Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarai Rivera.
Hi Sarai, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Being an avid reader since I was a kid, I’ve always wanted to open a small bookstore of my own. But it was in October 2021 that I became serious about making that dream a reality. I wanted to open the store somewhere in Downtown Sanford, as I’ve lived there for about 9 years and felt we needed a space where people could gather for Author Events, Meet Ups, book clubs, etc., and share their love of books and reading. However, commercial space is hard to come by in the Downtown area. I searched for a year and was ready to give up when I came across the location we’re in now, which is adjacent to a bar called the Sanford Ave Tavern. We’re located inside a historic home converted into two commercial spaces. Because of this, we have beautiful crown molding, chandeliers hanging in two rooms, two fireplaces, and a gorgeous copper ceiling in the back room. It just fits so perfectly for our bookstore! Our location is small but cozy. We opened on November 5, 2022, and have been slowly growing!
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
I did a ton of research leading up to when I was able to open up the store. I had a business plan that I referred to as we got everything set up and organized, and I’ve always been an avid reader, so picking out the beginning inventory was pretty easy. My biggest challenge has been learning the ins and outs of the publishing industry, how distribution works, fostering relationships, and how to set up successful events. We’ve learned a lot through trial and error and continue to improve daily.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Spellbound Bookstore?
We’re a small, independent bookstore located in Historic Downtown Sanford. We’re proud to be a woman-owned and Latinx-owned small business. We offer new, new surplus, and used books of all genres, as well as gifts, paper goods, puzzles, and more! We host various events at our bookstore, including Children’s Storytime, Author events, book clubs, and game nights. What sets us apart is a curated selection of books and gifts at affordable prices with the added experience of a cozy, friendly bookstore where all are welcome.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
It’s always a huge risk to start a small business. Still, when it comes to opening an independent bookstore, the biggest question that I asked myself (and others probably wondered themselves) was: Is anyone interested in browsing for books in person, and are they willing to buy a physical book at a brick-and-mortar over an ebook or a major online retailer? And the answer is yes; there is an interest in walking into a bookstore with a cozy, warm atmosphere where you can get a personalized recommendation from a Staff member. There is something special about holding a book in your hand. There is value in meeting like-minded folks and making connections centered around books and reading. Seeing the outpouring of support from locals who believe in what we do and who continually tell us, “I’m so glad you’re here,” and “We’ve been waiting for a place like this!”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.spellboundbookstore.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spellboundbookstorefl
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpellBound-Bookstore-110770628431276
Image Credits
Mastropieces Photography Daniella Hume https://www.facebook.com/MastropiecesPhotography Jessica Pickering Tourism Marketing Manager at Do Orlando North https://www.facebook.com/DoOrlandoNorth
