When I used to consult businesses as a banker I would always tell them to have a business plan, but then don’t throw it in a drawer, use it as a living document because your business may surprise you and go in a different direction and you will need to revise it accordingly.
It seems as though I am living a bit of my own advice. If you’ve been following along on FB, and Instagram, you’ll have noticed my collaboration with Reynolds Farm in Averill Park NY.
I can’t say enough about what wonderful caring farmers they are. The animals are treated with love and respect. One of their specialties is goat milk soap from their Nigerian Dwarf goats. They are hand-milked and then Linda Reynolds makes soap from the milk. Amazing soap, like nothing you’ve ever smelled and the packaging is layered and thoughtful. Linda is an artist as well, so it’s an interesting combination, farmer/artist.
The idea to work together came after a visit to the farm (I can’t resist those goats). We got talking about soap dishes to sell with her soap. For a few weeks we went back and forth on design, true team work with no ego…I love working with women. Our final design was this…
Then we spoke about goat mugs, I ended up making mugs with the farm name on them. They are in the glaze firing in the kiln now, but I can give you a sneak peek.
I made one different from the rest, Linda thought it might be a good seller because the soap dishes with the goats on them where being snatched up. So this mug was made.
All in all to date this conversation between old friends has turned into 40 soap dishes, 8 “logo mugs” and eight (so far) goat mugs. This is my first time trying wholesale. It’s a very different game, but I enjoy it. I now have another business asking about the possibility of collaboration too. As I told my clients when I was a banker, “You can’t always predict where your business will go, be open to the possibilities”. Here I am, following my own advice.
While I don’t have a picture of Linda and me, I do have one of Matilda and me and let’s face it I have a bit of a crush on her really.
Teri I love our collaboration so much! You have brought such beautiful pieces to our farm. I am so touched by you noticing our love and respect for our animals. I am truly amazed by your speed and attention to every detail! It is amazing how a fun afternoon visit has turned into a business venture that I couldn’t be happier with!! Thank you for bringing your incredible talent to our farming venture.
Linda,
Our collaboration has brought another depth to my business and myself. I love how well we work together and I am hopeful we will be doing so for quite some time. Thank you for the kind words.
Teri