Bavina Sookdeo

Having weathered economic storms and global disruptions, Shivonne Lee Kit sheds light on the dynamic changes in people’s spending habits, especially during the Christmas season, and how she has navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic and the shifting economy.

Lee Kit’s journey began as interior designer and decorator fresh out of school at the age of 17.

“My grandmother was an interior designer,” she said, and one of her friends asked me to make a wreath for her. She was amazed with the results and referred me to many other people and that is how my journey as an interior designer and decorator began.

From there, the role evolved into her becoming a personal shopper.

The San Fernando-based personal shopper said, “Life had gotten very challenging and hard for me. There was a time in my life when I lost everything. It was one of the most gut-wrenching journeys of my life and I quickly had to 'woman up' because I had my siblings to take care of, my mother had passed away due to cancer and we were swamped with medical debt.

"That actually was the start of my journey as a personal shopper. I always loved shopping for others. I like to give people things and see them happy and I love shopping, especially when I know about the person. I aim to hit the nail on the head. When my mom passed, I had no choice – I had old stuff and new stuff and I put a sale together in my house and I called my neighbours, friends and affiliates…that is basically how I started."

Lee Kit emphasises the importance of evolving in response to economic shifts and online competition. Her dedication to customer satisfaction and willingness to go the extra mile have been crucial in maintaining a recurring clientele. “Years of experience is certainly the trick to the trade, and so too is being willing to learn and accepting criticism and turning it into something positive to evolve yourself into what you are supposed to be in life.”

Asked if she has a lot of competition, Lee Kit said that she does not as everyone’s personality is different so she can bring unique offerings to her customers.

Her journey reflects her adaptability. Her dedication to customer satisfaction and willingness to go the extra mile have been crucial in maintaining a returning clientele.

[caption id="attachment_1048854" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Curated and personalised gift baskets with items like chocolates, perfumes, gnomes and cosmetics. -[/caption]

Lee Kit says there was a significant economic slowdown even before the pandemic hit. However, during the lockdowns, her shopping services became a lifeline for clients seeking convenience when traditional stores were closed. The personal touch she offered became invaluable, allowing her to thrive amidst a broader economic downturn.

“People appreciated the personal touch...I still had my leeway because, as a personal shopper, you have to make your services convenient for people that can afford that type of service,” she explained.

Post-pandemic, though stores reopened, Lee Kit s

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