selling online: finding what works for you

Late last year, I made the decision to leave Etsy and open a Big Cartel store.   I loved the idea of building my own website, so after much thought I decided to give it a try.  After a month of using Big Cartel, I decided that Etsy was  better suited for my needs.  It was hard to “admit” that I made a mistake, but it is also worse to keep going down a path that does not seem right.  Many shops have had much success with Big Cartel, so this is a very personal decision.

Why did I go back to Esty?  For several reasons, but mainly the behind the scenes (back office) work was easier for me.  This is very important, because I’m a one woman show.  This means when an order is placed, I cut, sew, package and ship that order.  So, anything that makes something a little more complicated just doesn’t work for me.

The reasons I love Etsy are plenty, but here are a few:

• Opening a shop has little risk.
• Great behind the scenes order detail.
• Easy to communicate with customers via their conversation system.
• Built in advertising.
• Built in SEO (search engine optimization).
• Easily close your shop with “vacation mode”.  Customers can sign up to be notified when you are open again.  Great for catching up on orders or even taking a vacation!
• Coupon codes can be used.
• Buyers can read feedback from other buyers.  (I think this really helps to build trust).
• A clear understanding that the item being purchased is handmade.
• Many magazines are now looking at Etsy for features.  I was contacted by Pregnancy & Newborn magazine while selling nursing covers.
• Newsletters and other great information provided by Etsy to their sellers.  Sign up even if you don’t have a seller account.

There are several other on-line venues for selling handmade, so I encourage you to find what works for you.

Please feel free to share your thoughts or experiences.