2018. What a year it has been! We relaunched Sweet Feeders at the very end of 2017, so this was our first full year back at it. We are exhausted but incredibly grateful as we look back over the year.
First team picture, November 2017.
This time last year.
At the end of 2017, we had high hopes, a glorious total of 2 online orders, no website, no new marketing material, and were planning to go to the Texas State Fair as our main income for the year. Today, we have filled over 300 online orders, have a website AND are on Amazon Prime, have brochures and tags coming out our ears, and are very grateful that we did not go to the State Fair, as it was basically rained out this year. Who knew so much could happen in a year?
In the workshop.
Perspective.
We say this not to boast in a great year, but out of wonder and gratitude. We still have a loooong way to go, and are still putting most of the profit back into the business. However, it is easy in the midst of the grind to only see the late nights and slow growth, and to miss the steady progress. All of the Sweet Feeders team members work a number of other day jobs, and it has been tough this year to juggle all of the moving pieces. We are so grateful for a profitable year, though, during which we learned a lot about product sales, graphic design, marketing, shipping, each other, and ourselves!
2018 Christmas orders!
Look back, move forward gratefully.
I encourage you, entrepreneur, small business owner, mom, teacher – whoever you are and whatever you do – take some time some time to review your year like this. Put on paper the incremental progress that has accumulated to encouraging momentum, month by month. As we move towards the new year and everyone is looking forwards, don’t forget that looking back gives great perspective, and can help you leave 2018 with gratitude and hope.
Happy New Year!
Caitlynn
Born a world traveler, Caitlynn has settled in Fort Worth to continue doing what she loves – investing in her family and community while capturing beauty with her camera and her writing. Caitlynn also has a background in customer service, administrative support, and sales. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Ryan.
