Being Accountable for Both Your Success and Your Failure as an Etsy Shop Owner

Posted on 28 May, 2015 by admin

As many Etsy Business Owners do, in the beginning I joined many Etsy Facebook Groups in the hopes of being able to advertise and meet like minded individuals. That did not really go as planned. What I did find, that I didn’t anticipate was a lot of complaining, and dare I say whining. There was a serious lack of accountability. Owning your own business is no easy feat. And, as with anything challenging, I think that it is pretty common to find folks blaming others for their failures and or short comings. So I suppose I should not have been surprised. Complaining is extremely contagious, it is really easy to jump on the murmuring bandwagon when things aren’t going your way. However, in the midst of all of that, I managed to find some Etsy Sellers who were really focused on building their brand, catering to their customers and advancing. For those few, I think there was a common core to their success. The whole experience prompted me to write this blog on Being Accountable for Both Your Success and Your Failure as an Etsy Shop Owner.

“You can’t accept praise for your success, but not bear blame for your failure.” — Sheree Thomas

a. It is up to you to make sure that your listings read as they should. Just as you can’t read your customers minds, they can not read yours. Leaving things open to interpretation, leaves them open to be INTERPRETED. S-P-E-L-L it out. If your digital item prints best at 11’x14′, say that. If you are willing to make changes to custom invitations, be sure to indicate how. For example, I am only willing to change the background color and the font size. I am willing to make 3 revisions. My pillows only come in these sizes. And, so on and so forth.

b. If you make a mistake CLAIM IT. (Read about my Shipping Fumble Here). If you did everything you could to ensure proper delivery and some how something broke. You may want to consider giving the customer a refund (partial or full). It could be the difference between a return customer and a bad review. Things happen unfortunately (Murphy’s law). Sometimes you may just have to EAT IT. I know that is no easy thing to do, especially when you are counting on the money.

c. There are a lot of Etsy Shop Owners who are willing to help NEWBIES. But, if you ask for a critique then be prepared to hear it. Don’t lose your sh….. ahem Marbles when you hear something you don’t like. And, if people give you advice, and you do not take it and continue to complain about your lack of sales. Then….. sigh… And just to save you the trouble, most constructive critiques will go something like this:

1. Better Pictures and Lighting Are Needed

2. Your Products Need Better Descriptions (Detail, Detail, Detail)

3. You May Be Under Selling Your Product or Over Selling (Check Your Price Point)

4. Tags (Pick the Best Tags for Your Products) –Check Out These Etsy Tips Found here on Indiemade.com

5. Learn All You Can About Search Engine Optimization (SEO) – Check Out this Free Beginner’s Guide to SEO found here on Moz.com.

“What comes easy, won’t LAST and what lasts won’t come EASY.”

5 Questions to Ask Yourself as You Re-Evaluate Your 2015 Goals

Posted on 22 April, 2015 by admin

I can’t believe that we are already nearing the end of the First Quarter of the New Year (if I can still call it that). Four months in seems like a good time to go back to the drawing table and re-evaluate the goals that you made at the beginning of the year. Often times, we get married to the goals that we set, so much so that even if they are not serving the purpose we intended, we do not want to let them go. But, there is absolutely nothing wrong in making changes. Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you take stock.

1. What were your goals for the New Year? Did you write them down? Can you quantify them?

2. If you feel like you did a good job of planning your goals for the year, then the next step is to Evaluate. Where are you in comparison to where you want to be at the end of the year? Are you making progress at a rate that you are comfortable with? Do you feel like you are developing your brand and your business in a way that makes you proud? If you set smaller goals quarterly or monthly? Did you meet those goals? If your goals were not clear for the first quarter, you may find yourself working backwards. The good thing about that is by now you should have accumulated some data for yourself. You know how much buzz has been created about your service or product, what kind of Social Media Following you have developed, and even what does or does not work for you.

3. If things are going the way you intended and even if they are not. It’s time to recreate and fine tune the next steps. For example, ABC worked for you at this rate. But, if you tweak it how can you make things better? Are you spending more time advertising than you are creating? Do you think that you need to spend more time networking or on your craft? In setting up your plan for the next few months, consider this Are you Setting SMART Goals? This is a tool that has worked for me in both my Personal and Business Life. Are Your Goals Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time Based? These questions tend to bring you back to exactly what you want your focus needs to be. For more information about the process click here:

4. Now that your New and Improved Action Plan is in place, what do you need in order to reach them? What tools are necessary to achieve your goals?

5. Are you ready to put your Plan in Motion? Ready Set Go.

“NOTHING CHANGES, IF NOTHING CHANGES.” – EARNIE LARSON

What steps do you take when planning out the next steps for your business or your life? What are some tools that you find invaluable?

10 Tech Tools that Run My Life

Posted on 17 April, 2015 by admin

The Right Tools are Essential in Every Area of Life. Check out my Go To List of Tech Tools that Run My Life.

1. Google Calendar. Even though I am still very much a Pen + Paper Girl, I keep my appointments in Google Calendar, as well. Mostly, because of the Reminder Feature. I like the option of being able to set (2) reminders for myself. I also like the option of being able to share my Calendar with my Hubby and share appointments or events with others. When my Sissy was pregnant with the twins, she shared all her appointments with me and it helped to keep me on track. Plus thanks to Google Calendar, I very RARELY forget a birthday or important event. If you made it on to my Google Calendar, you have ARRIVED (jk, sorta).

2. Notes: The Note App on my iPhone could very well hold the secrets to TAKE OVER THE WORLD. Or maybe, I just use it because my 38 years are starting to catch up with me. We all know that my Phone goes every where I go. So, whenever creative genius strikes, or I get a blog idea, think of something I think I need to remember later. I will whip it out and type it in. Not to mention, that I use it to make impromptu grocery lists, or plan out my To Do list, before I leave the house. It is the ultimate tool to keep me from being a hot scatterbrained mess.

3. Sell on Etsy App: I am sure this one is NO SURPRISE. I love being able to see my orders come in for my Etsy Shop, no matter where I am. Also on shipping days, I can just sit in the car outside of the Post Office and send all of my Tracking Confirmations. It also affords me the luxury of being able to have immediate conversations with customers, see what the traffic is to the site each day, and know what items are popular. I almost forgot the most important thing the Cha-Ching!! **Every time you make a sale the App makes the Cha-Ching aka Cash Register Sound. The high that you get from that sound if enough to make the APP worth it, even if it did nothing else.

4. Facebook Pages App: For those of you who don’t know, this is where you can Manage your Business FB Page. I do at least half of my FB Posting & Content Creation from my phone or my iPad. Even though admittedly I still spend a lot of time in front of the computer, this still keeps me functional when I can’t be. When we add new items to the Shop I can post them directly from Etsy to the Business Page with ease. I can also respond to Messages and Comments.

5. Instagram & Pinterest: I am going to combine these two, because for me their purpose is similar. I find inspiration there in droves, not to mention that I have met some amazing like minded people, fostered great networking relationships and have been directed to some phenomenal blogs, websites, and local events.

6. Bank of America App: I think this one is self explanatory. I like to keep a close watch on whats going on in our Accounts, especially with Identity Theft being soo rampant.

7. Threadflip, Groupon & Living Social: Retail Therapy…Retail Therapy…Retail Therapy (all clickable links)

8. SIMS Freeplay & Word With Friends: Stress Relief… It can’t be business all the time, sometimes you need a little play.

9. TweetCaster: This is the app that I use to manage my Twitter Page. There are a million different kinds on Twitter Type Apps. But, this is my favorite. Very User Friendly.

10. Kindle App & Feedly: I’m a Book Worm. I LOVE to read, I always have. If I don’t know about something I will try to find out about it. I am not a fan of paying for books, even though I do. So, I also love all the Free Kindle Books. I try to post the links to them on our Facebook Page, whenever I can. So if you are an avid reader as well, follow us on Facebook. The only thing I enjoy reading as much as books, are good blogs. There are soo many I couldn’t possibly share or read them all. But, the Feedly app combines them all in one place, and whenever I get some time I indulge.

“ONE OF THE GREATEST AND SIMPLEST TOOLS FOR LEARNING MORE AND GROWING MORE IS DOING MORE.” – WASHINGTON IRVING

What are some of the Tech Tools or Apps that you just couldn’t do with out?

Wedding Season is On It’s Way + Free “Will You Be My Bridesmaid” Card

Posted on 11 March, 2015 by admin

Will You Be My Bridesmaid 2016 Update

Updated Post: NEW “Will You Be My Bridesmaid” Printable Card (plus access to the 2015 Edition)

According to The Knot, the most popular months for weddings are June, August, September, and October. But, I find right after Valentine’s Day everyone goes into Bliss Mode. So, it is s no wonder that my Instagram and Pinterest News Feeds are going crazy with Wedding Trends, Engagements, Proposals and all Manner of Marital Bliss Odds and Ends. Even though those days are gone for me, and technically I am no longer a newlywed (even though sometimes I feel like it), I can’t help but to get caught up in the fervor and the fever. After all a wedding is just the ultimate celebration and many of the ideas can be tweaked for party planning, all across the board.

One of the trends that I absolutely love are the “Will You Be My Bridesmaid Ideas”. As far as questions go, after you accept his proposal, the next and most important question is who will stand by you on that day. For me, the answer was easy, it was the person who had always stood by me, my sister. I wish that I would have thought of this idea back then.

The market is flooded with “Will you be my Bridesmaid” Kits, Boxes, Wine Bottles and Cards. So, if you know me and my love for all things Printable, Stationery, and Personalized, then I am sure it’s no surprise that I am considering adding a “Will You Be my Bridesmaid” card to Our Etsy Store. The Design process is always full of Do Overs and Corrections, Subtractions and Additions, so that is a work in progress. But, coming soon. I am always my hardest critic, but I really dig the way that this one came out. So I thought I would offer it up as a FREE Printable for all those embarking on the Amazing Bride Journey.

Will You Be My Bridesmaid Printable Card ©2016 Stage Presents

To Download Right Click On The Picture

Will You Be My Bridesmaid Printable Card ©2015 Stage Presents

To Download Right Click On The Picture

Looking for more Wedding Items – Check out what we have in Our Etsy Store.

Home Decor Trend: Adding Depth & Character With Maps

Posted on 8 March, 2015 by admin

Photo Collage Sources: 1 2 3 4

With the economy on an upward swing came the re-introduction of Wanderlust.

wan·der·lust ˈwändərˌləst/ noun – a strong desire to travel, and a love of all things travel related

And, the evidence of this is becoming more and more clear in the latest design trend of Decorating with Maps. Decorating with Maps adds both depth and character to an otherwise blank canvas. Our cultures and traditions are often tied into Geography, where we grow up whether in the north, south, east or west coasts, urban, rustic, or suburban neighborhoods often shapes our varied tastes and preferences. The things that bring us comfort and peace are often bits and pieces of home, no matter how far we travel. We gravitate to the familiar.

The Choices are Limitless on how to use Maps, here are a few of my Favorite Places and Ways to Display Them in your home.

1. Maps in a Child’s Room or Play Space:

I love seeing maps in a Kid’s Living Space. I think it speaks to the vast possibilities that lay ahead in their lives. They can go anywhere and be anything that they could possible conceive. It’s almost like a subliminal message!! I have seen Maps tied into the Dr. Seuss Theme – “Oh The Places You’ll Go.” for nurseries, play rooms, and even for party themes. Maps scream Endless Adventure!!

2. Maps in a Dining Room or Family Living Area:

Often Maps used in a common living space are used as a means to connect you to the past. I often see it in homes of older people or transplanted families who want to bring a piece of the home land into their current space. It often serves as a reminder of the Culture and Tradition that is still with them, even if they have transplanted to different parts of the world. Nostalgic Memorabilia

3. Maps that Tell A Story:

Wedding locations or even maps that document where you met your significant other are becoming very popular. If you have moved around a lot or had multiple homes over the course of your relationship, these maps hold a meaning that maybe not every one else will understand but between the two of you, or even just your immediate family. They speak volumes.

Where to Find Maps:

These days most Home Decor Stores carry Maps, for the most part all of the Maps that I have seen have been framed. But, if you want to be a little adventurous Antique Stores offer some great Vintage Options, and a one of a kind look. Then there is always the option the to go Digital. Digital Maps give you more options, regarding size and layout. Check out some of the Maps we have available in Our Etsy Store.

Did you know that many Vintage World Maps have hidden text, as well as hidden pictures that are not visible to the Naked Eye? Viewing some of these maps with a telescope or under different lighting can be quite the experience. We found maps that even had some risque pics on it. So, if you are looking to display maps in a space that has a PG Audience, be sure to check for Hidden Treasure.

Do you use Maps to decorate your home? What has been your favorite landing place and the meaning behind the maps you used?

Photo Source:

Fun Friday – All About The Faves

Posted on 20 February, 2015 by admin

All About Our Fan Favorites

Our Most Purchased and Favorited Digital Print Set – Set of 4 – Butcher Diagrams – Pig, Chicken, Lamb, and Cow – 8X10 – Meat Chart – DIY – Wall Art – Restaurant Art – Meat Cut

Our Most Requested and Favorited Pillow Design – The University of Alabama Custom Pillow – [No Longer Available in Shop]

Our Most Favorited and Purchased iPad/iPhone Monogrammed Wallpaper – Preppy Argyle Monogram iPad/iPhone Wallpaper (Pink and Blue) Set of 2 – Personalized Wallpaper – Custom Wallpaper – Phone Background

A FEW MORE FUN FACTS:

DIGITAL ITEMS ALLOW US TO GO WORLDWIDE

Stage Presents has literally filled orders from All Over The World. We have sold our items to customers in Bottrop, Germany, Dusseldorf, Germany, Canberra, Australia, and Nagakute, Japan.

OWNER FAVORITES: I know we aren’t supposed to show favoritism but Hubby and I each have our favorite items in the store. We both really have more than one, but, for arguments sake we narrowed it down.

Hubby’s Favorite: Vintage Train Mail Car Bags (taken in a Vintage Train Mailroom) – 20.5 x 24.5 inch frame – 11 x 14 inch Print – Framed Wall Art

** I am sure he picked this one because it’s an Anwar Thomas Photography Original. I confess, I love it too.**

My Favorite: Gray and White OVERSIZED Contemporary Decorative Throw Pillows – 20×20 – Geometric Pattern – Gray Pillow

I love that they are OVER-SIZED and the design of these pillows, and the best part is, we carry it in another color found here.

Thanks for joining us on our Fun Friday Favorite Journey!!

What we learned since opening Our Etsy Store 365 days Ago

Posted on 10 February, 2015 by admin

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Today, February 10th, 2015, marks the One Year Anniversary of Our Etsy Store. I can hardly believe that it has been that long, but I can. I remember how nervous I was the day that we officially launched Our Store. I had no idea what the future would hold for Stage Presents, or how our items would be received. But, we stepped forward in faith and embarked on this grand journey. As most of you know, Stage Presents is a joint venture between my husband and I, and if you really want to know, I think its the secret to our success thus far. So….. I enlisted his help in writing this post.

As in any business effort, there is a lot of behind the scenes work that the customers never see. (Lucky for them, because it can get messy.) Prior to starting this venture and through out, we did a lot of research, trial and error. Here are some of the things that worked for us.

You must have clear detailed product photos. I can’t stress this enough. I am a part of several Facebook Etsy Groups, and fellow shop owners are ALWAYS asking for critiques. This is the most frequently given answer, of how to improve your shop. [Lucky for me, hubby is a photographer, so we had that in the bag.] Keep in mind that you are an Online Shop. Your customers DO NOT have the luxury of being able to feel and touch and discern the quality of your items. So a picture is literally worth a thousand words.
Be Prepared to Put in the Time Necessary to Make This Work For You. IT IS TIME CONSUMING. Not only is it going to take time to create each individual listing, as well as whatever product you are selling. But, you need to also be prepared to Cross Promote. Spend Time on Your Social Media Pages. Network with Other Entrepreneurs. Give as Good as you Get.
Be Responsive to Purchases, as well as Etsy and Social Media Conversations. We get a lot of conversations regarding Our Items that do not necessarily result in sales. It can be frustrating, but, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. So, be as professional as possible, and put this in the Category of Possible Future Business.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
Remember Murphy’s Law. Some things are just out of your control. This was a hard lesson for me. Have a backup plan in place in instances where your products may not make it to their location in one piece and or if the product is delivered to the wrong recipient.
Pay Close Attention to Your Stats. Where is Your Traffic Coming From? What Keywords are People Searching to Get to Your Store? What Time of The Day Are Your Items Getting The Most Attention?
Give People Choices – When Possible. When Making Your Items Consider Making Multiple Versions of the Same Product – Different Fabric, Color Variations, or Even Size.
BE SPECIFIC. Your customers will not know, if you DO NOT TELL THEM. Make sure that your Product Terms and Conditions are Straight Forward and DO NOT leave room for Interpretation.
Lastly, Enjoy the Ride. It will have its ups and downs. Some weeks and even some months, will be slower than you could ever imagine. Some things that you create and think are amazing, may or may not take off. But, it’s a learning process that will continue for as long as your shop stays open.

365 Days – 99 Sales.

Thank you all for all the support you have given us over the year. We couldn’t have done it with out you.

Do you have any Tips that we didn’t include that you would love to share with us? Funny Growing Pains Stories? Please Share yours in the comment section below.

Stage Presents

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Category Archives: Etsy Business