The continuation of the history of Shaddow Domain!

The Story of Shaddow Domain: Episode 3 – Working 9 to 5… or 6

Couldn't find a pic of Chesbro in the 80s, so this will have to do.

I was 18 in 1983 when I got my dream job at Chesbro Music. In the nearly nineteen years that I worked at Chesbro I made many friends with whom I’m still close today. I spent a lot of time working with wholesale print music and then moved to the wholesale musical gifts where we shipped gift items all over the world.

I learned how to manage inventory and research new gift items. I ordered from vendors and worked with reps. I ordered from screen printers and other creators which taught me a lot about how to get specialty items. I made jewelry and displays, learning many things that would be useful later, but I didn't know it.

I even decorated the huge display windows in front of the store, and if you remember those you must be over a certain age. I wish I could find pictures of those windows, they were kind of amazing. If you have memories of those windows, I'd love to hear about it in the comments!

After so many years, learning so many jobs, a decision needed to be made: do I continue with my current job,, or move into management with its higher wages and responsibilities? I was horrified. I am not, and never have been, boss material. So instead of entering management I started my own business. I know, I know, the irony of this decision did not escape me. I had also never worked in retail, ever. Those of you familiar with retail know that I was in for some huge, sometimes painful, surprises.

This historical recollection may ramble a bit, and I'll do the best to keep it on track, but most of you know my mind doesn't have a track, more of a muddy bouncy house slide, so bear with me!

Toodles for now!

Julie