How to get more sales

[Former_Member]

Hi everyone!

I've just joined the team and I'm hoping to gain some advice from you all. :-)

I've been on Etsy since the beginning of the year and although I've had a few sales, I've not has as many as some other sellers I know, who sell entirely different products to me.

I specialise in handmade candles made solely with natural soya wax and 100% pure essential oils. They sell very well at markets and on Facebook, but I haven't had the same success with Etsy. I guess it's hard to imagine how amazing they smell through a website!

I would really appreciate any tips anyone can offer me and as a thank you, I can offer you 10% discount on any of my candles using this code SUMMERETSYCC10PC.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/CelticCandlesUK

Thanks in advance!
Mairi

[GrowingUpWild]

Some of your photos seem almost too bright. This one for example: http://www.etsy.com/listing/104841328/rose-geranium-pink-grapefruit-soya looks washed out. When seeing it amongst a search for candles it would likely get passed over as it is so faded. Your descriptions also seem too short. Use that space to really sell your item. What sets you apart from other candle sellers? That space is your chance to pitch your item as well as to clearly define it so shoppers can be sure of exactly what they are getting.
Best of luck to you!

[Former_Member]

Thank you Kelly! I agree - I didn't get a professional photographer to take the photos and it probably shows. I will try to edit them myself and add some more detailed descriptions. Your feedback is much appreciated! :-)

[Former_Member]

I'm not well versed in candles (other than buying them), but maybe the shipping is throwing people off. I love the way this candle is photographed:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/99799973/cinnamon-orange-clove-candle-soya-candle

But I don't think I would pay almost $13 for shipping. I'm sort of a shipping snob. I like that you included the burn time for your candles. Maybe also include how many ounces they are, the size of the jar, etc.

Good Luck.

[EmmaDickieDesign]

I agree with Natasha - the photos which include the ingredients are great!

I've found that the more items you have in your shop, the more chance you have at being found - you should try to create as many different flavour/scent combinations as possible and really fill up your shop. Then I'm sure the sales will pick up :-)

[Former_Member]

I agree with Natasha, not that it doesn't truly reflect the actual cost of shipping. It's just the unfortunate truth of trying to sell anything that is not lightweight internationally. People in the US will probably try to find a domestic candle seller, rather than buy from someone in the UK. With that in mind, I would suggest you focus your promotions domestically, and you should do well.

[Former_Member]

Your photos are slightly washed out but i think the composition of the product works really well. I am no expert on photography but when you were editing them it look as if you have just went slightly to far when adjusting the contrast. I know white back grounds are more popular for treasuries but i am wondering if it is worth a try for a few weeks at putting a different colour background in to reflect the flavour as you say we can't smell your delicious product. The other idea was to photograph items on a shelf or fireplace making them more of a lifestyle shot. I think you are on the right lines with your compositions and they need tweeking only slightly. As for your shipping prices it is hard to get the right balance as the product will be quite heavy.
I hope this helps as i am still learning to.

[Former_Member]

Thanks everyone, some really helpful tips.

A young student photographer took my photos so they've been untouched until now - I'll will defo edit them though.

I have ordered product packaging so when I receive the boxes, my plan is to take some cozy 'living room' type shots, which should hopefully help.

Yeah, shipping is tricky as posting to US and Australia for example can be very expensive.

Regarding the number of products on display, these are all I have so far, however you've got me thinking about adding some 'sets' i.e. one of each scent in a gift box etc.

Many thanks!

[Former_Member]

I love the idea of essential oils in candles they do smell aweome!

I have to agree with what others have said;
Some photos too bright (pic monkey is good for this)
LOVE the presentation.
and yes international shipping costs are a bit high, but I understand as Canadians face the same dilemma.
Also I notice you don't leave feedback for your customers. This might be a deterrent for buyers a well.

I recently purchased an item, once received I left positive feedback for the seller. Unfortunately they did not reciprocate. Although I liked their wares, I would not buy again. I don't demand feedback, but if given it is only courteous to give back in kind. To not do so is kind of giving an apathetic message. Who wants to deal with an apathetic seller?
BUT that is just my opinion!

[Former_Member]

Good point Alex...I've been a bit slow at leaving feedback! I've gone and caught up with it now, thanks for pointing that out :-)