Episodios

  • 267. Retail Planning Midyear Check-In: The Essential Steps
    Jun 30 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: I want you to ask yourself this question: “Why wouldn’t I be checking in mid-year with my retail business? Is there something I am avoiding? Am I making excuses like I’m ‘too busy’?” (Your words, not mine!) As a retail coach, it’s my job to not only teach you the steps you need to take to do a midyear check-in in your retail business but also encourage you to get it done. Trust me: this will make a huge difference in your mindset and in how you run your beautiful business. In this episode I’m walking brick and mortar retail shop owners through a simple yet powerful midyear retail planning process to stay on track for profitability and growth. You’ll learn what you need to look at during the review, how to adjust business goals, and how to build a profit plan to keep you flexible yet focused for the rest of the year. (Inner Circle members have access to a quarterly retail planning checklist to review your progress!) Whether you’ve hit your targets or need to pivot, this actionable framework will help you identify “creep” in your operations, celebrate your wins, and map out the next six months with confidence. “Don’t plan for ‘fine.’ Plan for awesome. Your business deserves more than mediocre.” - Wendy Batten Timestamped Topics: 03:00 – Flexibility vs. Excuses: Adjusting Your Goals 05:00 – Spotting and Reining in “Creep” 07:00 – Setting Real Profit Planning Numbers 09:00 – Month-by-Month Financial & Inventory Review 12:00 – Profitability Check: Are You Pushing String? 13:00 – Celebrating Achievements & Acknowledging Progress Key Takeaways to Help with Your Midyear Planning Check In: Use a quarterly retail planning checklist to audit goals, revenue, and operations (Inner Circle members: We have one in the mid-year planning masterclass!) Identify and correct “creep” in profits, inventory, team standards, and operations. Use a profit plan template and plug in your numbers, margins, and expenses. This will help you to make sure you are on track to meet your financial goals. (This is a GAME CHANGER and we have one in the Profit Planning Micro-Masterclass for Inner Circle members.) Conduct honest month-by-month reviews of P&L, balance sheet, and personal workload. Always celebrate wins—acknowledging progress fuels motivation for the next quarter. Your Next Steps: First of all, thank you so much for listening. I would love it if you would subscribe & leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Join the conversation on Instagram! Follow along with me at @ and share with me your biggest midyear wins. I’d love to hear what you are most proud of in the first 6 months of 2025! Inner Circle members have access to the and the . Make sure you are logged in! If you aren’t already a member of the , you can join us anytime - the doors are open! Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : Money Talk & Mindset with Profits First Coach April Stroink : How to do a Midyear Review and Check-up : 5 Easy Ways to Improve Your Profit Margins (and Why You Should!) About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a , I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, , has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers. When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at For more support from Wendy
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    24 m
  • 266. Behind the Counter: Retail Growth Tips You Want to Try with Yarn Store Guru Cadence Kidwell
    Jun 23 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Running a retail business isn’t just about WHAT you sell—it’s about WHO you bringing together in your retail store. In this heartwarming and wisdom-filled episode, Cadence Kidwell of (a yarn store in Thomasville, Georgia) shares how she’s built a thriving business rooted in connection, creativity, and community support. Whether you’re a seasoned retailer or just starting out, Cadence’s story will inspire you to think big, act bravely, and build something meaningful. Key Takeaways from a Retail Yarn Store Owner: Cadence shares her inspirational journey from university teacher to yarn shop owner Why community is the most important product she sells How she built a strong, trusted team that loves the store like it’s their own Creative marketing tools she swears by (like countdowns and story-driven videos) How events like Local Yarn Shop Day bring huge in-store traffic Why offering benefits like retirement plans helps retain staff The importance of mentorship, coaching, and always learning something new “We’re not just selling yarn. We are selling connection and whimsy.” - Cadence Kidwell About Cadence and Fuzzy Goat Prior to opening Fuzzy Goat, Cadence Kidwell obtained a PhD in Creative Writing and designed a certificate program for students to develop cultural competencies while working at Florida State University. She was happy with that career but began dreaming of her own shop. She decided that she could either steady-on into the last decade of university life or she could join the makers’ life by building a business from a rough-worn building & filling it with beautiful yarns made by strong women. Luckily for Thomasville (and the rest of us) she chose the latter. Fuzzy Goat is truly an independent business with over 90% of our merchandise created by other independent women makers. Fuzzy Goat creates a space where conversation across generations and life experiences is valued and sought after. Follow along with Cadence and Fuzzy Goat here: | | Use code SHOPTALK to get 11% off your order through Fuzzy Goat’s website! Related podcasts we think you’ll like: Fine Tuning Your Business Operations with Business Strategist Gwen Bortner : Behind the Counter: From E-Commerce to Brick and Mortar with Chris Waddy of Loopy Wool : Behind the Counter: Building a Unique Retail Shop with Heart with Amy & Chris Hart About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a , I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, , has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers. When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at For more support from Wendy
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    41 m
  • 265. How to Have a Summer of Ease Without Losing Retail Momentum
    Jun 16 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Let’s make this summer your most joyful and productive yet, without the burnout. In this episode, I’m sharing how to embrace a "Summer of Ease" while still keeping your retail business humming along behind the scenes. Whether you're a brick-and-mortar owner in peak tourist season or experiencing a slower Q3, this one’s for you. We’re trading hustle for harmony by leaning into three core pillars: (1) Fun (yes, you need it!), (2) Rest (not a reward, but part of your job), and (3) Momentum (because Q4 is coming and we need to be ready!) How to Create Ease This Summer: Schedule your calendar and your team’s through September Pre-plan promotions, social content, and email marketing Reuse great content from last year (no one remembers your July 2023 meme, it’s fine) Humanize your brand with softer summer content (think beach reads and mojito recipes) Hand off live sales, store tours, or event planning to your team or guest hosts Let go of the guilt and get off your phone and POS app while you're away It’s time to drop the “shoulds,” my friend. Let’s get to work. Until next week, cheers to joy, freedom, and profits. “Watching your POS like a hawk is not making things sell faster.” -Wendy Batten Your Next Steps Get out your calendar and do some planning! And let’s connect on Instagram! What are your top tips for planning your summer of ease? I’d love to hear from you. Screenshot this episode and tag me on Instagram, or just jump into my DMs. If you're a member of the Retailer’s Inner Circle, check your monthly playbooks. They’re packed with done-for-you email prompts, promotional calendars, and content ideas to make this even easier. And if you aren’t…join my supportive community of retailers in the ! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out . Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : 5 Steps to Simplify Your Content Planning : How to Plan and Host Successful Events and Promotions in Your Retail Shop : Mastering Social Selling About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a , I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, , has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers. When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at For more support from Wendy
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    27 m
  • 264. Turn Your Summer Slowdown Into a Retail Reset
    Jun 9 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Let’s talk about the “summer slowdown,” shall we? In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, we’re flipping the script on the summer slowdown and showing you how to use any quiet time as a powerful CEO reset. Whether it’s organizing your back-end systems, strengthening customer relationships, or proactively planning for Q4, this season can be one of your most productive if approached with intention - and I’m showing you how. We’re diving into practical and mindset-driven strategies for using this seasonal dip to build momentum, clarity, and energy. Learn how to schedule a “money date” with your financials, declutter your tech stack, and plant the seeds for a thriving holiday season. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why a slower season can be your biggest strategic advantage How to use your CEO date to make smarter inventory decisions Ways to deepen customer relationships and build brand loyalty Quick backend system fixes that can boost efficiency How to use the summer to prep for a stress-free Q4 and holiday season Why mindset matters more than momentum during seasonal dips Your Next Steps If you found this episode helpful in any way, I would LOVE if you would share it with a fellow shop owner who might need a mindset shift! Then tag me on Instagram (@) with your summer reset plans. I’d love to hear from you! And then …join my supportive community of retailers in the ! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out . Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : How to Tame All of Those Great Ideas : What to Do if It’s Slow: Summer Strategy Series : Create a Summer of Ease for Your Retail Shop About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a , I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, , has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers. When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at For more support from Wendy
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    20 m
  • 263. Why CEO Time Isn’t Optional in Your Retail Business
    Jun 2 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Do you struggle to schedule and/or keep your CEO dates with yourself? Running your shop like a true CEO isn’t just for big-box retailers: it’s for independent creative retail shop owners just like you - trust me on this. If you’ve ever felt like your business is dragging you down; if you KNOW you aren’t spending your time on the things you should be…this episode is for you. Not sold on why CEO time is crucial? Unsure of where or why to start? Wondering what you should be doing during your CEO date? Listen in now! Takeaways for Indie Retailers Hard seasons are normal – Obstacles come with owning a business. What matters is how you move through them. Stop playing small – Don’t let busy work keep you from doing the real CEO work that moves the needle. You can’t scale with hustle and heart alone – Aligned action is what brings joy, profit, and freedom. Take a pause and plan – A regular CEO date with yourself brings clarity and confidence. Want help? – I’m hosting a on June 10th. Come plan alongside other retailers who get it! More info below. What to Focus on During CEO Time Strategic planning (not just goal setting) Reviewing what worked and what didn’t Understanding your income streams and profit margins Creating intentional marketing, not last-minute campaigns So what is your next step? Join me for a productive afternoon of planning out your next 90 days in my on June 10th! This is a new program I’m offering. We will meet together in a small group and spend an afternoon doing some intensive quarterly CEO-level planning for your business. It comes with pre-meeting vision planning prompts, 4 hours of a focused planning session with me and a small group, 2 weeks of support from me, and a retail success toolkit to help you every step of the way! Save $100 by registering by June 6th. Need more? Join me for my first on June 10th! This is a new program I’m offering. We will meet together in a small group and spend an afternoon doing some intensive quarterly CEO-level planning for your business. It comes with pre-meeting vision planning prompts, 4 hours of a focused planning session with me and a small group, 2 weeks of support from me, and a retail success toolkit to help you every step of the way! Save $100 by registering by June 6th. Or…join my supportive community of retailers in the ! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out . Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : The CEO Date: A Non-Negotiable Habit is Key to Creative CEO Success : Retailer Success Series: Making Pivotal (and scary) CEO Decisions with Retailer Melanie Kolb : Retailer Success Series: Community, Culture, and CEO Mindset with Amy Cseh About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a , I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, , has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers. When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at For more support from Wendy
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    25 m
  • 262. 11 Tiny Habits That Will Make Your Retail Business Better
    May 26 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Small habits can lead to big results! In this episode of the Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’m sharing 11 easy-to-start micro habits that can totally transform your retail business. These habits may be small, but they pack a powerful punch. From looking at your numbers to making faster decisions, I’ll give you real-world, simple advice that WORKS. Whether you run a boutique, a gift shop, or a creative space, these tips will help you grow with confidence — and have fun doing it! 11 Micro Habits for Independent Retailers: Don’t “Ostrich” – Stop hiding from your business numbers. Look at them daily so there are no surprises. Always Be Learning – Reading 10 minutes a day or listening to a podcast can level up your skills. Ditch the Burden Mindset – Remember, you get to run this business. Approach it with joy, not dread. Use a “Yet” Mindset – “I’m not good at planning... yet.” Add "yet" to reframe your self-talk. Ask: How Can I Make This Easier? – Don’t overcomplicate. Ask who or what can help. Crush Self-Doubt – Keep a list of wins, kind words, and proud moments to boost your confidence. Set Clear Goals – Know what you’re aiming for so your daily actions move you closer to it. Look Up – Don’t get stuck in the day-to-day. Plan 90 days out. Know what your customers are experiencing. Prioritize Your Health – A healthy YOU means a stronger business. Protect your time and energy. Decide Faster – Avoiding decisions holds you back. Be intentional and aligned with your goals. Make It Fun – This is your dream! Bring energy and joy into your day-to-day. Need more? Join me and our supportive community of retailers in my ! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out . Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : Confident Decision Making Made Easy with Business & Life Coach Andrea Liebross : Having a Monthly Playbook for Your Retail Shop : How to Stay Focused and Get Things Done About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a , I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, , has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers. When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at For more support from Wendy
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    36 m
  • 261. How to Stay Focused and Get Things Done
    May 19 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Running a shop can feel like juggling flaming squirrels – I totally get it! In this episode of The Creative Shop Talk Podcast, I’m sharing a powerful training from the library to help you focus, prioritize, and actually get things done (without the late nights and endless to-do lists). If distractions and squirrel-brain are wreaking havoc on your retail business, listen up. This one's for all of the busy retailers out there trying to get things DONE! Takeaways for Independent Retailers: How to protect your personal time as a retail CEO The power of setting non-negotiables for work-life balance What a CEO Date is – and why it will change your week The difference between results and goals: what are the three “cross-offable” things you need to do today? How to use the Pomodoro Method to beat distractions: You’ll be shocked by how much you can get done in 25 minutes! 4 D’s to simplify your to-do list: Do, Delete, Delegate, Defer Why batching tasks and working away from the shop floor matters How small group support boosts momentum and accountability Need more? Join me and our supportive community of retailers in my ! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out . Not ready to join but want to purchase the stand-alone Foot Traffic Made Simple masterclass? You can purchase it on demand . Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : The CEO Date: A Non-Negotiable Habit is Key to Creative CEO Success : The 3 Biggest Time Wasters for Retailers and How to Avoid Them : Annual Planning That Fills Your Life Buckets About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a , I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, , has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers. When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at For more support from Wendy
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    21 m
  • 260. Winning with Community in Your Retail Business: Takeaways from my Mastermind Retreat
    May 12 2025
    With host retail coach In This Episode: Helping and inspiring independent retailers is my passion (and my job!), but I would be remiss if I never shared how inspiring my retailers are to ME. Their inspiration is never more apparent than when we are all together in person: talking shop, ruminating on all the things, and brainstorming through big ideas. In this episode, I’m sharing some of my takeaways from my Level Up Mastermind Retreat in early April in Thomasville, Georgia. I’m always learning from my retailers and amazed by their ideas and this retreat was no different. There is something very inspiring about getting a group of like-minded people together who are working toward a similar goal: running a successful independent retail shop. I hope these takeaways inspire you to try something new to move the needle in your retail business. Takeaways for Independent Retailers: Bravery is contagious: It’s important to surround yourself with people who are on your side. Making a decision and being brave enough to stick to it when you see the needle starting to move and/or having the courage to course correct if it’s not working Collaborations & community are super hot right now: Everyone in your community has the same goal: growing and thriving in a community that supports them. Look to your community for inspiring people: Annie Jones of in Thomasville showed us that building multiple revenue streams and marketing differently works. (You can follow along with her Instagram at @bookshelftville) Lean into others: You cannot do this alone! I also wanted to give a quick shoutout to YOU! Thanks to your support, the podcast has reached 100,000+ downloads! Need more? Join me and our supportive community of retailers in my ! There is so much to love about the Inner Circle: access to countless masterclasses on everything from inventory management to money matters, a supportive community of like-minded retailers to bounce ideas off of, a monthly playbook to track your progress and help you plan your events and promotions, and so much more. Check it out . Not ready to join but want to purchase the stand-alone Foot Traffic Made Simple masterclass? You can purchase it on demand . Related podcasts we think you’ll like: : Relationships are Rocket Fuel : Behind the Counters: The Magic of Joining Forces to Foster Community and Build a Retail Destination Town with Millie and Adam Blackwell : Behind the Counter: Building a Unique Retail Shop with Heart with Amy and Chris Hart About your host, Wendy Batten In case we haven’t met yet, I’m Wendy, a small business coach and founder of where I help other independent shop owners learn how to gain the right business skillsets to see more profits, paychecks, and joy as they navigate running their retail business. Through online classes, business coaching programs, speaking, and a , I’ve helped hundreds of retailers around the globe reclaim their dream and see the success they want from their beautiful shops. My signature private coaching community, , has helped retailers around the world build their retail business skill sets and confidence. I am proud to have been featured in several major publications, including my own business column in What Women Create magazine. I have been privileged to be a guest on top-ranked podcasts and sought-after as a guest speaker and teacher for several brands, associations, and communities that are passionate about the success of independent retailers. When I’m not coaching, you will find me either DIYing and renovating my very imperfect old crooked cottage by the sea in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg, NS, or blogging about our travel and RVing adventures and the weird fun things we get up to in our coastal village. I’d love to invite you to check out one of my free resources for real retailers at For more support from Wendy
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    32 m