Flyest, formerly known as Ivy's Tea Co., is nearly 8 years old. For the past 4 years, I've run this business as a self-employed business owner. All of our tea and honey is made by me in our warehouse in Maryland with herbs and honey from other small businesses owned by people just like myself.
I've done a very good job at keeping products in stock, managing customer profiles, doing the occasional in-person event, and I even hosted tea parties. To put it mildly - I've done a lot. Over the course of the past 8 years, I've made numerous missteps. I'm not even afraid of failure anymore...well, not that afraid. Me and fear still ain't that close. However, at the end of the day, the business has grown tremendously. While I thought I was scaling the business, I've learned that I was only growing it...more customers, more work, more responsibility and way more bills. Ok?
With the rising cost of rent, products, ads, and taxes (oh God the taxes), plus fewer people shopping, it is more challenging than ever to continue the growth at this rate. So, I have to make some hard decisions.
Starting June 17, quite a few products will be discontinued and that includes our entire lineup of honey and 4 or 5 teas. There will be a few sales and promotions to clear this inventory.
The goal? Make enough money to last through the summer. And if I can make it through the summer, then I know I can make it through the fall. Seeing this quarter by quarter is difficult but it keeps me focused and goal-centered, this way I make decisions every day that sustain Flyest and keep it around.
Ups and downs are a part of business. Sometimes I have to pivot...I hope you can understand and will continue to support Flyest through these changes.