I am really running with my brave word for the year. I had been thinking on and off about opening an Etsy shop for awhile. I'd waffle back and forth on the pros and cons and whether or not I really wanted to sell my work. My friends and family have been encouraging me all along to do it. What started this whole thing now was while I was I still muddling over what I should do, I had someone reach out to me on Flickr to inquire if a painting was available for purchase. This seemed to be the push that I needed. This wasn't my friends or family asking to buy my work, this was a complete stranger. I have no idea whether or not she will end up buying the piece or not, but I'm taking it as a message coming from the Universe to move forward.
Yesterday, while still doubting and overthinking, I came across this post in my blog list from Creative Something and felt like it was written for me.
So I bit the bullet. I had my first item in draft form to list on Etsy all day but didn't push the "Publish" button until after I read that blog posting. On the sidebar on the right you will see a link to my Etsy shop.
I created a Facebook page as well. The badge is on the right if you want to become a fan. Wheew!! Scary stuff.
Yay! This is so exciting. I'm so happy for you :) I can't wait to explore and I can't wait to see what you have in store for us!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Chel! This is exciting and scary at the same time. I just sold a painting to boot! I'm really going to focus on trying not to impose self-pressure on myself to paint to sell. I want to paint for me and list it if I feel so inclined. I don't want the joy of painting to leave me.
DeleteAwesome Stephanie. I've been at the same Etsy crossroads and even read all the dos and don'ts from writing up a business plan,est.wholesale costs, to articulating my short &long range goals. Yet I still haven't "dared." I'll definitely get there...but until then may I wish you congrats and best wishes.
DeleteKay, Thank you so much for the good wishes. I've used Etsy before to start a business several years ago. A lot has changed since I last operated a storefront there but I'm learning as I go.
DeleteCongrats on taking the plunge... Wishing you fun & success with your shop, Stephanie! I have a new shop at Etsy, which almost a year old actually, but has another shop there for 5 years. It's a great experience and you meet some wonderful creative spirits. :o)
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