2024 in Review: A Look In The Chutes
Well, folks, as I finally settle in to write this post, about 23 days overdue, I can't help but think back on all the wonderful memories we made in 2024. I feel a tinge of guilt sharing these highlights, knowing that many of you have faced challenges like heartbreak, illness, and difficult circumstances.
The new year began with excitement as I planned a trip to Dallas Market with my step-mom, Niki, and my 10-year-old daughter, Paysen. I poured countless hours into the planning process, meticulously analyzing historical data and creating detailed category budgets. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, less than half of my orders actually arrived.
While the trip itself was memorable and it was incredibly rewarding to share the experience with Niki and Paysen for the first time, I decided to forego attending Dallas Market this year.
That said, we still leaned on Rachel's incredible photography talent for two unforgettable styled shoots this year: one on our friend's Lansing houseboat in June [Thanks Matty & Travis!] and another in front of a turquoise trailer house in October [Thanks Jace & Kate!]
Every year, I find myself thinking, How on earth are we going to outdo these one-of-a-kind ideas next time?
✙ 79,015 user sessions on brokerleather.com ✙
In 2024, brokerleather.com welcomed 79,015 user sessions—that’s a lot of boots admired and added to carts!
You may have noticed I’ve been a little quieter on Instagram and Facebook in recent years, but don’t worry. I’ve been hard at work behind the scenes, focusing on building a business that’s as sustainable as the quality leather we love.
When it comes to driving traffic to the site, Snapchat has been my secret weapon, with Facebook right on its heels. As for TikTok... well, let’s just say lip-syncing and dancing isn’t exactly my thing. I’m more about authenticity than choreography, but I’m giving it my best shot—boots and all!
✙ 34 New Google Reviews ✙ 1,380 New Email Subscribers ✙
In 2024, we were blessed with 34 New Google Reviews. When I look at the numbers—1,380 new email subscribers and 3,517 receipts—it’s clear we can do even better. That leaves 3,483 amazing customers who haven’t yet shared their thoughts with a quick, simple Google review. If you’ve got any creative ideas to inspire them, I’d love to hear! After all, your words make a huge difference for a small-town boutique like mine.
Our Stiefeld Lowen Hair on Hide Ankle Boots stole the show as our top-income generating product of 2024—and honestly, it’s no surprise.
Brooke poured her heart into styling them perfectly, writing this blog post, and creating videos that brought them to life. Plus, Grace, Sam, and I practically live in ours, wearing them at least once a week.
If you haven’t snagged a pair yet, now’s the time! They’ll never restock [trust me, I could tell you a whole story about the customs nightmare that came with these beauties], and they’re currently ✙ 50% OFF ✙. Don’t wait—you need these in your closet!
In 2024, we gave $24,960.16 in discounts to our amazing customers through rewards points, BOGO sales, and more—and that doesn’t even include our regular Sale Barn markdowns!
This is hands-down one of my favorite parts of running a small business in a small town. It fills my heart knowing I can reward our dedicated customers with incredible deals on the quality items they love. Supporting each other is what makes this community so special.
We’ll say it again [and probably a thousand more times]: thank you for choosing to shop small with us and for following along on this wild, unpredictable ride.
As you’ve probably gathered by now, my life feels a lot like an arena full of rough stock and timed events—balancing the roles of wife, momma, and small business owner. I wouldn’t be who I am today without you cheering me on, dusting me off, and cinching my bull’s flank strap every now and then.
I’m so grateful you’re here, whether you’re one of my top-spending customers or simply someone who stops by for a dose of entertainment and inspiration. Your support means the world to me.
God bless you, and here’s to a New Year filled with adventure, determination, and blessings! XOXO~ Brianne Evelyn
✙ P.S. If you’ve got a gift card burning a hole in your pocket, check out our ✙ NEW ARRIVALS right here! ✙
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