The Lacuna

There is a desire for product that fills a void, and there are many ways to find where the holes are within the space of product you desire to create. For example, in jewelry, boutique and department store buyers try to walk the line of showcasing a range of style while still fulfilling desirability. They define what gaps in their presentation exist and seek to discover product that is both different and will appeal to their customers.

The same exists in the world of handmade markets, both online and brick and mortar.  To determine how much your product would stand out, make sure to search detailed key words that define your product. Browsing what arises, there is an ability to map out how your product will fit amongst the other product that turns up. In live markets it takes a bit more work to physically walk the floor and to see how wide or narrow the range of offerings are for your category.

When the space seems to be quite occupied, I would suggest finding s unique take on your offering or providing customization where possible. Otherwise prepare to be competitive with your pricing structure.

When the space is less occupied (or not at all) prepare to describe your product with key elements and inform your customer of the unique nature of your creations.  Exhaust all available (and affordable) marketing avenues to promote your unique product to the right audience. Don’t forget to protect your work when possible.

If you came to this post and feel you are offering a unique product in your category, please feel free to share it with me in the comments below!

To Wholesale or Not To Wholesale?

Many businesses are very content with positioning themselves for only retail profit.  However, there is quite a financial and logistical burden with trying to promote a brand to the end user/consumer without the help of other established businesses. 

Making your wares available for wholesale might not be feasible for a business with a rigid pricing structure.   I will talk about pricing and keystone in a future post, but an owner has to first decide what type of exposure they want for their brand.   If a brand is looking for national attention, they will need the assistance of being exposed through other retailers, and will have to understand the concept of either offering consignment or creating a pricing structure for wholesale.  This could incorporate either offering significant discounts for bulk orders, offering a percentage of sales from consignment placement, or simply offering a standard discount to anyone who will carry the brand.

The Second Post! CONFIDENCE

Confidence, something hard to find if it doesn't come naturally, but one of the first most important attributes for success. Remember to conjure up all of your strength to allow you to feel confidence in what you do, who you are, and the choices you make. The road is never paved with signs of where to go, but confidence helps you ask for directions and allows you to press the gas pedal on the road to achieving your goals.

The First Post! Welcome Everyone!

Welcome everyone to "A Brighter Sparkle". My name is Lainey and I seek to post intermittent tips and articles about gaining success in the indie market and expanding outside to reach a larger audience. I tend to concentrate around jewelry and Etsy as its following is the largest of all virtual indie markets, yet I invite all sellers to participate in discussions and to comment with feedback on my articles.

A bit about myself, I not only create jewelry collections (Piruli Jewelry on Etsy) but I also have fifteen years of experience in the wholesale trade of  various famous jewelry brands.  I currently own my own  gift and accessories boutique in New Jersey.

Do you have a great story about breaking into the world of indie/handmade? Email us at galleriasoho [at ]gmail [dot] com, I would love to feature you!