Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth De Armas.
Hi Elizabeth, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
It all started as an idea, really. I thought about opening a small business online and thought to myself: “why not open an anime shop?” Not only do I love anime, but I wanted to create something unique and that everyone else would love. Although my shop only has small keychain accessories at the time, I am working on expanding. It was extremely frightening to start my own business, as I am sure it could be for many small business owners. There are always the lingering doubts in the back of your mind of “can I really do this?” However, I think the best thing we can do is take uncomfortable action. Getting out of my comfort zone and opening my small business made me realize that this is my true passion. I look forward to creating more products that all anime lovers, better known as “weebs,” will love. Hopefully, one day my shop will be known all over the world. I encourage anyone who wants to open a small business to take that first step, no matter how small it may seem. It is better to try and succeed than to have fear dictate your life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Opening a small business has been a bumpy road, but one that is worth it. Some of the struggles I faced were creating my online website and finding the right vendor. I like to make sure that my products have good quality for all of my shoppers. I also had the struggle of having to start up this business on my own. Although I did have the support of my friends and some family, I still had many close family members ask me if I thought opening a small business during a pandemic was a good idea. It can be a little discouraging when the opinions of the ones who matter most get in the way, but that didn’t stop me from pursuing my dream of opening my small online anime business. I don’t think it’s ever really a “smooth” road perse when you open a small business, but I do know it can be rewarding in the end.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am still working on expanding my shop. At the moment, I have a few accessories that my customers can order. I am currently working on a few apparel designs that I plan to launch in my shop sometime late this year or early 2022. Not to mention, I have some more exciting things that will be launching in late April of this year! I usually sketch my ideas and then try to make them come to life by using my iPad, which is one of the best investments I made for my small business since I can create all of my upcoming designs, whether it is sticker designs, apparel, jet tags, and more! Being able to express myself through my small business creatively has been such a reward for me. My intention is always to offer all my anime weebs the best products at an affordable price. I always keep budget in mind when I am setting prices, but I also like to make sure the products are of good quality. I also strive to make my orders more personable by including free goodies and handwritten notes to all of my clients. I want my shoppers to feel my gratitude towards them for choosing Animetion Shoppu whenever they shop with me.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I never thought about opening any business until two years ago, and even then, I had no idea what I would want out of my shop. This past year was the first time I stepped out of my comfort zone and did something out of character for those who know me. I always thought I would go into nursing, but as time progressed, I doubted my life choices and decided to take the business route, and I don’t regret it.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://www.animetionshoppu.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animetion.shoppu/
Image Credits
Shaelen Serrano
