We recently had the chance to connect with Celeste Knipping and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Celeste, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
Our customers are amazing! We’ve shared so many laughs, smiles and tears over the 5 years we’ve been open. What I’ve learned from each is immeasurable but one thing is constant. There is no perfect life and when we share our joys and struggles, we create solid connection and build a stronger community. I grew up in small towns and Hugo reminds me so much of that. We do our best to help others and make each person feel valued.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Celeste and I’m so grateful to share my vision and brand with. you. The Argyle Moose® was built from an idea of wanting to provide access to local Minnesota goods in a welcoming space within our community. Hugo is still a small town and we knew it needed more businesses. Our Customer Service and gift ready packaging sets us apart from other boutiques. We have 6 unique tissue papers to choose from and each gift leaves our store ready for the recipient in a beautiful solid colored gift bag with all prices of items covered. We love helping customers choose a meaningful gift or curate a set of gifts. We are just as happy to chat if you just need a laugh while reading some greeting cards.
We also cater to our children shoppers. We have a chalkboard, table with coloring sheets and snacks as well as a free library. We have several smaller items that children love to shop and spend their hard earned money.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
Being a woman in her 50’s, I’ve learned to be much more myself before I was told I was too much. I’ve spent the last few years getting more comfortable with what I want and expressing those needs; personally and professionally. I’m learning more about setting boundaries. I now pursue things that bring me joy like reading more books and spending more time in deep and meaningful conversations. I was the stereotypical eldest daughter who noticed and took care of everyone else’s needs and feelings above my own, now I am focusing more on discovering my needs and feelings. I’ve learned that the best way to advocate for people is to listen their stories and learn something new. I no longer believe I am too much. I believe I am stronger than I knew, that I am able to be a great friend/mentor by listening to others and that it’s okay to say no to some things. I believe it’s important to teach that to our children.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
This is a powerful question. I think so many of us have wounds we don’t recognize until well into adulthood. Having children of your own can bring up all kinds of past trauma you didn’t see coming. Like so many others, I grew up in a divorced family going back and forth. I was described as a difficult child, which I now know means my needs weren’t being met and I didn’t have words for that. I do believe my parents did the best with what they knew at the time and I’ve been able to have conversations as an adult (with a lot of therapy) to heal some of these wounds.
Also, my father died when I was in my early 30’s and that has forever shaped how I see things. I don’t wait to do the things I want. I know you can always make more money, have more things, work more, save more but you will never have more time. I heal through connection and am surrounded by incredible friends that understand this. So, take the trip, drink the champagne, be kind and thoughtful as you go through life. Everyone has wounds you don’t see.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
I believe in authenticity. That didn’t come easily as I think we can all put on a mask of what is expected of us. My kids often say, Mom are you crying? Maybe a little. I am an emotional person and I feel deeply so I have no qualms about shedding a few tears with anyone. It happens often and I do believe people are drawn to those they know care so customers share many parts of their life with me. We are here to support others and share experiences.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
What a fun question! I hope people know I care about them and they were loved. I would like to be known for kindness, having an inclusive space and not judging. We are all connected.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theargylemoose.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theargylemoose/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celeste-knipping-2660377/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theargylemoose/
Image Credits
These are all personal photos.
