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Name: Debbie Haget
Business: Remember Me , Memorial Gifts & Memorial Jewelry
Industry: E-Commerce
Location: Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.
Reason for starting: Never would I have imagined that I would be an owner of an online business that deals with grief, bullying, suicide, and memorial gifts! I remember the day, so clearly, when I decided that I wanted to do something to help those dealing with pain, most specifically after the death caused by suicide. I had received a call that there was yet another suicide in my circle of friends and family members. I remember feeling helpless as to what to say, what to do, and how to help this friend deal with the horrific pain of suicide. Since I am a suicide survivor (my brother committed suicide at a young age), I just felt like I needed to do something and get more involved.
Related: Read about another entrepreneur creating meaningful gifts here.
How do you define success? To me, success is not reflective of huge bank account, but is realized after you look back and see that you never gave up. There were many times when I felt like the venture was just too much for me, became discouraged, and was wondering if I was pursuing my true purpose. I questioned myself often, but refocused my attention on my passion of helping those dealing with grief.
Biggest Success: Through my Facebook page, I was able to communicate with those grieving. The biggest request I received was to offer more affordable gifts. It was extremely important to me that my gifts were very unique and meaningful and would touch someone’s heart. After much research, commitment, and determination, I decided to offer my own line of memorial jewelry and I currently make these pieces myself. Most items are packaged in a gift box and has a card inserted in the box with a meaningful message. This current venture is only a month old, but it appears as though my customers love them!
Related: Offering Top-Notch Customer Service on a Budget
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it? My biggest challenge is making enough money to sustain my business and allow me more time and resources to dedicate to promoting bullying awareness and suicide prevention. I continue to work hard and know the day will come when I can spend more time on this passion.
Who is your most important role model? My most important role model is my 94 year old grandmother. I believe I have inherited her kind heart and giving spirit. I strive to be more like her each and every day.
[box_light]Website www.RememberMeGiftBoutique.com
Twitter @GiftsRememberMe
Facebook www.facebook.com/Remember.Me.Gifts
Pinterest www.pinterest.com/remembermegifts[/box_light]
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Edited by The Story Exchange