Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelby Coxon.
Hi Shelby, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have two passions in life, education and animal rescue. For over 20 years, I worked in higher education, serving in a variety of roles in student activities, leadership and service, and fraternity and sorority affairs. I loved supporting my students in reaching their goals, however deep down my passion was in animal welfare. For many years I’ve volunteered in rescue, 7 of those in a volunteer role as the fundraising coordinator for Always & Furever Midwest Animal Sanctuary. In the summer of 2024, I was provided the opportunity to work full time with Always &Furever, but as you can imagine as a single income home non-profit work is very difficult to do and be able to make ends meet, which is where Sign Gypsies came in.
I did some research on opportunities to supplement my income and fortunately came across Sign Gypsies. With my background in event planning and community outreach it seemed like a natural fit! Being a franchisee with Sign Gypsies is wonderful because you are given a territory, which means you are not competing with your fellow franchisees. It is an amazing group that supports each other whether it is sharing set up ideas, flyers, or even asking each other to step in a take a client when needed. It really is a team that supports each other to be successful!
In this role, I’ve especially enjoyed working with the schools in my territory. Again being able to mix my background in education and support the schools in my territory. I was raised in Independence and chose to return back in 2020 and settle down and live back in Independence. So my territory is also my community, schools I attended and local businesses I love to support. I love Independence and it sometimes almost doesn’t feel like a job getting to support local!
I’m truly fortunate that I am now able to serve as the Relationship Coordinator for Always & Furever and on the team at Sign Gypsies. As a member of the Independence Chamber of Commerce, I am able to engage with local businesses and find ways to further enhance life in Independence.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As I’m sure with anyone starting a new business, it is always a learning process. Full disclosure, I am not a good salesperson. 🙂 So I have been working to engage in the community and get my name out there as much as I can without feeling pushy. Making sure people know who I am and what I can provide so when they need me I am ready. When the economy is uncertain, services such as ours may not be a priority, so I try to work with customers as much as I can. For example, working with local PTAs to provide bundle rates that fit in their budget.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
With over 800 locations nationwide, Sign Gypsies is the largest and fastest growing yard greeting company in the U.S. Our team prides itself on delivering customizable experiences through high-quality products and unbeatable customer service. Sign Gypsies yard greeting rentals are perfect for homes, schools, and businesses.
Sign Gypsies North Independence serves the territory including zip codes 64016, 64050, 64052, 64053, 64054, 64056, 64066, 64088, 64126, 64129. For more information, visit signgypsies.com.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I was raised in Independence, moving here when I was very young and living here until leaving for college. While my travels for college and early in my career took me to various places, I always wanted to move back to Independence, the only thing hindering me was their laws regarding breed specific dogs. In 2020 I took the leap and bought a home here and in my work in animal welfare I am hopeful Independence will be the next city to remove their BSL regulations. I’m also passionate about cats and excited to get more involved in different ways assisting with cat resources and support.
Independence is such a hidden gem with so many things to offer! From Englewood Arts district, so many amazing local shops and places to eat, and wonderful people. While all cities have their pros and cons, I really do love Independence and am proud to live here!!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://signgypsies.com
- Instagram: signgypsiesindepmo
- Facebook: SignGypsies North Independence
