Sarah Nabholz and Camilla Williamson, sisters & business partners, joined forces with their combined expertise in design, product development, business acumen, and sales to launch their new business, Sarahndipity Shop.
A graphic designer, Sarah’s love of design is reflected in the line of products that she began to create years ago. Camilla oversees the numbers side of the business while also providing advice on Sarah’s creations – a serendipitous partnership.
The pair took their time developing the business, focusing on product development, licensing, and production for two years. Needing a financial plan for a location for Sarahndipity Shop, Sarah and Camilla reached out to the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center at the University of Arkansas for assistance. Scott Lacy, ASBTDC finance consultant, provided financial analysis, worked with them on a financial workbook, and discussed loan options.
To assess marketing and sales strategy for Sarahndipity Shop, Scott connected them with team member, Lori Lieblong. With Lori’s guidance and marketing expertise, Sarah and Camilla worked through the Center’s brand strategy guide and identified their competitive attributes as well as their competition.
“The level of expertise offered to us was so important in getting clear direction and understanding,” said Sarah.
Sarahndipity Shop initially launched with a pop-up shop at the historic Inn at Carnall Hall on the University of Arkansas campus with a focus on sorority merchandise during 2022 Rush. This opportunity gave them insight into what would work best in their retail space.
The shop opened in The Shops at Brick City in Fayetteville’s Evelyn Hills Shopping Center offering a full product line of their sorority merchandise, gift items, and home décor. Described on sarahndipity.shop as “whimsical…unique products, some classy and some sassy,” the full Sarahndipity Shop wholesale line is ready to go to market in January 2023.
When planning a business, Sarah’s advice is to work with the ASBTDC. “It’s a must! It was an incredible tool for us and so accessible.” she said. “We were offered free expertise on every aspect of finance, marketing and branding.”
Visit Sarahndipity Shop in Fayetteville at The Shops at Brick City – 1404 N. College Avenue or sarahndipity.shop