GiGi's: Gifts & Home Decor

Gino wished to bring his retail experience and expertise to the opening of a gift shop in the Shamokin area that would be run by both he and his wife, Marlena. They wanted to take their business to the next level in the form of a stand-alone, brick and mortar storefront.

After attending the First Step Workshop, Gino constructed a business plan and came in for his first meeting in December 2009. The SBDC consultants reviewed the plan with him and offered advice on startup costs and cash flow projections. While anticipated store locations changed, the financial projections changed also.

GiGi's opened in March 2010, and sales actually exceeded those that were anticipated. The shop offers a diverse arrangement of crafts, accent furniture, team-sport licensed products, custom gift baskets, children's furniture, etc. "Décor for every season - gifts for every reason."