Business of the Week: Second Chapter Bookstore
By Eric Perry
In my networking journey with the Criterion newspaper, I had the pleasure of meeting Stephanie Peete and her mother Lisa Queener-Johnson, the inspiring entrepreneurs behind Second Chapter Bookstore. Their bookstore specializes in books by black authors or books that explore black culture, aiming to promote diverse voices and narratives. Stephanie's passion for reading and her mother's 30 years of teaching experience in the Buffalo school district laid the foundation for their online virtual store, www.secondchapterbookstore.com.
Initially, Stephanie and Lisa considered opening a physical store but were advised by a business consultant at the Women's Business Center at Canisius College to test out a virtual store with low overhead. They hosted their events in various locations around the community, which helped them gain a strong following and success. The support and guidance they received from the business centers allowed them to pivot their business plan and explore new ideas.
During my conversation with Stephanie, she emphasized the importance of financial legacy and staying on top of taxes. Although neither Stephanie nor Lisa were tech-savvy, they realized the need for a web designer/tech person to adapt to the ever-changing technological landscape. Lisa highlighted the significance of having a good credit score when starting a business, as it enables you to obtain a business credit card for unexpected expenses or increased product demand.
Stephanie also enlightened me about the importance of branding yourself and understanding how your brand is perceived within the community. This knowledge made it easier for them to open a virtual store and overcome initial obstacles. Their unique and inspiring events, held at "Unapologetic Coffee," another black-owned business in Buffalo, set them apart. These monthly events bring together a small group of 12 people to discuss a selected book over coffee. They also organize panels and ticketed events for all age groups, including children and teens.
One remarkable initiative by Lisa is reading to children in Martin Luther King Park on weekends during the summer. Recognizing the drop in interest in reading among tweens (ages 12-13), they are starting a tween book club to encourage a love for reading during this crucial transition period. Inspired by their community-focused approach, I am considering starting a book club for men in our community, as reading is fundamental for personal growth and intelligence.
By the end of our conversation, not only did I gain new ideas and insights for my own business venture, but I also felt a renewed passion for reading. I highly recommend Second Chapter Bookstore to anyone looking to read more, engage in a great summer activity for their child, or support their community. Stephanie and Lisa's dedication to promoting diverse literature and fostering a love for reading is truly inspiring.
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