Today we’d like to introduce you to Sydney-Anne Graves.
Hi Sydney-Anne, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I established Monarch Books during my senior year of high school, two years ago. At the time, I was working at a local tea shop and searching for a new job when I learned that our town’s bookstore was permanently closing. I firmly believe that every town should have a bookstore, so with the money I had saved from working throughout high school, I prayed and made the decision to purchase what remained of the store.
Monarch Books began humbly—chaotic at times, and with me not fully knowing what I was doing or what I was getting myself into. But I stayed consistent, trusting in this dream and opportunity that God placed before me. Since then, I have witnessed incredible, exponential growth each year, and I am continually grateful for how this bookstore has grown and evolved.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Every new business and aspiring entrepreneur will inevitably face challenges. Even when things became difficult, whether it was inventory damage, challenging customers, theft, or simply learning how to smoothly run a brand new business while striving to make every customer happy, I pressed on. Relying on God and trusting that He placed me here for a purpose, and that He would remain present in both my life and my business, made those challenges feel more manageable. That faith allowed me to stay focused on growth and on taking the next steps for Monarch Books.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Alongside running my bookstore, I have a deep love for painting and creating in all forms. If you ever stop by Monarch Books, you’ll often find me behind the counter working on my latest painting. I also sell my artwork in the shop and have plans to expand the store by adding local artist section and gallery space.
Another creative outlet I enjoy is modeling. I began modeling around the age of seventeen and plan to continue for as long as I’m able. I love every aspect of what goes into creating a final image, from the talent of makeup artists and stylists to the creative vision of directors and photographers. Being surrounded by, and serving as a muse for, such inspiring teams of people is something I really cherish.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Monarch Books is somewhere where I can express all of my creative pursuits, and really be myself.
The store is such blessing to me, and truly what I would describe as my dream job!
My vision for the store is to have a space where everyone feels welcomed, and people feel free to create, learn, and just be themselves.
Pricing:
- Used Books 0.25 – $14
- New Books $8 – $30
- Local vendors $1 – $30
- Art $2 – $10
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.monarchbooks.shop
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monarchbookstore?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==v
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Monarch-Books-61560248993284/
