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.

Briana Spears

One of the most memorable things I’ve done to show customer appreciation was for a repeat client who had consistently trusted me to bring her event visions to life. She mentioned offhand that she loved a specific custom element I had used for another event, so I decided to surprise her by incorporating it into her setup at no additional charge. Read more>>

Nataly Villa Popes

When it comes to Avil Candles I always include a written note from myself to express my appreciation to customers and to let them know that without their support Avil Candles wouldn’t be what it is now. Every note lets the customer know that they are appreciated and includes details of the healing benefits of the candles. I always hope that my handmade candles bring the peace that the client is looking for into their home and or sacred space. Read more>>

Devon Verhoff

There’s not one particular instance that comes to mind, but we really focus on getting to know our customers, especially our die-hard regulars. These are the regulars that venture to the farmer’s market when it’s 100 degrees plus at 8am in the summer or single-digits with windchill in the winter. We truly valve their opinion and try to go the extra step to verify their and all our customers bread satisfaction. We love when they come up with fun and inventive sourdough mix-in flavors, and try to focus on them in our social media posts. Read more>>

Nigeria Cooper

I give back to my community in several meaningful ways. One of my primary efforts is organizing book bag drives and back-to-school drives, ensuring that children in need have the supplies and resources they need to succeed academically. These events help relieve financial burdens for families, allowing students to start the school year with the tools they need to thrive. Read more>>

Whitney Power

Gaining clientele and keeping them is not just about doing good work or having the best skills. It starts from their first interaction with you, whether that be from social media or the first time they walk into your place of business and meet you. Keys to running a successful business involve more than just a transaction. I strive to make everyone feel seen and heard in my nail salon. Everyone has a different story and background and even if you don’t have similar interests being a good listener is a key factor in the beauty industry. The way you conduct yourself and treat others reflects a lot in the way you handle your business and sets the tone for what clients are looking for in a service provider. Read more>>

Briann Downes

When it comes to my customers, I often times feel that the jewelry finds them – they don’t find the jewelry. The gemstone calls to them or the perfect necklace catches their attention in the right moment. Most times when a customer puts on a piece of Soul & Bones jewelry, I look at them and say omg it looks like it was made for you!! & I really mean it. The right pieces find the right people. So there have been multiple times where someone has decided, despite absolutely loving the piece, that they cannot afford it on that day & I’ve chosen to give them the piece of jewelry for free. If it was made for you and you love it, I’d be happier seeing you walk away with a piece that really means something than just having more money in my pocket. Read more>>