Musings on closing the shop and moving into my home studio…

It’s been 4 months since I closed up the brick + mortar, and needless to say, it’s been a rollercoaster. But, spoiler alert, I absolutely love it. At first, I really questioned my decision, like oh my god, did I just make the worst mistake; it was pretty rough for a bit there. But then somewhere along the way, I started to get my groove back and settled in…

Now I can start work at 8am if I feel like it and be done by 2. I go for walks in the woods by my house in the middle of the day most days. I can listen to any music I’m in the mood for and not worry that it’s not shop appropriate - I love listening to really sad music really loudly and singing along. I can be there for my kids any time of day. I guess overall, I can just be myself because it’s just me in the space. I can listen to my body and my needs and whims, and work in my own time. It’s quite liberating.

Don’t get me wrong, I LOVED having the shop. I loved my customers, especially the regular ones that I formed strong bonds with beyond just selling them lingerie. That was definitely the hardest part about closing - I don’t know when I’ll see those sweet faces again. I loved helping people find things that made them feel good. I loved the hugs and the tears that were sometimes shed when someone left feeling more empowered than when they arrived.

I have discovered that I still have so much love and passion for what I do, something that I had started to question. So here’s to the next chapter in the story of On The Inside. On Valentine’s Day this year, it turns 18!

I couldn’t do anything without the support of all you wonderful souls, so thank you thank you for helping me keep my little dream alive. 

Xx Elise