SHOWCASE
Instead of waiting for an annual
performance review to give feedback,
Natasha recommended recognising
employee contribution on their work
anniversaries, when they meet their
sales targets, or after making it through a
particularly tricky project. “The simplest
of gestures can have a huge affect on
staff morale, and it’s just a lovely feeling
surprising people and saying thanks,”
she says.
While basic manners are a no-brainer,
showing gratitude benefits everyone
- something they are trying to instil in
their children, Ngaia says. “Saying please
and thanks is great manners, but taking
the time to give specific feedback, or
organising something special takes
appreciation to the next level.”
Their goal is to make gift-giving
super easy and joyful and they have
handpicked a wide range of quality,
unique products from around the
country to feature in beautifully
presented arrangements. They
create gift boxes and baskets for all
occasions including work and wedding
anniversaries, baby showers and
birthdays and deliver them throughout
Blenheim and beyond. Prices start
from $35 and customers can choose
a custom made arrangement or from
their standard range which includes the
Entertainer’s Box, Baby Bucket, Women’s
Pamper Pack or Gardener’s Bliss.
The Gift Sisters Facebook page and
website have loads of fun and unique
ideas for people wanting a customised
gift, and Ngaia and Natasha love adding
personal touches to create individualised
presents.
“Just give us a call and tell us a bit about
who the gift is for - their favourite colour,
their hobbies and interests, what they
do for work - and we find a way to make
their gift really special and tangible,”
Ngaia says.
For many people buying gifts is not
their most favourite activity, while many
others struggle to find the time to buy
loved ones a meaningful gift - that’s if
they remember in the first place. The Gift
Sisters pre-order system is perfect for
busy people or for employers who want
to streamline their staff appreciation
scheme. Simply fill in the form with the
dates, information about who the gift is
for, the occasion and budget, and The
Gift Sisters will send a reminder and
invoice two weeks prior and dispatch
the gift upon payment. Their loyalty
programme ensures repeat customers
save money as well as time.
“We’ve had some fantastic feedback,
which is such a great feeling - it’s like a
gift that keeps on giving,” Ngaia says.
With five children between them and
having to overcome breast cancer
last year, Natasha says the first three
years of business have been pretty
challenging. But the sisters are enjoying
the opportunity to work together and
the flexibility of being their own bosses,
while staying home with their young
children.
And what advice do they have for
other mums thinking about starting a
business? “Be willing to tackle anything,
find a good mentor, don’t be afraid to
ask for help and welcome constructive
feedback,” Ngaia says.
Browse and shop for gift baskets and
boxes on The Gift Sisters website: www.
giftsisters.co.nz or get inspired on their
Facebook page: @TheGiftSisters
Bulk Christmas orders need to be in by
December 4, while individual gift orders
can be made up until December 20.
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