Today we’d like to introduce you to Fatema Biviji
Hi Fatema, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Being a business owner was never a childhood dream. Rather, I was captivated by the idea of doing something “smart” like being a scientist or a teacher. But when the opportunity to attend medical school presented itself, I ended up choosing to be a mom instead. While motherhood provided me with the most fruitful moments of my life, the kids are grown now and running a business seems like the “smartest” thing I could do for myself, my family, and the neighborhoods surrounding us.
Both our store and home are located in Irving – more specifically, South Irving whose prime passed decades ago. Many left the area for newer infrastructure. Our family remained bound to the extraordinary memories created here. Still, it has been tough fighting traffic to get to where all the “interesting” retail is. So when the Irving Feed Store came up for sale, it seemed like a golden opportunity to both build a business of our own and bring some new things to the area. The Irving Feed Store has been a neighborhood staple for many decades, serving the farm and animal needs of Irving and beyond. Going forward, we are excited to expand the store’s garden and outdoor offerings as well.
Even though taking on a business is scary in this age of constantly evolving tech, the store has an invaluable asset that allayed my fears. That is – the employees. From the moment I met them, I knew they were vested and looked out for each other. My confidence in them has only grown since taking over the business. They are passionate about the products we carry, and their bilingual skills help our customers find what they need. Like most ventures, I believe success will depend on our ability to work together. Despite the uncertainties of running a business in a continuously changing landscape, I am excited for what the future holds!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road definitely comes with a few potholes. Trying to tackle too many things at once has been a challenge. Being obsessed with my POS app and the daily numbers have been a challenge. Figuring out what tasks need priority and what to put on the back burner has been a challenge.
Navigating software and social media to highlight our products is probably one of the most pressing. We are introducing a new line of products that have not previously been sold at the store before – like garden tools and accessories. It’s very exciting to offer these items to this part of Irving. From 6 ft bamboo stakes, Tingley multipurpose boots, and rose / plant dusters to plastic barn forks and coop deodorizers, we have a unique selection of items priced to benefit the community we serve. However, informing our existing and potential customers in a timely manner is definitely a struggle and one of my top concerns.
While challenges are definitely there, it wouldn’t be a compelling story without them!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I love to be part of community building efforts. I also love nature! Hence, being one of the founders of Friends of Irving Gardens has been a truly enriching experience. This project began in August of 2020 as a community-led restoration of a butterfly garden located at Bird’s Fort Trail Park in Irving. Since then, I have amassed a wealth of knowledge from fellow volunteers about nature, wildlife, gardening, and most important of all – teamwork.
The skills learned from this project have helped me in other areas of community building like the League of Women Voters of Irving, where I am currently the Director of Communications. Our board works together to promote voter education and participation. Another example of where these skills help me is with the Interfaith Alliance of Irving, a group of diverse faiths united in their passion for helping others. Finally, as an Advisory Board Member for Irving Parks and Recreation, our goal of promoting healthy gardening practices and beautification will be met most effectively when we collaborate.
All successful ventures are rooted in teamwork, and my hope is that these community building skills will continue to anchor me in both my personal and professional endeavors.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Increasingly, customers are relying on the ease of online shopping and delivery – especially in urban and suburban areas. At the same time, brick and mortar stores that offer unique and memorable experiences are still very much needed. While our goal will be to assess our customers’ needs and chart a path accordingly, I believe we have a golden opportunity to create memories with this store. My vision is to enhance the in-store experience so that customers can feel a little more informed, a little more intrigued, and a little more at peace after their visits.
Pricing:
- Scotts Wizz Hand Spreader $24.99
- 6 ft Bamboo Stakes $1.50 each
- Durafork Plastic $16.99
- Bell Pepper Plant $1.00
- PDZ Coop Refresher 10 lb $18.99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://irvingsupply.com
- Instagram: irvingsupply
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560986120796
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@IrvingSupply
- Other: https://nextdoor.com/pages/irving-feed-store-irving-tx/, Spanish language facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560684732113
