2 Years Strong

Time is such a tricky little bitch, on one hand it feels like we opened the doors of Upshift just yesterday, but on the other hand (and according to my newly sprouted gray hairs and under eye wrinkles) it was eons ago.  2 years ago today I was drinking wine and setting all the trends at Upshift while holding back a cacophony of emotions; excitement, nervousness, anticipation...well, you name I was feeling it.  Fast forward to October 17th and we unlocked the doors at 10am.  We had a great first day with a ton of curious visitors from the neighborhood and a handful of customers, mostly loyal customers that wanted to shop our new digs.

It's been one foot in front of the other day-by-day since that Thursday 2 years ago.  I've learned so much and realized that opening a business that isn't modeled after any other type of small business...anywhere, ever is an incredible journey. The success of Upshift has been possible because of Dustin's limitless support and hard work.  He is, hands down, the most incredibly supportive husband; he dresses mannequins and offers support to a whole bunch of female staff and customers all while working his ass off at his full time job.

Beyond support from the world's greatest beer brewing husband I have to send out so much love and hugs to all my friends and staff.  My dream was to open Upshift by August of 2009, yes, you read that right.  I wrote the business plan the day Obama was inaugurated in January of 2009 and reached out to many, many banks that all shouted a resounding no. It was heartbreaking, but hindsight also being a tricky little bitch, I now know the reason for this very long delay; I was meant to meet all the key players that would be a part of the foundation of Upshift, these people are some of the most wonderful, loving, kind, silly, outrageous people in the world and wouldn't you know it Dustin and I found them right here in Madison.  Too many to list, but you all know who you are (if you've gulped wine or beer with us you're on the list).  My staff, volunteers and interns are on that list as well because of their dedication and complete understanding of all we do at Upshift.  Behind the scenes we have a whole team of people that support all we do as well; a photographer, models, and stylists.

Bottom line, we are incredibly blessed to be where we are at in Madison surrounded by (in my humble opinion) some of the most beautiful people, both inside and out. Our foundation here in Madison wouldn't have been possible without all the support of family and friends that live in other beautiful places near and far.   2 years later, and 6 years after conceiving the idea for Upshift I can hardly begin to fathom where the future will take us. I send love and many thanks to all the people that have supported Upshift.

Join us in celebrating beginning Friday, October 16th. Get $5 off your swap from 4-8pm.

First day with keys to the building