Online Seller Experience, Small Business Success Stories
… Formerly I used to do everything all by myself. From product design and production to sales and shipping. Today I mainly take care of new models, social media, and image editing. For the actual production, answering customer inquiries and writing invoices and taxes now I have employees. The shipping is done by my wife, with whom I have been standing side by side every day from morning to evening for 25 lucky years.
… Brillies Sunglasses was a happy accident. I’d tried and failed other businesses. I tried selling jewelry, packing supplies, soaps, etc., but, I never felt passionate about my products. I’ve always loved vintage, so when I met a vintage sunglasses supplier and realized I could turn it into a business, it just kinda made sense. It clicked.
… My best selling item is my Wand Crochet Hook sets, I try to have some ready to go but they sell a lot quicker than I can make them. I make each hook handle individually using polymer clay, then they are accented with metallic paint and varnished. My products can be customized and most listings ask the customer to send me a message before purchasing to see if I can customize them as they wish.
… First of all, they must work patiently and they must never stop believing in themselves. Sometimes they may need to wait for a long time to see small differences. They must take note of customers’ suggestions and demands. Good photos and detailed descriptions also help greatly.
… I ship to the entire world. I use FedEx and UPS shipping companies. An average delivery to my customers is within 3-5 days. I put it in a gift package and send it.
… Always put your brain in your creations, and not the one of somebody else. Copycats are frequent on Etsy, and there is no defense from them. But if your jewelry comes from your heart and should, you will slowly build up your very personal style, and people will appreciate it and love it.
… I work hard to create high quality products that are packed well – so I have not had any bad feedback. However I think customer service is very important so always try to be friendly, approachable and professional.
… I sell personalized gifts such as Makeup Bags, Passport Covers, Gift boxes, T-Shirts, Storage Boxes and more! I use heat transfer vinyl which I then use a hot press to print onto the item and sublimation printing too which is more for full color designs.
… When our brand first started I didn’t plan on starting a business. I have always been crafty and decided to make some ear cuffs after a trip to Hobby Lobby. I posted the cuffs on a local yard sale facebook page and received tons of requests for them. A friend had suggested I start an Etsy shop which I had never heard of until she recommended it.