Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ariel Williams. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ariel, appreciate you joining us today. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

I would hope that my legacy will be known as a strong, loving person who beat the odds of many. A person who created a change within herself, her family and her community. A person who broke generational curses and built a firm foundation for her family to continue to benefit from for years to come.

Ariel, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello! My name is Ariel Williams, proud owner of Fill-A-Basket & More Gift Shop. My business really began as a good gesture for a friend in need. One of my best friend’s house had burned down and I wanted to make her care package. I created her a basket filled with everyday household items and food. She was so thankful and me knowing that I was able to make her smile during a tragic time made me smile on the inside.

After that, I decided to create gift baskets as a business, for extra income. I was doing great! GOD then planted a seed in me. He told me to include the ones I love. I reached out to a few of my family members who are also talented and creative. I asked them if they wanted to sell our items in front of my mother’s house on a corner. They all agreed.

Six months later, GOD made it possible for us to open the doors of Fill-A-Basket Gift Shop! We now have a business that supports all of my family’s dreams.

One thing that sets my business aside from others is that we treat our customers like family. Every customer and or vendor that crosses our path we treat with the upmost respect and we welcome them with a smile. Another thing that sets us aside is the many things we offer, custom items, venue space, photography, pop up shops, and so much more. Majority of our vendors are black owned businesses that are starting with limited resources. So not only do we offer a space for them but I have held free networking events so that we can learn and gain from one another. I want to see everyone win!

Does your business have multiple or supplementary revenue streams (like a ATM machine at a barbershop, etc)?

My business does have a multiple revenue stream. I was blessed to have a two suite building , so in one suite is the retail store(Fill-A-Basket) in which we sell gift baskets, jewelry, wall art, t-shirts, candles, etc. On the second suite is our venue space (The Den at Fill-A-Basket), in which we use for our pop up shops, rent out for events, and use as a photography space. Pop up shops it self is a revenue stream. Photography is a revenue stream. Renting the space is a revenue stream. We also rent out tables, chairs, tents, etc. Also we offer décor packages for to customers that rent the event space. So have several streams of revenue within this one business.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Social Media has been the best source thus far. I used to be shy to promote on social media at the beginning. But the more I did it the easier it became. I would go live and think to myself this is crazy, no one would watch me. Now, it’s nothing. I have no issue sending someone a message about my business and what I have to offer. Actually sending messages to strangers got me to be friends with one of my biggest supporters. You just have to do it!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://fill-a-basket-more-llc.square.site/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Fill-A-Basket/100063706385905/

Image Credits
(Red African dress photo) credit: Foster Photography Group of Fill-A-Basket & More