First let me start by stating how wonderfully beautiful the weather is today… I just want to ride around with the windows down, and the sunroof back and enjoy… and I will get to in a couple of hours!
Next, I want to say thanks to everyone that offered their prospective on yesterday’s post. I still don’t know how I feel, but regardless of how I feel, I do think that it offers my mom a chance to learn more about me, if she wants to. I doubt that she will regularly read it anyway, and whenever I have a Jake-heavy day, I am sure she will not find it interesting and just tune out. Either way, as for now, I don’t really do too much “Å“risqué” stuff anyway, so let’s just keep this train rolling.
And last thing for today, I know that I am always talking about what I really want to do in life, and where I want to go with my career (dental hygienist, counselor, therapist, professional magician, etc.). And I know that it can be something that changes with the phases of the moon, sometimes. But, while I am making some decisions as to what steps I want to take next, and what I potentially want to go back to school for, I can’t help but think of what I REALLY want to do; as was the case yesterday, and proved to be the main reason I had such an awesomely happy day.
Deb and I went to a little CD store during my lunch break, and I was instantly whisked back to the times when I was in high school and college where I sought refuge through music at the local School Kids Records, or small CD shop. I could browse the used CD’s for hours, and always ended up buying something. Many times, I discovered new artists just because of what was playing, what I listened to while I was there, or by getting something that was lying in the sale bin. I loved the feel of the atmosphere, and it was something that I didn’t even realize that I missed; until we were in there. But the store was missing a few things. And that took me back to my dream of all dreams; you know, that which is also known as the job that I would do if money wasn’t an issue. I really and truly want to own one of those stores, and run it! Except mine would have all the cool things that the ones I have been in didn’t have, and I wished they did.
But, that begs the question, how would I go about making my dream come true? I am not asking to start a Virgin Records; but it would be cool to own something closer to Empire Records! And I believe that I would truly and blissfully be satisfied and happy. Now, all I guess I need to do is learn how to write a business plan, and find several hundred thousand dollars, and I can get started! But alas… that is where the happiness wanes. Too bad I can’t make it happen (or can I??!!!??); trust me, the place would be awesome. Even you would go there. Ideas on how to find all those things to make this happen… bring “Ëœem on!
What one might hear in my shop:
Postal Service – Brand New Colony
VHS or Beta – Night On Fire (Carlos D mix)
Cardigans – Godspell
I say go for it! I know nothing about business, but I am an expert consumer.
I think that now seems like it would be a good time to start one of these independent type of stores. I think that there is a backlash against big box stores that is steadily growing.
I know that I personally have gotten to the point where I try and buy exclusively from independent retailers, and give these people my entertainment dollars as well (ie: locally owned theaters, non chain restaurants, etc), based on the fact that I have a deep hatred for Wal-Mart, Barnes and noble, and Lowes.
Sure it might still be a niche market (the majority of the population will always go to the low price), but I am more than willing to pay more for knowledgeable service, interesting selection, and the small joy I get from knowing that my money is supporting local/small business. I think that if you can create a place that has a value added product (be it knowledge, expanding musical horizons, etc).
Like I said though, that’s purely my standpoint as a consumer, business wise I’ve got nothing.
First never say, “Too bad I can’t make it happen”. Of course you can, you’re a creative, resourceful guy. Find a retail space to rent and see how much places like that could run you. Then find out how to make a business plan and get a small business loan. People do it all the time and they don’t have $100,000. And if doesn’t work out can you just run to Fiji with your partner (just don’t tell him it’s permanent til you get there hehehe).
I am not much of a business person, in fact I stayed as far away from the business buildings as I could in college. WAY too much math, and big heavy books. Let us know if you come up with a brilliant plan, I’ll make the flight to come for the opening day!
Ever thought of being a DJ? It’s something you can do part-time (at horrible hours) to see if you wanna jump feet-first into it. Plus, you get to force your musical tastes onto others’ helpless ears.