Our Workshop Era
I’m no stranger to adapting to the times while staying true to the shop’s mission of sustainability and community connection. After countless hours of crunching numbers, diving into research, and having heartfelt conversations with fellow shop owners, one thing has become crystal clear: to ensure Great.full Goods thrives in these ever-changing times, it’s time to embrace a new path—one that includes workshops as a core part of our business model. And let me tell you, I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead!
Harrisonburg and Roco have my heart, and Great.full Goods is more than a shop—it’s a staple in the heart of our downtown community. It’s a place where sustainability comes alive, and I’m committed to keeping it that way. Workshops will allow us to expand our impact, connect with more of you, and dive deeper into the topics and skills that can help us all live more sustainably.
Why Workshops? Why Now?
Running a small business during uncertain times means being flexible and innovative. Workshops will not only bring us together in a new way but also create an additional revenue stream to keep Great.full Goods sustainable—financially and environmentally. From hands-on DIY sessions to educational classes on sustainable living and social media marketing, these workshops will be a beautiful blend of practicality, creativity, and fun.
Blending My Experiences to Build Something Special
Every step of my journey has prepared me for this. My years as a Sign Language Interpreter taught me the power of clear communication and connection. My time as a Marketing Director honed my skills in creativity and strategy. My experience as a mother gave me insight into the joys and challenges of balancing life while staying true to my values. And let’s not forget my years in the service industry, where I learned to listen, adapt, and make every guest feel welcome; as well as my super power of making leftovers in to just about anything and zero waste cooking.
All of these experiences will fuel the workshops I create, combining practical skills with a big heart and a mission to spread sustainability cheer. Whether it’s teaching Trello for creating vision boards, guiding a DIY upcycling session, or hosting a roundtable for women to share ideas and inspire one another, these workshops will reflect my vision: sustainable living made accessible, joyful, and impactful.
What’s Next?
Stay tuned! But first, I’ve attached the next few workshop links below for you all to check out and hopefully you’ll find something you connect with!
Make your own AzzaMarie-style upcycled leather earrings:
https://www.shopgreatfull.com/shop/p/azzamarie-earring-workshop
Supporting Caregivers of Nonverbal children with communication tools for a more sustainable mental and emotional life:
Create the perfect date night at home in time for Valentines day and design a zesty game for your partner:
https://www.shopgreatfull.com/shop/p/sip-savor-spark-workshop
Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and belief in the mission of Great.full Goods. Let’s embrace this next chapter with open hearts and plenty of sustainability cheer. Here’s to thriving together in downtown Harrisonburg!
Drink water and Breathe,
Mel
