Selling/Shop Tips?

[PixieHearts]

I've just recently re-opened my shop (I temporarily closed down to improve item photos) and I had my first Etsy sale a couple days ago! I've had many live sales which I found easier because people can actually hold the item and my items, as with everyone's items I'm sure, look a ton better in real life. Nonetheless, I was excited to get my first online sale, even though I've no idea when I will get another one or when I will get a steady flow of customers.

But I must ask out of curiosity:
- How long did it take you veteran sellers (or new sellers) to generate a steady amount of sales?
- Are there any experience you've had that I should be aware of?
- We all have Facebook, Twitter, and blogging; are there any other ways of networking to reach more audiences?
- Are there any other tips you can give me?

Katrina
Pixie Hearts

[EvesLittleEarthlings]

Hi Pixie,
Your shop looks sweet and your photos are pretty good. Personally, I would go for a more neutral background, either white or light grey. The pink is cute, but if you want to get into treasuries, the background needs to be consistent with the other photos in the group. It might be nice to use some models as well. I started with pink in my shop too...I thought it would brighten things up because all my animals are grey or brown!
It has taken me 20 months to get to almost 500 sales. Last October, I was sitting at around 150. So, it took about a year to really get things rolling. Teams are great for getting tips and getting known. I am on a team that has a facebook page, tumblr, twitter and a blog. I also have a facebook business page of my own that I post on about once a week.
I renew 3 items daily. Other than that I don't advertise, blog or tweet. I think if you want to sell very high volume, you have to do all these things.

[PixieHearts]

Thanks for the tips! I originally had different solid colored backgrounds but someone advised me to stick with my signature colors, so I chose pink, and I also wanted to keep the "playful" atmosphere of my shop. Does renewing 3 times daily make a significant difference?

Katrina
Pixie Hearts

[Former_Member]

Hi! I would also agree with Eves - the pink background is distracting & takes away from your product. (and will make treasury inclusion difficult)

Best of luck with all your future sales!
Laura
www.beesandbuttercups.etsy.com

[Former_Member]

First of all, you're jewelry is SUPER CUTE!

I agree with the other responses that going with a white background would really help. The pink doesn't always go with the colors of your items and I think it distracts from your items. Otherwise I really like your photos though and it is nice to see the packaging and reference for size. I wouldn't worry about losing the playful nature of your shop because your items are very playful and they speak for themselves. In fact, I think it will be more playful if the items themselves are more prominent because they are on a neutral background.

The only other thing I might suggest is playing up the made to order part. Emphasizing that each pair of earrings you make is unique and hand created by you. I think that will be a good selling point.

Anyway, that's my two cents : )

[Former_Member]

I am new here so I am looking for experience. But as a customer, I think that a neutral background is more appealing. Love you items, they are very cute!

[Former_Member]

I am still learning..but I find networking here on teams etc..is a great help..best wishes from Ireland

[PixieHearts]

Awesome advice :D

Katrina
Pixie Hearts

[Former_Member]

Hi Pixie,
I am a newby and need all the help I can get....I personally like the pink, makes your items look child friendly, however, one of the first things I was advised was to use white as my main back ground...I now have most of mine transferred over....takes a lot of time.....but youre shop is very cute....

good luck

[Former_Member]

It's really good advice going with the white background! Your earrings are sooo cute!

[Former_Member]

I wish you the best too!!

[PixieHearts]

Thanks everyone! I've actually decided to use my signature colors, pink and purple. The items that easily blend into the pink background will go with the purple background.

Well, as far as sales go, I got my first feedback today! It was very exciting. I have been reading that the economy has affected Etsy buyers as well which is why at this time, new shop owners aren't having as much luck. If there's anything I've learned, it's to stay true to your product, DO NOT get discouraged, and most importantly JUST HAVE FUN and the rest will follow.

Katrina
Pixie Hearts