"She acted like she knew me…"
Feb 15, 2024This past weekend, my wife and I took a trip to the beach to visit some relatives. While we were there, we stopped by our favorite farmer's market (RAYS Produce and Flowers in Lewes, DE). The atmosphere was lively, and the owners (Emily and Jeff, daughter Gwen, and sister Hallie) and employees (Carter and others) were so enthusiastic about their fresh produce, plants, and gourmet snacks.
During a previous visit, I remembered when a customer asked about the flavor of a baked item, and the owners promptly offered samples to everyone in the store, including herself. It was a small gesture, but it showed their passion for their products and their efforts to MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY.
When we visited the market again this weekend, Hallie greeted me warmly, saying "Greetings, friend." She acted as if we had known each other for years and made me feel as if she did remember me from a visit months earlier when I complimented her and the team for exceptional service and hospitality. I gave her a gratitude stone then because of her “doing” what “Most People Don’t”.
Stephen Fisher, Bart's father-in-law
She asked more questions to jog her memory. How has the “off-season” been for you? A brilliant question to identify if I was local or not. I answered and shared that I was a motivational speaker, there was no “off-season” fortunately for me, and that we met months ago when I gave her a gratitude stone.
Even more warmth.
It was clear that she now remembered our previous interaction. She told me that the gratitude stone was at home and that she would keep the new one in the cashier’s drawer this time.
I complimented the entire team on their enthusiasm toward their customers. They all took an interest in people beyond selling products.
Before printing this article I called Emily and asked her about the culture they’ve created at RAYS Produce and Flowers. She shared that they try to “LEAD A HAPPY LIFESTYLE” and infuse this energy into every customer interaction. They show up as they are and allow their true self to be displayed. Brilliant again!
Even though we didn't need anything, I felt compelled to purchase a bushel of apples from her and her team as a way of showing my appreciation for their hospitality.
