@Angela Jasmina, I’ve thought about you and your family ALL DAY. I hope you get a good nights sleep and wake up feeling better tomorrow. ☀️ Praying for you guys. 🙏🏻
I pray it works out! You may have to go back to you home and reevaluate. Sale some machines. I know it seems like a failure, but it's not. Peace of mind is better then stress. I wish I could help more buy buying more but I haven't due to my own slow downs and health issues. But I'm here to watch and support you as much as I can in other ways. Hang in there and don't give up! Have faith! I've watch you grow from the beginning!
Se me partió el corazón verte así, confía que esta temporada va a pasar, le pido a Dios que te dé las estrategias para que lleves tu negocio a otro nivel, confia y vamos a tí con los ojos cerrados, bendiciones y may God bless you and your family🙏🏼
♥️♥️If everyone hits LIKE on every positive comment (or at least a good amount), YT will suggest her vlog to a lot more viewers. That's one way that will greatly help your favorite content creators get more views. I just subscribed to your channel. Stronger than the storm, love that!!
1. Apply for grants. 2. Register with cities in your state and bid on graphic contracts. It's summer camp time, city festivals, etc. and they need shirts. Somebody gets the contracts, why not you? 3. Don't give up, diversify. Are you offering courses to teach others? I don't watch you often, but I used to always talk about you as the woman who built a million brand from home! People need help and you are a good trustworthy person to do that. Even if you started with just consultations. 4.If you believe, pray for direction and look for the breadcrumbs that create the trail. You haven't come this far to lose!
This is golden answer. Diversification is key...definitely creating a course. I'd also change the way the tiktok videos are made. Try a different video ads.
Move your business back to your house and sell some of your machines. You will have to let your employees go but nothing you can do. Try to salvage your business by downsizing.
AWH sorry to see you sad sis! We love your videos you are always smiling, laughing and joking. Sending lots of love 💜💜💜💜💜 and money bags 💰 💰💰💰 your way. Keep posting!!!
Fix that crown girl & remember, life’s not all about waiting for the storm to pass. Sometimes it’s about learning to dance in the rain. Try downsizing, but stay the course, you’re an inspiration to ppl you don’t even know. You’ve got this girl, keep it movingggg. Praying for you & yours. 🙏🏽
💯 %!!!! Inspiration for me, I have a vintage jewelry Etsy shop, and right now I just procrastinating….I have 600+ listings, it’s still selling, but it’s not grow as I expected.
Girl, I am 70 years old. I started watching you three years ago. You have taught me everything I know about embroidery. Don’t you dare give up? In your videos, you should follow your dream: “Don't give up.” You're stronger than this storm. You will find a way to hang on. This economy will get better come the fall. We all will pray for you and with you!!!
easy to say 'weather the storm' but it's not realistic, in fact it's irresponsible to take no action or remedy asap! This is what happens if people are not financial savvy and don't have the knowledge to create a financial model or analysis, they just go wild and expand without buffer.
Ladies and Gentleman, Angela has over 250K followers and subscribes, if each one of us place an order from her shop or website, it will help her and her family. LET'S DO IT!!! I will be placing an order today. UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE WILL FALL. Count on you. God Bless!
Short, sweet, helpful, so you can churn them quickly and price them reasonably. Update as needed, but basically they will live a life of their own while you work on other projects.
I know not everyone out there is a believer, but if you are, please take a few moments and pray for this family and their business. And maybe binge watch her videos even if it is while you are doing other stuff.
Some ways you can help a small business: -A free and easy way: You can like, share, comment, and watch her youtube videos and TikTok’s! -If you financially can contribute, go to her website and purchase a shirt or two! -Tag the business and tell your friends! We all have to stick together and support each other ❤ we love you! You will get through this!
@SimplySallie, I agree 100%. It takes a village and it adds up. We CAN support a small business exactly as you mentioned. Watching the entire video, subscribing, liking 👍🏻 and commenting is an easy and FREE way to help. @SimplySallie, I watch your videos and have purchased from you. I also watch Jon @Real Life Tested but haven’t seen a video from him in about 3 months.
So so so sorry… you figured out how to blow up your biz the first time and now you pivot, shift and continue to succeed. I once read if your business looks the same in 5 years you will have problems… so we do things differently. You are the first person I watched on RUclips and was so impressed. The expansion and move to the warehouse was scary for me because of the explosive growth… I’ve done the same thing and decided to end my lease early because my husband was getting sick from all the stress. It’s not the end of the world and my credit was in the garbage but today I sit with a credit score of 830 2 kids graduate from college 1 engineer and another accepted into grad school at HARVARD! You learned so much more than any book learning and now you will teach and prosper because you KNOW the real! I support you!
Here is an idea that may help….you have a huge warehouse and tons of equipment, why don’t you hold classes for embroidery, sublimation, dtf, direct to garment etc. You already have the supplies and software, you can charge for training, etc ergo use it as an hands on training center, complete with supplies, and let them design and create their own tumblers, embroidery designs. It’s a way to move your inventory into cash. AND you can get with Todd to see if you can get a percentage to sell the equipment to your students.
However, not everyone has the equipment to do it so having availability to be able to learn in an environment where the equipment is available is a great idea. I wish a hands-on “learning center” was available to me.
I don't know how insurance works in America, but do you have to pay extra insurance for things like that with all the people coming in, incase one of them gets hurt, great idea though, but I would be worried about the extra cost if someone got hurt. Angela would have to get them all to sign a waiver, but sometimes that can be fought in courts.
@@debchatfield2152 Depends if she has employees she should have insurance already. For my business I carry professional liability insurance. It is to cover me in case someone tries to sue me. It’s paid annually and my policy is 1 million to 3 million aggravated. If she has that she would be covered. I’m in a high risk business and that’s why I have to have this large policy, her business is not. My insurance is 8000 a year.
Don't give up Mama. I'm in the same boat. With all of the marketplace changes, algorithm changes (especially Google) and people stealing best sellers. It's so hard to keep up but do not give up! You have gotten this far. Don't give up you an inspiration.
One of the reasons why i won't open a location is the overhead. To have to make a certain amount on top of my own bills before i make any profit is not what it is. Too much stress. Move back to the house. Dedicate space to your business and set boundaries when it's time to not work so you can enjoy your family. You'll be happier in the long run. Pay off your house, not someone else's bills. ❤
Pivot. Don’t give up. This isn’t the end. Your sales may have dropped but look at the community you’ve created. Maybe it is time to start your membership. I’m a creative. Give Sarina Correa a shot. She’s a creative coach. I learned of her via FB. I joined her coaching group after attending one of her Masterclasses and WOW. It has been life changing for me thus far. Like you, I almost gave up. But all I needed to do was pivot. Make small changes. Find what works for you now and go with it. Give yourself grace. Take it one day at a time. Make a list of things that need to be done business wise such as getting out of your lease and tackle one thing, one day at a time. I’m rooting for you, Angela! Shine bright like the star you are. 🌟 From creative to creative, if you need to talk I’m here. 💕
I have been where you are. Had embroidery machines since 2007. My business blew up fast. My mother got sick and was dying. I was so busy i couldn’t help. I spoke with my landlord and he let me out of the lease. I sold all my multi heads and moved everything my garage. Also laid off two employees. I was able to breath again. Took me longer to complete orders but was in control of my finances.
1. There’s a newish guy to helping entrepreneurs that has already helped others use social media, in particular RUclips, to build a business. Creator Booth is the channel. He has a free training on June 20th. 2. Send out a newsletter (email or a post card if you don’t have their email) to current and past customers with some bundles mixed in. I noticed that you do not collect emails on your website - it’s a must! That way you have your audience regardless of analytics on any platform. 3. Not sure who’s hosting your site, but add some short style videos to it, in fact, encourage your customers to send you their videos that you would then post (with their permission of course). Collect reviews. 4. Keep on keeping on.
I would pay you to help me get my Shopify up and running! That’s also something else you could consider doing. Offering classes, one on one sessions etc! Prayers! Don’t give up!
I have been following you since you were making tutus in your home. Your growth has been phenomenal! I do understand your emotions but don't give up. If you have to back it up a little don't consider it downsizing. Think "Right Sizing"! You are stronger than the Storm!
Just some advice from a fellow printer. Me personally I have never relyed on Social media to market and promote my business. When things get slow i hit the street with thousands of Flyers. The old way still works!!! Hope this helps!! Stay down, Don't Give Up!!
When things get slow I hit the streets with card and small example of embroidery I create and talk to the people The People of your neighborhoods, churches, schools, business , sm towns , will help you
I agree with others have said and move back into the house, sell some machines, and let go of 1 or more employees. If can't get out of the lease, then see if can sublease it. Also, if you aren't already, do Facebook/IG ads for your online stores. You will get through this!
I had to do something I didn’t want to do. “GO BACK TO WORK!” I struggle everyday because I rather be crafting but I’m going to officially retire in 8 months so I can focus again on my business. Sometimes you have to Regroup. And it’s the summer time. It’s always slow in the summer 🙏🏾🙏🏾.
Oh it breaks my heart to see Angela like this. Though I’m not doing embroidery, I’ve watched her and been motivated by her hard work and drive. Angela you can regain your momentum, just do some things differently, like many suggesting, teach others from your wealth of knowledge, do digital products, do government contracts within your county, state or even on the federal level (whatever you can get big contracts on). You mentioned taking down your TikTok videos, the algorithm doesn’t like videos to be deleted so private/hide them if you must, but never delete them. Another suggestion is to open a TikTok shop for business and have affiliates promote your products for a commission. You can do it Angela and I’ll be praying for you and looking for your videos to help the algorithm up. God bless you and your family and you will rise up again & stronger. This phase shall pass. ❤
Be encouraged! Maybe downsizing may the best option. Then when things get better scale back up. Praying for a miracle. You're not alone. Be encouraged!!!
Sometimes we have to close the door on a chapter of our lives in order to make room for the next best thing. We sometimes get so clouded by trying to hang on to something that is no longer for us, we can’t see the blessing thats waiting for us.
Angela, I prayed over you, your family and your business. May God open doors of prosperity to you and shut those whom only causing evil. Don’t give up Angela. God brought you this far for a reason. You have inspired many including me. Feed on us for strength. We love you and your family ❤❤❤
When two or three are gathered together in my name , I (Jesus Christ) am there in the midst of them” is a Bible verse from Matthew 18:20 Amen! I too am in agreement with you and other @marilenecorbett2713. Angela God didn't bring you this far to let your Business fail. Trust in him, lean into him, lay your head on his lap (theortically) if you have to. But don't give up he is just preparing and pruning you for your next level of AJ Banks greatness.
Search within your network... If organized properly in a way that minimize your work/storage space, you can get 2 or 3 people with businesses that have outgrown their homes and you guys could share the cost of monthly lease payments. Or with 2 other businesses, you could share the space and their combined monthly payments could be enough to cover the lease and you won't have that expense at all. ❤ Don't give up, just try something different. 😊
This is just part of business. Right now you’re in the middle of a storm so things are hectic and hard and confusing. Give it some time don’t let go stay positive. It’ll clear up and you’ll be seeing the sunshine again. I’m wishing you all the best.❤❤❤
Simone with ThreadArt. I love your videos and have been where you are for 20 years. Sales trend down april, may, and june and then back up again in august. June is usually the worst month so try not to stress. It took me 10 years to figure this out and I thought I was going out of business every year. Hope this helps. :)
Take the business home and maybe turn the workshop into a consignment space or small handcrafters market space where people rent an area from you to sell their goods. That way you have the lease covered and can cut some overhead.
I watch you all the time and am rooting for you! You and Keenen have worked so hard to get to where you are. Angela - you have taught and inspired so many of us. Keenen you have shown us what a truly supportive partner should be.
Please don’t give up. Your videos were the ones I watched when o got my first single needle machine. It’s the videos that makes me want a Melco (I now have a Ricoma-can’t afford a Melco right now). But please don’t quit. I think the idea of teaching would be amazing because we all definitely learned from your videos 😊
Angela, I have been watching you way before Covid! You are my inspiration to starting my business. I just got my LLC in November. Things are so slow, that I can't give the bank an amount that I make every month. When things get rough for me, like printers not working right, i have to start praying to God if this is what i'm supposed to be doing. There will always be something that will get in the way, but don't give in to the enemy! God has your back in all that you do! Praying for you and thank you for being you!
Naa Naa naaa I called my husband on work to tell him about you because I go on and on about you .. omg you will get through this !! I was in shock you taught me everything I know about embroidery. You are the most kindest person. The best you tuber and the queen of embroidery. Seeing you cry was so hurtful. It will work out for you don’t give up !
There are so many business owners in your shoes right now, it really sucks. Tears are just a part of business but pivoting is almost always the answer. Do you offer wholesale? That can open a new line of revenue. Teaching, you have a lot to offer others trying to get their own small business started. I know you'll figure it out and I'm excited to see you come out on top! ❤
Girl don’t be afraid to be where you at. You hit the hard challenge days but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel you might not see it now but you will have trust
I really try to refrain from commenting on other content creators videos; but I have to say this. God did not bring you this far to leave you. This is going to the part of your testimony that blesses you and others. Keep going. Keep praying. You are not in control. Your story was written before you were born. Read Psalm 139.
Oh No Maam! We go HARD!. We dont give up. YOU ARE STRONGER THAN THE STORM. Dont let the devil still your JOY. I watch you videos all the time and have been since Riley was born. I live for your encouragement now it's time for you to receive it back. You have faith and so do I and know God will make a way. Just remember this is just a pause, turn up the volume and hit play. Let's Go!
Just did the same after 10 years in a pretty tough industry. I am actually taking time to decide what I really want before doing anything again. Has been healing for me. Need the rest.
Hello Jasmina, I am adding you to my prayer list. I believe we can pivot your special skills into a new untapped direction. Embroidered bath sets for wedding gifts, sets for girls trips, sets for a family trip, business logos for small businesses (personalized Carhart shirt + matching hat), etc. I believe in you and I believe God has more in store for you. 💜
Between e-commers and the economy, it's been hard for a lot of us. I've never struggled so much with my business. We are all truly fighting to survive. It sucks.
Have you considered reaching out to business, restaurants, school and sport club who use embroidery business? A lot of business or school like using someone local for their embroidery. Hang in there! You are stronger then the wind. Hugs Sandra
Hello Angela, have you thought about offering orders fulfillment services for businesses that want to sell t-shirts and embroidery but don’t want to make the merch themselves? This is a real need that I am seeing right now.
That is such a great idea. I would love to order embroidered crewnecks to resell. Angela please consider adding this to your business. You are such an inspiration please don’t give up. You are stronger than the storm. 💞
Angela you are an amazing business person. There are other options teaching what you know, you have the space. Do markets. I do markets and make about 1500 to 3k a weekend. So dont give up!!! Stay strong
Hey, I'm Co-Owner of E & K Heating & Air in GA and this is the first time I'm watching a video of yours. It came in my feed and I could relate to the title so I clicked. Let me just say as a fellow business owner I feel you! Times are def. hard right now. I had gotten to a point of wondering if it was just us but its not at all. Businesses all across are definitely suffering. Summer is our time to make that money but the summer is not summering the way it should and like you said, the economy isn't the best. So know that you are not alone and I pray it gets better for the both of us. Continue to be great! 💙
Girl don’t give up. You inspire so many young and old people. To start their own business, you show them the ropes you showed him the good, the bad, the ugly side of the business nothing beats prayer pray and continue to pray pray without ceasing.
Sorry but I can honestly not believe that when things are difficult the only answer is pray on it! Basically sit there, do nothing , cross your fingers and hope that something or someone will come and rescue you. Business doesn’t work like that.. I understand brainstorming, changing direction, downsizing..everyone who’s been in business has had rough patches and believe me prayer gets you nowhere. She’s a great girl who’s worked hard and is going through a difficult time ..ideas on how to boost the business or temporarily downsize would be better.
It’s nice to see someone be vulnerable. Sometimes it’s just nice to know that you aren’t the only one going through it. I watched this video & realized I am not alone. We are struggling! Small business isn’t doing anything. 1 order the last month. It’ll get better. It always does. Back to school orders will start before you know it. Keep your head up. Remember you have people you inspired to even start a small business… me being one of them! You didn’t make it this far just to make it this far!!!! 💪💪💪
Hearing this breaks my heart for you. You have come so far,i pray for a miracle for you. I am so discouraged because I am trying to get a new business off the ground and its hard.
I can only imagine how difficult it has been. I agree that going back to your home may be the best decision compared with shouting down your business, but ultimately, you have to write down your numbers and check your contract. Because, if you have to pay the remainder balance in order to leave, you might as well stay there and have a larger area to manage your business. I will be praying for you and your family and may God guide you.
Hi, Angela, you were my inspiration to start my business. Cyndi Moncada who I watched and followed you also she had a shop on Etsy and then transitioned and started an event planning business. Not saying for you to do that, but now she embroiders Tablecloth's, robes, napkins, etc for other events, weddings, parties etc, In addition to their other stuff, so maybe you can offer that as a service. In your area also maybe could rent a space in your warehose and a machinr for new business owners who are starting an embroidery business But don't have the all equipment and use that as a way to make some cash. Stay faithful..I really hope it works out.
Keep your head up, sis! Life changes and shifts happen all the time. It's all in how you look at it. Something bigger and better is coming. Have your moment, sis, but don't stay in it! Prayers for you from a fellow DMVer
Hi you are an encouragement to me ,prayers are with you. Have you tried going to small shops near you that will sell your merchandise or the local farmers market open a booth weekly during the summer hours? Don't give up, look for alternatives!
My heart goes out to you and your family. I pray that things will turn around for you. I have been learning from you for a long time and hate to see this happen. Trust that God will turn things around ❤.
No ma'am. What we not gonna do is give up. A delay is not a denial. You are in a pit season. We are built in the pit. Branch into a new craft, add a new speciality to float you until this leg of the business picks up again. Keep the faith and stay strong sis
You've come a long way from the girl I started watching a long while ago. Headed to your website to buy a little something and praying that a bunch more of your 266K subscribers will do the same to help your family get through this tough time. Keep the faith, Angela. You'll figure it out!
The economy just isn't where it should be at all I'm so sorry to hear this I'll keep you and your family in my prayers maybe downsizing may have to happen but what ever you do don't give up God has a plan for you God bless you I'm rooting for you hope everything works out for you and your business God bless you 🙏
I think she knows that. She needs constructive advice. All your comment will do is instill more fear. All these positive comments and yet your comment will defeat all the positive ones.
You did everything right. You invested back into your business; you expanded with selling merchandise; you sold other handmade items; you kept up with social media; and you pleased everyone. The only thing I can possibly see is that you were generous with your tutorials, thus causing others to do it themselves. Handmade items are still selling like hotcakes, maybe the embroidery trend is easing off now. See if you can promote your cups as they were beautiful, but still continue with your regular business on a smaller scale. Also talk to your landlord and see if you can work something out. In business you have to ride the lows with the highs. You'll get through this, I believe in you.
I agree, that's how it was with everything that was trending at some point and then died off once the next big thing arrived (DTF, Bling tumblers, etc). People are still shopping, maybe you can change up your products or target big businesses for their embroidered uniforms). I was really sad watching this video, but please don't give up! Ask God for wisdom and direction on how to move forward and then be still and wait (once you have done all you can).
I don't think her tutorials are the problem. As a fellow embroider, I know some of the effort it takes into making some of these products and learned a lot from watching these videos. Customers don't want to spend the 18k to invest in machines, let alone the 2k for a basic machine. If they are like me and have the machines, it still takes skill and lot of time to develop a good design like hers. So it's probably more like expanded too much and too much overhead for the slump... 😢 so hopefully downsizing a little and then business will pick back up. Trends might be shifting but I don't think custom embroidery is out. AI might be making it harder for customers to see new designs she comes up with. Because these stupid algorithms are blocking all the good content I want to see.
Stay strong. Remember the sweatshirt you created? “Stronger than the storm” you got this! I’m thinking that you can create some motivational T-shirt quotes. Don't doubt your own potential. When I met you at the Long Beach event, you motivated me to continue to focus and build my dog bandana business. All will work out for you and your beautiful family and business ❤🐾
Started watching you during the shutdown. Sorry to hear your business is down. Unfortunately, this economy is making it tough for everyone. I did place an order and hope things start changing for all small businesses.
Angela, I pray that your business will pick up and that God will show you other ways to grow your business. I started my business doing custom embroidery and printing and started getting more orders for family reunions, churches, and school apparel. I am working with a charter school helping them start an online store. Parents order shirts, hats, hoodies etc., and the school orders staff polos and jackets. The cheerleaders order their uniforms, jackets, and bags. It was not what I thought my business would be, but God showed me other ways to generate income. You have done a wonderful job with your business and I feel you will continue to do so. god bless you and your family.
Hang in there Angela, i’ve opened my business as a brick and mortar and added ceramic painting and an actual fabric/ bag making supplies shop, just because I figured, I have more avenues to get more revenue other than online. I could do parties and classes on the online sales off seasons (summer). It’s been really bad for a couple months but I keep pushing and I only have 6k followers on fb, but so far rent is being paid and some in my pocket so i’m grateful, but it’s been such a hard time lately… if this doesn’t work, I’m going back full time in my nursing career, but I don’t want that. So i’ve been hustling🤣
Angela, Please know that you are not alone. A lot of businesses are struggling right now. It is also part of having a business, there is times when you are up, also times when you are down. Keep your spirit up and do some adjustment on your business. I would think downsizing is one of the way you can cut down the expenses tremendously. Ask the landlord if you can break the contract due to the circumstances. Maybe one of you has to go back working for others 9-5 until the storm passes. That way you have income coming in and health insurances for your family are covered. Pray.
You can also get in touch with local businesses that need custom uniforms for sports teams and employees etc and see if their willing to use you a their provider. You might sell better if you diversified who you sell too. You could even get in touch with local private schools and office departments that require custom embroidery and see if you can offer your services. Heck you could even try to get your stuff into local clothing store and box stores. The main issue I see is that your stuck mainly selling online and you need more in person contacts. You need to get more bulk orders in and make contracts with other businesses that need embroidery done versus working straight with the consumer.
Love this idea of changing strategies to broaden the spectrum of customers local businesses and so forth. I worked for largest small consumer loan companies in the country has over 1100 branches and most recently Corporate made decision to down size the company and combine about half of the branches to cut over head and it makes since. While I was reading all the comment on praying it’s really good to see but you also need ideas on how to continue a business that you put HEART AND SOUL INTO, so don’t forget about all the companies out there that would love to have custom shirts for employees to purchase for casual Friday or company functions. There’s a lot of ways you can shift you business and get the revenue flowing again to support your family and also keep your employees. Hit the streets and visit every business that’s in your town, put out flyers, business cards and have a sample of your products…
Just ideal I see a lot of people doing digital products to help other people start their business and also I see a lot of people offering classes. You can also do parties. You can also do mommy and me parties where mommy and her children could come or father and children to come, it’s like sipping wine, but they can make their own clothing. I hope this helps. I am new and starting my own venture with clothing and I had a lot of setbacks. I bought a lot of printers and wasted a lot of money but I believe in God I believe God is telling you to change, bring something new and I’m just talking about new products. It’s so much money and business but you gotta be willing to tap into every area this help
Its not just you going through this with your business.. We just have to wait it out...I pray everyday the economy will change and my sales will get back to normal...
I’m with you Angela. We are struggling and very slow right now. Customers want us to give the stuff away. I appreciate the awesome customers that I have that spend $80K to $100k per year. I need more of them. Online sales are bad. Pop up business at events are terrible. We will all get through it. We are with you. God bless you and your family.
Hey I've been there. I have gotten out of many commercial leases. I would immediately let your landlord know that you cannot afford to stay in the space and if they could put it up for lease. That way they can find a new tenant to take over so you can get out of your lease earlier. You may have to offer to pay for the listing if they use something like loop net. This is how I got out of my warehouse space. The $3k per month was crippling my business and I ended up finally moving my entire operation back to my house. Things are still hard but at least I don't have a lease on top of it. Let me know if you want to talk more I own Oh So Paper you can find me online I am always down to give hand to a fellow small business owner.
I have bought blanks from you several times and I think if people knew the quality of the shirts you would get more sales. They are awesome and the first thing people tell me is how soft the shirts are and the quality of the shirts are great before they even notice the design.
Pivot. You have an email list. Use it. Forget social media for now, focus on your repeat customers. LTV is important now, not new customer acquisition. You can do it.
Naw, an election is not it, it's the inflation. Things are going to get worse as Americans are funding a genocide and a seedy, shadow war with Russia. Every American would be smart to save money, stop spending on unnecessary stuff, sell things that they can, prepare for empty shelves in the stores and growing crime. We are all in for some very hard events and a changing world.
Praying for you! I know whatever is happening, it isnt from lack of hard work. I've followed you since almost the start, and you've always worked your butt off. Starting from a basement and flea markets to where you are now, it's incredible! Maybe some commercial jobs with local businesses can keep you afloat for now. I'll continue to buy from you and pray for you. You definitely have what it takes! ❤
Unfortunately many small businesses are feeling the squeeze from inflation. Most people can no longer afford customized apparel. I hope you're able to recover from this. I've heard of an app that allows people to rent out office space, it's similar to Airbnb. Maybe you can try that. Someone suggested you move the business back home, which is a good idea, but you have a year and a half on the lease. Praying for your miracle with you. 🤲🏾💚
I insist! You are just an inspiration to many of us who are just starting out! How can you not be tired if we see you working so hard? In addition, you manage all your stores, social networks and support your family!!! Up that encourage!!!💪💪💪
Good afternoon from London,UK Would you consider doing classes within your warehouse on teaching people to use an embroidery machine before investing in one? You inspired me into embroidery. My aspiration is to get a multi needle machine but I am currently ok without 3 single needle machine. Business is always hard but please remember that you are loved and support comes in different ways. Blessings
My observation, only from watching your videos for two years, is that you worked out of your home with no lease payment And into a 10,000 square-foot building that likely cost $8-$10k per month plus utilities. So that’s a minimum of 100 K per year in Expenses you did not have working out of your home. If you had $1 million business that’s 10% of your revenue going out the door. That’s a big hit, unless you have a healthy overall profit margin in your business. I do understand you were bursting at the seams at your house. But for going from a basement and a couple of bedrooms in your home, to the amount of space that you leased Seems like a big jump.
Girl seeing you cry is breaking my heart. You are my She-ro. I know you will pull through this your an inspiration to us all. I'll be praying for you stay strong I wish I could give you a hug 🤗.
Angela, you are such an inspiration and it breaks my heart to see you struggling. I wish there was something I could do to help you. Colleges and University and local schools often need swag merchandise at the last minute for special events. Have you thought of putting together some ideas that might work for schools? Please don't give up-- you are a treasure. Sending hugs and encouragement your way. 💙
Angela all will work itself out. BELIEVE………..Hang in there and breathe. Do you have an option to sub-lease? Business will pick up again - all will work out. You’ve got this! Sending you wishes for many blessings 🥰
biggest issues is these platforms, they control who sees what, they want your money in order to show the products, they have us by the short and curlies, such a struggle to do business today especially with all the competition
Just wanted to say thank you so much everyone for the ideas and encouragement! Our family appreciates each and everyone of you
Praying for you all!!!! Keep trusting God…..He brought you to it and He’ll take you through it!!!! 🙏🏽 ❤
@Angela Jasmina, I’ve thought about you and your family ALL DAY. I hope you get a good nights sleep and wake up feeling better tomorrow. ☀️
Praying for you guys. 🙏🏻
I pray it works out! You may have to go back to you home and reevaluate. Sale some machines. I know it seems like a failure, but it's not. Peace of mind is better then stress. I wish I could help more buy buying more but I haven't due to my own slow downs and health issues. But I'm here to watch and support you as much as I can in other ways. Hang in there and don't give up! Have faith! I've watch you grow from the beginning!
Se me partió el corazón verte así, confía que esta temporada va a pasar, le pido a Dios que te dé las estrategias para que lleves tu negocio a otro nivel, confia y vamos a tí con los ojos cerrados, bendiciones y may God bless you and your family🙏🏼
Have you thought about being a vendor like Swift Pod on Printify? They don’t offer embroidery but a lot of POD sellers want to sell it
♥️♥️If everyone hits LIKE on every positive comment (or at least a good amount), YT will suggest her vlog to a lot more viewers. That's one way that will greatly help your favorite content creators get more views. I just subscribed to your channel. Stronger than the storm, love that!!
Amen!!!🙏🏼💪🏼🤎
1. Apply for grants.
2. Register with cities in your state and bid on graphic contracts. It's summer camp time, city festivals, etc. and they need shirts. Somebody gets the contracts, why not you?
3. Don't give up, diversify. Are you offering courses to teach others? I don't watch you often, but I used to always talk about you as the woman who built a million brand from home! People need help and you are a good trustworthy person to do that. Even if you started with just consultations.
4.If you believe, pray for direction and look for the breadcrumbs that create the trail. You haven't come this far to lose!
Amen!!🙏🏼💪🏼🤎
Amen!!!
This is golden answer. Diversification is key...definitely creating a course. I'd also change the way the tiktok videos are made. Try a different video ads.
THIS 🔥
Move your business back to your house and sell some of your machines. You will have to let your employees go but nothing you can do. Try to salvage your business by downsizing.
I agree to downsize first don't completely let it go like that.
Now that’s a sensible reply.
AWH sorry to see you sad sis! We love your videos you are always smiling, laughing and joking. Sending lots of love 💜💜💜💜💜 and money bags 💰 💰💰💰 your way. Keep posting!!!
I agree
Great answer. It's not you, Angela. It's the economy. You can go big again when things change. ❤
Fix that crown girl & remember, life’s not all about waiting for the storm to pass. Sometimes it’s about learning to dance in the rain. Try downsizing, but stay the course, you’re an inspiration to ppl you don’t even know. You’ve got this girl, keep it movingggg. Praying for you & yours. 🙏🏽
💯 %!!!! Inspiration for me, I have a vintage jewelry Etsy shop, and right now I just procrastinating….I have 600+ listings, it’s still selling, but it’s not grow as I expected.
Girl, I am 70 years old. I started watching you three years ago. You have taught me everything I know about embroidery. Don’t you dare give up? In your videos, you should follow your dream: “Don't give up.” You're stronger than this storm. You will find a way to hang on. This economy will get better come the fall. We all will pray for you and with you!!!
easy to say 'weather the storm' but it's not realistic, in fact it's irresponsible to take no action or remedy asap! This is what happens if people are not financial savvy and don't have the knowledge to create a financial model or analysis, they just go wild and expand without buffer.
Yesss Amen Mrs Debbie!!!🙏🏼💪🏼🤎
@@katy6543210how is your comment helping her ?
Ladies and Gentleman, Angela has over 250K followers and subscribes, if each one of us place an order from her shop or website, it will help her and her family. LET'S DO IT!!! I will be placing an order today. UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE WILL FALL. Count on you. God Bless!
Not everyone who watches the videos are in USA so can't place an order
Just ordered🎉 prayers and love sending your way! ❤🎉
That is not the way to run a business. Why don't we just give her all our spare money???
I just placed an order for a tshirt:0)
I just placed an order!! Great idea.
Teach,Teach, Teach. Create and sell digital products. Sooo many people would love to learn how to start a business like yours.
That's true great comment
Short, sweet, helpful, so you can churn them quickly and price them reasonably. Update as needed, but basically they will live a life of their own while you work on other projects.
Shoot, you might just have some videos you can basically transcribe and edit.
I would certainly love to learn from her!
Yes! Great idea to teach online and in person.
I know not everyone out there is a believer, but if you are, please take a few moments and pray for this family and their business. And maybe binge watch her videos even if it is while you are doing other stuff.
Awesome & creative idea!!!
Amen!!!🙏🏼💪🏼🤎
Amen in Jesus name!!
Some ways you can help a small business:
-A free and easy way: You can like, share, comment, and watch her youtube videos and TikTok’s!
-If you financially can contribute, go to her website and purchase a shirt or two!
-Tag the business and tell your friends!
We all have to stick together and support each other ❤ we love you! You will get through this!
I was going to ask how to support. Thanks for the advice!
Even the smallest gesture can make a difference
@SimplySallie, I agree 100%. It takes a village and it adds up.
We CAN support a small business exactly as you mentioned. Watching the entire video, subscribing, liking 👍🏻 and commenting is an easy and FREE way to help.
@SimplySallie, I watch your videos and have purchased from you. I also watch Jon @Real Life Tested but haven’t seen a video from him in about 3 months.
Just made an order….support small business. Praying for you!
Oh hey simplysallie!
It’s the economy. People don’t have the disposable income right now.
So so so sorry… you figured out how to blow up your biz the first time and now you pivot, shift and continue to succeed. I once read if your business looks the same in 5 years you will have problems… so we do things differently. You are the first person I watched on RUclips and was so impressed. The expansion and move to the warehouse was scary for me because of the explosive growth… I’ve done the same thing and decided to end my lease early because my husband was getting sick from all the stress. It’s not the end of the world and my credit was in the garbage but today I sit with a credit score of 830 2 kids graduate from college 1 engineer and another accepted into grad school at HARVARD! You learned so much more than any book learning and now you will teach and prosper because you KNOW the real! I support you!
Angela Jasmina don’t give up. You’re more “stronger than the storm.” 😉 Sending prayers and blessings. 🙏🙌💖
Here is an idea that may help….you have a huge warehouse and tons of equipment, why don’t you hold classes for embroidery, sublimation, dtf, direct to garment etc. You already have the supplies and software, you can charge for training, etc ergo use it as an hands on training center, complete with supplies, and let them design and create their own tumblers, embroidery designs. It’s a way to move your inventory into cash. AND you can get with Todd to see if you can get a percentage to sell the equipment to your students.
The big issue is the market is saturated with embroidery and sublimation and people can get on RUclips to learn how to do it.
However, not everyone has the equipment to do it so having availability to be able to learn in an environment where the equipment is available is a great idea. I wish a hands-on “learning center” was available to me.
I don't know how insurance works in America, but do you have to pay extra insurance for things like that with all the people coming in, incase one of them gets hurt, great idea though, but I would be worried about the extra cost if someone got hurt. Angela would have to get them all to sign a waiver, but sometimes that can be fought in courts.
And she may even find some help.. 🙏🏻💪🏻
@@debchatfield2152 Depends if she has employees she should have insurance already. For my business I carry professional liability insurance. It is to cover me in case someone tries to sue me. It’s paid annually and my policy is 1 million to 3 million aggravated. If she has that she would be covered. I’m in a high risk business and that’s why I have to have this large policy, her business is not. My insurance is 8000 a year.
Don't give up Mama. I'm in the same boat. With all of the marketplace changes, algorithm changes (especially Google) and people stealing best sellers. It's so hard to keep up but do not give up! You have gotten this far. Don't give up you an inspiration.
One of the reasons why i won't open a location is the overhead. To have to make a certain amount on top of my own bills before i make any profit is not what it is. Too much stress. Move back to the house. Dedicate space to your business and set boundaries when it's time to not work so you can enjoy your family. You'll be happier in the long run. Pay off your house, not someone else's bills. ❤
Pivot. Don’t give up. This isn’t the end. Your sales may have dropped but look at the community you’ve created. Maybe it is time to start your membership. I’m a creative. Give Sarina Correa a shot. She’s a creative coach. I learned of her via FB. I joined her coaching group after attending one of her Masterclasses and WOW. It has been life changing for me thus far. Like you, I almost gave up. But all I needed to do was pivot. Make small changes. Find what works for you now and go with it. Give yourself grace. Take it one day at a time. Make a list of things that need to be done business wise such as getting out of your lease and tackle one thing, one day at a time. I’m rooting for you, Angela! Shine bright like the star you are. 🌟 From creative to creative, if you need to talk I’m here. 💕
Businesses have evs and flows ... she'll bounce back stronger from this!
I have been where you are. Had embroidery machines since 2007. My business blew up fast. My mother got sick and was dying. I was so busy i couldn’t help. I spoke with my landlord and he let me out of the lease. I sold all my multi heads and moved everything my garage. Also laid off two employees. I was able to breath again. Took me longer to complete orders but was in control of my finances.
1. There’s a newish guy to helping entrepreneurs that has already helped others use social media, in particular RUclips, to build a business. Creator Booth is the channel. He has a free training on June 20th.
2. Send out a newsletter (email or a post card if you don’t have their email) to current and past customers with some bundles mixed in. I noticed that you do not collect emails on your website - it’s a must! That way you have your audience regardless of analytics on any platform.
3. Not sure who’s hosting your site, but add some short style videos to it, in fact, encourage your customers to send you their videos that you would then post (with their permission of course). Collect reviews.
4. Keep on keeping on.
I would pay you to help me get my Shopify up and running! That’s also something else you could consider doing. Offering classes, one on one sessions etc! Prayers! Don’t give up!
I have been following you since you were making tutus in your home. Your growth has been phenomenal! I do understand your emotions but don't give up. If you have to back it up a little don't consider it downsizing. Think "Right Sizing"! You are stronger than the Storm!
Don’t give up- Downsize and keep moving,💕 you are the reason for thousands or more hand held business,, so make a limit and downsize. 💕
Just some advice from a fellow printer. Me personally I have never relyed on Social media to market and promote my business. When things get slow i hit the street with thousands of Flyers. The old way still works!!! Hope this helps!! Stay down, Don't Give Up!!
This! People forget local business is still a thing!
When things get slow I hit the streets with card and small example of embroidery I create and talk to the people
The People of your neighborhoods, churches, schools, business , sm towns , will help you
I agree with others have said and move back into the house, sell some machines, and let go of 1 or more employees. If can't get out of the lease, then see if can sublease it. Also, if you aren't already, do Facebook/IG ads for your online stores. You will get through this!
ANGELA, dont give up. This is a time to pivot. The same old is keeping you from growing.
Just remember The universe don't quit
on the ones who won't quit.
I had to do something I didn’t want to do. “GO BACK TO WORK!” I struggle everyday because I rather be crafting but I’m going to officially retire in 8 months so I can focus again on my business. Sometimes you have to Regroup. And it’s the summer time. It’s always slow in the summer 🙏🏾🙏🏾.
Oh it breaks my heart to see Angela like this. Though I’m not doing embroidery, I’ve watched her and been motivated by her hard work and drive. Angela you can regain your momentum, just do some things differently, like many suggesting, teach others from your wealth of knowledge, do digital products, do government contracts within your county, state or even on the federal level (whatever you can get big contracts on). You mentioned taking down your TikTok videos, the algorithm doesn’t like videos to be deleted so private/hide them if you must, but never delete them. Another suggestion is to open a TikTok shop for business and have affiliates promote your products for a commission. You can do it Angela and I’ll be praying for you and looking for your videos to help the algorithm up. God bless you and your family and you will rise up again & stronger. This phase shall pass. ❤
Be encouraged! Maybe downsizing may the best option. Then when things get better scale back up. Praying for a miracle. You're not alone. Be encouraged!!!
Sometimes we have to close the door on a chapter of our lives in order to make room for the next best thing. We sometimes get so clouded by trying to hang on to something that is no longer for us, we can’t see the blessing thats waiting for us.
Angela, I prayed over you, your family and your business. May God open doors of prosperity to you and shut those whom only causing evil. Don’t give up Angela. God brought you this far for a reason. You have inspired many including me. Feed on us for strength. We love you and your family ❤❤❤
I stand in agreement. Amen!
Agreement here too! He is ABLE! 🥰
When two or three are gathered together in my name , I (Jesus Christ) am there in the midst of them” is a Bible verse from Matthew 18:20 Amen!
I too am in agreement with you and other @marilenecorbett2713.
Angela God didn't bring you this far to let your Business fail. Trust in him, lean into him, lay your head on his lap (theortically) if you have to. But don't give up he is just preparing and pruning you for your next level of AJ Banks greatness.
I stand in agreement. Amen
I stand in agreement. Amen!
Search within your network... If organized properly in a way that minimize your work/storage space, you can get 2 or 3 people with businesses that have outgrown their homes and you guys could share the cost of monthly lease payments. Or with 2 other businesses, you could share the space and their combined monthly payments could be enough to cover the lease and you won't have that expense at all. ❤ Don't give up, just try something different. 😊
Don't give up Lady. Pray Fasting and perseverance. God got you and you got this! Praying for your business and all that goes with it.
This is just part of business. Right now you’re in the middle of a storm so things are hectic and hard and confusing. Give it some time don’t let go stay positive. It’ll clear up and you’ll be seeing the sunshine again. I’m wishing you all the best.❤❤❤
Simone with ThreadArt. I love your videos and have been where you are for 20 years. Sales trend down april, may, and june and then back up again in august. June is usually the worst month so try not to stress. It took me 10 years to figure this out and I thought I was going out of business every year. Hope this helps. :)
Right. I was a screen printer for a while and the only business I had in summer was reunion shirts. If she has DTF, she could pursue that avenue.
Take the business home and maybe turn the workshop into a consignment space or small handcrafters market space where people rent an area from you to sell their goods. That way you have the lease covered and can cut some overhead.
I watch you all the time and am rooting for you! You and Keenen have worked so hard to get to where you are. Angela - you have taught and inspired so many of us. Keenen you have shown us what a truly supportive partner should be.
Please don’t give up. Your videos were the ones I watched when o got my first single needle machine. It’s the videos that makes me want a Melco (I now have a Ricoma-can’t afford a Melco right now). But please don’t quit. I think the idea of teaching would be amazing because we all definitely learned from your videos 😊
Angela, I have been watching you way before Covid! You are my inspiration to starting my business. I just got my LLC in November. Things are so slow, that I can't give the bank an amount that I make every month. When things get rough for me, like printers not working right, i have to start praying to God if this is what i'm supposed to be doing. There will always be something that will get in the way, but don't give in to the enemy! God has your back in all that you do! Praying for you and thank you for being you!
Naa Naa naaa I called my husband on work to tell him about you because I go on and on about you .. omg you will get through this !! I was in shock you taught me everything I know about embroidery. You are the most kindest person. The best you tuber and the queen of embroidery. Seeing you cry was so hurtful. It will work out for you don’t give up !
There are so many business owners in your shoes right now, it really sucks. Tears are just a part of business but pivoting is almost always the answer. Do you offer wholesale? That can open a new line of revenue. Teaching, you have a lot to offer others trying to get their own small business started. I know you'll figure it out and I'm excited to see you come out on top! ❤
Girl don’t be afraid to be where you at. You hit the hard challenge days but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel you might not see it now but you will have trust
I really try to refrain from commenting on other content creators videos; but I have to say this. God did not bring you this far to leave you. This is going to the part of your testimony that blesses you and others. Keep going. Keep praying. You are not in control. Your story was written before you were born. Read Psalm 139.
Amen to that
Oh No Maam! We go HARD!. We dont give up. YOU ARE STRONGER THAN THE STORM. Dont let the devil still your JOY. I watch you videos all the time and have been since Riley was born. I live for your encouragement now it's time for you to receive it back. You have faith and so do I and know God will make a way. Just remember this is just a pause, turn up the volume and hit play. Let's Go!
Just did the same after 10 years in a pretty tough industry. I am actually taking time to decide what I really want before doing anything again. Has been healing for me. Need the rest.
Hello Jasmina,
I am adding you to my prayer list.
I believe we can pivot your special skills into a new untapped direction. Embroidered bath sets for wedding gifts, sets for girls trips, sets for a family trip,
business logos for small businesses (personalized Carhart shirt + matching hat), etc. I believe in you and I believe God has more in store for you. 💜
Between e-commers and the economy, it's been hard for a lot of us. I've never struggled so much with my business. We are all truly fighting to survive. It sucks.
Don't give up friend. This is part of having a business you have high highs and low lows. You're stronger than than the storm remember that. 💜🙏🏼
Have you thought about sharing the space or renting part of your space? Maybe give classes.
Don't give up. You are such an inspiration.❤❤❤
I Love the idea of doing classes!
Yes workshop events
Have you considered reaching out to business, restaurants, school and sport club who use embroidery business? A lot of business or school like using someone local for their embroidery.
Hang in there! You are stronger then the wind. Hugs Sandra
Oh Angela I truly hate this for you, your family and employees. I pray everything will work out for the better❤
Hello Angela, have you thought about offering orders fulfillment services for businesses that want to sell t-shirts and embroidery but don’t want to make the merch themselves? This is a real need that I am seeing right now.
I agree as well a lot of people want to out source their printing services
I’m right there with you! 🙏🙏🙏
The miracle is just around the corner❤
That is such a great idea. I would love to order embroidered crewnecks to resell. Angela please consider adding this to your business. You are such an inspiration please don’t give up. You are stronger than the storm. 💞
@@carolinacactusembroidery Me too!
Agree! I need a business that can make my embroidery merch for me. I rather support a small business like myself.
Angela you are an amazing business person. There are other options teaching what you know, you have the space. Do markets. I do markets and make about 1500 to 3k a weekend. So dont give up!!! Stay strong
Ive started over 3 times in my life. Nothing wrong with moving the business back to the house. Wishing you the best.
Hey, I'm Co-Owner of E & K Heating & Air in GA and this is the first time I'm watching a video of yours. It came in my feed and I could relate to the title so I clicked. Let me just say as a fellow business owner I feel you! Times are def. hard right now. I had gotten to a point of wondering if it was just us but its not at all. Businesses all across are definitely suffering. Summer is our time to make that money but the summer is not summering the way it should and like you said, the economy isn't the best. So know that you are not alone and I pray it gets better for the both of us. Continue to be great! 💙
Girl don’t give up. You inspire so many young and old people. To start their own business, you show them the ropes you showed him the good, the bad, the ugly side of the business nothing beats prayer pray and continue to pray pray without ceasing.
Sorry but I can honestly not believe that when things are difficult the only answer is pray on it! Basically sit there, do nothing , cross your fingers and hope that something or someone will come and rescue you. Business doesn’t work like that.. I understand brainstorming, changing direction, downsizing..everyone who’s been in business has had rough patches and believe me prayer gets you nowhere. She’s a great girl who’s worked hard and is going through a difficult time ..ideas on how to boost the business or temporarily downsize would be better.
I’m so sorry, you do so well with your videos. Can you create a class on how you do your orders. And how you go your videos. Start classes
It’s nice to see someone be vulnerable. Sometimes it’s just nice to know that you aren’t the only one going through it. I watched this video & realized I am not alone. We are struggling! Small business isn’t doing anything. 1 order the last month. It’ll get better. It always does. Back to school orders will start before you know it. Keep your head up. Remember you have people you inspired to even start a small business… me being one of them! You didn’t make it this far just to make it this far!!!! 💪💪💪
Hearing this breaks my heart for you. You have come so far,i pray for a miracle for you. I am so discouraged because I am trying to get a new business off the ground and its hard.
I can only imagine how difficult it has been. I agree that going back to your home may be the best decision compared with shouting down your business, but ultimately, you have to write down your numbers and check your contract. Because, if you have to pay the remainder balance in order to leave, you might as well stay there and have a larger area to manage your business. I will be praying for you and your family and may God guide you.
Hi, Angela, you were my inspiration to start my business. Cyndi Moncada who I watched and followed you also she had a shop on Etsy and then transitioned and started an event planning business. Not saying for you to do that, but now she embroiders Tablecloth's, robes, napkins, etc for other events, weddings, parties etc, In addition to their other stuff, so maybe you can offer that as a service. In your area also maybe could rent a space in your warehose and a machinr for new business owners who are starting an embroidery business But don't have the all equipment and use that as a way to make some cash. Stay faithful..I really hope it works out.
Keep your head up, sis! Life changes and shifts happen all the time. It's all in how you look at it. Something bigger and better is coming. Have your moment, sis, but don't stay in it! Prayers for you from a fellow DMVer
The way I can help is to bling watch your videos. Like and post comments. You are an inspiration to many people.
Hi you are an encouragement to me ,prayers are with you. Have you tried going to small shops near you that will sell your merchandise or the local farmers market open a booth weekly during the summer hours? Don't give up, look for alternatives!
My heart goes out to you and your family. I pray that things will turn around for you. I have been learning from you for a long time and hate to see this happen. Trust that God will turn things around ❤.
By faith not by sight - stay strong ❤
No ma'am. What we not gonna do is give up. A delay is not a denial. You are in a pit season. We are built in the pit. Branch into a new craft, add a new speciality to float you until this leg of the business picks up again. Keep the faith and stay strong sis
You've come a long way from the girl I started watching a long while ago. Headed to your website to buy a little something and praying that a bunch more of your 266K subscribers will do the same to help your family get through this tough time. Keep the faith, Angela. You'll figure it out!
we are living hard times, but God won't leave you alone! keep it up. no te rindas!
It’s slow everywhere, time to downsize and trim the fat, maybe move it back to the house or get a smaller warehouse. Hope all goes well
The economy just isn't where it should be at all I'm so sorry to hear this I'll keep you and your family in my prayers maybe downsizing may have to happen but what ever you do don't give up God has a plan for you God bless you I'm rooting for you hope everything works out for you and your business God bless you 🙏
There is a thing called a lease. If you do not follow through with your lease agreement, they will come for you.
There is a thing called a lease. If you do not follow through with your lease agreement, they will come for you.
I think she knows that. She needs constructive advice. All your comment will do is instill more fear. All these positive comments and yet your comment will defeat all the positive ones.
You did everything right. You invested back into your business; you expanded with selling merchandise; you sold other handmade items; you kept up with social media; and you pleased everyone. The only thing I can possibly see is that you were generous with your tutorials, thus causing others to do it themselves. Handmade items are still selling like hotcakes, maybe the embroidery trend is easing off now. See if you can promote your cups as they were beautiful, but still continue with your regular business on a smaller scale.
Also talk to your landlord and see if you can work something out. In business you have to ride the lows with the highs. You'll get through this, I believe in you.
I agree, that's how it was with everything that was trending at some point and then died off once the next big thing arrived (DTF, Bling tumblers, etc). People are still shopping, maybe you can change up your products or target big businesses for their embroidered uniforms). I was really sad watching this video, but please don't give up! Ask God for wisdom and direction on how to move forward and then be still and wait (once you have done all you can).
Many landlords will let you out of a lease once they have a new tenant. You should talk to them and find out
I don't think her tutorials are the problem. As a fellow embroider, I know some of the effort it takes into making some of these products and learned a lot from watching these videos. Customers don't want to spend the 18k to invest in machines, let alone the 2k for a basic machine. If they are like me and have the machines, it still takes skill and lot of time to develop a good design like hers. So it's probably more like expanded too much and too much overhead for the slump... 😢 so hopefully downsizing a little and then business will pick back up. Trends might be shifting but I don't think custom embroidery is out. AI might be making it harder for customers to see new designs she comes up with. Because these stupid algorithms are blocking all the good content I want to see.
Stay strong. Remember the sweatshirt you created? “Stronger than the storm” you got this! I’m thinking that you can create some motivational T-shirt quotes. Don't doubt your own potential. When I met you at the Long Beach event, you motivated me to continue to focus and build my dog bandana business. All will work out for you and your beautiful family and business ❤🐾
Started watching you during the shutdown. Sorry to hear your business is down. Unfortunately, this economy is making it tough for everyone. I did place an order and hope things start changing for all small businesses.
Angela, I pray that your business will pick up and that God will show you other ways to grow your business. I started my business doing custom embroidery and printing and started getting more orders for family reunions, churches, and school apparel. I am working with a charter school helping them start an online store. Parents order shirts, hats, hoodies etc., and the school orders staff polos and jackets. The cheerleaders order their uniforms, jackets, and bags. It was not what I thought my business would be, but God showed me other ways to generate income. You have done a wonderful job with your business and I feel you will continue to do so. god bless you and your family.
Hang in there Angela, i’ve opened my business as a brick and mortar and added ceramic painting and an actual fabric/ bag making supplies shop, just because I figured, I have more avenues to get more revenue other than online. I could do parties and classes on the online sales off seasons (summer). It’s been really bad for a couple months but I keep pushing and I only have 6k followers on fb, but so far rent is being paid and some in my pocket so i’m grateful, but it’s been such a hard time lately… if this doesn’t work, I’m going back full time in my nursing career, but I don’t want that. So i’ve been hustling🤣
Angela,
Please know that you are not alone. A lot of businesses are struggling right now. It is also part of having a business, there is times when you are up, also times when you are down. Keep your spirit up and do some adjustment on your business. I would think downsizing is one of the way you can cut down the expenses tremendously. Ask the landlord if you can break the contract due to the circumstances. Maybe one of you has to go back working for others 9-5 until the storm passes. That way you have income coming in and health insurances for your family are covered. Pray.
You can also get in touch with local businesses that need custom uniforms for sports teams and employees etc and see if their willing to use you a their provider. You might sell better if you diversified who you sell too. You could even get in touch with local private schools and office departments that require custom embroidery and see if you can offer your services. Heck you could even try to get your stuff into local clothing store and box stores.
The main issue I see is that your stuck mainly selling online and you need more in person contacts. You need to get more bulk orders in and make contracts with other businesses that need embroidery done versus working straight with the consumer.
Love this idea of changing strategies to broaden the spectrum of customers local businesses and so forth. I worked for largest small consumer loan companies in the country has over 1100 branches and most recently Corporate made decision to down size the company and combine about half of the branches to cut over head and it makes since. While I was reading all the comment on praying it’s really good to see but you also need ideas on how to continue a business that you put HEART AND SOUL INTO, so don’t forget about all the companies out there that would love to have custom shirts for employees to purchase for casual Friday or company functions. There’s a lot of ways you can shift you business and get the revenue flowing again to support your family and also keep your employees. Hit the streets and visit every business that’s in your town, put out flyers, business cards and have a sample of your products…
Just ideal I see a lot of people doing digital products to help other people start their business and also I see a lot of people offering classes. You can also do parties. You can also do mommy and me parties where mommy and her children could come or father and children to come, it’s like sipping wine, but they can make their own clothing. I hope this helps. I am new and starting my own venture with clothing and I had a lot of setbacks. I bought a lot of printers and wasted a lot of money but I believe in God I believe God is telling you to change, bring something new and I’m just talking about new products. It’s so much money and business but you gotta be willing to tap into every area this help
What about a mentorship program? I would absolutely pay for your advice and guidance in business!
I feel your pain. My shop has been dead for over a year, and I'm thinking about taking a step back and reevaluating what I sell.
Sorry to hear but wanted to tell you…… you got this! Best wishes!
Its not just you going through this with your business.. We just have to wait it out...I pray everyday the economy will change and my sales will get back to normal...
I’m with you Angela. We are struggling and very slow right now. Customers want us to give the stuff away. I appreciate the awesome customers that I have that spend $80K to $100k per year. I need more of them. Online sales are bad. Pop up business at events are terrible. We will all get through it. We are with you. God bless you and your family.
Hey I've been there. I have gotten out of many commercial leases. I would immediately let your landlord know that you cannot afford to stay in the space and if they could put it up for lease. That way they can find a new tenant to take over so you can get out of your lease earlier. You may have to offer to pay for the listing if they use something like loop net. This is how I got out of my warehouse space. The $3k per month was crippling my business and I ended up finally moving my entire operation back to my house. Things are still hard but at least I don't have a lease on top of it. Let me know if you want to talk more I own Oh So Paper you can find me online I am always down to give hand to a fellow small business owner.
I have bought blanks from you several times and I think if people knew the quality of the shirts you would get more sales. They are awesome and the first thing people tell me is how soft the shirts are and the quality of the shirts are great before they even notice the design.
ouuu i would like to buy blanks too if u have! i had been looking for a vendor for a while. my vendors are oversees (i live in VA)
She can try selling overseas
Pivot. You have an email list. Use it. Forget social media for now, focus on your repeat customers. LTV is important now, not new customer acquisition. You can do it.
It’s an election year, people aren’t buying. It happens every time. I’m so sorry. Find a way to keep going somehow. You are so talented! You got this!
Naw, an election is not it, it's the inflation. Things are going to get worse as Americans are funding a genocide and a seedy, shadow war with Russia. Every American would be smart to save money, stop spending on unnecessary stuff, sell things that they can, prepare for empty shelves in the stores and growing crime. We are all in for some very hard events and a changing world.
She should make funny election shirts! Guaranteed it would go viral 🎉
Don't give up, i know this might be hard to hear at this point but pls don't give up. I will continue to pray for you and your business.
Praying for you! I know whatever is happening, it isnt from lack of hard work. I've followed you since almost the start, and you've always worked your butt off. Starting from a basement and flea markets to where you are now, it's incredible! Maybe some commercial jobs with local businesses can keep you afloat for now. I'll continue to buy from you and pray for you. You definitely have what it takes! ❤
Yes, team up with screen printing shops. Do contract pricing with them.
Unfortunately many small businesses are feeling the squeeze from inflation. Most people can no longer afford customized apparel. I hope you're able to recover from this. I've heard of an app that allows people to rent out office space, it's similar to Airbnb. Maybe you can try that. Someone suggested you move the business back home, which is a good idea, but you have a year and a half on the lease. Praying for your miracle with you. 🤲🏾💚
I insist! You are just an inspiration to many of us who are just starting out! How can you not be tired if we see you working so hard? In addition, you manage all your stores, social networks and support your family!!! Up that encourage!!!💪💪💪
Don’t shutdown. You have to regroup. Maybe get a smaller retail space or take your operation back to the house. Pray on it.
Good afternoon from London,UK
Would you consider doing classes within your warehouse on teaching people to use an embroidery machine before investing in one?
You inspired me into embroidery. My aspiration is to get a multi needle machine but I am currently ok without 3 single needle machine.
Business is always hard but please remember that you are loved and support comes in different ways. Blessings
That is an awesome idea 💡 👏🏾
Class's YES❤❤❤❤
Good idea 👍
Awesome idea!!!!
Yes!!! You can do classes in the warehouse!!!!
My observation, only from watching your videos for two years, is that you worked out of your home with no lease payment And into a 10,000 square-foot building that likely cost $8-$10k per month plus utilities. So that’s a minimum of 100 K per year in Expenses you did not have working out of your home. If you had $1 million business that’s 10% of your revenue going out the door. That’s a big hit, unless you have a healthy overall profit margin in your business. I do understand you were bursting at the seams at your house. But for going from a basement and a couple of bedrooms in your home, to the amount of space that you leased Seems like a big jump.
Girl seeing you cry is breaking my heart. You are my She-ro. I know you will pull through this your an inspiration to us all. I'll be praying for you stay strong I wish I could give you a hug 🤗.
Angela, you are such an inspiration and it breaks my heart to see you struggling. I wish there was something I could do to help you. Colleges and University and local schools often need swag merchandise at the last minute for special events. Have you thought of putting together some ideas that might work for schools? Please don't give up-- you are a treasure. Sending hugs and encouragement your way. 💙
Im sorry. Don't give in, don't give up. You are not alone.
Angela all will work itself out. BELIEVE………..Hang in there and breathe.
Do you have an option to sub-lease?
Business will pick up again - all will work out. You’ve got this! Sending you wishes for many blessings 🥰
Don’t give up! Remember where you started Angela.❤
Don't give up!!! You're a strong woman and you have it in you. Just downsize but never quit.
biggest issues is these platforms, they control who sees what, they want your money in order to show the products, they have us by the short and curlies, such a struggle to do business today especially with all the competition
Competition like those using children to sew