Cassie Bustamante

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The Dream Is Still Alive: Thoughts on Starting a Business

November 11, 2014 by Cassie 116 Comments

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Happy Tuesday!  WHAT A WEEKEND!  We had our holiday open house at Sweet Clover, and it was absolutely insane.  I don’t even think I can put into words how I feel about it, but I am going to try to do my best and going to completely spill my heart out here for you, interspersed with pretty pictures from the open house, just to give you something to look at besides my heart guts.

barn19

 

Traer Loves space at Sweet Clover

A few months back, I asked you all to fill out a survey and tell me what you were interested in hearing about and a resounding number of you wanted to know more about Sweet Clover.  I have dragged my feet because I wasn’t sure what I would tell you.  I want you to leave this blog each day feeling happy and empowered, inspired and able; but I feared if I shared about the business, you wouldn’t feel that way.

barn55

Danish inspired tree from our resident Dane, Ms. Maria

Sweet Clover has been open now for 18 months, and in those 18 months, we’ve gone through some changes and faced some challenges.  Sarah and I have worked tirelessly, and although you don’t need to know my financial situation, I feel I should tell you that up until a month ago, our work has gone unpaid.  That’s just part of what you do when you are starting a business, so I understand.  But Sarah and I are both busy moms with families to consider.  We’ve spent countless hours in the barn cleaning, staging, styling, photographing, pricing, and managing the sales floor when we are open.  On top of that, we’ve spent time hunting, sanding, painting, marketing, searching for awesome vendors, entering sales books, reconciling the square, making schedules for open weekends, writing leases, ordering supplies, ordering paint, and doing our best to keep all of our vendors happy and trying to lead them to their own successes, while creating a sense of team and unity.  We’ve sacrificed an income as well as time with our families to put it towards nurturing this business of ours.

barn88

 

We’ve worked hard and we’ve laughed together, vented together, drank together (on vacation).  We’ve also talked each other off the ledge…. Sarah would question what we are doing; then a month later it would be my turn.  The question: Is it all worth it?

barn131

Beautiful mini ornaments from Random Notion

As the kids began school, life was absolutely stressful for me.  Chris was working a new job and rarely home, I was working on this “dream” business, taking care of kids and making sure homework was done and they were where they needed to be at the right time, plus taking care of a puppy and a dog…. it was too much and I felt like something just had to give.  I was sure it was Sweet Clover…. I was sure that it was time to give up on that dream because I couldn’t do it all, and I was feeling like a complete failure at life- doing a lot but not doing any of it really well.  Sarah and I discussed in great lengths what our next move would be.

barn110

From The Shabby Chic Girl

We have an amazing vendor now who helps us manage the sales floor, and we’ve also hired an accountant.  We’ve rented out half of the upstairs of the barn to one vendor.  All of these moves were made to ease some of our stress. And we decided to move forward, hoping these changes would help without coming at too much of a cost to us.

barn53

Awesome horse from Salvaged

Fast forward to now….. Chris’ schedule has normalized, the kids have gotten back into the routine of school, and work has continued to be crazy busy as we prepare for the holidays, but crazy busy good, not crazy busy overwhelming.  We opened our doors this past weekend for our Holiday Open House, and it was all I needed to assure me that Sarah and I need to keep working on our dream.  It was an AMAZING weekend; it was non-stop busy, and we heard so much fabulous feedback from customers.  And with the hard work of our vendor team, I can honestly say that it was the best I have ever seen that barn looking.  I texted Sarah and all I said was “We are doing it!”  It truly felt like “this is it!” Every hour we’ve spent and every dime we’ve sacrificed has been worth it because we are finally taking this business where we want to go!

barn66

 

Adorable vintage houses from Bmore Nestled

I felt I owed it to all of you who’ve followed along on this adventure to share what was going on behind the scenes and in my heart and head.  And I also wanted to let you know that dreaming is only a tiny part of what is really involved in owning your own business…. It’s made up of blood, sweat, tears, laughs, dreams, doubts, fears, highs, lows and so much more.  I am so lucky to share all of these things with the best partner I could ask for, and I look forward to many more years of Sweet Clover!  One day, Sarah and I will be running it with our little girls (who won’t be so little anymore!) by our sides and I can’t wait.  So, just to end on a less serious and more “Cassie” note, I leave you with this… 😉

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Comments

  1. Anna-Ruth (ART) Murphy says

    November 11, 2014 at 6:33 am

    Yay! I know it must be extremely difficult to juggle it all…but you are inspiring! Keep it going…you ROCK!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:46 pm

      thank you so much! it is but i love it all so it’s hard to take anything off my plate. 🙂 the changes we have made have helped for sure!

      Reply
  2. [email protected] says

    November 11, 2014 at 6:49 am

    I’m so glad that things are looking brighter for you and you see that it is all worth it. I knew it all along. I told you 🙂
    You guys are up for some amazing things and I’m so happy for it. The photos look amazing!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:45 pm

      thank you so much, julia! i am really excited about the future!

      Reply
  3. Megan Parmenter says

    November 11, 2014 at 7:08 am

    1- From a customer perspective I can tell you that you are doing an amazing job! As I told my friends when I shared the Sweet Clover FB page last month your barn is my favorite! I always walk away spending double what I planned because there is so much that I love!
    2 – You would be a perfect speaker (or attendee) for my conference tomorrow! It’s all about Maryland Entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs inspiring other entreptreneurs.
    3 – ❤️ the Wilson Phillips video

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:44 pm

      thank you so much, megan! your support means a lot to me and i love that you are spreading the word! 🙂 that conference sounds amazing!

      Reply
  4. Andrea says

    November 11, 2014 at 7:24 am

    Cassie, love this heartfelt post. So many people give up on their dreams because of the hard work that comes with making a dream a reality. I’m proud of you and Sarah for persevering. You are both an inspiration!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:44 pm

      thank you so much, andrea! we appreciate it. 🙂

      Reply
  5. Dana says

    November 11, 2014 at 7:48 am

    I admire your guts!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:43 pm

      why thank you! 🙂

      Reply
  6. Josephine Penelope says

    November 11, 2014 at 8:16 am

    It must be wonderful to look back now at all of the progress you’ve made and the challenges that you’ve overcome. Well done you! Love the images in this post too!

    http://www.josephinepenelope.com

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:43 pm

      thank you so much, josephine! it really is fun to see how far we have come so far, and i am excited to see how far we will go!

      Reply
  7. megan says

    November 11, 2014 at 8:16 am

    Cassie – you are amazing. I love seeing all your hard work that you and Sarah put into your barn. The pieces you transform are beautiful and inspiring. I hope to come and see it in person very soon. I’m so glad the holiday sale was very successful!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:42 pm

      thank you so much, megan! i hope you get to see it soon, too!

      Reply
  8. judi says

    November 11, 2014 at 8:18 am

    cassie,
    thank you so much for sharing your heart. owning a business comes with many unavoidable obstacles, setbacks, emotions and doubts. i can relate to all that you’ve written and more. each of us (in the retail trade) can attest to all of the above but most importantly, it is the dream, goal and mission statement that keeps us moving forward. the last year has been the most gut-wrenching, stress-filled time in my business. i too questioned if it was to continue. however, the customers and friends who have shared an encouraging word have also kept me focused and moving forward. they have been such a blessing to me. i’m encouraged and inspired by your post and thankful for your courage. i look forward to seeing where the journey leads you!
    blessings,
    judi

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:42 pm

      judi, i wish you are the best as well! we can do this- we are strong and capable and creative amazing women! right? right!

      Reply
  9. Rita says

    November 11, 2014 at 8:33 am

    Aww this was beautiful and I never doubted you for a second! I’m so glad I can be a part of this journey with you (in a small way of course) but I do tend to be a great cheerleader so I’ll always cheer you guys on from afar because I have no doubt that your path will lead you to what you strive for! Happiness and prosperity! You my friend are an inspiration! Love you Cassie!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:40 pm

      thank you so much, rita! i appreciate that, my friend!

      Reply
  10. Vicki says

    November 11, 2014 at 8:40 am

    Cassie,
    I am delighted to hear that the end of the post was to “keep it going!” I was so afraid it was a goodbye to your dream. I know from experience with my ex husband that it might take up to 5 years to see true profit on a regular basis but you are amazing in doing all you do to keep up home and a business. I think it is good that you have hired help and rented out part of the space to another business. I am sure that will alleviate some stress. Believe me this post is wonderful for others that want to take the risk to do something like this. I feel that even in the hard times it can keep you inspired to try new things and continue your creativity. As long as the whole family is on board, I hope you can persevere. I don’t live nearby but I want to come to that place one day. It would be an inspiration to see it and meet you. God Bless you for the future!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:40 pm

      thank you so much, vicki! i am very lucky to have the support of my family. 🙂

      Reply
  11. Lisa @ Shine Your Light says

    November 11, 2014 at 8:58 am

    The first year or two of starting a new business is the hardest – financially and I think emotionally too, hoping it’s going to take off and turn a profit. Good for you for sticking with it, despite the fact that it has taken a ton of your time in the past 18 months, it’s flexible for a mom, right? And you are doing what you love! Best wishes as it takes a turn into profitability 🙂

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:39 pm

      it’s flexible but much of the time i am at home with my kids i am working at my computer or painting so that’s tough. but they are awesome kids. 🙂 and i also want them to see me trying for my dream so that they realize they can do it, too.

      Reply
  12. Kirby says

    November 11, 2014 at 8:59 am

    You are amazing! Never forget it!
    Love,
    Aunt Kirby

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:39 pm

      thank you so much, aunt kirby!

      Reply
  13. Natalie @ A Turtle's Life for Me says

    November 11, 2014 at 9:13 am

    Awww, Cassie, how did you climb inside my head and describe my retail roller coaster so perfectly?! It’s funny isn’t it, because you can go into it knowing that there will be ups and downs, high days and low, stressful days, long periods where you’re “volunteering” your time, and no matter how prepared you think you are for these times, they still knock you on your butt. I’ve been following your journey as a friend and fellow (ex) business owner, because our emotions have often seemed to mirror each other. I’ll continue to think of you and pray that this is the upward path you will continue on, at least until I can get down there to visit!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:38 pm

      thank you so much, natalie! i am bummed i never got to visit your bakery, but i know that you understand why i had to be here so much! 😉 work work work! and thank you thank you thank you!

      Reply
  14. Erika says

    November 11, 2014 at 9:36 am

    Congrats Cassie!! I can only imagine all the hardwork you both have put into that place. And based on the pictures–it is adorable!! So so happy for u that you are finally seeing te fruits of your labor! Congrats!! I hope it only gets better and better! XO

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:37 pm

      thank you so much, erika!!! i hope so as well!

      Reply
  15. Kristin @ Bliss at Home says

    November 11, 2014 at 10:11 am

    Loved hearing more insight into what you are doing Cassie 🙂 I am so glad you are starting to see the fruits of your labor. You girls are amazing! xoxo

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:37 pm

      thank you so much, kristin! it is hard balancing it and i want to be a more successful blogger, but then sweet clover suffers, so i just do the best i can!

      Reply
  16. laurie Jones Home says

    November 11, 2014 at 10:26 am

    I’m proud and super happy for you, I’ve been where you’ve been and instead of pressing forward I took a step back and am still trying to figure out what that means, I think we all can relate to what you’re going through. I wish I lived closer because not only does your work look great so do all your vendors, I think things are only going to get better for you!!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:36 pm

      thank you so much, laurie! i sure hope so!

      Reply
  17. Karah @ thespacebetweenblog says

    November 11, 2014 at 11:16 am

    This is so awesome! For those of us who are still in search of our dream I love to hear this perspective. And yay for a super awesome Holiday sale weekend!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:36 pm

      thank you so much, karah- i appreciate it! keep on dreaming, right? what is life without it? boring.

      Reply
  18. angela says

    November 11, 2014 at 12:19 pm

    Oh my gosh. This was such a fantastic post! So happy you are seeing the awesome benefits of your business. And Wilson Phillips. Stop. LMAO.

    Angela @ Number Fifty-Three

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:36 pm

      thank you so much, angela! and so glad you appreciate the wilson phillips video. 😉

      Reply
  19. Haley says

    November 11, 2014 at 1:08 pm

    I’m so glad to hear that things are going well! I love hearing about your business venture with the Sweet Clover barn. I would love to have a business like that some day so it is nice to see your successes. I love the holiday decorations!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:35 pm

      thank you so much, haley!!! i really appreciate it!

      Reply
  20. Gretchen says

    November 11, 2014 at 2:03 pm

    So glad things are going more smoothly for you now! Someday I’m going to get up there to see Sweet Clover in person! And I might take those little houses home with me when I do 🙂

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:35 pm

      i would love it!!!!!!

      Reply
  21. Ali says

    November 11, 2014 at 2:11 pm

    This post made me feel so happy!! I am literally living MY dream vicariously through you (and in my deepest heart and imagination I am there in the thick of it with you). I love you so much and you are such an inspiration to me!! Keep on keepin’ on my wonderful friend. To the meeeeeeeeeeep.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:35 pm

      you are always here in my heart!

      Reply
  22. Cindy says

    November 11, 2014 at 2:11 pm

    I just started a new business in August and am already having second thoughts about whether I should just throw in the towel. I’m so much more encouraged after reading your post and, for now, I’m going to keep going!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:35 pm

      i am so glad to hear that! best of luck to you!

      Reply
  23. Jessica @ Dear Emmeline says

    November 11, 2014 at 2:48 pm

    Glad to hear it sounds like you guys may have hit a stride and the ride might be a little smoother (and hopefully lucrative!!) from this point forward! I’m glad you guys are sticking with it. I heart your barn. 🙂 It’s definitely the friendliest and most eclectic one around!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:34 pm

      coming from someone who knows the area, i really appreciate that comment, jessica!!! we heart you right back.

      Reply
  24. Catherine says

    November 11, 2014 at 2:50 pm

    Such an amazing challenge Cassie, but you are doing it, those photos look absolutely beautiful. I love hearing the real side of business, it’s not all love and light! Thanks for being honest with us! But I’m so glad you’re pressing on, and feeling good about it

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:34 pm

      thank you so much, catherine! i am so glad you enjoyed this post. 🙂

      Reply
  25. Heidi @ Decor & More says

    November 11, 2014 at 3:03 pm

    You know, it’s so funny — I was feeling EXACTLY the same way earlier this fall — overwhelmed, stressed out, and a complete failure at all the things that mattered. I’m so happy that you (AND I) have been able to regain our perspective! I’m recommitted to doing all the creative things that fuel me and slowly stepping out of the rest of it. I’m sure there will be other “funks” and difficult times along the way, but it’s so lovely when time, thought, and prayer have a way of settling things out.
    On another note (sorry for the long comment!) — my mom who is a Hood College graduate (there in Frederick) was in town and I was telling her all about Sweet Clover! She will be up there for a reunion this spring and is DYING to check it out and share with all her Hood Alumnae friends.
    Congrats on your much deserved success and wishing you many more years of it!! xoxoxo Heidi

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:34 pm

      yes- i think we all go through it at some point. i was very close to giving up and so mad at myself because i do NOT give up. 😉 and yay about your mom- come with her!

      Reply
  26. Cathy says

    November 11, 2014 at 3:27 pm

    Yay for you Cassie, so happy that the blood, sweat and tears are filling you with reward and that you are in a good place with continuing to grow your business. Sounds like a lot of good steps towards letting Sweet Clover “fly!”

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 3:33 pm

      thank you so much!

      Reply
  27. Kris {Driven by Décor} says

    November 11, 2014 at 3:49 pm

    This post made me so happy – I can only imagine how many time and energy you’ve put into your business and it’s so amazing that you’re finally seeing it all pay off!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:20 pm

      thank you so much, kris! it’s been quite a ride so far!

      Reply
  28. Caitlin @ Desert Domicile says

    November 11, 2014 at 5:03 pm

    You guys are such an inspiration to me! I’m SO HAPPY Sweet Clover is doing what you hoped it would when you started. The best is yet to come 🙂

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:20 pm

      thank you so much, caitlin! i sure hope it is! 🙂

      Reply
  29. Niamh says

    November 11, 2014 at 6:05 pm

    Wow Cassie !! I don’t often comment on the blog but I read every post. This particular one has resonated with me in a HUGE WAY !!!

    10 months ago I left my career and full time (paid ! ) job, cashed in my RRSP’s (401K) and opened my own boutique retail store featuring furniture, home decor and gifts. The Irish Clover has been a dream come true !! But I really never expected anything like the roller coaster ride that a business is. I too have been “volunteering” my time and resources to keep the store running, working 6 days and approx 60 hours a week in the store, networking etc. You wonder constantly if you are doing the right thing, if the time and energy devoted should be put toward your kids and husband (my two are young as well, ages 4 and 6) and something that pays a salary 😉

    It is wonderful to hear that others go through this ride as well (not that I would wish it on anyone). I am so glad you and Sarah decided to continue with it. It fills me with hope and inspiration.

    XOXO Lots of Love and Best Wishes,

    Niamh @ The Irish Clover
    http://www.TheIrishClover.com

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:21 pm

      YES! i agree- it is refreshing to know that others have and do feel like you do! it’s hard and we all need to stick together and encourage one another. wishing you all the best and so glad you decided to comment today! 🙂 off to check out your shop!

      Reply
  30. Shannon @ Fox Hollow Cottage says

    November 11, 2014 at 6:26 pm

    Running your own place is so hard. I’m so glad you’ve got a super teammate and are getting support staff in place so you can breath. Things leveling out at this time of year is such a blessing, so you can enjoy the holidays too! You are wicked talented, love knowing you are pursuing your dreams!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:26 pm

      thank you so much for that, shannon!!! right back at you! 🙂

      Reply
  31. Robin says

    November 11, 2014 at 6:27 pm

    Bless your heart! I can’t begin to imagine the craziness you’ve endured for the past 18 months, but am so glad you and your partner feel it has been and will continue to be worth all of it. And please add to your list of things you do in growing and maintaining your business: Responding to comments on your blog! I am amazed at how you make an effort to reply to everyone who leaves a comment! That is so thoughtful of you and is one of the many things that separates you from so many others! Wishing you much success….
    xoxo
    Robin

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:27 pm

      thank you so much, robin- i wish you all the success in the world as well! 🙂 i appreciate you taking the time to comment!

      Reply
  32. Katrina says

    November 11, 2014 at 6:53 pm

    Loved that you and your friend jumped in with all your heart and now things are getting on track and all your handwork is being rewarded! And so happy your living the dream!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:28 pm

      thank you so much, katrina!

      Reply
  33. [email protected] says

    November 11, 2014 at 7:12 pm

    Cassie, you rock! Thank you so much for writing this and for sharing the ups and downs with us! I’m so glad you are getting to live your dream, even when the dream is difficult sometimes! I’m working on chasing mine down right now – thanks for the encouragement to keep at it 🙂

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:29 pm

      way to go, brynne! i think we all need to encourage each other. there is not enough of that in the world- people are always out to compete and outdo, but the world would be such a better and happier place if we all recognized each other’s talents and strengths, as well as our own, and celebrated them and our differences. i wish you all the best- keep chasing.

      Reply
  34. Fiona says

    November 11, 2014 at 7:12 pm

    Oh Cassie, so glad you are working out ways to pay yourselves. I think it’s crucial. Even if you love what you do, to sacrifice being with your family requires payment!!
    Fiona xx

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:30 pm

      thank you so much, fiona- you are right!

      Reply
  35. Krystine www.KrysitneEdwards.com/blog says

    November 11, 2014 at 7:22 pm

    It is tough to start a business and you truly don’t see the benefits for such a long time to come. I sacrificed salaries, time with family & sanity at times. But, if your heart & hear is in it, you will succeed. It sounds like you’ve made great moves and are seeing results. I always tell people when they ask about me starting a business, you have to spend money to make it and it finally did pay off, but there are times I wanted to call it quits! Bravo friend, best of luck!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 11, 2014 at 9:31 pm

      so glad to hear you on the other side of it and you’ve survived and succeeded! there’s hope! 😉 thank you so much, my friend!

      Reply
  36. [email protected] says

    November 11, 2014 at 10:13 pm

    I’m so proud of you! And I feel so honored, and excited, that I got to come and experience Sweet Clover firsthand. You and Sarah have created something amazing! I wish you guys all the luck in the world as Sweet Clover continues to grow and you see your dream develop even more!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:50 pm

      thank you so much, ashley! we are so glad that you could come see it in person! 🙂

      Reply
  37. [email protected] says

    November 11, 2014 at 10:26 pm

    Cassie – I love this post. I love your heart. I love your dreams. I love reading about them. It takes some serious cajones to open a business and work your ass off for over a year without making a dime. Honestly, 99 percent of the world couldn’t do it. But you and Sarah have serious cajones and I admire what you are both doing so much. So happy for your success!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:50 pm

      thank you so much, kim! that is a lot of love, and i love it! 🙂

      Reply
  38. Pudel - design says

    November 12, 2014 at 2:07 am

    I am so happy for you, that things are finally paid off and you doing well;)
    I can totally relate to your post!
    Thank you for sharing, Cassie.
    You are an inspiration to many of us;)
    Love & hugs
    Lydia

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:49 pm

      thank you so much, lydia! i am so glad i wrote about it because i think a lot of people related! 🙂

      Reply
  39. [email protected] this top that says

    November 12, 2014 at 4:24 am

    cassie- so super excited for you and proud…i only wished i lived closer to give you a hug and visit Sweet Clover.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:48 pm

      thank you so much, laura! maybe one day!

      Reply
  40. Bliss says

    November 12, 2014 at 7:39 am

    Oh Grasshopper, I don’t mind seeing your guts, I heart them.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:47 pm

      aaaw, thank you! love you, too. 🙂

      Reply
  41. [email protected] says

    November 12, 2014 at 8:42 am

    Ohhh, that’s who Wilson Phillips is. I get it. 😉

    I’m proud of you lady. I’m not ballsy enough to follow my dreams completely. Instead I let crackheads yell at me about wanting their pain meds filled 29 days early. Some day. You are great motivation. I’m so glad Sweet Clover is the coolest barn around.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:47 pm

      ha ha! 😉 thank you so much, michelle! i appreciate it and hope you get to see it one day, when you finally tell those people to fill their own freakin meds!

      Reply
  42. Sarah says

    November 12, 2014 at 8:53 am

    SO happy you guys didn’t throw in the towel! You and Sarah are great business owners and I always loved working with you as a vendor and shopping the barn. I can’t wait to come to the next barn sale! Also 18 months to start making money on a new business? That’s pretty impressive!!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:46 pm

      thank you so much, sarah! we really appreciate that coming from you! 🙂

      Reply
  43. kathleen says

    November 12, 2014 at 9:25 am

    First of all, GREAT video! Horribly cheesy and wonderful at the same time. So happy you have come to a point where your business is feeling like the right choice. i think it’s awesome that you two found each other and created such a fun yet challenging job. You’ve got the best of both worlds!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:46 pm

      exactly! horribly cheesy and wonderful! and thank you so much- we really do have the best!

      Reply
  44. [email protected] says

    November 12, 2014 at 9:41 am

    Um this is how I am feeling a bit lately and i haven’t even opened my doors yet! This has given me some good ideas of what to expect and how to persevere through some tough times to come. I am so glad that you didn;t say no to Sweet Clover.

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:45 pm

      i am so glad this has helped you!

      Reply
  45. Elizabeth @ The Little Black Door says

    November 12, 2014 at 10:39 am

    I’m so proud of you, and I’m so glad you both stuck with it. You are both strong smart women, which is exactly what the business world needs. Stick with it and thanks for sharing!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:45 pm

      thank you so much, elizabeth! you are so right- and you are, too!

      Reply
  46. Tania // Run To Radiance says

    November 12, 2014 at 1:38 pm

    Such an honest, open post. I love it. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:45 pm

      thank you, tania!

      Reply
  47. Patty Day says

    November 12, 2014 at 2:32 pm

    WOW…..I just had the chance to sit and read your post. I am so, so happy you both are now at this point in your Dream!!!! Congratulations and all the best forward!!!!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:45 pm

      thank you so much, patty!

      Reply
  48. Andrea Howe says

    November 12, 2014 at 4:01 pm

    I can only imagine how hard this has been for you,but so happy to hear that your heart is still in it, and that you feel uplifted and recharged to keep going. So happy for you, and as a wife of a small business owner, I truly know how much you sacrifice. He loves it though, and says all the time he’d rather work 80 hours for himself than 40 hours for someone else 😉

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:44 pm

      i have to say i agree with your husband’s sentiments! 🙂 even though balancing it is all so hard! thank you so much, andrea!

      Reply
  49. Kristen says

    November 12, 2014 at 5:21 pm

    Congrats Cassie! The shop is amazing, and you’re doing a wonderful job. I can’t wait to visit again!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:44 pm

      thank you so much, kristen! i am so glad to hear that!

      Reply
  50. Trina @ Let's Just Build a House says

    November 12, 2014 at 5:36 pm

    your hard work will pay off. You are very talented and a hard worker!! And extra points for ending the post with wilson phillips!! xoxo

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:44 pm

      thank you so much, trina! and thanks for the extra points! 😉

      Reply
  51. gail says

    November 12, 2014 at 6:33 pm

    I was so engrossed in the blog post (words) that I glossed over EVERY single picture without a glance. I’ll have to scroll up to look at them. I wanted to comment before the words leave my brain.
    So happy you’ve stuck with it. being young makes it a little easier in some ways (more energy) but more difficult in other ways (family obligations) I think you have found a great balance Cassie!
    On a side note–I’m a huge wilson phillips fan, and I don’t think I’ve ever heard this song before.
    Always wishing the the best success!!
    gail

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 12, 2014 at 7:43 pm

      thank you so much, gail! i appreciate that! 🙂 we are trying!

      Reply
  52. Debbie says

    November 12, 2014 at 10:59 pm

    I’m so glad you made some helpful changes! Love your spirit, do whatever you need to do 🙂
    Debbie

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 13, 2014 at 9:14 pm

      thank you so much, debbie! i appreciate it!

      Reply
  53. Shelley | Crazy Wonderful says

    November 13, 2014 at 8:00 pm

    So thrilled to hear it’s rockin and rollin!!! That goes for Sweet Clover and your dream of a business your kids can be a part of 🙂 Wow, what a throwback to that song!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 13, 2014 at 9:08 pm

      thank you so much, shelley! i will hold on for one more day. i just have to break free from the chains. 😉

      Reply
  54. Amber @ Wills Casa says

    November 13, 2014 at 11:44 pm

    You are hilarious and inspiring! I love seeing Sweet Clover happenings and can’t wait for the day when I actually get to be apart of one! You are building something incredible! Keep at it!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 16, 2014 at 8:01 am

      aaaw, thank you so much! i can’t wait for that day either!

      Reply
  55. [email protected] says

    November 14, 2014 at 8:57 am

    Thanks for being so candid and honest, Cassie. It’s never all it’s cracked up to be, is it? I’m just getting started, and really, my “business” is still more of a hobby than anything, but I learn more and more with each passing job that I work on, and enjoy doing work that I love. You do such great work and put your heart and soul into it, and that makes me believe that the rewards will return back to you. 🙂

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 16, 2014 at 8:00 am

      thank you for reading and for your words! and i hope you are right for both of us! 🙂

      Reply
  56. Vidya @ Whats Ur Home Story says

    November 18, 2014 at 2:12 pm

    So proud of you Cassie & Sarah! Love Sweet Clover!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 18, 2014 at 8:47 pm

      thank you so much, vidya!

      Reply
  57. Kelly @ Eclectically Vintage says

    November 20, 2014 at 8:16 pm

    So glad you and Sarah are going to keep on keeping on. Sweet Clover is amazing!

    Reply
    • Cassie says

      November 20, 2014 at 8:44 pm

      thank you so much, kelly! appreciate your support!

      Reply

Trackbacks

  1. Click It 22- Links I loved says:
    November 14, 2014 at 6:00 am

    […] week, I want to say a huge heartfelt thank you to all of you who commented on Tuesday’s post (about owning and running my own business) and showed support- you all mean so much to me, and knowing you back me is just an amazing […]

    Reply
  2. 10 Tips on Owning Your Own Vendor Based Store says:
    January 26, 2015 at 6:00 am

    […] continuing with our venture was best for us or if we should close it down.  I discussed much of that roller coaster ride previously here.  Today I want to share with you some of the things that we’ve learned in our short time, in […]

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Hi, I’m Cassie!

I believe that you don't have to spend a lot of money to live a beautiful life and be your best self.  Here you will find budget friendly ideas to live happily, healthily, sustainably, and most importantly authentically.  We all get one chance at this life, and this ordinary girl plans to make hers extraordinary. How about you? Read more...
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Hi! I'm Cassie.

Mother, wife, shop owner, blogger, writer, incurable diy-er, furniture painter, coffee and wine drinker, friend. Seeking happiness and passing it on. Read More…

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