Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathie R Creasey.
Hi Kathie R, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started out as a customer of Granny’s Attic, and a few other shops, but Granny’s was my go to. One day, while checking out, I asked the dealer waiting on me, if there was any booth space available. She said she wasn’t sure, but took my information. Two weeks later, I got a call from the owner saying she had a spot, if I was still interested. I was! That was 2005. I started with a small booth, and started working there on weekends. I did that for many years, and at the end of 2020, the owner said she was thinking of selling the business & wanted to know if I was interested in buying it. I was! February of 2021 I acquired Granny’s and I love it. It’s hard work, but equally as fun.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Walking into an established business was a huge advantage, so as far as having a loyal customer base, and hitting the ground running, that’s been great. The biggest struggle for me was all the behind the scenes stuff I’d never done before, daily paperwork, keeping supplies, getting a lawyer & an accountant, doing all the taxes involved, etc. Obviously, I’ve learned all of that, and the work is still there, but I’ve got a routine that I’ve gotten into, and it’s gotten much easier.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Granny’s Attic is a small town Antique shop, open seven days a week. We’ve been in business since the 80’s and have always been a woman owned business. I say we sell a hodgepodge of everything, ranging from, antique, retro, and vintage. We also carry gorgeous & affordable sterling silver jewelry, Candleberry Candles, FHF jellies, furniture, glassware & everything in between.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
If you’re getting into the antique business, I’d suggest looking for a few, if not many dealers, along with your own items, early. Setting up your booth spaces & getting them rented out quickly with a good selection of items. Offering a variety of items brings in more folks. Some shops stick with a certain era (primitives, etc) but for us, a mix has worked great. Clear established hours, and being consistent with them, and social media is absolutely a must. Get your business name out using Facebook, instagram, etc. cross posting has been a huge help getting customers in.
Contact Info:
- Website: grannysattictn.com
- Instagram: grannysatticantiques370
- Facebook: Granny’s Attic Antiques
