Why Small Businesses Matter
Shop small, do big things for your community
Let’s make 2018 a big year for our Ridgefield small businesses and put a spotlight on the local merchants who donate their time, talent, goods, and services for the betterment of our community.
Three questions with Elizabeth Morello Eckardt, owner of elizabella's bake shop.
Why did you start your business?
I have an extensive retail background. About 8 years ago, I retired, giving up the daily commute to the city to be closer to my children during the day. After consulting for a while, I realized that I really missed the daily interaction with others. I was baking more and was encouraged by friends and family to open a business. The cookie business incorporated perfectly with tea and things to make and serve dessert. It filled a void in town. We did a bit of research, developed a business plan and opened in February of 2014.
Any youth or seniors from the community?
We have several students from the community working at elizabella's. Most are graduates of Saint Mary School. Our children attended Saint Mary. We got to know some of the students who were "buddies" to our kids. They are now part-time employees. We also employ two college students, one is a graduate of RHS who studies in Texas but comes back summers and holidays to work with us. We also have a part-time college student who graduated from Redding High School.
We use several local businesses.
Mary Kate Gobleck/ Reliance Merchant Services - RMS have been with us from day one. Not only did they help with credit card processing, they were invaluable helping us find a great inventory management system and even helped with some of our technology challenges.
Suki Schavoir, Graphic Design - Suki was introduced to us by another small business owner, Christie Kinsman. Suki is incredible. She took our vision for the business and helped us create a brand with the perfect logo, perfect color selection and even help with our tagline. She creates our ads and submits them to us to ensure there are no errors. Suki also introduced us to Economy Printing.
Economy Printing - Printing local might not be the least expensive but the quality is awesome and consistent. They have a great relationship with our graphic designer. Their turn around time for a job is quick and they deliver in person, right to our shop.
I tag Ridgefield Graphic Designer, Suki Schavoir.