Celebrating Three Years in Glen Innes

Sept 2025: As we celebrate our shop's three-year anniversary, it's time to reflect on our time her and what we've experienced. This journey has been filled with excitement, challenges, and growth. From the time of our opening to the hurdles we've overcome, every moment has taught us invaluable lessons and helped shape our story.

The Highs: Embracing the good times

One of the most rewarding aspects of our journey has been the incredible support from our community. Since we opened our doors, we've been lucky to have loyal customers who share our vision. In our first year, we achieved a significant increase, largely due to word-of-mouth referrals. Local customers often tell us how our shop has become a favorite spot for meeting friends or finding unique gifts.

We've also celebrated significant milestones along the way. For example, hosting our first community event (Pop Up Collective Markets) that drew over 200 attendees and helped strengthen community ties. These gatherings not only lifted our spirits but also reinforced our commitment to offering quality products and outstanding service.

The Lows: Challenges and Lessons Learned

Of course, our journey has not been without challenges. Like many small businesses, we’ve faced our share of unexpected hurdles. Just when we thought we were seeing the other side of Covid. Our new location welcomed sudden roadworks / and road closures right outside our store (with inadequate information and no notice given) that heavily affected foot traffic and access to the area - this is also ongoing with changes that affected entry and exit points into the area.

And now, like everyone across the board, we’re feeling the effects of the current economy - tighter purse strings, the rising cost of living, and the reality of people losing jobs all have an impact. But we’re not ones to give up so easily. We’re continuing to adapt, find creative ways to connect with our community, and keep doing what we love - celebrating local creativity and the stories behind every piece we share.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Our Shop

To be honest, I don’t know exactly what the future holds. What I do know is that I love being surrounded by creatives - it’s what keeps me inspired. This year (and last) has really made me pause and re-evaluate things. Can I continue as is? Do I move solely online? Or potentially sell. What does the next chapter look like?

One thing was clear: I needed to fill my creative cup again to find that balance between business and creativity. And I did just that this year with debuting Czarina Wilson label at New Zealand Fashion Week Kahuria 2025 with the Kahui Collective.

As for 2026 - we’ll see where the path leads. Things will likely shift - maybe fewer retail hours, more focus online, and definitely more creativity. Workshops and other. For now, I’m taking it as it comes and staying open to where this journey leads next.

A Heartfelt Thank You

As we take a moment to reflect on our journey, one thing is certain - we wouldn’t be here without our community. To the incredible creatives and New Zealand businesses who trust us to share their work, thank you - without you, there is no Celebrate Aotearoa. And to our customers, friends, and supporters who continue to show up, shop small, and spread the word - your support means everything.

It keeps us going through the highs and the hard seasons alike. Here’s to continuing this journey together: creating, growing, and celebrating in our own real, imperfect, and beautiful way.

Gallery - Our first location Otara/ OKV and inside Alexander Cafe