This article was first published by BISCUIT. by Melio - the hub for small business resources and inspiration.

A woman’s business that supports other women’s businesses

Sarah Bertochi got her confidence as a business owner from unexpected sources. She works hard to make her dreams come true for her and for her artist community in Hudson, Massachusetts. Keep reading to learn from her success.

Sarah Bertochi creates original pattern designs which she hand screen prints onto fabric with eco-friendly inks. The fabric is cut and sewn into handbags and accessories. Her business was founded in 2018, and she opened her first retail location 2023 in Hudson, MA. The gift shop she owns features her own products and products from other local women-owned businesses.

Who helped you in your journey as a business owner and how?

More recently (2022-2023) my business completed a year long business accelerator program sponsored by Entrepreneurship For All. My business, along with 14 others, was selected after an application and pitch contest. I received free business training and mentorship throughout the program. The program was instrumental in providing guidance and, most importantly, a level of confidence I did not have beforehand which propelled the opening of my first brick and mortar.

“The program was instrumental in providing guidance and, most importantly, a level of confidence I did not have beforehand which propelled the opening of my first brick and mortar.”

What does your typical day look like? What is the ideal work day for you?

My typical day in the store consists of managing online orders/pulling products, ordering inventory for the shop, and scheduling workshops and finding artists to consign in the shop. I also manage the store including all retail front of the house activities. This is in addition to designing, screen printing, and the small batch production of our handbags.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In 5 years I hope to be well established in my community as the “go to” resource for gifting needs. I would like to achieve a level of success that allows me to hire in-store help, thus freeing up my time to create and design more products and patterns. I would like to also be at a point where all in-house sewing and production is outsourced.

“I am inspired by the success of my business neighbors and the artists whose work is represented in my shop.”

What inspires you as a business owner?

I am inspired by the success of my business neighbors and the artists whose work is represented in my shop. I am always amazed at the level of creativity and expertise in which their creations come to life.

What advice would you give to your past self before opening your own business?

I would tell myself to trust my instincts and that I am more prepared than I give myself credit for. Network, network, network.