We recently connected with Karly Matzen and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Karly thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?
In addition to assuming roles such as proprietor, overseeing payroll, managing human resources, serving as a social media expert, and personally crafting wedding invitation designs, I also function as the primary purchaser for all Sweet Paper. While the notion of adhering to a conventional 9-5 schedule crosses my mind frequently, the daily gratification derived from witnessing customers’ enthusiasm for the latest products and developments at Sweet Paper serves as a profound reward. As long as I continue to have the backing of my local La Jolla community, as well as the support from family, friends, and patrons, I am confident that the responsibilities of business ownership will be a source of enduring fulfillment, devoid of regrets.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My passion for paper and stationery has been a lifelong affair, prompting me to explore the prospect of venturing into an independent enterprise. It was in March 2022 that I serendipitously discovered Sweet Paper, which was then available for acquisition. Upon engaging in discussions with the previous owner, Theresa Anderson, I became convinced that Sweet Paper represented the optimal opportunity for my aspirations. Established in 2010 by Theresa and her sister Julie, Sweet Paper had, like many businesses, encountered a phase of burnout and stagnation. Serving as a cherished local gift shop, stationery emporium, and e-commerce platform, Sweet Paper had fostered a dedicated following. Recognizing the potential for growth and the alignment of my own stylistic inclinations with the brand’s existing loyal customer base, I resolved to undertake its stewardship. In my vision for the future, I aspire to expand Sweet Paper’s offerings to encompass a comprehensive range of Wedding Invitations, Save the Date cards, and greeting cards in 2024..
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
A primary avenue through which I consistently acquire new clients is by actively seeking referrals from our existing customer base. The enduring satisfaction of our clientele with our work is evident in their continued endorsement of our services through the referral process. This reliance on recommendations from satisfied customers serves as a testament to the quality and value our offerings provide, further solidifying our commitment to excellence in meeting the needs and expectations of our discerning clientele.
Have you ever had to pivot?
The acquisition of Sweet Paper marked a pivotal transition in my professional trajectory. Having accrued 18 years of experience as a Spa Director and Massage Therapist, my foray into the realm of a stationery store represented uncharted territory. Previously accustomed to curating wellness experiences for clients, I now find myself immersed in the art of crafting distinctive wedding invitations and elevating the overall gifting experience. This shift underscores my commitment to adaptability and the pursuit of excellence in diverse domains, as I leverage my skills to bring a refined touch to the world of stationery and celebrations.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sweet-paper.com
- Instagram: @sweetpaper and @sweetpaperweddings
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetpaperlj/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/15616281/admin/feed/posts/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/sweet-paper-san-diego