Our Storytime series is based on the premise that stories are one of the most powerful ways to learn and so this series explores topics we think matter greatly to the success of small business owners and artists and creatives. One of those topics is showing customers that you appreciate them because there is a vast body of research as well as countless anecdotes of how showing customers you appreciate them directly impacts the degree to which your business will succeed and grow. Below, you’ll find stories of how some very talented entrepreneurs have made their clients feel appreciated.

Serenity Abrams

I choose to go above and beyond EVERYDAY, for my clients. In my opinion, it’s just common sense. I did not go into this business looking at it from the perspective of just an income. Essentially, these people are an extension and a reflection of who I am. They wear my hair styles, they are in my presence and soak up the energy I give to them. So naturally, I want to make sure they are at peace and have the best experience possible. I have had various clients experience tragedy of unimaginable depths. I’m often moved by my clients strength in these situations so I gift them of free services. I believe it’s the right thing for me to do and it aligns with my purpose here within this community. I believe in karmic energy therefore I move about with my business in a way that benefits those around me in the best way possible. Read more>>

Corey Bechler

My wife and I like to use the tag line that “We make Happy Art for Happy People!” Many times, people will see our art for the first time and instantly smile, their curiosity taking over, and picking up a sculpture or tile to investigate them more… seeing how they are made, looking closely at the whimsical work and smiling. It is this basic concept that caused us to have a very loyal group of collectors. Our fans enjoy our work, often collecting numerous pieces each year. It is this faithful loyalty that causes Stacey and I to work hard to always help out collectors with their special projects… a custom tile if their fur baby, a whimsical robot sculpture for their sons birthday, a stylization of their family’s vacation cottage, we are passionate about helping our collector’s vision become a reality! Read more>>

Shanise Pimentel

I always give my best to my customer my main quote is “Treat your customer like you would like to be treated”. I Once made a Wedding Cake that I had to take 1 hour and 30 minutes away, so my customer had the peace of mind that they would have their cake set up on time and ready to celebrate and take pictures from their special day. Is very important to go beyond and make their experience the best experience possible. Read more>>

Arielle Moyal

When I started my company, I was scared people would forget about me and my worth. Especially in the world of sports, relationships can feel fickle. There are some memorable gifts I have received over the years that inspired me to do a new company seeding project in the hopes of introducing my new adventure with a tangible WOW moment. A limited item for 250 people that made an impact when announcing my new beginning. I created a shirt with the new logo and our company motto, “good energy is contagious”. It sounds simple, but the details were what made the difference. Read more>>

Nikki Fanshaw

It sounds rather simple, but truly showing up for them from start to finish. I typically collaborate with other creatives such as photographers, interior designers, service-based brands who are typically solopreneurs and this is the first time they are really investing back into their business. I want them to feel cared for, nurtured and educated along the way. The branding and website process is a few months long, so making sure they have multiple check-in points along the way, whether that be recorded videos, live Zoom sessions or the back-and-forth communication through a project management tool. By instilling this process, it’s really helped clients understand the steps and milestones and feel very taken care of. In return, this has also resulted in client referrals, which I deeply appreciate. Read more>>

Mauriska Cyphers

I always, always consider myself a consumer/shopper myself and think in that aspect first before being an actual business owner. I believe that when you try to place yourself in someone else’s shoes then you can better relate. It’s not that I’ve singled out one customer and showed them appreciation. I like to think that I treat all of my customers with appreciation. I’ve made my product presentation my customer appreciation! Every customer that orders from my online store receive their items in decorative boxes! I don’t upsell for these boxes or add any additional fee’s, in some cases the boxes actually cost more than the purchase! Read more>>

Allison Boettcher

Every single day, our unwavering dedication revolves around showcasing our genuine care for our customers. They represent not just transactions, but the lifeblood of our existence. Their support fuels our ability to pay rent, sustain our dedicated employees, and open our doors each day. Yet, our commitment extends far beyond this practicality; it’s woven into the very fabric of our company’s core principles. It’s often the smallest gestures that wield the greatest impact. Taking the time to listen to our customers’ stories, whether they’re tales of triumph or challenge, stands as a cornerstone of our approach. Read more>>

Angela Lauren

I love to surprise my clients with Welcome Gifts after they book their wedding date with me. It shows that I know they could have booked with anyone else but I’m honored that they chose my company. I’ll typically fill a box with essentials to help them relax while planning their wedding day. Read more>>

Chef Michelle Daniels

Customers are our life line . They can make or break you. To show customers you appreciate them get to know them. Talk to them, learn likes and dislikes . Although we serve many guests, I always do my best learn my customers name and use it when providing services. It is personal touch especially when they return and you call them by name. I always thank them for choosing us and welcome them back. I would say the best thing was learning about the food allergies of some of our customers. They feel safe knowing we care enough to ask and remember their allergies and guide them on the best food choices. Read more>>

Nicole Tatum

We are a small family owned business so it’s extremely important to us that we make our customers feel like an extension of our family. With that being said, we try to go above and beyond to create a relationship with our customers especially those who have become members of our wine club. Over the years I have witnessed so many new friendships blossom through introducing customers to other customers. We are in a second home area and many people to come to our area post retirement not knowing other people in our town. I find a commonality between people and use that to introduce them to each other. Read more>>

Tawnya Fornerod

Elevating Customer Experience: Just The Strip’s Extraordinary Connection with Clients. In an era where businesses often prioritize transactions over relationships, Just The Strip is setting a heartwarming example of how personalized touches can create lasting connections with customers. With a strong commitment to uplifting women in the esthetics industry and fostering meaningful connections, Just The Strip goes above and beyond to make every customer feel truly special. Read more>>

Zoe Marshall Nares

Soon after March 2020 the world of restaurants/Bars was shut down due to the pandemic, with no knowledge of when things may get back to normal, if ever. Both my business partner and I have spent a large part of our lives working in hospitality, it’s apart of who we are and knowing our friends and colleagues were in a troubling and uncertain time we made the decision to start a small initiative the “Local Love Project” to give back to bar/restaurant staff. Our business has been built on the support and love of the bar/restaurant world, with the uncertainty of when they would be seeing their next pay check we started donating 100% of our profits from home deliveries back to bar/restaurant staff, raising over $15,000. We started this initiative to help our colleagues/customers in an uncertain time, what came out of this was so much more than we ever expected, we came out of this with a stronger belief in our selves and our community. Read more>>

Praise Santos McKenna

Because I’m starting a podcast this Fall, I invested in new audio gear. I’d heard about the customer service at the online audio store Sweetwater so decided to buy through them anticipating that if there were issues with the gear down the road I could call them up. Sweetwater went beyond my expectations. Once I placed my order they were the ones who proactively called me. A sales engineer names Lei greeted me, thanked me for my order, asked me if I had any questions, and then chatted with me about me about what I was working. This kind of personal touch made me feel really seen. I hope our team can do these human touches like this (sorry AI is not gonna beat 1:1 human interaction) even as we scale. Read more>>