‘It’s okay to ask for help:’ Small business owner hoping to inspire others

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Paige Cunningham owns and operates the Paisley Pearl, a small business based in Wolfforth. The online boutique sells everything from shirts and hats to jewelry and accessories.

“It was kind of a thought in my mind for a long time, but my daughter had an accident that led us to having to figure out ways to make income not actually physically going to a place of business,” Cunnigham said.

Cunningham says she quit her job as a hairdresser in order to start the Paisley Pearl. What started from humble beginnings has since grown exponentially.

“I kind of manifested this idea thinking I would just do this from my kitchen, and it just grew beyond my wildest dreams,” Cunningham said.

But now, like many other business owners, Cunningham says she is struggling. She says her boutique is slower than it has ever been.

“I know people are pinching their pennies. As a mom, I know you have to make a choice. Am I going to buy groceries or am I going to buy a cute new sweatshirt, “Cunningham said.

Cunningham says the drop in sales prompted her to make a post, asking for help finding a secondary job to supplement some income.

“I had to swallow my pride big time. This is my baby, I put in a lot of time, a lot of effort, a lot of money,” Cunningham said.

Cunningham hopes her actions inspire others who are hesitant to reach out for help.

“I just want people to understand that it’s okay to let people know you are struggling. It’s okay to say, ‘hey, I need some help’ or you know ‘do you have any ideas?’” Cunningham said.

Cunningham says small businesses are the foundation of our community. She hopes the next time you’re out shopping, you consider taking your business to one of them. And for the business owners who are reading this, she has these words of encouragement.

“Do not give up. Get up every morning and push like you’ve never believed and work like it’s your last day to work,” Cunningham said.

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