For eight years, my career revolved around being a diagnostic medical sonographer, and in 2020, I returned to school to pursue a master’s degree in healthcare administration. After graduating, I continued working part-time as a sonographer while seeking a role in healthcare administration. That’s when an unexpected opportunity changed my career path: the chance to purchase Rue Ridge, a fine gift shop.
Although my professional background was in healthcare, I wasn’t a stranger to the world of retail and gifts. During high school and college, I worked part-time at a locally owned clothing store. After college, I worked at Heritage House Gifts, another beloved local business. These experiences gave an understanding of customer service, merchandising and the joy of helping people find the perfect gift.
In 2021, my aunt opened Rue Ridge. Over two years, I worked alongside her part time as she built and grew the business. However, in 2023, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Facing new priorities, she decided to sell Rue Ridge. She and I collaborated to ensure a smooth transition of ownership, rebranding it as Rue Ridge Gifts.
Taking over the business was both exciting and daunting, as I had no formal background in business. My first year as a small business owner has been a steep learning curve, but I’ve drawn heavily on the valuable retail experience I gained from working with two successful business owners here on the Coast. Additionally, I’m incredibly fortunate to have a talented and supportive team of employees. I lovingly call them my “advisory board” because we collaborate on every decision, big and small. Their input has been instrumental in navigating this journey.
For other aspiring entrepreneurs, I would recommend immersing yourself in every aspect of your business. Understand your customers’ needs, learn how to manage inventory effectively and take the time to build relationships with your community and suppliers. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice, whether it’s from mentors, employees or fellow business owners. Collaboration can lead to insights you may not have considered on your own.
Time management is another critical skill. While owning Rue Ridge Gifts allows me flexibility to spend time with my family, it’s also important to set boundaries and create schedules to avoid burnout. Staying organized with tools like planners or digital apps has helped me prioritize tasks and maintain focus.
Owning Rue Ridge Gifts has given me a newfound appreciation for the balance between work and family life. While it offers the flexibility to spend more time with my loved ones, it also demands countless hours of attention and detail-oriented effort. The work doesn’t stop when the doors close, but the rewards of running my own business and serving our community make it all worthwhile.
This adventure has been both challenging and rewarding, and I’m excited to see how Rue Ridge Gifts continues to grow and flourish in the years ahead.