Local Business Spotlight: Peppy Hue

During this time (and always!) it is so important to support the local business in our communities. Plus it’s great for the economy too! We are constantly inspired by the ambition and resilience of local business founders. We feel that the risks that they take lead to innovation and help in moving the world forward.

Inspired by these entrepreneurs and their stories, we recently chatted with Lama Baghdadi Sardouk – owner of Peppy Hue, about being an entrepreneur, running a small local business while also running a family, and how she’s adapted to the changes that Covid-19 has brought to her business.

What is your business about and why did you start it?  

Many people find that it’s difficult to find that perfect gift for a friend or loved one, or they may simply don’t have the time that it takes to search out an ideal gift. If you have a knack for always putting together memorable gifts, then you might put those talents to use in a gift basket of your own. When you’re creative and find giving others the perfect gift rewarding, chances are that you’ll enjoy the work you do in starting and running this type of business.

Starting your own small business is a bit like falling in love: it’s exciting, exhilarating, and new. You want to savor each moment and be your very best every minute of every day. It’s only been a couple of months since I’ve been in the gift basket business. I daydreamed for months about starting it. I have started it because of my love for gift giving.

What do you love about your business?

I love everything because it is very dynamic and I am learning new things every day. If I have to choose one though, I would choose the creative part which is my strength. The challenge is enormous and very demanding, but the rewards are equally great. It’s a one-person company. You start curating the selection, dealing with small manufacturers, solving storage, inventory, delivery, packaging, setting competitive prices, photographing… and you haven’t sold anything yet.

As I said, it’s really intense and demanding but when you start getting the mum’s feedback and smiley kid’s pictures, it really pays off. It’s fun to take so many decisions and immediately feel how it affects the path ahead.

Certainly it’s an industry with tremendous “fun” potential. You get to buy lots of cute, clever gift items; you get to pull those items together in an attractive container and create a charming presentation; and you get to provide a product that delivers infinite pleasure to the recipient. Both givers and receivers of gift baskets appreciate the creativity and uniqueness of the concept.

How do you manage your time between running a business and a family?

Between my work and my family, every second of my day is filled. Without an established routine, it’s too easy to lose track of what I’m doing in the middle of doing it. Establishing a weekly routine with time set aside solely for my business and my family alike helps me stay on top of things and be more effective. That said, flexibility is key. I have created a flexible schedule and work when they are sleeping or while they are away at work and school.

How has Covid-19 affected your business and how have you adapted?

My business — an event planning specializing in events was affected big time.

It has completely transformed due to the pandemic, People can’t go out to celebrate anniversaries, birthdays and graduations like they could previously.

But I believe COVID-19 had also a positive impact on my business. It provided me with the opportunity to take a pause and work on a new project processes. I’ve adapted my business to accommodate a new line of business for which I saw an increased interest.

Any piece of advice to other small businesses owners or anyone wanting to start their own business?

If you have a passion for something don’t hesitate to start with it, you will only know your talent once you are out of your safe zone and start the challenge.

Find out more about Peppy Hue and be sure to follow them on Instagram!

 

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