As a long-time business consultant in the craft industry, I’ve seen firsthand the passion and creativity that drive creative retailers and the businesses that cater to them. But I’ve also witnessed the struggles many face in turning their passion into a thriving, sustainable business.
My hope is to change that by teaching business workshops at the International Quilt Market, which takes place in Houston from Oct. 26 to 28.
401 — Using Numbers to Make Better Decisions
Let’s face it: When you started your business, it wasn’t because you loved crunching numbers or poring over financial statements. You opened your doors because you love fabric, quilting, and sharing that passion with others. But the reality is that understanding your numbers is crucial to keeping those doors open and your dream alive.
That’s where my Sunday workshop, Using Numbers to Make Better Decisions, comes in. Over two hours together, we’ll demystify those intimidating financial reports and transform them into powerful tools for decision-making. Whether numbers give you hives, or you need a refresher on the numbers that matter most, you’ll leave with a clear understanding of how to use data to build a healthier, more sustainable business.
501 — Three Surprising Factors That are Damaging Your Retail Business
But numbers are just the beginning. On Monday morning, I’ll be revealing Three Surprising Factors That Are Damaging Your Retail Business. This one is always interesting – I hate being clickbaity with the title but the truth is that when I tell shop owners this information, they NEVER BELIEVE ME. So I need a whole session to explain myself and why these common industry practices actually erode your profits. Give me a chance here. Check out the session, hear me out, and let me know your thoughts afterward.
In this session, we’ll not only uncover these hidden pitfalls but also explore alternatives that can dramatically boost your profitability. I’ve seen shop owners who implement these changes amazed by their own progress after just a year. It’s not always easy, but for those willing to take the leap, the results are truly transformative.
510 — 10 Tactics to Make a Difference in Your Business
We’ll round out Monday afternoon with 10 Tactics to Make a Difference in Your Business. This rapid-fire session is all about practical, action-focused strategies to reduce friction and boost effectiveness in your day-to-day operations. Don’t worry about trying to implement all 10 tactics at once — most shop owners find that focusing on just a few can make a significant impact.
These tactics have been refined over years of working with craft businesses, and they’re designed to create immediate results. Whether it’s streamlining your inventory management, improving customer engagement, or optimizing your shop layout, you’ll leave with concrete steps to make your work easier and more efficient.
Attending Workshops at Quilt Market
Now, I know attending workshops at Quilt Market means time away from shopping for new products for your shop or other networking opportunities. But I promise you, the insights you’ll gain in these sessions are worth your attention. And don’t worry — I’ll be around between sessions, too! You can find me at the Cherrywood Fabrics booth, where I’d be happy to chat more about your specific business challenges or just geek out over beautiful fabrics together.
Success as a creative retailer takes more than scroll-stopping social media content and competitive prices.
It’s not that sales and marketing aren’t important. They are.
But sustainable success comes when you’re able to make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and implement operational strategies that allow your passion to thrive as a business.
Whether you attend one of my workshops or all three, I guarantee you’ll leave armed with valuable insights and practical strategies to take your business to the next level.
How to Support Quilt Market, Even if You Won’t Attend
Traveling to Houston for a trade show isn’t in the cards for everyone. Maybe not this year, or maybe not even in the near future. However, events like Quilt Market are critical to the success of the craft industry as a whole. Without events like this, there are few options for shop owners to meet vendors and other service providers who specialize in solving the problems that creative retailers often face.
One way to support events like Quilt Market — even if you don’t attend — is to pay attention to public promotion of the events.
Share social media posts so people within your network know these events exist, comment on posts about sessions, sponsors, and vendors. Include a blurb in your email newsletter or mention it in your business’ events listings (if not Quilt Market, at least Quilt Festival — the consumer event).
You can follow Quilt Market on Facebook, Twitter/X, and Instagram. You’re also welcome to share any of the videos included in this article with those who might benefit. And we always love reading comments over on our YouTube channel. So don’t be shy. Make yourself known over there.
About Gwen
Gwen Bortner, host of The Business You Really Want, has spent four decades advising executives and entrepreneurs in 45+ industries. She helps women succeed in business without sacrificing happiness by identifying their true desires and aligning their business functions. She spots overlooked bottlenecks and crafts efficient plans toward sustainable success that center your values and priorities.
