Running a small business is a journey... The past three years have been an amazing ride as i've strived to bring Kiwi dogs and their parents unique and fun goodies that I couldn't find here in New Zealand. However, amidst the global recession, the quieter winter months, and even facing cyberbullying, Sweet As Pup has faced its share of difficulties. In this blog, I'd like to share some things you can do to contribute to the New Zealand small businesses that you love during the recession to help us continue to survive and in time thrive again.

Share your thoughts through reviews

One of the most impactful ways to support businesses like us is by leaving genuine reviews. Head over to our Google page and Facebook pages, or even directly on products you've purchased on our website, and share your experiences with our products. Your thoughts can guide other potential customers in making a decision. Plus, it's incredibly heartwarming for me to read your feedback and know i'm on the right track bringing you products that you love.

Engage on social media

Social media is a powerful tool for small businesses, offering us a free platform to connect with you and chat with you about why we're building our businesses. Liking, commenting, and sharing our posts boosts our visibility. Don't hesitate to tag us in posts featuring our products! When you interact with our online content, it creates a ripple effect. Not only does it boost the visibility of our posts, but it also exposes our brand to new audiences. Your endorsement can reach a wider audience, introducing more people to Sweet As Pup.

Tell your friends and family

Word-of-mouth can shape the success of small businesses like Sweet As Pup. When you share your positive experiences with our products with your friends and family, you're introducing them to something special. A simple conversation about what accessories, treats, and toys you enjoy can lead others to check us out. Whether it's over a cup of coffee or a chat during a dog park visit, you encouraging others to support local businesses is so valuable.

Sign up for e-newsletters

Becoming a part of our newsletter community is more than just subscribing to updates – it's an opportunity to connect. By signing up, you're not only ensuring you're among the first to know about new arrivals and exclusive offers, but you're also playing a role in our growth. Newsletters provide us with a direct line of communication with our valued customers.

Attend our local events

In a world where online dominates, our dog day events across New Zealand offer us a way to connect with you AND your dogs. Events are the heartbeats of small businesses, giving us the chance to personally connect with you and your dogs, understand your preferences, and build relationships beyond the screen. Your presence brightens our day but strengthens the local business ecosystem.

Small businesses like Sweet As Pup are a labour of love. While the path may be challenging, the support we receive from our wonderful customers is a reminder that we're on the right track. So, next time you're looking to make a positive impact, remember the power you hold in supporting local and small businesses. Your actions, no matter how small, can make a world of difference. Thank you for being part of our journey, and for sharing in the joys and challenges that come with it.