Normally the heat in Arizona puts off customers, but for two local teens, positioning a table just outside of a community pool may have been the answer. Emilia and Lynn are 7th graders and both avid bracelet makers, often using their creativity for fun. This time they decided to see if they could make a profit too. Here is what they learned from running their own business.
The girls agreed to a list of supplies, some borrowed, and some they already had to keep costs low. They decided upon a price point of $6 for simple designs, $9 for ones with more colors and charms. One Saturday they set up shop and gave themselves three hours to see what they might manage to sell to those passing by. They made sure to decorate their table, put up a price menu, and even added a bowl of candy to entice the nearby foot traffic.
The first hour was quite slow as a number of cars kept passing. Nevertheless, both girls were undeterred and kept waving and smiling. As more people passed, the girls plucked up the courage to introduce themselves and start a friendly chat. This seemed to work and a few people bought bracelets with even one car stopping to buy a bracelet from each girl.
By the end of their time, the girls did not come close to selling out of bracelets but they did walk away with some new experiences. Lynn said she was inspired to think of other times of the year and places in the community to sell her bracelets. Emilia learned more about what the customers liked and which bracelets were best sellers. However, it was clear they both grew in confidence and had fun at the same time.
One Saturday they set up shop and gave themselves three hours to see what they might manage to sell to those passing by.