Because of You, We Are Here

As a small business, we constantly evaluate risk and make assessments on possible outcomes. It's important to have a contingency plan in place. But I think it's safe to say that no business owner was fully prepared for the 2020 global health pandemic. 

If 2020 taught us nothing else, it is to expect the unexpected!

Small businesses have struggled. Too many fellow business owners have been forced to close the doors on their dreams. It is truly heartbreaking. We have all made immense sacrifices this year in the name of health and safety for the ones we love, for the ones at risk, for our overwhelmed frontline workers and for our fellow humans. Each small action we take changes the world we live in, and never before have we seen these impacts. Each of us has the ability to change the world for the better.

I wanted to take the time to share how you have impacted me. I opened Sadelmager as a full-time operation in early September 2020. Up until that point, leather-working was a part time passion project. You can imagine the fear of trying to grow a business in a pandemic. It seemed daunting and overwhelming. But very early on, you supported me.

 (Opening day of retail display in our workshop)

You placed orders. You sent e-mails. You wrote reviews. You shared with friends. You left me voicemails of encouragement. In my darkest days when I thought what I was creating was futile, you were consistently here for me. Every little positive act kept me going. Because of you, Sadelmager continues to operate. Because of you, I am smiling!

I cannot thank you enough for the gift you have given me. The gift of pursuing my dreams and my passion. Because of you, I get to create art every day for you to proudly wear. You have helped keep a roof over my head, food on my table and allowed me to overcome this once in a generation hardship.

We are all hoping for a brighter 2021. However, I want you to know, that each and every one of you kept my 2020 bright in the darkest of days. This year, as I lit my menorah, I reflected on the quote from Irving Greenberg that we are "not to curse the darkness but to light a candle". I have never felt this to be more true, and I thank you for helping me keep that light alive.

Thank you for helping me celebrate Sadelmager for another year (and beyond)!

From my family to yours, we wish you a healthy, happy and most of all a safe holiday season. I am excited to see what the New Year brings.

Christmukkah Family Photo (Bob was the photographer)