Growing up, Gail enjoyed working at Faber’s Gifts in old Atlantic City location. She knew she loved working with people and when the opportunity came up to buy Faber’s of Central Square, she jumped at the chance.
“With 30 years of experience in graphic design, I am able to utilize my talents to help customers with personalized stationary and invitations for weddings, bar/bat Mitzvah, showers, and special occasions,” Rosenthal said of her shop Joelle’s Card & Gift Boutique in Linwood.
Rosenthal’s typical day consists of a lot of work.
It is a lot more work than most people would expect. I usually start my day by making phone calls regarding orders,” she explained.
Another part of her day consists of checking new arrivals and/or cards, pricing and putting them out on display. With that comes reorganizing displays to make everything look pleasing to the eye, and getting everything to fit.
“On occasion I meet with various sales reps looking for new products to keep my inventory fresh,” she said.
“Getting to know and meet so many new people, including all of the other storeowners, has been an incredible experience,” she remarked.
Her goal for the store is to continue finding items that are unique and different from those found in other gift shops.
“Cards are a large part of my business, so I keep a very eclectic variety of cards by purchasing from approximately 10-15 different companies. Another large part of Joelle’s is the toys we sell from Melissa and Doug. We carry the largest selection in the area and have the ability to get anything within a couple of days, or have items drop shipped to where ever the customer needs it to go,” Rosenthal said. “We also take a lot of pride is providing free beautiful gift-wrapping.”
Her advice to those thinking about opening a business is this:
The most exciting part of her journey as a business owner is easy, she said.
“Do your homework; make sure the product you are selling is a needed product for that area,” Rosenthal said. “Make sure you love what you are doing and have a lot of patience. Be prepared to make it your life. I personally love being in the store and the amazing customers I have, but it is not for everyone.”
The customers are amazing and providing them with the personalized service they deserve makes all of the hard work worth it.
