2 years later…
The past 2 years have been full of growth, both personally and professionally. It was 2 years ago this spring that both of my long time employees told me they were moving on. Both left for very good reasons. One made the decision to go to school in Japan, and the other decided to devote more time to painting. Both great reasons, but the double whammy was a hit, I’m not going to lie. Although I was confident in my skill set and my drive, losing 2/3 of the staff of a small business felt daunting; especially when I was the 1/3 left standing.
The news brought all the reservation that comes with a big change. How will I get done what I need to get done? Who will I be working with? Will they share my vision for the shop? After the initial discomfort gave way to action, I started looking. I have always felt strongly about hiring people who feel sincerely happy to be at the shop. I think it is a very special place full of creative opportunity. If someone is just punching in and out, without feeling a connection to the shop, it’s not a good fit. Ideally the shop is full of excitement, not just for our current set up, but for all the future possibilities.
With that in mind I called Matthew Klos. He had worked at the shop years ago, before my time, and had enthusiastically checked in over the years. I felt he really wanted to be here, and I really wanted him to be here. After a quick phone call and a great meeting, we were on our way. Matthew brings a depth of knowledge to the shop that I am really proud of. He is a master photographer and woodworker with an extensive knowledge of fine art reproduction work. All things that I couldn’t do alone. Because of him we are putting the finishing touches on our photo studio. We had the inkjet printer and the space. Miraculously the right person came along. The best part is that I feel his full commitment to the growth of the shop and the quality of the work we do. Personally, I feel supported by his presence and he makes me laugh out loud every day. I couldn’t be luckier.
One down, one to go; 2 out of 3 spots filled. I put out feelers and got a bite from Abby Tracy. Upon meeting Abby, she left me with the impression she was skilled, eager to be in a creative environment, and ready to work. Her background is in art and graphic design. With her graphic design skills we have been able to expand our offerings, making some pieces even more custom. She has upped our game in terms of our own promotional material, as well as allowed us to offer graphic design for everything from small. personal projects to large corporate designs. It has also been a joy to see her eye for design and color translate into framing. I love learning from different perspectives and in this business an open mind or, really, open “eye” is key. I love the way we push each other to see things differently. I hit the lottery again. 3 out of 3!!!!
“It feels really healthy. Everyone plays a role and we lean on each other.”
I can’t believe it has been two years since this big change. As usual, it is easy to look back now and see the benefits of what was a tricky time. Since Abby and Matthew came on board, the upgrades are noteworthy, we have redesigned the flow of the shop, upgraded and organized our offerings, and started a number of new initiatives. It feels really good to come to work knowing the shop is full of good energy and hopes for the future. The future looks bright as we build our offerings.
IN HOME CONSULTATION
CORPORATE AND COMMERCIAL FRAMING
ART AND IMAGE SOURCING
FINE ART REPRODUCTION
GRAPHIC DESIGN
I have always felt there is something very special about this place. The nature of the work is very creative and always changing. But there is something else. I can’t quite describe it, but would say there is a bit of magic to it and my two comrades add to the good vibes.
It is easy now looking back to say it all worked out for the best. But, I must recognize it was not an easy time. It certainly had ups and downs… fear and doubt crept in, for sure. That being said, the past 2 years reinforced a major life lesson. Everything is always changing, and without change there is no space for all the possibilities that growth brings.
Feeling Grateful,
P