06/12/2025
In fact I think most if not ALL small businesses who serve women what they see as 'luxuries' are struggling.
This includes me. I have lost lots of customers recently due to people's lack of money which in turn means I am cutting down or stopping my own spend on many female-owned self employed business... so it's a knock on affect.
I don't know what the answer is but please think small businesses before heading off to the big global corporates....
I genuinely despise this kind of post but this year I have to follow my head and not my heart.
I need to be open and honest and admit just how hard keeping Butterflies Lingerie going is.
I don't want to be the one who closes this jem of a shop, it's been in Petersfield for decades.
I have been here for 19 years! Next year will be my 10th year owning the shop that I treasure.
I have made so many friends and enjoyed helping so many of you over those years.
I know we are appreciated, we have many of you bringing friends and family to shop with us, from as far afield as New Zealand, Australia, South Africa who will only buy their lingerie from us on their visits to their Hampshire families. Plus so many of you live in this wonderful town and care about shopping local. I feel truly honoured to help every single one of you.
The summer months we thrive, the summer clothes come out and the new bras are wanted again.
Have we weathered tougher years? Yes, but my health has deteriorated and mental health had a huge impact on my physical wellbeing.
I love my shop, I love my customers.
I am sorry for dragging down the mood and having a dreaded pity party.💔
Love, Mrs K x
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