Today, I'm thrilled to share with you a live panel discussion from our EVOLVE conference in April 2024. The energy was incredible, and my panelists brought amazing insights. If you love hearing a mix of perspectives and stories from retail experts, you’re going to love this episode!

We dive into the biggest challenges independent retailers are facing right now and practical strategies to overcome them. You’ll hear a success story from one of the panelists about a client who achieved great results—and practical tips on how they got there! We also tackle how to stand out in the crowded online space and where to focus your time and resources in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

A standout moment at EVOLVE was the You 2.0 exercise. Inspired by my mentor Jen Gottlieb, this powerful exercise can help you envision your future success and impact how you show up in your business each and every day.

To wrap up, my panelists shared advice on what you need to know to achieve your 2.0 by next year. This episode is full of valuable tips and inspiration, so you might even want to listen more than once!

[3:45] Introducing our Rooted in Retail panelists live from EVOLVE

[9:12]: What is the top challenge for independent retailers currently and what tips do our panelists have for tackling it?

[15:20] How can an independent retailer be memorable in a sea of forgettable?

[23:31] Real-life examples of independent retailers who reached their goals and the steps they took to succeed

[25:56] How Vi Wickham managed to double one store’s return on ad spend using Google Ads

[32:04] How can small retailers make smart choices about technology and marketing investments to keep up with trends and evolve?

[39:08] What tips do our panelists have for independent retailers to reach their future goals?

[47:38] If you had to start your business all over again, what's one thing you would do differently?

Get all the resources mentioned on our website at https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/advice-from-the-retail-pros-live-from-evolve-2024/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Welcome back to After the Show where we’re diving into the impact of adding more fun in your business. In our latest episode, I had a great conversation with Aimee Pelletier and Carly Stipe from Darn Knit Anyway, a store that’s redefining community connection and fun in retail.

Aimee and Carly have really brought a playful energy to their store, and you can see the results everywhere. From Instagram reels that are getting millions of views to building real connections with customers right there in the store, Darn Knit Anyway is proof that having fun can make a real difference.

So, join me as I dig into what it means to inject fun into your business. This episode is a reminder that while running a business can be hard at times, embracing laughter, creativity, and community can lead to success!

[01:55] Why Crystal's big takeaway from Darn Knit Anyway was community connection

[02:41] How running a business can be very heavy sometimes

[03:20] How Darn Knit Anyway is getting a million views on some of their Instagram reels

[05:09] 3 key questions to ask yourself about having fun in your business

[08:51] An exclusive sneak peek into the upcoming Rooted in Retail episode that was filmed live at EVOLVE

Get all of the resources on our website at: https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/embracing-fun-to-build-community-in-retail-after-the-show/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/

Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to cousins Aimee Pelletier and Carly Stipe, the team behind Darn Knit Anyway. Their yarn store offers everything from a thriving e-commerce platform to a makers' lounge, and various classes and events.

This episode is all about community: how to build it, connect with it, and nurture it in meaningful ways. Aimee and Carly have a lot to share about their journey and the amazing community they've cultivated through their store. Their story is full of lessons on managing a retail business, from delegating tasks and understanding financials to providing excellent customer service.

Whether you're looking for inspiration on how to connect with your own community or need a nudge to pursue a new idea, this conversation is full of insights that can help you take the next step.

You'll also hear about the creativity and dedication that Aimee and Carly pour into Darn Knit Anyway, and how they've successfully grown their business by being authentic and true to themselves. I know you'll find actionable tips to help you show up, put yourself out there, and grow your business!

[00:00] Welcome Aimee Pelletier and Carly Stipe of Darn Knit Anyway

[02:10] How a women's networking group played a key role in launching Darn Knit Anyway

[06:49] The role that humor and personality play in attracting and retaining your customers on social media

[11:42] How the Makers' Lounge came to life and has transformed their relationships with customers

[18:58] What Carly and Aimee believe sets their classes apart in the craft community and how frequently they host classes each month

[20:21 How do Carly and Aimee logistically manage to host dozens of classes every month?

[21:28] Two popular events that Darn Knit Anyway hosts

[28:45] Why hiring employees to work the floor was essential for business growth

[30:51] Carly's advice for retailers on how understanding your numbers can transform your business

[32:20] Carly and Aimee's resilience round

Get all the details on our website at: https://www.crystalmediaco.com/episodes/crafting-community-through-classes-with-darn-knit-anyway/

Learn more about our SCALE program at: https://www.crystalmediaco.com/SCALE/

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation - https://www.facebook.com/groups/rootedinretail

Join our Rise and Shine newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers - https://www.crystalmediaco.com/