The Little Things (Vol 1 & 2)

Opening a used bookstore: Two weeks until opening—shelves collapse, live SKU-ing happens (beeps included!), boundaries get set, sparkle events and book swaps unfold, and Stef realizes the power of showing up even when things don't go perfectly. Volume 1 — Two Weeks Out: It's been up and down. My first major setback: a shelf pulled completely off the wall. Half the store—literally half—had to come down. Books everywhere. A friend helped me fix it, and honestly? I'm grateful it happened before opening day. I take you through live SKU-ing—pricing a book in real time while explaining my system. There are beeps throughout (you'll hear why). Big news: The Organizers of Northern California found me and invited me as a special guest to their monthly dinner. Connections for contributions are everywhere. My best friend also reminded me of something important: I don't have to say yes to book donations for two weeks. Personal boundary work in effect. I'm in the heat of getting ready—good call. And I'm finally tackling music and lighting after endless SKU-ing. Setting the mood matters. Volume 2 — One Week Out: I report back on the weekend's big events: the Reuse Alliance Book Swap and the Sparkle/Bedazzle event at Mystic Mill Valley. Some events went great, some were just okay. But the power of showing up is key. Bedazzling books was SO much fun—the Marin book community came together for a night, and I savored it. And finally, a local merchant got a sneak peek of the store and complimented my merchandising, and I'm uplifted and energized to blast through this final week. And yes—even amidst opening week craziness—I'm still thinking about opening another space for all ages. The dream doesn't stop. Current Book Count: ~12,000+ One week to go. The little things matter.  🐦‍🔥 Follow along as The Phoenix Used Bookshop continues to rise—subscribe to A Bookshop of My Own and get updates at phoenixusedbookshop.com. Links mentioned: Phoenix En Plein Air book club survey Mystic Mill Valley - my favorite local art store!