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.

Ashley Cummings

Growing up I could not help but notice how my fathers’ interactions with people affected them, aside from him being was the most charismatic human I have ever experienced, as a child I was more amazed by the way every salesperson, teacher, waiter, grocery cashier RESPONDED TO HIM. The joy and happiness, the gratitude, is what I felt-it was palpable. As I got older I noticed that, besides my father’s irrefutable charisma, he knew everyone’s names, and more often than not, their children’s names and what they were doing in life. Going to the local bank, “Hey Mary! How ya doing?”, I could just see Mary’s face light up, “Hey Eric! how can I help you today?”, “How did James do on his Physics exam last month? Did Sara get into Rutgers?”. Read more>>

Brian Delong-weismiller

Recently, we had a touching experience that demonstrated the power of community and the trust our customers place in Bud Weismiller Flowers. A new customer, who was out of the country and in a different time zone, posted on social media about needing a last-minute sympathy arrangement for a loved one who had passed away. She expressed concern about leaving such an important task to just anyone, especially given the communication challenges. Read more>>

Katia Balabaieva

At Miblart, we recognize that we exist as a service provider only because our clients choose to work with us and return for more services. In order to succeed in a competitive market, it’s essential to demonstrate value not only through our services but also by supporting clients in other ways. One way we achieve this is through free education. Our team has extensive experience in the self-publishing industry, particularly in book cover design, and we have chosen to develop our business further by sharing our expertise. Read more>>

Robin Litrenta

I am keenly aware clients have photographer choices, so it is important for me to show my gratitude for them. I do this by providing everyone with a customized, elevated experience. From our initial discovery call, to their portrait session and all the way through delivering wall art, heirloom albums and prints, my top priority is making sure clients’ photography goals are met. This begins with listening carefully to clearly understand their vision, after all, these portraits will adorn their walls. So many of my clients have written the loveliest reviews, returned yearly for updated portraits and referred their family and friends to me. In fact, I offer clients a substantial referral fee off a future portrait session whenever someone they have referred books with me. Read more>>

Jai Staton

This is such a relevant topic for me right now as it is on my top five list. I’ve set a deadline and a target date to do a client appreciation event. All of my private clients have been word of mouth and referrals and I am really grateful for that. I am also really grateful for how much they trust me to take good care of their business with them. Read more>>

Lani Harmony

We at The Urban Charm understand that our customers are the heart of our brand, and we strive to show our appreciation in meaningful ways that extend beyond in-person interactions. To celebrate our online community, we launched a virtual “Customer Appreciation Campaign” showcasing all our current customers and their honest feedback through social posts, video reviews and newsletter features. We host live jewelry-making tutorials on Instagram and TikTok, where customers can learn new techniques and create their own unique pieces from the comfort of their homes. By being a part of our social communities our customers have access to exciting activities and exclusive benefits. Additionally, we offer special discounts throughout the year, allowing our customers to indulge in their favorite bohemian styles at a fraction of the cost year round. Read more>>

Amber Trahan

To show I appreciate my clients I love to do gift raffles and give out money vouchers. I sometimes add a free service to their appointments. Read more>>