14 Years of Success: How a Brainerd Lakes Area Gift Shop Transformed Through Flexibility and Community Support

As a gift shop specializing in antiques and home décor, The Olde Open Window has been serving the Brainerd Lakes Area for 14 years. Over the past week, we had the opportunity to visit the store and explore how it has grown and evolved over time. We spoke with Lynda Boyd, the owner of the store, who shared her journey of expanding and evolving her small business.

Boyd’s flexibility was key to her success as a small business owner. Only six months after opening, she seized an opportunity to expand the store, adapting to the market’s demands and envisioning the potential of her business. Over time, The Olde Open Window transformed into a beacon of success and guidance for other small businesses in the area.

The closure of big box stores in the region provided opportunities for growth, but Boyd attributes much of her store’s success to word-of-mouth marketing. With a strong following on social media and a loyal customer base built over 14 years, The Olde Open Window continues to listen to feedback and add products based on customer preferences. The sense of community among small businesses in Brainerd is evident as they support each other and refer customers to one another.

Today, The Olde Open Window features 20 local businesses and vendors, making it a cornerstone of the local business community. Boyd shared that many aspiring business owners seek advice and inspiration from their experience and growth at her store. Her commitment to excellent customer service has made The Olde Open Window a vital resource for entrepreneurs in Brainerd Lakes Area.

In conclusion, Lynda Boyd’s story serves as an inspiration for other small business owners looking to adapt to changing markets while maintaining their unique identity. Her dedication to excellence in customer service has helped establish The Olde Open Window as an essential resource for entrepreneurs in Brainerd Lakes Area.