal touches that go beyond the transaction. As the owner of Bootleg Bourbon Balls, I am usually the first to have an interaction with our customers. I once had a repeat customer who had been ordering regularly as gifts for clients. Read More>>

Bella Walker

One of the most meaningful ways I’ve shown appreciation to my customers is by turning each order into an experience rather than just a delivery. From the beginning, I’ve been intentional about creating a sense of luxury that goes beyond the product itself. Read More>>