We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sheba Khodadad. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sheba below.
Sheba, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Being a business owner can be really hard sometimes. It’s rewarding, but most business owners we’ve spoken sometimes think about what it would have been like to have had a regular job instead. Have you ever wondered that yourself? Maybe you can talk to us about a time when you felt this way?
I find profound fulfillment as a business owner, even amidst the daunting challenges. Wearing multiple hats and navigating the constant influx of new obstacles can indeed be stressful, but I try to embrace this stress as an integral part of my journey. The autonomy and flexibility that come with managing my own venture are invaluable to me. The structured routine of a 9-5 job has never been my reality; the very thought feels foreign. I’ve grown accustomed to the unpredictable yet invigorating life of managing small businesses – a lifestyle that has become fundamental to my identity. The idea of conforming to a structured routine feels limiting, especially considering my background in entrepreneurship. The unparalleled sense of fulfillment and purpose I derive from what I do is deeply gratifying. I genuinely consider myself incredibly fortunate to embark on this meaningful journey each and every day.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Immersed in the vibrant world of antique rugs, I consider myself incredibly fortunate. Each rug holds a unique history and soul, and I proudly wear the badge of an ‘antique rug aficionado.’ This endeavor, though a business, feels like a cherished hobby, a passion that envelops me entirely.
My journey into the realm of antiques was not a mere career choice; it was destiny intricately woven into my upbringing. Guided by the wisdom of my dear uncle Joseph, I found myself unexpectedly drawn into the enchanting rug world in the summer of 2016. The transition was swift, akin to a whirlwind of fate guiding my steps. I cannot express enough how much fun and excitement this world has brought into my life, but life can be nuanced. Mine is painted with both the sweetness of discovery and the bitter pang of loss.
My uncle, my mentor, departed from this life far too soon, leaving my entire family devastated. During the few precious months I spent under his nurturing wing, we shared a unique closeness. I saw him daily, and he would talk to me, showing me rugs. I was just starting to introduce these rugs into the marketplace and find new owners for them. And then he vanished. Faced with a monumental decision at a very dark time in my family’s life, I had to choose whether to carry forth the torch he had lit for me. I am incredibly happy and relieved that I mustered the courage to continue, even in the face of uncertainty. Embracing this challenging yet rewarding path, I not only honored his legacy but found my own purpose in the process.
Every day in my world is a global treasure hunt, a passionate quest to discover old rugs from every corner of the earth. For those who find solace in the rich narratives of these ancient weaves, a profound connection is formed, whether it’s to my shop or to me personally. Specializing in century-old antique rugs, I’ve cultivated unique bonds with discerning patrons. Each rug that finds a home becomes not just an item but a chapter, weaving my story with theirs.
The joy I find in this work transcends borders. I relish the excitement of shipping these time-worn treasures to new homes across the world. Equally thrilling is the local journey, where I’m welcomed into homes, sharing the stories of these rugs through my ‘Rug N Roll’ in-home concierge service.
What truly sets my heart ablaze is the sense of community that has flourished around my work. My shop is more than just a physical space; it’s a shared adventure. One platform through which I can share is Instagram @blueparakeetrugs, where enthusiasts, clients, and designers alike gather to witness the unfolding surprises. It’s a space where experiences are shared with everyone involved, and I am grateful that people tune in, watch the ride, and embark on this adventure with me.
How’d you think through whether to sell directly on your own site or through a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc.
My journey in the world of online sales commenced on Etsy, a pivotal starting point where I dipped my toes into the marketplace, eager to share items I deeply valued and believed others would appreciate just as much. Before I knew it, I launched my own website, www.blueparakeetrugs.com, a sanctuary for rug enthusiasts. Within its virtual halls, visitors are invited to lose themselves in the intricate patterns and rich histories of these antique pieces, immersing themselves for hours on end. Each listed rug is accompanied by a wealth of information, a testament to my commitment to providing a deep understanding of their origins and significance.
I’m also proud to be in partnership with Anthropologie, a collaboration that adds an extra layer of excitement to my venture. It’s particularly thrilling because within their community, I find kindred spirits – strong, creative women who share my appreciation for the artistry of vintage rugs. Through this partnership, I’ve had the privilege of introducing these remarkable pieces to individuals who might also be encountering the beauty of vintage rugs for the first time, and the impact of that I feel is truly inspiring.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
In building my clientele, my approach has always been deeply authentic and unconventional. I never had a grand plan or a specific set of goals, so I didn’t really have a strategy per se. Instead, I relied on the knowledge passed down from my late uncle and family to simply seek out exceptional antique rugs. Perhaps, this foundation became the magical recipe for my small business to blossom. I feel blessed to be able to identify and cherry-pick rare pieces, so when people discover my shop, me, or my collection, they tend to stick around. I find, bring home, inspect, photograph and list all the rugs and everything in between. I feel incredibly fortunate that referrals, word of mouth, and the rugs being published in home décor magazines have played a significant role in shaping my business. I consider myself incredibly lucky to have earned the trust of my clients, leading to these wonderful opportunities.
In navigating my path, I know I did not adhere to traditional business methods. Professional photoshoots, marketing campaigns and having sales are foreign to my approach. Instead, I just populate the website with old and storied rugs priced fairly until they are found by discerning homeowners or designers who can confidently invest, knowing they are decorating their spaces with exquisite rugs without a hefty price tag. This fosters a unique connection that goes beyond mere transactions.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blueparakeetrugs.com
- Instagram: blueparakeetrugs
- Facebook: Blue Parakeet Rugs