what do you do?

[Former_Member]

i have a lot of family and friends that want items from my etsy shop.... but they think that because they are family/friends that they don't have to pay.

i'm all about gifting stuff i make, but i can't really afford to gift everything to everyone.

how do you handle these situations?

[Former_Member]

I will usually give them some sort of Friends and Family discount... and I dont charge shipping so that we can just exchange the item. If they are close, and they really CANT pay, then we barter, in my family, free babysitting goes a long way.

[GraniteMountainGems2]

For years now I have made jewelry specifically for giving to family members at Christmas. Or I've told them to let me know what they want (colors, etc.) and I'll make them something that suits each lady's style.

But otherwise, they make sure I know they will pay me for something they see and want! I do give a Friends & Family discount (done it for both relatives and friends or friends of family), which is a welcome surprise to them, not something they expected.

I would maybe tell them if they see something in your Etsy shop they like, you will take off whatever amount you decide (decide ahead of time!) as a "friends and family discount", and if they're local, remind them they won't have to pay shipping either, and leave it at that. Or ask them if that's what they want for next Christmas (or their upcoming birthday), and they'll realize they have to wait to get it. ;-)

Try not to feel bad, they are not being very thoughtful by putting you in this awkward position. I've read many times that others will take your business seriously if *you* treat it like a business. They'll get the idea.

Like the paper flowers, by the way. :-)

[Former_Member]

I think JKistler pretty much said it all, but I just wanted to say I love your shop! Your stuff is so cute and no wonder everyone wants things from it!

Just remind them that it takes you time and money to make these things, and that it is your business. Once they are reminded that you put a lot of work into it, they should understand. Its easy to look at something selling for $4 and think its no big deal, sometimes they need to be reminded not to take advantage of you! Good luck! :)

[Unblushing]

Hey girl, for me it depends on what they want. I'm ok with giving away one card, but if they need more like 10, I talk to them about supply costs, and how much time it will take me, so that they get the picture. There are some friends that insist on paying me, and there are some that are supposed to pay me for supply costs only and still haven't....(grr)

Don't sell yourself short. You don't make things to give them away. You want it to be your business.

[Former_Member]

Aww i definitely understand what you mean, I usually get a little embarrassed to charge. I will usually just let them know the truth, Its hard but like the rest of the others said when it comes down to it your not making your things to give away. Its a business just like any other!!!

Im wishing you luck hun!

[Former_Member]

One of my friends has provided 25% of my business on etsy with her one purchase! she asked to buy something, and I gave her a 50% discount and dropped it off y hand to save shipping. It was sweet of her to ask for one of my creations and I appreciated her going through etsy so i can build up some feedback!

[Former_Member]

I definitely explain how much something costs to make. Unless it's for a holiday I avoid giving gifts just to give. Try having them pay for the supplies and materials.

[Former_Member]

My family is happy to pay me. I think the fact that I am incorporated helps - then they know that I can't "appropriate" stuff from the corporation. I do give them a discount and no shipping though.