Shopkeeper Spotlight: Maureen Koopman of All Spelled Out
Shopkeeper Spotlight
Shopkeeper Spotlight is a regular feature where I highlight a shop owner and what they love to do!
What’s your name?
Maureen Koopman
Tell us about your shop:
All Spelled Out, LLC i is an online shop creating mixed media home decor from new and up-cycled wood, embellished with wool-blend felt flowers. We are honored to grace your home and celebrations! I also founded Home for the Holidays, a pop-up shop that temporarily occupies a brick and mortar storefront during the holiday season in Lakewood, Ohio.
Where can we find your shop?
www.allspelledout.com
How long have you been a shopkeeper?
Maker Shopkeeper: 8 years
Pop Up Shopkeeper: 2 years
What is your strength as a shopkeeper?
I feel that my strength is in my love of people! I love the chance to talk to someone & get to know them a bit. I also enjoy helping them find just what they’re looking for.
What is your weakness as a shopkeeper?
My weakness is definitely a lack of focus. I know what needs to get done but I am easily distracted.
What do you attribute most of your shop’s success to? The level of customer service I provide when helping my customers. I feel that I always greet people with a smile and make them feel welcome.
What’s your top piece of advice for anyone who wants to open up a shop like yours?
My advice is to stick with what you’re comfortable with. I am a very small business but I am also very okay with that. As I see more success, I add better/newer supplies, nicer displays, etc. I have built my business from scratch, with no real education and have also done so by bootstrapping. I didn’t feel comfortable borrowing to get where I want to be. Don’t get too big too fast or think you “need it all” at once. Also, don’t be afraid to say no!
What’s your WHY?
That one is easy! My two boys, affectionately nicknamed “The Fellas”.
I love showing them the power of believing in yourself & creating a life that you love. They both enjoy helping me with shop related tasks (most of the time!) and I enjoy teaching them the aspects of running a business. I also love that this choice has allowed me to spend more time with them while still contributing to my family’s financial well-being.
What’s your favorite guilty pleasure?
Wine
What did you want to be when you grew up?
A Kindergarten teacher. I think it’s because we did a lot of “crafting & creating” when I was in Kindergarten.
Thank you, Maureen Koopman for taking the time to do the Shopkeeper Spotlight interview! If you want to hear more interviews with incredible shopkeepers listen to the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast episodes below (and new interviews coming 2021!):
Episode 38: Shopkeeper Stories with Kathy of Pineapple on Main
Episode 37: Shopkeeper Stories with April of Pink + Frillos
Episode 36: Shopkeeper Stories with Karen of Alluv Place
Episode 35: Shopkeeper Stories with Taylor of The Turquoise Top Hat
Want to learn more?
- Follow Savvy Shopkeeper on Instagram or Facebook or sign up for email updates!
- Visit the Shopkeeper’s Academy to learn more about our group memberships and 1:1 coaching.
- Listen to the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast.
I share some of the most helpful information and tips for retail business owners on the Savvy Shopkeeper Retail Podcast. I know you’re busy so episodes are short and sweet at around 20 minutes. Want to work less, profit more, and grow? Listen on any of these platforms:
