Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Autumn Saunders, Owner of Tall Birches, located in Port Hope, ON, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Tall Birches is a curated boutique offering a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. I offer a hand-picked, curated vintage clothing collection, artisanal home goods that are made in-house, and Canadian-made self-care products like candles, soaps, and more! You will also find a small stationary collection as well as home goods/decor, whether they are vintage or new.

My customers are anyone and everyone that is willing to take the time to explore a curated space and have a good time. Tall Birches is an inclusive space where you can enjoy the vibe, listen to some good tunes, and discover something new!

Tell us about yourself

I am an old soul that loves nostalgia and vintage vibes. Tall Birches is named after my family's second-generation farm that now belongs to my parents. First owned by my grandparents in 1975, the name Tall Birches was given by my grandpa as the farm has an abundance of birch trees around the property.

A few years back, I, unfortunately, went through a life-altering experience that brought me to new terms with myself, having lost someone very important in my life. I went from living in Toronto to moving out to the farm, where I eventually found my new normal. A big part of this new normal was the realization that I was ready to start a business.

I had always known that I wanted to own a business, but it took going through that tough experience to get to the point of actually starting things up. I absolutely love vintage clothing, natural products, and handmade goods. Naturally, I wanted to approach this business with a sustainable and ethical mindset.

I named my business after the farm because that place means the world to me. It taught me the concept of peaceful living and really helped me stay grounded and connected. This place, as well as past family and friends, keeps me motivated every single day. The shop is a homage to all of this.

And I am so proud to say that it is my dad who creates all of the artisanal goods in the shop. From serving boards to birdhouses and everything in between, we take from the trees that have fallen in the forest that surround the farm. Everything is unique and one of a kind, and I am so grateful to be able to work closely with my family every day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

There are quite a few accomplishments that have stood out to me since being in business. But, the one that stands out to me the most is surviving the pandemic. Being a business that started up in September 2020, I really went in strong with the understanding that I would have to adapt at any given time.

I worked really hard and tried my best to stay positive, even when it seemed impossible. Things are still not exactly back to normal, but I feel this is a massive accomplishment that I constantly remind myself of day to day. I am proud that I persevered and never gave up.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

So far, I haven't had an experience while running this business that is overly difficult, but there are constant challenges and trials that I deal with day to day.

Not having staff during times that are incredibly busy can be a lot to keep up with. There are times when I'll miss a lunch break or am unable to get all of my to-do's done for the day. Work can pile up fast, and I sometimes have to play catch up. I work alone for the most part, so running a business six days a week has its ups and downs. I am still trying to figure out my work-to-life balance, but I am so grateful to have my mom's support as she fills in from time to time and supports me on the floor every Saturday.

Another challenge that I deal with day to day is keeping up with social media as well as the website. Running a physical shop takes a lot of energy, but it is so important to stay connected and keep customers in the loop online. It can be difficult to balance the two.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

The top 3 tips I would give to anyone looking to start up a business would be:

  1. Create a business plan. It is so important to be prepared and have your vision written down.
  2. Don't be too hard on yourself. There will be good days and bad days, and mistakes will be made. In the end, it is all a learning experience.
  3. If you're not feeling 100%, take the time to rest and refresh, whether that be taking a few days off or asking for help when you need it. It is important to feel your best and be ready to take on the day.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.tallbirches.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tallbirches
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tallbirches/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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