SMALL BUSINESS LOVE :: MADAM MIM (BRUGGE, BELGIUM)

When walking in the beautiful streets of Brugge in Belgium, I found this incredible Vintage Store. I had to go in! I said many times how much I'm passionate about vintage in other countries. When I entered this store I felt like visiting a museum, quickly fell in love with all the unique pieces, especially for the furniture, clothing and the famous laces (traditional in Brugge). I had no choice but ask the owner Mim if I could take some pictures. This time I thought I could use the Retro Feature of my camera but it turned out much darker that I wanted to. 

I was back in Portugal already, looking for my awesome pictures when I had the brilliant idea to send a message via facebook asking for a blog interview. I want to thank Jared, Mim's son, who sent all the answers in english, grateful for your translation so this post was possible.

How come you opened this place? How did you start?

Being a housewife for more than 30 years, and after my four children moved out, I wanted to do something different, fun and useful with my free time. I got an education in Business Management, searched for a location and bought and collected stuff with my personal savings.

When did you open? What're the opening hours?

Since 2011, the shop is open 6 days a week from 11am to 6pm. Also on sundays and bank holidays.

We’re closed on Tuesdays.

Where do you find the products for your shop? Are they hard to find?

I visit flea markets, fairs and buy from colleagues and people at home. I do this before or after shop opening hours, and of course on tuesdays when the shop is closed. Especially items from the 50s to 70s are hard to find nowadays.

What do you pay special attention to when buying merchandising for your shop?

I only buy items that are in good shape, for a good price.

I want the items in my shop to be nice and affordable, so this really is a key factor.

Do you promote other activities in the shop?

I put up some posters in the shop, but that’s all.

Overall, do you think Madam Mim is a success?

I am satisfied.

Which tips would you give to someone who wants to open a business like yours?
Good sales means you need to find and buy a lot of great stuff too, so you will be working 7 days a week. You need to Love your job!
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You can find Madam Mim on Facebook

Or if you go/live in Brugge you come say hi in this address: Hoogstraat 29 - 8000 Brugge - Belgium
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Where in the World will be the next Small Business Love series? Who knows! :) Stay tuned!