Setting Up Shop – What’s Hot and What’s Not

I sell on Etsy as well as my website.  I love Etsy.  I find it easy to navigate and whenever I have a question it is quickly answered.  The feel of the site is so warm compared to other large online retailers.  The sellers are artists who care about their products and this shows when shopping the site.

There are three pretty important factors when creating an online site.

Service – Communication with your buyers is a must.  Their purchase is important and has value and you need to convey this.

Product – Make sure your description of your item is true and that your product is quality produced.  Convey your sense of pride in your work.

Price – Check other sites and compare your product.  Research and come up with a fair price and price accordingly.  Try to stay somewhere in the middle and not over/under price.

If you adhere to the above, you will create loyal customers and great feedback which will help attract more business.

If you plan on selling furniture, here is my What’s Hot and What’s Not list in order from top to bottom.  This is my personal experience for my online sales and may not convey to a brick and mortar retail shop.

1. Dressers (best sellers)

2. Chest of Drawers

3. Buffets/Sideboards

4. Cabinets  (either china or other; vintage with shelves or inside storage)

5. Console Tables

6. Vintage Desk/Vanity (only if truly vintage)

7.  Pair of End Tables

8.  Large Dining Table

9.  Mirrors

10.  Individual Chair;Solo End Table; Large Desk; Coffee Table (almost impossible to sell – remember, this is my experience!)

I just heard that Pinterest is about to set up an online shop!  If you click HERE you will be taken to their site to reserve a space.  I am intrigued!