Happy Monday everyone! If you’re looking for my regular Extra Income & Life Updates, I posted them on Saturday instead. Also, I started my Facebook page for my blog on Saturday (finally), so you should definitely like it if you haven’t done so yet.
Today I have a post from Crystal. I’ve been following her blog since last year and I’ve always loved it. When I found out that she was opening her own online store, I e-mailed her IMMEDIATELY and asked her if she would post for me!
She said yes (and even offered a discount code below) and I was ecstatic. I know all of us think and dream about one day doing something that makes us really happy, and I really wanted to get her input on what it was like to start her own store. It’s definitely a dream of mine one day as well.
I’ll let her take it away now.
I recently decided to pursue my dream of being an entrepreneur. It was a very bold and risky adventure, but with the determination and support of those who love me, it was made possible!
Greg@ClubThrifty says
Congrats on your Facebook page Michelle! Congrats on your online store Crystal:)
These are some great tips. My question would be how do you market one of these stores? There are so many online stores out there, how do you get the word out?
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Crystal says
Hey Greg! The marketing for an online store is extremely difficult, but it is possible! I have used big name bloggers, twitter, and facebook! In the week that I have been open, I have had sales that match the amount of money put into the site. It is all about the social media marketing tools! What a great questions!
DC@Young Adult Money says
I have thought about it, but have never gotten around to it. I'm not sure what I would sell. I wonder how different it is to have your own dedicated website with a store vs. having an Ebay or Etsy store? I know my mom wanted to put stuff up on Etsy, but it seems a bit different than having your own website that allows people to order things.
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Crystal says
Ebay is definitely a lot cheaper than having your own website or an Etsy site. If you are wanting to make it into a profession, I would open an online store! Ebay isn't a popular place for people to look for DIY kind of items! Maybe start with an Etsy shop, grow your clientele, and then create a website!
plantingourpennies says
Congrats on having your own store. I've known other people who have tried to sell different things online, and all have said it's quite hard. But it sounds like you're going into this with eyes wide open knowing about all the difficulties and ready to face them. Good luck!
Crystal says
Thanks so much for the encouragement! It has definitely been a learning experience!
LivingDFRocks! says
Michelle I think you've mentioned some key points. Getting a mentor who is already successful at what you're doing is important and evaluating where you are at in your life and if you have the time to devote to growing your business is key. As someone who is self-employed I can relate with the challenges and stress you face but if done well the rewards are really satisfying. Good luck to you!
John S @ Frugal Rules says
Congrats. My wife and I started our own buiness this year and love it. We've done many of the things you've covered. I completely agree that it's not easy. But, what thing that's worthwhile is easy?
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Budget & the Beach says
I never thought about it! I imagine it's hard work but if you're passionate about it a lot of fun!
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Lance @ Money Life and More says
I thought about it but don’t have a unique product to sell and wouldn’t want to be in a price competition business. I like the idea of a drop shipping store but that is way above my head.
My Money Design says
Crystal, that is pretty awesome that you did this. The Internet is a pretty cool tool for turning regular people into savvy entrepreneurs. I've thought about this, and the only thing that is holding me back is having a decent product to pedal!
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Kim@Eyesonthedollar says
Congrats for following your name. I have no idea what I would sell if I had a store. I would imagine it's a lot like blogging in trying to make your site stand out and get recognition.
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Edward Antrobus says
I'd like to second Greg's question. Where I always seem to fail is in actually achieving those critical first few sales.
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Elle sees says
thanks for the post and the tips!
mycanuckbuck says
Wow Crystal – you are on a role! Unstoppable! And so lucky your name is super catchy (your store, Crystal Light challenge,etc..)
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SavvyFinancialLatina says
That's so awesome! Congrats!
melissa blake says
"Dreams don't work unless you do" — i loooove that! So true. Thanks for the great interview!
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Canadianbudgetbinder says
I've never thought about opening an online store but I'm sure like every job it's not easy. I think that if you want to achieve something in this life you have to go for it. Plan it, Research it and although bumps will happen along the way at least you are doing what you want. It's great to hear someone happy about what they do. Congratultions. Mr.CBB
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apenny4athought says
Congrats! Good for you! I just checked out your store and i really like it!
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