Proud Poppy Blog

From Dream to Reality: Proud Poppy Opens in Doncaster Westfield

Better late than never! I haven't had a spare minute since we started the "operation Proud Poppy Doncaster" last week. Now that I'm finally home, on the couch, with a glass of red and watching Survivor I can finally take a minute to take it all in. And wowee what an incredible few days it has been! The long days, 5 million phone calls, clothes hanging, sore feet were all so worth it. Opening day is a bit of a blur. 9-9 we were open & I don't think we had a single minute where one of your smiling faces wasn't in store. So bloody good! I know I've said this before but whenever we open something new you have no idea the relief & to be honest, pure comfort for my anxious internal self, to see so many of you dressed in your best Proud Poppy smiling, waving & waiting outside to be one of the first ones in. It's honestly so nice and reassuring - so for all those early birds, thank you. Doncaster used to be my local shopping centre when I wanted to go for "a good shop". Affectionately known as "The Don" or "Donny" to me, Chaddy was always a bit too bougie & a bit too far, so Donny was my go to.... Until I was a size 18. I loved shopping there, but suddenly my shopping trips turned from cute outfits to bags and shoes and makeup - because they were the only things that now fit. While the fashion industry has come a long way in the last few years, by no means is it truly inclusive. There are so many gorgeous options out there but I find myself googling their size range before I risk stepping in. I am so proud that we are providing the people of Doncaster and surrounds a beautiful store, with gorgeous fashion options that cater to so many different shapes and sizes. Size 18 me 5 years ago would have been rapt. If only she knew where all those disappointing shopping trips and tears in the changerooms would lead her to just a few years later. It led me right here. Here's a few happy snaps from the weekend.  But did you even set up a store if you didn't end the day sitting in a box, hiding in the back room?? If you are in the area - pop in and say hi Tara xx