(1) There are SO many sites these days and outlets for fair trade, handmade, etc. I often tell people to consider their web sales as a portal to make non-local customers able to buy from you (especially if you live in a touristy destination and you get repeat non-local customers) or for locals who just like online shopping. It is always going to be hard to compete with Etsy, etc. Again, look for a POS that works seamlessly with an online platform so your not spending too much time promoting and maintaining an online website. Keep your life simple and put your time and effort into making your brick and mortar shop as amazing as it can be. Most shops I talk to who do online says report that online sales only makes up at best 1% of their annual sales but that is not to say you can’t do better or do it differently. It’s a lot of work though.
(2) So I find this interesting because I started as an online shop- selling my own creations as well as handmade goods from around the world. I am opening up a brick and mortar shop NEXT Saturday!! It’s part of a share space so there are other vintage shops and studios int he building with me so I think it is a good fit because it’s like what you said in another post, I’m with similar businesses that will attract their (already established) customer base that will also like my shop. Also it’s in an up and coming arts neighborhood in Providence so I think the demographic will be a great fit. I have to change my thinking though such as labeling and signage in the shop to share with people where these things are made and who makes them since usually online all the information is right there on the page with the product. Just have to restructure and find a balance between keeping my inventory up to date online with my in-store. Definitely some challenges, but I’m hoping I’ll reap the rewards of having a physical location. Anyone I show my products to love them, and I think there is an element that you miss when you don’t have the tactile experience.