The Bendigo Advertiser will publish a series of stories on small, local businesses to raise awareness of Support Small Business Day on Saturday October 4.
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BENDIGO'S Sharon Pontelandolfo prides her small business on its customer service.
Ms Pontelandolfo has owned and managed Red Fox Party since 2006. The business was originally run out of a small shop at Lansell Plaza and now operates from a store in Mitchell Street.
The business has registered for Support Small Business Day - a state government initiative which focuses on increasing the competitiveness of small businesses and recognising their contribution to the community.
Ms Pontelandolfo said her staff worked hard to ensure each and every customer was tended to with the best service possible.
"I really enjoy the face-to-face relationship with customers," she said.
"When a customer comes in we really like to help them out, like the old-fashion way of assisting a person.
"The reason why I expanded into a larger shop is to have the whole party package.
"Therefore if someone comes in and they are lost, we can help them whether it's for a small backyard party or a large celebration, we can help it out."
When a customer comes in we really like to help them out, like the old-fashion way of assisting a person.
- Sharon Pontelandolfo
Ms Pontelandolfo said there were many challenges associated with running a small business, which included knowing when to roster on extra staff and managing the finances among other things.
"There are lots of challenges but it's heaps of fun," she said.
"I can decide when I want to do my own things, when I want to put extra staff on I can choose to do that."
There is still time for businesses to register for the initiative. Registered businesses will take part in a market day in Bendigo's CBD and Hargreaves Mall on Saturday.
Ms Pontelandolfo said Red Fox Party was a one-stop shop for the public's party needs.
"We go that extra mile and we think out of the square," she said.
"That's something we pride ourselves on, we are one-of-a-kind and offer lots of variety."
To register for Support Small Business Day, visit supportsmallbusinessday.vic.gov.au
Red Fox Party is at 97 Mitchell Street. It is open seven days a week.