After tens of thousands of conversations with business owners, we’ve concluded that one of the key determinants between thriving and struggling businesses is how appreciated customers feel. While that insight might seem fairly commonplace, what’s rare is discussion on how business owners go about making their customers feel appreciated. So, we reached out to some of the most loved and admired entrepreneurs and small business owners in the community and asked them to open up about how they show appreciation to their customers.

Katrina Kelley

I love my customers. It is all about making them happy, because I make things for them and wouldnt be here in business without them liking my work and returning for more. Its the basis of any business but especially mine being a ‘handmade’ product. My business is 80% online with 20% being in person summertime events. Read more>>

Josefine Mendez

We truly appreciate each and every supporter visiting or purchasing from Derme Home. With each sale, we always follow up with our customer to ask for feedback as well as send them a hand-written thank-you-note. It is a small gesture but have shown to be so appreciated by our community. We highly encourage every business owner to do this, for as long as they can. Read more>>

Barbra Wollner

Being a realtor means that I meet with a wide variety of people from different backgrounds and cultures. I like to support local charities as a way to connect with clients because I feel like our community members really strive to make it a better place, which encourages me to chip in and do my part. I love the Dunwoody community of Atlanta and am always excited to help boost morale, create a brighter future for our youth, and connect with everyone in the community. Read more>>

Jodi Riley

At Jodi Riley Consulting, our focus is nonprofit organizations. Nonprofits are so unique in how they function as businesses, and I think it is really important to consider this when I think about how best to demonstrate my appreciation for our clients. One of the biggest ways we show appreciation is by attending their fundraising events. Sometimes we sponsor the event, sometimes, our team attends as a group. Personally, I even get my family involved! My husband and daughters can often be found at a 5K or gala with me on the weekends. This tangible demonstration of support lets clients know that I value their mission and am truly part of their team in the community. Read more>>

Sue Longo

Our shop is located in the heart of downtown, and there are 3 schools in walking distance. We get our fair share of young patrons… and although at times they have caused some mayhem at other local stores, we have had very positive experiences with our teen and tween – aged customers. They love coming in and often comment on how calm they feel, or that they just feel good spending time here at the rock shop. Read more>>

Andrew Elmore Jackson III

…a client trusting enough to talk to me about her current situation in her marriage. In return I took a chance and listened. Truly asked God for the guidance to represent Him in my Best. Gave my input on the situation and from there, I feel like I gave hope to their situation. I believe the end result was Reassurance in God and her Husband Read more>>

Naomi Ortiz Despiau

When I started up, my best friends were the first to order from. Me! They all pay for their treats. It was so slow one week that I did not have a customer, but they all ordered from me with no questions asked and referred me to other people who are now customers. They knew my business needed it, and they took the extra step to help. Plus, I always give them my trials for free, too, but they never want them for free THEY are always paying. Read more>>

Sabrena Shields

As a travel agent it is my pleasure to assist my clients in creating the vacation of their dreams. I appreciate that my clients put their trust in my business and value my opinion. As a thank you for booking vacations with me I send gifts. The gift displays my appreciation for my clients, and I am also able to support another business owner with the products that I purchase. Gifts vary depending on type of vacation, how many people and what they have expressed interest in. Read more>>