Episode 1: The decision to take the plunge
Or how I realized I could make my dream come true: opening a boutique for ŌKAN!
The countdown has begun! Until the boutique opens in June, I invite you to follow me behind the scenes of the opening...
Dare to ask for help
At the end of 2023, I felt like I was struggling and needed help to grow. Even though my partner was involved in the adventure, I was alone in the operational aspects and often felt helpless when it came to finding solutions.
I decided to launch two projects simultaneously: joining the newly created France Éclat incubator: "Émergence" and, if it doesn't work out, creating my advisory board - a group of wise volunteers.
The application is sent, I'm accepted for the oral exams, I pitch, and then I find out I'm accepted! At the same time, my board is also formed... Here I am with two circles of mentors to move forward!
Confronting your fears
I quickly realized that I was managing my brand instinctively and that I was burying my head in the sand when it came to finance. However, this is what was holding me back from being able to project myself calmly. We created a business plan, but everything still seemed very vague...
Until my lifelong dream came true: to open a shop for ŌKAN.
A meeting place where I could welcome my clients without the constraints of restricted hours, a place where I could also set up my quarters in order to better separate my professional and private life. The numbers suddenly took on a very concrete reality and everything fit together in my head. I quickly understood the benefit of better controlling my cash flow plan or the importance of a business plan... And surprise, I had built a solid brand that can now claim this ultimate dream!
Conquering Paris - or almost!
I set out to find a place to live. The Marais district was the obvious choice. A lively neighborhood, frequented by art and fashion lovers, and touristy to boot... A neighborhood whose every nook and cranny, its good spots, and its busy streets, I knew...
I registered on professional sites, I started scouting and visiting. I made a list of questions to ask, I thought straight about the lease and rent. Even though my chakras were wide open (I even visited a fishmonger and a locksmith! - photos below), the first attempts were failures. Too big, office in the basement, too much work, etc. I began to doubt my project.
I call two entrepreneur friends who give me two opposing views: Jonathan from RSVP advises me to invest first in offices or a courtyard space, Charlotte from Linnealund tells me that opening her boutique was a "game changer." Against all odds, I broaden my search criteria to offices or courtyard spaces, but nothing excites me...
Until the encounter with 8 rue Charlot! Next episode: how I discovered the store!
