Our country is a land of diversity where the festivals unite us. Right from north to south and east to west celebrations are common. This festive season starting from Ganesh Chaturthi line up with many festivals like Dussehra and Diwali.
The main aim of these festivals is winning of righteous over evil, good over bad, light over darkness, wisdom over ignorance and so on. These festivals not only bring happiness, but lights up the lives of many, many small vendors.
Particularly small businesses help people to make their celebrations more enjoyable by being budget friendly. Hi @Latika_Malhotra the below is the link of my review to one such small businesses.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/MzT6Xh3h53mLG4iF7?g_st=iw
Picture of gift and decorative articles.
As a Local Guide I take this opportunity to highlight one such business run by an inspiring woman entrepreneur, Sweta Dhoot. She runs a boutique shop, under the name SHRIA. Though on a small scale, I found her shop very, very interesting. Beautiful collections, good quality, unique designs and many varieties. She had vast collections of beautiful sarees, ready-made Kurtis n sets,salwar materials,bed spreads,nighties, handbags, accessories, slippers, jewellery, gift items, decorative items etc. I was overwhelmed and I interviewed her. She was very busy by arranging the shelves with the new stocks that has arrived for this festival. Even then she replied to my questions in a very politely and friendly manner.
Stacking the racks with her assistant.
Below are the answers by the owner.
1.What inspired you take up this business?
My neighbour in Nagpur used to run a business from her home. Seeing her, even I was inspired to do something on my own. By seeing the demand for Calcutta Bengal cotton sarees, and the push from my Uncle, I started my business.
Small but beautiful shop.
2.Since when you started doing business?
I started doing my business from home in a small scale 20 years before. There was a requirement for authentic Bengal cotton fabrics. I acquired sarees, dress materials from Calcutta. People loved my collections and my business grew rapidly. Apart from just Bengal Cottons, now I sell many varieties like ready-made Kurtis and sets, nighties, bed spreads, storage and jewellery boxes, handbags, slippers, decorative items, gift articles, accessories, etc.
3.Yes, I see your products are very unique. How do you acquire such good ones?
I personally select the products. I directly visit many wholesalers. I put the same efforts in getting the products as if I am purchasing for my own purpose. I don’t compromise in quality.
4.When did you start this shop? Did this affect your profit margin?
My business expanded. My customers were expecting more varieties. I felt my home is a small place for many products. For keeping my customers comfortable and satisfied, I started this shop on this auspicious VIJAYADASAMI day 5 years ago. By God’s grace I am celebrating 5th year anniversary.
5.Congratulations, can you say what is the secret behind your success?
Definitely my passion, hard work, full support from family members, motivation from friends and customers. More than everything self inspiration. I feel a sense of achievement by seeing my satisfied customers. All these are reasons for my success.
Now we can imagine how small businesses unite us. Calcutta to Chennai, east to south. We too as a Local Guide let us support small businesses and inspire them.
I would like to tag @RosyKohli @AjitThite @TravellerG @NareshDarji @TusharSuradkar
