Whats your W.O.M.M?

I was asked this question a while back, just after I had opened the shop. Kit, who runs the delightful Fish Shed by The Bell in Ticehurst on a Saturday wanted to know what mine was. His was a little wooden fish on a piece of string and he said people loved being given them. At first I wasn't quite sure how to answer. For starters what did it mean? He explained to me that every business should have a bit of word of mouth marketing (WOMM) and I did have to stop and think exactly what mine was or what it was going to be. What was it about my business that would get people talking and coming back for more? 

Kit in the Fish Shed

After some deliberation I answered that it was my window and its display. Bearing in mind that by this stage I had only done two so wasn't sure if I could continue the momentum, but, it was the one thing that people seemed to always comment on. So there began my quest. Every time I do a new window I am filled with a sense of dread and excitement because people always react to whatever goes in there next. Sometimes it revolves around a theme thats current, other times its a happy amalgamation of whatever I have recently bought. Sometimes its a distinct colour palette, often seasonal or a reaction to how I'm feeling at the time. But it has to have that bit of retail theatre, it has to be different and it has to reflect the personality of the shop.

My biggest hit ever on our Facebook page was a picture I posted of my Christmas window, newly finished. 

The neighbours always comment. People drive by and then comment on social media. Its a talking point. Maybe one day it will even pass into local retail folklore, who knows. But if my little shop is remembered for one thing in the years to come then I would be honoured if it were for the windows. I guess I've found my WOMM.

So here is a roll call of all our windows to date. There have been nine altogether since we opened, including our latest 'Spring Greens'. And yes they all have names. Next month we will celebrate our First birthday so are going to have to come up with something suitably fantastic. Although, it may have to revolve around a pair of giant papier mache chickens that I bought out of the back of a van from a guy who had popped over from Germany. Whatever it may be, you will just have to wait and see!

Fresh Start - New Beginnings

Ethnic Odyssey

Faded Grandeur - Rule Britannia

Hothouse Haberdashery

Summertime Blues

Harvest Festival

Ode to Joy - Joy to the World

Flash Sale

Spring Greens