Interview with Sarah Jenkins, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I used to work at a consignment store during the summer. I was a teacher and had summers off, so this worked out great for me. I did this for six years and in that time I learned a lot about the business. Two years ago, I decided that opening my own consignment store was something I really wanted to do. Flash forward to June 15, and Door No. 3 was filled with high-quality inventory and I could finally see the floor in my basement. I love it that people get the reference to the game show “Let’s Make a Deal” in regards to the name of my store. You never know what great things you will find behind Door No. 3!
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: I want my customers to have an enjoyable shopping experience when they visit Door No. 3. I love to find out what my customers are looking for so that when they come in, I can meet their individual needs. I carry a wide variety of inventory, housewares, women’s and men’s designer clothing, antiques and a plethora of other unique items, but you will never feel overwhelmed or pressured to buy. There is new inventory arriving daily and our prices will surely please customers and consignors alike.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I’ve lived in the Applewood area most of my life and truly love this neighborhood. This is one of the reasons I decided to open Door No. 3 here. I get to foster relationships with new consignors and shoppers and in the process I learn more about the people and community that surrounds me. It takes a village to run a successful consignment store, in that the store cannot function without the help of the consignors and shoppers. It’s a mutually beneficial and fun relationship.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Getting the word out. Most of my customers so far have been coming in because they were intrigued by the sign above my store. They all say, “I saw the sign and wondered, what is Door No. 3?” However, my business neighbors have been awesome about sending people over to shop, which has also brought in new business. I’ve been told that people love what I have and that the store is super cute, so I know that once the word gets out, business will be booming.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: I’m really shy and have a fear of talking in front of a crowd. This is ironic since I’ve been a teacher for eight years and talking in front of a crowd is something I had to do on a daily basis. It’s also kind of funny that I decided to take on this new venture where I meet new people every day, so being shy is something that I really need to get over. In spite of my shyness, I am very enthusiastic about Door No. 3 and I hope that everyone who walks in sees that.
Profile
Business: Door No. 3
Address: 2060 Youngfield St., Lakewood
Hours: 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday
Founded: 2015
Contact: 720-639-6568,
Employees: 1
