Helen Ward dedicated 35 years of her life to the public school system as an elementary school teacher. Today, she continues to inspire the next generation as the owner of The Next Chapter Book Store in Sellersville. Shortly after retirement from teaching, her husband unfortunately passed away in 2021. This left Helen searching for something meaningful and wondering where the next chapter of her life would lead her. Helen considered the prospects of volunteering or obtaining a part-time job, but she wasn’t looking for busy work; she was looking for purpose. Helen has found her purpose through community outreach and building connections with local teachers, schools, churches, and senior centers.
Helen always loved books and dreamed of one day owning a bookstore of her own. This is when she came up with the idea to open The Next Chapter Bookstore in Sellersville. Helen recalls, “I needed this, so I just went for it.” Helen soon acquired a beautiful corner property on Main Street in Sellersville. She remembered it being perfect due to the foot traffic. At the time, Helen’s daughter Jessica was volunteering at the Perkasie Public Library. Jessica’s knowledge of books, combined with her background in fashion marketing made her the perfect business partner.
Five years later, this successful female-owned business is thriving. Helen said, “When we started, we knew nothing, but we learned as we went and took baby steps.” Initially, they invested in furniture and shelves, but when it came to book inventory, Helen and Jessica found that it was important to stock what the people wanted. A large part of their success has been the value that they hold in the community. During the Wards’ most recent visit to Pennridge High School for Women in the Workforce Day, student Olivia Medeiros was inspired by Helen when she said, “Nothing has to be perfect, only during the experience will you learn the most.” Helen further stressed the importance of “being a part of your community and knowing their needs. It’s all about providing people with what they want.” In addition to purchasing inventory, the Wards accept good-condition donations.
The success of a small business in a digital world doesn’t come easy. Helen and Jessica are constantly reading and networking. They embraced the digital space to foster the growth and success of their business. When viewing The Next Chapter’s website, you will find blogs written by both Helen and Jessica about the books they are currently reading. Jessica frequently posts book talk videos, has started a podcast, and uses her marketing background to create visually engaging advertisements. Jessica said, “With social media, you have to have a variety of what you post so it’s not just another flyer out there.” By balancing the digital and physical space, the Wards are using every possible outlet to bring business into their store. Helen and Jessica find excitement in the idea that “when running a business, each day will be different, and nothing can truly prepare you for that.”
Another way the Wards are competing with larger book sellers is by hosting in-store events. Jessica creates beautiful window displays each month that highlight a particular season, holiday, or author. The Wards recently welcomed New York Times best-selling author, Jason Rekulak to their store. Jason spoke of his most popular works, Hidden Pictures and The Last One to the Wedding. Helen and Jessica have a goal to bring in more well-known authors to small-town Sellersville.
The Next Chapter Book Store offers something for everyone, whether you are visiting the physical or digital space. When visiting The Next Chapter Bookstore, you will find used books marked down to 50%, current and popular literature, $1-$5 bin sales, and sale cards for frequent purchases. If you are unable to make it into the store, you must read Helen and Jessica’s book blogs on https://www.thenextchaptersellersville.com, especially if you’re unsure of what to read next. The Wards are a truly inspiring mother-daughter team who have shown their community that if you’re looking to find purpose in your next chapter, just go for it.
Follow The Next Chapter Book Store on Instagram @thenextchaptersellersville or Facebook @thenextchaptersellersvillepa
