Shop Small | The Sanders Abode

An interview with Mariah Sanders of The Sanders Abode, in Winchester, Virginia.

First off, how did you start The Sanders Abode?

I started The Sanders Abode in July of 2019 — two weeks prior to quitting my full-time job. I was working as a social worker at an elementary school and was worn out from the paperwork and stress. I started the shop during my summer break to give myself a creative outlet and to honestly get rid of some of the cool finds I had been hoarding! I had listed some items on my personal IG story and had some success with that, so I thought “Why not start a shop?!” Plus, I had had other people ask how I found such cute things at the thrift — so I thought I’d make it easy for people, by finding the items for them.

You're also an expectant mama, how do you feel about being a mother and running a business?

I feel empowered! I am constantly inspired by the women in my life who have children and run successful businesses. It encourages me that I will still be able to run the shop once this baby arrives in June. I’ll take some time off of course, but I plan on getting back into it as soon as I can and bringing the baby along with me on my thrifting trips! 

What is the hardest part about self-employment?

Hardest part - logistics (for my shop, shipping can be frustrating at times!) and finding motivation every week to keep the business going / posting weekly content on my page

What is the best part about self- employment?

Best part - flexible schedule, creativity, able to run things how I want. I’ve also met several wonderful people through my shop, and one of them in particular is now a good friend of mine!

What advice would you give yourself at the start of this process?

The advice I would give is: don’t base your identity or worth in the success of your business. Have fun and make bringing joy and love to others the priority. 

What are three things you couldn't live without?

I couldn’t live without thrifting, comfy pants (because hello, pregnancy) + peanut m&m’s. 

What is your favorite part of the work you do?

My favorite part is going out and hunting for the items! My favorite places to go are local thrifts, flea markets, yard sales, etc. I also really enjoy hearing from customers about how much they love their items — it’s so amazing to me that I could be the one to find a piece that someone keeps in their home forever. 

What's on the horizon for The Sanders Abode?

A fun giveaway is in the works for hitting 1,000 followers on Instagram recently! I’m teaming up with two of my favorite businesses to giveaway some goodies and show my appreciation for all the support I’ve received since starting this shop just 8 months ago! 

Thank you, Mariah! Watching you carefully curate beautiful pieces and run your business with efficiency and quality has been so inspiring!