Smile!
Many event goers have said, “I love your business name!” It’s a playful nod to my name, Stacey, with “smiles” added for fun. I’m usually smiling and love bringing smiles to others, even the grumpiest ones—it’s like a little quest. I chose this name long before starting my business. At a vendor event, someone entered my tent who I later learned was a “competitor”. I don’t like seeing anyone as competition, though, we are all creating beautiful things. They were rude, and despite my efforts, I couldn’t get a smile. Another customer whispered they were checking out my items to copy them, ending with, “Bless their hearts.” That made me smile and reminded me of an old friend. If you sell similar things, I wish you luck and smiles. If you want to copy me, I’m flattered—never thought I was worth copying! Stop by my tent anytime; you’ll get a smile, whether you buy or not. Life’s hard, but smiles are free.
My First Blog Post
In October 2024, I took the plunge and filed the paperwork to make Stay Sea Smiles an official business in Florida. For years, fear of the unknown held me back, despite crafting candles and soaps for fun, weddings, parties, and gifts. Florida’s business-friendly environment turned my dream into reality. Starting out, I was overwhelmed by licenses, insurance, websites, and wholesale purchasing. Creating is my passion, but numbers and organization aren’t my strengths. Thankfully, my husband stepped in to handle the business side. Still, as first-time business owners, we faced a steep learning curve.
Our first vendor event, a small one just two miles from home, was a whirlwind. Setting up was a challenge, and the event brought surprises: territorial vendors arguing over inches of space, kind vendors helping elderly neighbors with tents, and eager early birds buying before we could unpack. Despite the chaos, it was exhilarating. We made new friends, gained repeat customers, and were hooked. Family members even joined to help. Since then, Stay Sea Smiles has grown, with an expanded product line and a bright, beautiful future ahead.
Stacey