...and now for the good news.
 
"World markets falling, unemployment rising, bail-outs a plenty, corporate and political corruption ...but yet, 'it's a bird, it's a plane' - no, it's this tiny, little, itsy, bitsy store in Alexandria, VA called La Muse."
 
A few nights ago I was asked to give a short presentation about La Muse to the Upper King Street Neighborhood Association.  The association is primarily a resident's association but they asked me to talk about the store because: 1. I am part of the community and a member of the organization and, 2. I worked with the organization to see the Upper King Street Farmers' Market to fruition.  

 
Admittedly I am not big on budgeting or accounting (and I know I should be) but this presentation opportunity prompted me to do an analysis of how the store has been doing throughout the year.  I knew the store had grown, after all it's just a little over two years old and if we weren't growing ... well, I should probably start thinking about moving back into corporate America.  When I crunched the numbers I was elated to see that the store sales were up 44% over last year for the first eleven months of 2008 ... and that includes an up-tick of 88% in November.  88% sales growth during a time where the media is drilling economic Armageddon into the hearts and minds of every American.  That's pretty darn cool, isn't it?  I'm starting to feel like The Little Engine That Could!
 
I wanted to share this with you for two reasons.  First, to thank you; it is YOU, our customers, our clients and our friends, who have rallied, supported us, shopped at the store and told others about it.    If you do not partake in La Muse and spread La Muse ... well, that would be the end.  It is my intention to show you with each and every interaction you have at La Muse that we truly appreciate your business and support of us and American artisans and products.
 
I also wanted to share our success with you in hopes that it might serve up a little inspiration during a time when we could all use some.  In 2008 the story of a small, 'Main St.' retail store experiencing double digit revenue growth is a peculiar one to say the least.  But more than that it's a wonderful story of dreams, hope, accomplishment, imagination and love - and a story that every single one of you reading this are in.
 
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you. 
 
May 2009 bring you more happiness than you could ever hope for.  :)