In a world where entrepreneurship often comes from passion or necessity, Belles Books & Gifts is a powerful example of how hardship can spark something remarkable. What started as a simple online shop to cover veterinary bills has now grown into a successful business featured in top publications like Forbes, Fortune, Glamour, Harper’s Bazaar, and more—all while giving back to meaningful causes.
From Personal Challenge to Entrepreneurial Triumph
The story of Belles Books & Gifts began with a life-changing event in 2014. After working in retail sales for over a decade, the founder (who prefers to let the store’s mission speak louder than her personal fame) suffered an injury at work that left her unable to continue her job.
“I was overwhelmed. The bills were piling up, and my dog—my best friend—was getting older and needed serious medical care. I didn’t know how I was going to manage,” she recalls.
That’s when a family suggestion planted the seed for change. “My brother had told me a year earlier, ‘Why don’t you start your own store? You’ve got the experience.’ At the time, I thought it was crazy. But sometimes desperation pushes you to try things you never thought possible.”
Starting Small, Growing Big
With a mix of hesitation and hope, she listed a few collectible Disney items on eBay. To her surprise, they sold. Slowly but surely, her online store began to take shape. “At first, I was just grateful to be able to pay for my dog’s food and medication,” she explains. But soon, positive reviews poured in, leading to more sales and loyal customers.
By 2017, Belles Books & Gifts was gaining serious momentum. “The hardest part was getting the shop’s name out there,” she admits. Thankfully, eBay introduced promotional tools, which helped skyrocket visibility.
Rising Through Uncertainty: The Pandemic Boom
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, like many small business owners, she feared the worst. “I thought, ‘This is it. I’m going to lose everything.’ But then… sales went through the roof.”
With more people turning to online shopping during lockdowns, Belles Books & Gifts saw its biggest growth yet. This influx of business not only helped sustain the store but also brought national attention. Soon after, she was featured in the NYC Journal’s list of inspiring female entrepreneurs.
“It felt surreal,” she says. “What started in my living room to help my dog was now in major publications. I was blown away.”
A Business With Heart: Giving Back to the Community
But Belles Books & Gifts isn’t just about sales. From the beginning, the founder made a personal vow: If this grows, I’m going to give back. And she’s kept that promise.
Today, a portion of every sale goes to charities including:
- The American Red Cross
- Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (funding research for childhood cancer)
- Feeding America
- Animal rescue organizations, a cause close to her heart after the loss of her beloved dog in 2020
- Women’s shelters
- Humanitarian relief for war-torn regions
“I swore that if I made it, I wouldn’t keep it all for myself. Giving back isn’t just something I do—it’s part of the DNA of this business.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Belles Books & Gifts
With a growing customer base, glowing reviews, and features in major publications like Forbes, Fortune Celebrity, Glamour, Elle, and MSN.com, the next phase for Belles Books & Gifts is already in motion.
A dedicated website is launching soon to make the shopping experience even easier and more personal for customers.
“I want people to know that this is a place they can trust, where their purchase helps make a difference,” she says. “It’s not just about books or gifts—it’s about creating a better world.”
Belles Books & Gifts is more than just an online shop; it’s a story of resilience, compassion, and community. From overcoming personal setbacks to becoming a recognized entrepreneur, the founder’s journey is proof that even the smallest ideas can create ripples of positive change.
As she puts it best:
“If you’ve ever thought about starting something—even if it seems impossible—just start. You never know how far that first step will take you.”