Cat Perfetti, owner of Stone and Sage provides insights into what it is like to be a female business owner
As part of our Woman Owned Business Series, Cat Perfetti, owner of Stone and Sage, provided insight on what it is like to own a business as a woman as well as tips for those who are considering opening their own company. Perfetti not only owns the Stone and Sage retail store but also Stone and Sage Healing Center.
“I have always wanted to own a “witchy” type store. My girlfriend and I from Pennsylvania used to sit on.her deck and talk about opening a metaphysical shop,” Perfetti said. “After I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021, it changed my outlook on life. I decided I wasn’t going to waste any more time and was going to open the type of business I have always dreamed about. The building became vacant at 10 Southeast Front Street, and I applied for it immediately. I saw my opportunity and I was able to get in and get Stone and Sage open in about one month. It’s been amazing to do what I love every day.”
One obstacle she has faced in her business is the economy. Perfetti opened in September 2022, and she explained the first six months were amazing but then it seemed people stopped spending money.
“Adding more classes and events such as our Punk Rock Flea Markets definitely gave us the needed boost in foot traffic and sales,” Perfetti said. “We’ve been doing great the last few months and celebrated our second anniversary in September. More people are starting to find us, and we really filled a need in our local community. So many customers thank us for being here.”
When asked if there was a time when she almost gave up on the shop, Perfetti replied “nope, I never give up.”
Perfetti likes being a mentor to others. She has had several come to her and ask about opening their own business. She has worked with them by crating and providing templates for business plans or simply giving them advice.
“I think our greatest success has been filling a need in our community,” Perfetti said. “There wasn’t a place for people with spiritual beliefs that don’t have a specific “label” to gather and shop and have their own idea of community. We now have created two spaces with that purpose with the addition of the Stone and Sage Healing Center on Walnut Street in January of this year.”
Perfetti does not think being a female business owner provided her any additional challenges or benefits.
“I show up and put my heart and soul into my work every day,” Perfetti said. “I have an amazing group of healers, teachers and readers that create a wonderful team for this community and I’m so proud to be a part of what we are able to do every day. Start every day with intention, give it your all and you will be unstoppable.”
Her advice to other women who are considering opening a business is not to take no for an answer.
“There is always a way to figure out how to make your dream come true,” Perfetti said. “Reach out to other women business owners for help and guidance. I am always available to help mentor if I possibly can.”
Stone and Sage is located at 10 Southeast Front Street while the Stone and Sage Healing Center is located at 37 North Walnut Street.
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