Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Open for Business

For several years I have been weighing the pros and cons of having an office outside the home. Pros: my own space, when I'm at work- I'm working, my own space, place for retailers to meet with me and see product. Cons: cost, not as easy to work, work around my other home projects (at home I can be on the phone with a manufacturer and tossing a load of laundry in the washing machine), cost, not home when kids get home. I have been keeping my eyes open for the perfect space- space where I can work, close to home, and possibly do a little retail. A couple months ago, I was out walking Sam (our 5 year old lab) and we passed by a sweet little space a mile from my home. It is in a neighborhood called "Tangletown" (the street cars used to get tangled here as they merged and headed back into the city) near Greenlake.
I got very excited, feeling like this was IT. I made my phone call, negotiated rent (the last thing I heard from property manager "fine, but not a nickel less")- I was satisfied. Then came several coats of primer and paint, new light fixtures, card racks on the wall, a great desk from Craigs List, and an A-sign to let the neighbors know I was HERE.
If you are a retailer, neighbor, or visitor to Seattle I hope you will come visit my tiny new office and store (Birch Paperie). I also hope you continue to visit me here. I will share my passion for paper and beautiful things. I will also share my passion for the people I represent and their incredible talents.