To honor Women’s History Month, we celebrate the achievements of women around the world, starting with those in our city. Throughout the month of March, we will be sharing stories from female entrepreneurs running shops and businesses of all sizes here in Chicago.
Bow & Arrow Collection is a Chicago-based gift store started by three sisters. They started the shop as a way to combine their skills and create something they love, specializing in gifts, paper & party.
How did you start Bow & Arrow Collection?
We began our journey in 2015 as a pop-up shop inside of a local women’s clothing boutique, Felt Chicago, based in Logan Square. We also showcased our collection in a variety of markets around Chicago but always knew we wanted a space of our own. After finding our perfect location, we signed a lease on Milwaukee Avenue and did a full build out to craft a truly custom space. Bow & Arrow Collection opened its doors on Small Business Saturday in November 2016. We have been operating in our brick and mortar space for over four years and we recently expanded online so we can now ship a little piece of our store nationwide! We couldn’t be more grateful for the community’s support.
Have there been any challenges you have had to overcome?
There are many different aspects to owning and running a small business. We are constantly learning something new every day and facing different challenges as they present themselves – especially after this past year. Our best advice is to take it one step at a time and remember why you started your business in the first place.
Do you have any advice for others thinking of opening their own businesses?
We think the best part about Bow & Arrow Collection is that we get to do this together, as sisters. We each bring something different to the table and together we are stronger than any of us are alone. If you’re thinking about starting your own business, here’s some things to keep in mind: don’t underestimate yourself, collaborate with women instead of competing against them, always trust your instincts & don’t compromise your vision. Stay true to you & your brand.
What makes Bow & Arrow Collection truly unique?
Bow & Arrow Collection actively supports other women-owned small businesses. The vast majority of our vendors are women makers and we aim to source from diverse backgrounds whenever possible. Whether that means carrying their products in our store or collaborating with other local women business owners in our community, we are extremely fortunate to be in an industry where women support each other. Not only do we focus on women-owned creators but we put in the extra effort to make sure every type of woman feels appreciated in our store. We started our collection with the goal that you can truly find something for everyone and that still holds true today.
recognize & celebrate life’s special moments — big & small.
Thank you for all you do and for being such an important part of the local Chicago community!
