Today, I’m taking action on my dream. When I was 14, I conjured up Edgewater Bookstore in my head. Don’t believe me? Ask my wife. I was dating her back then, and we’ve talked about it from day one.
Here’s the problem: Making a bookstore financially viable is quite the challenge. The retail space, inventory, and staff costs make this little venture a big risk. So, I’m doing this in stages.
Here’s the plan:
- Stage 1: Create an online community of book lovers and meet with them weekly.
- This step is done! It took a year to build, but now you can visit my reading community, listen to the podcast, and watch the YouTube videos.
- Stage 2: Launch a website for the bookstore and begin selling books and other essentials online. Once I know I can generate sales for the business and I get good at managing the inventory, branding, and marketing, I’ll move on to stage 3.
- Stage 3: Find and refurbish a retail location.
- Stage 4: Open a brick-and-mortar store to the community.
Today, I’m beginning stage 2. If you want to follow along with the build, subscribe to my YouTube channel where I’ll film and report back on all the steps I’m taking to make this dream a reality. I’m building the website and purchasing inventory as we speak. So, with that in mind, let me introduce you to Edgewater Bookstore.
What Makes Edgewater Bookstore Special:
Edgewater Bookstore offers a curated experience for discerning readers. Each book in our collection is chosen for its depth and meaning, handpicked by Eddy Hood, host of The Read Well Podcast. Every purchase includes a custom reading guide, bookmark, and a set of Eddy’s book notes for further study. Beyond books, our selection features Eddy’s favorite thinking, reading, and writing essentials, designed for deeper reflection and study.
Receiving a package from Edgewater Bookstore is a special experience. Inside, you’ll find your books accompanied by high-end stationery, sealed with our wax medallion. Each package is beautifully wrapped in tissue paper and scented, transforming every delivery into a reading experience.
Want to help in the launch of the store?
Great! There are a few things you can do:
- Let me know your thoughts on the logo and the description above. What are your suggestions for making them better? Also, how does the description of the online store resonate with you? Do you like the idea of a curated collection of books accompanied by a bookmark, notes, etc. rather than a bookstore with millions of options sold casually? I want each customer to know they’re getting the best books and that a lot of thought has gone into each one.
- Visit the coming soon page at www.edgewaterbookstore.com and let me know your thoughts on the brand colors I’ve chosen. Also, if you’re interested, add your email on that page to get added to my newsletter which will have weekly updates.
Starting a local bookstore is both exciting and overwhelming. I’m going to need to lean on you all for thoughts, inspiration, and suggestions. Please feel free to share your ideas so that I can make Edgewater the best local bookstore it can be.
Until tomorrow, read slowly – take notes – apply the ideas.
-Eddy
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