We were lucky to catch up with Ariel Williams recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ariel, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. One of the toughest things about entrepreneurship is that there is almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

The most recent unexpected issue that arose within my business was the multiple burglaries.Sadly, small business owners were being targeted within the area. This caused my business to take a major loss. Due to the safety of our employees and the financial loss I was forced to close our brick and mortar location. Through GOD’s grace, we have recently been able to grow our business at a new location. It’s a fresh start which means rebuilding our brand. I am very appreciative of our loyal customers who have been very supportive. We are happy to now serve the City of Clay and surrounding Birmingham community.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I began this journey as a kind gesture to a good friend of mine. My friend had lost everything in a house fire. I decided to create a gift basket filled with everyday necessities, love, and treats. When I delivered her the gift basket, the smile of gratitude that appeared on her face made me realize that this was something I wanted to continue to do for others. It’s not about just putting things in a basket for me. It’s about creating a beautiful gift filled with love and care and delivering it to others in good, bad, and hard times. Our gift baskets bring joy and creates beautiful memories.

I later decided to add other services that will also create the same joy and memories for others. Our other services now include photography and event decor.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I’m currently pivoting in my business now. Due to being forced to close our first location and now opening in a new city is a major challenge. We are literally starting over. I believe it’s a blessing in disguise. We now have a new range of customers to reach. The community has been very welcoming. It also gives us an opportunity to learn from our past mistakes in business and grow from them. I’m so excited!

Do you have multiple revenue streams – if so, can you talk to us about those streams and how your developed them?

Yes, Fill-A-Basket & More LLC has multiple revenue streams. Our retail store has a physical location for customers to shop in person or online through our website and Etsy. We offer photography by Foster Photography Group, available for studio and event photography. We offer venue rental and event decor. We also offer party rentals.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://fill-a-basket-more-llc.square.site/
• Instagram: FillABasketNMore
• Facebook: Fill-A-Basket
• Other: https://fosterphotographygroup.squarespace.com/

Image Credits
Demetrius Foster, Foster Photography Group, By Fill-A-Basket & More