preparing for 2025 as a small business owner while doing a 52-day holiday market😅 /2025 goal setting

[@travelingponystudio]

Another long video?? Perfect start to the day! Hope you had a great holiday and have a good New Year!

[@monicarazak]

happy new year!!! ❤

[@faithandaplan]

I'm realizing that the reason I soooo loooooove her videos outside of how relatable, is cause it's all about her execution. Her taking action for her business consistently and that's something I aspire to. I spend a lot of time planning & tweaking (to avoid failed execution) and then get stuck! Definitely working to change this mindset 😊

[@divinewrath3142]

I have really been loving these vlogs. They really motivate me to focus on what I want and set my goals as a potter. I wanted to share what a friend of mine did when she was in a similar position you're in atm. She found a maker/warehouse type space that happened to have a street level door. Because she is making products that require a clean environment during manufacturing she cant have people walking in and out as it is essentially just one large room. So she offers order pick up hours and set up a small storefront space to do certain weekend sales and such. Might be something to consider while looking for space.

[@theartofdestinee]

I love that all of your videos are so long!!!! Long form videos are literally my favorite to watch while doing art and cleaning!! Also love the scarf at the beginning of the video!

[@MyBohoChicStyle]

Monica you have been such an inspiration to me in 2024, and I must say, this is your best video ever IMO. There is no telling how many times I will watch this. So many of the things you are thinking of for 2025, I’ve been thinking of for my business!!! I want to add some new products! I want to add gift wrapping! So many things. I ❤❤❤ your idea board!! Great job Girlie!! Let’s slay 2025!!! Tina 🥰 Oh, BTW, I launched my Valentines Day jewelry collection today!! 😝😝🤗🤗🤗

[@FantasticalWicks]

Btw you are SUPER inspiring

[@SuzanneRowell]

The best thing I did for my business was to lease commercial space and get the business out of the house.

[@liveyourjoyart9931]

I'm working on that now

[@carolannh48]

I would love that…so expensive where I live, but my poor house!! Stuff is spread out everywhere! I need to do something!😢

[@liveyourjoyart9931]

@@carolannh48 my house is the same

[@JOCFL311]

@@carolannh48what about a shed?

[@carolannh48]

@@JOCFL311I’m paying for a storage shed now for my overload of fabric. Ugh…I’m taking up 3+ rooms in my house…I feel bad.

[@thecozystudio-1]

Another video 3 in a throw, I think we are getting spoiled at this point, also can you do like an Q and A about everything after the market, and especially how you built the courage to quit your job, I feel like this is such a big leap and not many people could actually do that, so i think that would be a good video

[@aurelizhernandez7390]

Yay! I just finished the previous video I’m obsessed!! I’ve been watching your videos from the begging 🥹❤

[@monicarazak]

thanks so much for sticking around and following along❤

[@beingemma]

I love all your videos, as you know, but I have to admit seeing the warmth and the support of others while your filming is just so heartwarming. Seeing the Saturday chaos though was fun to see as well. Excited to see the new site in 2025. Also note that depending on the space you could work out of the shop too.I have seen many do that and just block off a part of the shop to produce inventory. Would save on any transport.

[@lin90210]

gosh you are queen of multitasking! So inspiring :) have a great 2025 everyone who reads this! wishing you all and all your loved ones the best of health and happiness!!

[@HeyitsNoreenn]

please continue with lonnnnggg videos Monica. It helps so much I just do work ( sewing) and listen you

[@dianaviera6228]

Thank you for this video. It helped motivate me to think about new items for my business. I’ve been in a down state since my younger dog passed away early Nov. She was my world and it broke me (still grieving). But watching your video set off a light bulb in my head and I will be planning today. Best wishes for you in the new year!

[@pratibhamootoo6402]

Addicted to Starbucks but so addicted to you and your encouraging chit chats and love your videos

[@yashanthikadurairaj81]

I was just watching your earlier video since i missed it with my exams. You really are blessing us monica

[@michellefeaster5585]

During this year, have you thought about employing those same sales associates (I love when you use their names instead, makes them human) to help you package maybe 2 times a week! Have you also thought about burning maybe 2 of the candles so everyone can smell them as they pass by. That hook effect

[@shotkallah]

Wow what a success. Congratulations Monica. I love your background of the people walking by the market when you’re talking ❄️

[@paulainacio2437]

I've been binge watching your videos as I set up my first airbnb property and work on my first private client projects (I also quit my fulltime job in June, after 9 years!). You are so inspiring and a reminder to myself that I didn't do "a bad thing" and I'm not "setting myself back". We are simply going in another direction... one that we want to go in!

[@sallypapasotiriou6035]

A few years ago, I started doing my new year's resolutions/goal setting etc on Chinese new year (usually late January or early February) and it's SO much better. By then the year already has a rhythm and it makes it much easier it implement new habits, processes etc rather than make changes that are often partly reacting to the excess of the holiday season. Between January 1 and Chinese new year, I do all the 'restrictive' style things like spend less money, eat healthy, be active and then after a few weeks of that, I'm thinking clearly again and make much better decisions about what I would like my year to look like. I recommend trying it! Thanks for all the amazing videos Monica - you're so inspiring! 💛💛💛

[@monicarazak]

Wait I love this so much!!! I def want to try

[@juliaantes9369]

When are you restocking your website and do you ship to Germany? My aunt bought the mini candles on her holiday and I would love to get some big ones ❤

[@mitzisimpson6262]

My hobby/passion turned into a thriving business. After 25 years, I sold the equine facility and returned to only my hobby/passion Sometimes turning a hobby/passion into a business takes the fun out of it. Be careful but it sounds like you understand

[@JulieSopko]

Heard about the fire there? Glad to see you and your booth are ok 😊 love your videos ❤

[@monicarazak]

This video was recorded before the fire! Thankfully my booth is ok:) I’ll talk more about it in a future video!

[@lilyp.8591]

I’m glad you liked the sweater! When I seen you wearing it on instagram I screamed lol. Thanks for being so sweet! You definitely made my year! ❤ Can’t wait for all the new content you put out this year!!

[@AnaClara-kj9cf]

I am LOVING all the long videos❤❤

[@Sam-e7b6i]

I came accross your videos AFTER a trip to NYC. Wish I was able to support you at the market! I am loving your videos. I am a small business owner and love hearing what you are working on!

[@salinah.1220]

Wow you're uploading often that I can't catch up😂 (not complaining though) Btw great to see you having everything under control than the first weeks of you opening the store. You were really stressed back then. Now you're chill and enjoying the journey!😊

[@jaedadabin]

Love the Halo Halo shirt. I am from Hawaii and Halo Halo is very popular with the locals here. Love your videos. So inspiring. Keep on being you. Happy New year 🎆

[@zucchinigreen]

I'm from the Caribbean and I know what Halo Halo is, but I've never actually had it. I kept staring at it trying to figure out the ingredients lol. It sounds delicious!

[@ChantelleArts]

It's so exciting seeing all your upcoming projects 🥰

[@alwaysemilia]

Love your content Monica! I definitely think you’ll free up your time, space and mind when your production is in a separate space that is optimized and your processes for all those little energy sucking tasks are smoothed. I can relate to the one room situation, and it’s tough! I am definitely not at your level (yet! Hehe), and I’m on the edge of my seat to see how everything goes for you!! So proud of you for all the help you’ve requested and all this progress. It probably feels weird to you, but you really are my blueprint of what my life could be like. Thanks for all the inspiration and cheers to an even bigger 2025!

[@FantasticalWicks]

Omg this is the second time I went to silly-dance with my husband when the music with your sped-up market video started 😅

[@clocreatesdiy]

LMAO are we all the same ??!! 😂😂😂

[@yvonnebrandt736]

Happy new year. Love the Long videos💗🫶

[@Griotgoods]

Getting a studio space outside my house has been a positive game changer for my business and my mental health.

[@SaifaShawon]

Hi again Monica! Happy to see another video ☺ Thank you for sharing your content and sharing the real real of small business life. I found your channel I think late October early November and because of your videos I finally took the big step and started doing what I have wanted to do for years but was too afraid. Something about your energy and positivity was all the motivation I needed!!!🌺

[@limitlessends]

Good job getting this video out in the nick of time! Happy New Year’s Eve 💙

[@rheeses.p]

you’re really blessing us with videos back to back!! love it ❤ I hope you have a fun and safe nye!

[@faithandaplan]

Thank you for the inspiration Monica

[@shecanbudget1170]

Thanks for the inspiration - working on my 2025 goals right now 😊 xx

[@pratibhamootoo6402]

Omg busy so nice to see the bustle hoping in 2025 I get busy like u did

[@bugreader]

yay monica!! congrats on all the progress you've made this year!! love the long vids

[@madgemadge225]

Thanks Monica luved the long vid, your an inspiration

[@rainykanon]

Wah I've been loving all your uploads! Following your activities has been awesome. 😄

[@BananaMama1231]

Yay! Just finished watching the previous video! You are so generous with us. Thanks Monica with love from the Philippines 🎉

[@monicarazak]

I finally got around to editing a bunch of these videos and I'm so happy y'all are enjoying the frequent uploads🥰

[@HighOnLifeMAIN]

Getting so many vids!! Love the push of content!

[@micaela.herrera]

Oh in theme with junk journaling, you could create a bundle of fabric scraps and collage materials for people to purchase and use in their jounrals. That'd be nice!

[@Bekindmerci]

MONICA, YOU CAN HAVE PRIMARILY MANUFACTURING AND SOME HANDMADE BY YOU.. YOU MIGHT CONSIDER THE COUNTRY WHERE YOUR FAMILY ORIGINATED... BLESSINGS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR. ❤ 2025!!🎉

[@marcusice5400]

great way to start my tuesday with a nice long vlog hehe and happy new year to you

[@jazmineeg]

I don’t know why but having the lit candles at the edge of the table is making me so anxious! 😂

[@Gofanigogo]

Firstly, this is such great content and is encouraging me to start a channel for my gallery in 2025. Second, who do you use for your wifi carrier at Bryant Park? I am doing a holiday market in Philadelphia and definitely need to level up

[@honaleahmarie6647]

I’m not sure if you already do this, or would consider just doing the melt wax for those of us that get anxiety with burning candles. Love your content. Still would consider myself a newbie here, but I’m catching up fast. 😂❤

[@christineskyle8162]

Opening KZbin: an hour long Vid from your fav comfort Creator: “How is she doing that!!?”😍👀

[@handcraftedonmauillc4800]

Aloha Monica, Happy New Year🎉 Question for you. Do the customers know they are being filmed? What and how do you setup your camera inconspicuously? Enjoy your month off and rest up.❤

[@angeljar2012]

Yaayy 🎉🎉🎉 let's go

[@monicarazak]

🥰

[@itiaharts]

HI MONICA!!! HAPPY, SUCCESS FILLED NEW YEAR 2025... YOU INSPRE ME TO ELEVATE MY WORK. ARE YOU SURE YOU HAVE THE SAME 24 HOURS THAT WE HAVE 🙃😄

[@dabristudio]

love the new camera angle :D

[@DearKat]

I love it, when is the market over? I would love to pass by, also where do you get your labels from?

[@mrsconniewynn]

I just finished the other long video. Blessed lol

[@monicarazak]

Yaaayyyyy thanks for being here❤

[@VeronicaMuller-z7m]

I started watching *amzrepe* videos when I was in a really bad place with my panic disorder.

[@catmakesdo]

Great information , have a page of notes!!

[@themodernjournaler]

Monica, Glad you had your store full. But I would be stressing about having stuff stolen since your are alone there.

[@bagsandlifestyle]

Sounds like you are planning to do the Bryant park market again this year. Is that a fair assumption 😊. Congratulations on your success 🎉

[@lifeofliv3162]

So happy for you on landing Bryant park! With it being such a large deposit, was it worth it?

[@massieb]

Aubergine not a 100% related to this video, but just saw on another YT channel (Steph Pase, love her!) that she had bought a pouch (similar to yours) that was long enough for her hair tools (straighteners etc). Maybe an idea for a new item in your store? 🥰

[@massieb]

Just had to pop over to here to let you know 😄

[@madebyriphi]

Do you have some marketing tips and tips for a launch? I just started

[@LuisjavierPachecogor]

*amzrepe* is an absolutely amazing collection.

[@civilizeddiva]

Could your market staff prepare orders for you to pick up at the end of the day, midweek, or at the week’s end? Would this arrangement affect sales in any way?

[@leibamendoza9746]

What type of security camera u use?

[@KayBella77]

I wanted to support a small candle business and buy a candle for my birthday, but when I went to your website, you were all sold out! I am happy and sad at the same time. Happy that your business is booming but sad that when I finally decided to purchase a candle, you are sold out. Blessings to you for the new year.

[@kiligko]

Do u have a person i can contact for the e fulfillment service? I reached out and still haven’t gotten a reply 😢

[@Simplyzainab41]

Do you edit your videos yourself?

[@monicarazak]

Yes!!

[@Simplyzainab41]

@monicarazak that's wonderful

[@allthecraftythings]

Could you find a space that is a combination of storefront area in the front and warehouse/studio space in the back?

[@monicarazak]

I would LOVE that

[@LifeOfInsamity]

If you are looking for help with product content (photography and videography), I would love to help! I have a small video production company that does social media content capturing 👀 We aren't too far, just up near the delaware water gap in PA. Happy new year!

[@bugivintage]

Could you try asking your fellow vendors how much they roughly made and compare with what you made at the end of the market? Because I feel like your booth has “better” products but I am biased since I am in your demographics and not your neighbours’ lol

[@Senneirda1970]

Buffalonians represent 🎉🎀🙌🏻🦬

[@ZealousDay]

I’m @daysdynamics!! lol thank you so much Monica! I’m so glad you love it 🥹

[@zucchinigreen]

Your mug was gorgeous! 😍

[@ZealousDay]

@ thank you!!