Your Handmade Business: A Little Nudge

Staring a online business is no small task. It can be scary, nerve racking even. When I first opened up shop a little over a year ago I had no idea what to expect. I didn’t anticipate the late night post writing, the challenges of being a business owner, and having to work constantly at balancing family life and business. I also didn’t anticipate the overwhelming satisfaction of having an online shop.

So here is my say: All the time and effort you put into your blog and business will be worth it! If you don’t have a online business, but have been toying with the idea. Don’t toy anymore! DO IT! You will not regret it!

No doubt, every artist and designer goes through the same self-doubts, worries and what ifs you are experiencing. I felt this exact same nervousness when I first opened shop over a year ago.  You may also be thinking that there are dozens of  online shops already, selling the exact same product, how could there possibly be room for more! There is, I promise! Handmade is more in demand than ever!

Here are my personal tips for starting you own online business…

• 01. Be Passionate about what you create. If your not it will be harder to succeed. Love what you do, and do what you love!
• 02. Be Organized. Keep a binder for your business. Keep a section for ideas, sales, inspiration, post ideas, and  invoices. Make time to create and be inspired as well as run the business-y stuff.
• 03. Do a little Studying. Surf the web, especially etsy, and see what other shops are selling similar products for. Decide how you can make you product better or different.
• 04. Make a Brand for Yourself. When picking the name for your shop think long and hard about it. Choose something that is totally you! Make sure the name goes with your product.  Check and see if that  domain name  is available. I would also suggest not having a super long name {something I slightly regret} Having a long business name means long email addresses, long urls, and just more typing. Make it easier on yourself!
• Another important part of branding is the look and feel of your shop. This can be accomplished by color scheme, fonts, and graphics. Again, make sure you love it. If you love it you will be motivated and inspired by your own business. {If you need help with this aspect I would love to work with you! }
• 05. Be Proud. Tell people about your business. If you are selling headbands, wear one! If someone compliments you tell them you made it and hand them a business card! An online business is all about networking! Which brings me to the next point…
• 06. Network. Open a twitter account. I didn’t open a twitter account until very recently and I regret that I didn’t do it sooner. Not only is twitter fun, it is a great way to meet and connect with people as well as advertise your shop.
• 07. Enjoy it! Make sure you enjoy the whole process. Don’t stress out! Everything will work out. Growing a business takes time, patience and a lot of hard work so enjoy the ride!