A Letter of Thanks from Gabby, the owner of Gumdrop Swap
Subject: The End of an Era. Gumdrop Swap to close soon.
Let's all take a deep breath together... I can only imagine that you've made some major life changes in the last few months as well. After much contemplation, I have made the difficult decision to close Gumdrop Swap.
THANK YOU for helping me turn my Swapping idea into a 10 year business. Whether you came into the tiny storefront hidden inside the Arcade Mall 10 years ago or just recently found my (4th) location in Stratford... I appreciate you! I've watched your children and families grow, exchanged parenting advice, laughed, cried and made lifelong friendships. I've answered a few questions I expect you may have:
Why are you closing? Obviously 2020 has thrown us all some curve balls. The unexpected shut down in March has had a lasting toll. I've only been able to re-open on a limited schedule by appointment only. Also, my children are getting older and I am ready to move on to the next phase in my life.
What will you do next? I have been using the quarantine to get back to my first passion - ART! I am illustrating a children's book now and have some other projects in the works. See my artist website here.
When can I come shop? Schedule will remain by appointment only. My availability is all over the place these days. I update the calendar frequently and try my best to accommodate everyone. Please keep in mind I'm only one person running this thing and juggling a family life just like you. Please check the scheduling calendar first, if none of those times work for you then contact me by email with your preferred day(s) and time(s). If you are flexible, we can figure this out.
What about my gumdrop points? Points must be used by the end of October. Think ahead for the next size/season. Halloween costumes, Thanksgiving and Christmas apparel are out. The swimsuit rack is still out so consider buying larger sizes for the future. These items can go into the Fill-a-Bag! Again, be prepared that the store is very full. This is the link to schedule https://square.site/book/CVD14AF5KSG1G/gumdrop-swap-kids-maternity-boutique-stratford-ct
Can I bring someone with me to my shopping appointment? Yes, you can bring up to 3 adults with you for a scheduled appointment. All are required to wear masks. Babies that will stay in a car seat or stroller during your visit are also welcome (masks not required for infants). It's just not safe for toddlers or children to wander in the store.
What will you do with all the stuff? The $25 Fill a Bag (with very laxed rules) is going on now! There are still about 30 bags left. Swappers must use all their points by the end of October. You can request a tax deductible write-off receipt via email for any unused gumdrop points in December. Expect some exciting Clearance Sales in the beginning of November! You can purchase hangers when you come to shop. Fixtures will be for sale in mid-November.
It's been a pleasure to save you money over the years. I wish you all abundant health and joy!
Let's all take a deep breath together... I can only imagine that you've made some major life changes in the last few months as well. After much contemplation, I have made the difficult decision to close Gumdrop Swap.
THANK YOU for helping me turn my Swapping idea into a 10 year business. Whether you came into the tiny storefront hidden inside the Arcade Mall 10 years ago or just recently found my (4th) location in Stratford... I appreciate you! I've watched your children and families grow, exchanged parenting advice, laughed, cried and made lifelong friendships. I've answered a few questions I expect you may have:
Why are you closing? Obviously 2020 has thrown us all some curve balls. The unexpected shut down in March has had a lasting toll. I've only been able to re-open on a limited schedule by appointment only. Also, my children are getting older and I am ready to move on to the next phase in my life.
What will you do next? I have been using the quarantine to get back to my first passion - ART! I am illustrating a children's book now and have some other projects in the works. See my artist website here.
When can I come shop? Schedule will remain by appointment only. My availability is all over the place these days. I update the calendar frequently and try my best to accommodate everyone. Please keep in mind I'm only one person running this thing and juggling a family life just like you. Please check the scheduling calendar first, if none of those times work for you then contact me by email with your preferred day(s) and time(s). If you are flexible, we can figure this out.
What about my gumdrop points? Points must be used by the end of October. Think ahead for the next size/season. Halloween costumes, Thanksgiving and Christmas apparel are out. The swimsuit rack is still out so consider buying larger sizes for the future. These items can go into the Fill-a-Bag! Again, be prepared that the store is very full. This is the link to schedule https://square.site/book/CVD14AF5KSG1G/gumdrop-swap-kids-maternity-boutique-stratford-ct
Can I bring someone with me to my shopping appointment? Yes, you can bring up to 3 adults with you for a scheduled appointment. All are required to wear masks. Babies that will stay in a car seat or stroller during your visit are also welcome (masks not required for infants). It's just not safe for toddlers or children to wander in the store.
What will you do with all the stuff? The $25 Fill a Bag (with very laxed rules) is going on now! There are still about 30 bags left. Swappers must use all their points by the end of October. You can request a tax deductible write-off receipt via email for any unused gumdrop points in December. Expect some exciting Clearance Sales in the beginning of November! You can purchase hangers when you come to shop. Fixtures will be for sale in mid-November.
It's been a pleasure to save you money over the years. I wish you all abundant health and joy!
