Danielle Vataj turned a personal challenge into purpose with Belles Books and Gifts, an e-commerce store built on passion, nostalgia, and philanthropy. From unique collectibles to charitable giving, her journey proves that business can be both meaningful and impactful. Follow her inspiring story and shop with purpose!
Danielle, your journey into e-commerce started as a way to cover your dog’s medical bills. Did you ever anticipate that it would grow into something so impactful?
At the beginning, I had no idea it would turn into what it is today. It started out as a necessity, something to help with expenses, but as I put more effort into it, I realized how much I enjoyed curating unique items and providing a great shopping experience. Over time, it evolved into more than just a business—it became a way to connect with people and give back to causes that truly matter to me.
What inspired the name “Belles Books and Gifts,” and how does it reflect your brand’s mission?
The name “Belles Books and Gifts” came from my love for storytelling and my passion for curating thoughtful gifts. Books have always been a source of inspiration for me, and I wanted my store to reflect a sense of discovery and joy, much like reading a great book. The “Gifts” part speaks to the variety of items I offer and the idea that each purchase is a gift—either for the customer or for a cause that the store supports.
You offer an eclectic mix of products in your store. How do you decide what to sell, and what makes an item a perfect fit for Belles Books and Gifts?
I choose items based on uniqueness, quality, and sentimental value. I want every product to bring joy to the person receiving it. Whether it’s clothing, collectibles, or books, I carefully curate each piece with my customers in mind. I also love including nostalgic and pop culture items—things that tell a story or remind people of special moments in their lives.
Running an online business comes with challenges. What were some of the biggest hurdles you faced when building Belles Books and Gifts?
One of the biggest challenges was gaining visibility and trust in the beginning. Finding the right platforms to promote my store took time. eBay’s promotional tools helped a lot, but I also had to put in work to ensure customers felt confident shopping with me. Customer service and consistency played a huge role in overcoming that hurdle—once people had a great experience, they kept coming back.
Giving back is a key part of your business model. How do you choose which charities to support, and why is philanthropy so important to you?
I choose charities that resonate with my personal values—organizations that support pediatric cancer research, animal rescues, women’s shelters, and food banks. These are causes close to my heart, and I believe that businesses have a responsibility to use their success to uplift others. It’s not just about selling products; it’s about creating a positive impact with every sale.
What’s one of the most rewarding moments you’ve experienced since launching your store?
There have been so many, but one that stands out is receiving messages from customers who appreciate not just the products, but also the purpose behind the store. When someone tells me that their purchase made their day or that they love supporting a business that gives back, it reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.
As an entrepreneur, what lessons have you learned that you would share with aspiring business owners?
One of the most important lessons is to listen—to yourself, to your customers, and to the market. Stay true to your values, be open to learning, and build relationships with your audience. Another key lesson is patience—success doesn’t happen overnight, but with persistence and passion, you’ll get there.
You’ve built a loyal customer base. What strategies have helped you connect with and retain your customers?
Great customer service is the foundation. I always make sure to communicate clearly, offer fair policies, and go the extra mile to make shopping easy. Providing quality products, combined shipments, and international shipping options also helps. But most importantly, I genuinely appreciate my customers, and I think they feel that.
Looking ahead, what’s next for Belles Books and Gifts? Are there any exciting plans or new initiatives in the works?
I’m always looking for ways to expand and improve. In the future, I’d love to grow the store’s reach, introduce more exclusive products, and continue supporting more charities. I also want to make the shopping experience as seamless as possible for customers.
Lastly, for those who want to follow your journey and support your store, where can they find you?
The best way to stay updated is by following my business on Instagram at @belles_books_gifts. I post updates about new products, charitable initiatives, and special promotions there. And, of course, you can always visit my eBay store to explore what’s available!