I’m excited to bring you the next Quit Your Day Jobber who just so happens to have taken the plunge to focus full time on her success in selling vintage on Etsy. Allison of adVintagous started out listing a couple items from her closet in order to clear out some room and make a few extra dollars after realizing there was a Vintage Category on the site; she never imagined she’d soon be making a full-time living from it. Allison went from a recent graduate during a recession working full time as a character photographer at a theme park to being her own boss bringing new life to vintage finds. Her best marketing advice is keeping up a shop newsletter and taking photos in natural light with a simple background. Allison is most thankful that Etsy has allowed her to concentrate on her true passions in life including vintage and birds.
How did you originally get into the business of selling vintage?
I’ve always loved the different eras of vintage — mod 60s, glam evening dresses, big poofy 50s skirts, all of it! I’d been collecting vintage dresses at thrift stores and estate sales personally for years, as well as shopping on Etsy for handmade goods. One day last year, I noticed that Etsy had a vintage section and decided to put some pieces from my own closet up on the site, and things just went from there. It’s great because if I find something really amazing, I get to buy it, even if it doesn’t fit! I always hated to leave something wonderful behind because it was too small or too large.
Tell us about your previous working situation.
After I graduated from college, I found myself working as a character photographer at a theme park in Orlando. While the park was fun, and the people were great, it was not a career that I wanted, and graduating during a recession didn’t leave me many options.
When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
I knew that other people had been able to support themselves through Etsy, but it wasn’t something that I thought I would be able to do. My goal was to maybe find new homes for some of my dresses, and make a little bit of money to supplement my income. After spending a few months with just my toes in the water, I started selling vintage seriously this past March. I wasn’t expecting much, maybe a sale once in a while, but I was overwhelmed by the response to my finds, and was able to quit my day job this past summer. I’ve sold wedding gowns to brides, prom dresses, and even shimmery sequin pieces to bands for their photo shoots! I love the interaction with customers on Etsy, it’s very different from my experiences with other online selling venues, and everyone is so friendly and happy to communicate.
Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time, feel free to give us the nitty gritty business details?
At first, I cut my hours to part time, to make sure I wasn’t getting in over my head. Then, when I left the park for good, my husband and I made sure we had enough saved up to last a few months if things didn’t work out, sort of a safety net.
What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What’s your best marketing tip?
I’ve tried a ton of things — Twitter, Facebook, blogging, Flickr — but I think the most effective thing I’ve done as far as marketing is to have a newsletter. Once or twice a month, I’ll send an email to people who sign up, letting them know about sales, and things like that. I also had little business cards printed up for my shop. I’m always meeting people who ask what I do, and it usually starts a big conversation about selling online. It’s still a pretty novel idea to most people! It’s nice to have a card to hand out so they can see my site when they get home.
What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
I’ve tried a few paid blog advertisements, and while I got some views, I didn’t really see any sales from them. In the end, I didn’t feel the money was worth it. I’m still experimenting with paid advertisements in different places.
Walk us through your typical workday.
- I wake up around 8 a.m., when my husband leaves for work.
- After he’s gone, I spend some time with our little bird, Peanut, eating breakfast and catching up on email and Convos.
- Three days a week I volunteer at a local bird of prey rehab center, so on those days, I head to the center and spend the day with the birds.
- Other days, I usually spend time visiting estate sales looking for those special vintage finds. In the afternoons, if the light is right I’ll take pictures, if not, I’ll process photos, and list items.
- I usually pack up the day’s orders at night, so they are ready to go out in the morning mail the next day!
- Afterwards, my husband and I will usually watch some junky TV or play video games to unwind.
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
The best best best thing about not having a day job is that most of what I do on Etsy can be done in the evenings, or on the weekends. Having an “unconventional” job has left my days free for a different kind of work — volunteering! Animals, and birds especially, are one of my big passions in life, along with vintage and traveling. So three days a week I get to volunteer at a local bird rehabilitation center helping to care for sick and injured birds of prey, as well as educating the public about their importance. I love being able to devote so much of my time to something that means so much to me, and I would never have been able to do that without Etsy.
On a more selfish note, I also love not having a commute. Before, I was driving an hour to and from work each day, and usually getting up at 6 a.m. to do it. I’m a born night owl, so now I can wake up at a comfortable hour, and work into the night if I have to. I really miss having coworkers and friends that I see every day, though. Sometimes it gets a little lonely doing everything myself. I do make time to spend with friends and family, but it’s not the same as having people that you work with every day.
What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
One of the hardest things is having no one else to rely on. If I get sick, or have to go out of town, nothing gets done. Since I do everything myself, the photography, the listing, the buying, and the shipping, if something goes wrong, I know I have no one to blame but myself. I take it pretty hard when something like a lost package happens, even if there’s nothing I could have done about it. Also, it is frustrating when I tell people what I do, and they act like I told them I live on the moon.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
I would love to go back in time and change the way I was taking pictures in the beginning. I had been switching back and forth between trying to take photos outside and trying to bring light to a dark room. When I switched to a well lit room with natural light and a simple background, it was like a breath of fresh air. Now I have to move furniture every time I want to take pictures, but it’s a trade I’m more than willing to make. I think photos are the most important part of your listing, the best description in the world can’t help a blurry, underexposed photo.
What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
- Aside from, of course, more hearts and sales, I would really like to make a dedicated shipping area at home. Somewhere I can lay things out for packing, and not have to run around finding tape, tissue paper, the scale, and all that. I think it would make shipping so much faster.
- I also need to work on keeping up to date spreadsheets and records of expenses and sales. Not my favorite part, but something I would like to accomplish.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Having an online shop, and being your own boss is fantastic, but also a lot of hard work. I have so much respect now for others who do it full time! It’s not something that I ever expected to be doing, but I love it, and I’ve long since stopped wondering about the crazy places that life has taken me.
Thanks to Allison for sharing her story. You can see some of Allison‘s beautiful work in the Related Items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.
187 comments
Sign in to add your ownlorilooms says:
How Fun! I love vintage clothing ;) Congrats!
2 years ago
LdyLux says:
love the interview. it gave me ideas for my vintage shop. thanks for the tips!
2 years ago
Sammis2shoes says:
Very interesting! Thanks :)
2 years ago
HarrietsHaven says:
Very fun! Congrats!
2 years ago
oldworldprimitives says:
Inspiring story with helpful tips. Your shop is so cute!
2 years ago
sleepyking says:
Her shop is so amazing. Pictures are incredible! Thanks for this very inspiring quit your day job interview.
2 years ago
maijutzeler says:
Great blog...and lots of helpful tip for my shop! Many thanks for sharing ^_^
2 years ago
jewelrybyjackie says:
Awesome vintage adVintagous!! Keep going!
2 years ago
BlackbirdsCloset says:
fabulous!
2 years ago
outofline says:
Cograts! Cute stuff.
2 years ago
KOALACaddie says:
What a wonderful interview! The vintage red square dancing dress is fabulous. Best wishes for continued success.
2 years ago
papercutsbyjoe says:
congrats! Great shop!
2 years ago
rosebudshome says:
Great advice, thanks
2 years ago
Waterrose says:
What a great interview....I love vintage! and this shop is wonderful!
2 years ago
KarmaRox says:
Love to see a vintage shop represented! You go, girl!
2 years ago
BlueCrushBeads says:
AWESOME Story! So inspirational, thanks so much for sharing.
2 years ago
peaseblossomstudio says:
Oh how wonderful to see a vintage shop in QYDJ!!!
2 years ago
bylynnkrestel says:
love your shop adVintagous!! thanks for the great article!!
2 years ago
baconsquarefarm says:
Wonderful shop plus enjoyed reading your interview. Congrats and wish you great success in the future too.
2 years ago
TwistedCrystals says:
brilliant! thank you for sharing :)
2 years ago
helgesok says:
Yay! So excited to see a vintage seller featured here. Awesome article, awesome store!
2 years ago
TwistedCrystals says:
Thank you sharing this with us! I love hunting for vintage treasures :)
2 years ago
urbanlotusboutique says:
Allison has one of my favorite vintage shops on Etsy. So happy to see it represented here!
2 years ago
QuiltFinger says:
Awesome! Shows the awesome potential of one simple idea! Very inspiring!
2 years ago
ItsBella says:
yes, yes! what a fun shop advintagous is! and isn't that pink dress just lovely??
2 years ago
MinceCo says:
nice stuff
2 years ago
artofjane says:
Too cool. How did u educate yourself on vintage stuff? Do things need to be mended? Do u do it yourself? So many questions. What a cool job.
2 years ago
CwButcher says:
BRILLIANT
2 years ago
tracyburton1009 says:
Your story is great motivation to become a full-time seller. Thank you for your honesty. All the best in 2010!
2 years ago
AnnBernadette says:
Beautiful vintage! I agree about pictures being the most important part. I always love these inspiring features.
2 years ago
polkadotsandblooms says:
Allison you are an inspiration. It has been great reading this feature. I was made redundant earlier in the year and really want etsy work for me, so that I can work from home spending more time with my family. It is tough sometimes, but these features always give me a boost. Well done and hope things work out for you.
2 years ago
MurrayDesignStudio says:
Thanks for the advice, hoping to do a switch myself. Still having a hard time with the photography issue- working during the day makes it so hard to get decent photos, let alone edit them for posting... Love the newsletter idea. Thanks!!!
2 years ago
louloudo says:
great story, and sound advice x
2 years ago
cottonbirddesigns says:
Great article and lovely collection!
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
Great article! Best wishes for your continued success!!!!!!!
2 years ago
asundrynotion says:
Congratulation and best wishes for continued success! Honest advice: it's all a lot of work.
2 years ago
SurrenderDorothy says:
Bravo!
2 years ago
WickedDarling says:
I love your shop and I am so happy to see a vintage shop featured. Great article! Here's wishing you continued success!
2 years ago
uncommonvintage says:
So inspiring to read about Allison's success!
2 years ago
lainedesign says:
Congrats Allison!! Props on the volunteering too! Very inspiring...
2 years ago
postroadvintage says:
Go vintage! Congrats on your success! I wish you much more to come :)
2 years ago
AustinModern says:
Congrats, you are in one of the best "pickin' spots in America!
2 years ago
sogrey says:
yay for featuring a vintage shop! :] adorable.
2 years ago
rebeccasanchez says:
So cool. Congratulations!
2 years ago
Morado says:
Wow! her shop is super cool
2 years ago
kellymichelledesigns says:
Very inspiring!
2 years ago
sillylittlelady says:
I love this shop, I bought a vintage apron from her a while back and it is phenomenal! I use it all the time :)
2 years ago
ElizabethMironArt says:
I love how inspiring your story is! Great items.
2 years ago
SimpleJoysPaperie says:
Thanks for the inspiring story ~ Your vintage shop is wonderful! :)
2 years ago
Hairoix says:
Congrats! Thanks for sharing your story :)
2 years ago
OhFaro says:
Very fun read- Happy to see vintage being focused on here too! Cheers to adVintagous!
2 years ago
SassySisterVintage says:
So glad a vintage shop was featured. I totally understand when you mentioned that you tell people what you do and they look at you like your from the moon. I've had the exact same experience, including people who have no idea what vintage clothing is. I think they must have been living on the moon.
2 years ago
saintesmariesjewelry says:
Congratulations!!!
2 years ago
tomatored says:
Horray for vintage-CONGRATS! Vintage jewelry anyone to go with those sweet fashions?
2 years ago
tomatored says:
Horray for vintage!!!
2 years ago
funretro says:
i have been in love with your shop for a while now. It was so great reading about you! congrats :)
2 years ago
Starrbeads says:
Bully for you! My Vintage store does 4 times better than my design OOAK store! I haven't even passed my first 12 months and I've pulled in a normal salary! I am shocked at the size and expanse that ETSY reaches! I love it!-Rachelle
2 years ago
vntgclothing says:
I recently gave up my 30 year nursing career to sell vintage clothing online. Most friends thought I was nuts....but I am surprising everyone....even myself!
2 years ago
tiemee says:
Loved the article!! Way to go!
2 years ago
JeweleryNut says:
Wonderful article thanks for the insight.
2 years ago
GardenofYarn says:
Great article! Thanks so much for the helpful tips!
2 years ago
sabrosavintage says:
great article - congratulations!! yay for vintage!
2 years ago
LilydaleVintage says:
Awesome! Thanks to etsy for focusing on a vintage seller! Congrats to Allison!
2 years ago
zwzzy says:
I'm a huge bird lover too, awesome! :D
2 years ago
shopgoodgrace says:
Great article. :) Congratulations!
2 years ago
callmemimi says:
What a wonderful interview ! Great Shop !
2 years ago
decors says:
Congrats! I adores your studio's setup!
2 years ago
shellsherree says:
Great tip on the newsletter ~ congrats, and thanks Allison!
2 years ago
congcongdesign says:
fun story.
2 years ago
BristolUpcycle says:
Great shop! Inspiring to a newbie!!
2 years ago
sergun says:
wonderful.. congrats..
2 years ago
theredvelvetshoe says:
What a fabulous story...my favorite kind! Congratulations to Allison and her thriving Etsy business! Michelle The Red Velvet Shoe
2 years ago
CwButcher says:
HELL YEAH
2 years ago
thestapeliacompany says:
Perfect. I love the photos and the aesthetic. Good for you! :)
2 years ago
SewnNatural says:
Love your stuff, and thanks for sharing your story and tips.
2 years ago
VixVintage says:
Thank you Allison, you have a wonderful shop!
2 years ago
artsyflorist says:
great story, keep up the work!
2 years ago
artsyflorist says:
Great story, keep up the work!
2 years ago
urbanknitfits says:
Congratulations!!! Lovely vintage goodies! I hope to join you in quitting my day job! It's my New Year's resolution!
2 years ago
BabbidgePatch says:
congrats on your success! thanks for sharing, Allison!
2 years ago
hollyday says:
Lovely. Vintage rocks. :) I love your photos very much too.
2 years ago
LadyLuLus says:
Very inspiring :) G R E A T items!
2 years ago
KayLynnStudio says:
Loved the article and absolutely love your shop! Thanks for the insight.
2 years ago
CocoHoney says:
Love the interview and your vintage items... I hope I'll be making more sales in the New Year.
2 years ago
halfpintsalvage says:
Great article! I'll have to check out more estate sales. Also, incredibly helpful info in regards to taking great pictures. It's hard work, but totally worth the extra effort.
2 years ago
stitchknitsew says:
Great article! The pink is beautiful!
2 years ago
GemsByJoy says:
Exciting to read about! You look like you are having fun:)
2 years ago
lifeofcolors says:
It's great to be able to do things you are passionate about... sell online and volunteer offline. :-) I'm so pleased for you.
2 years ago
NoisyButterfly says:
I love vintage. Very cute items.
2 years ago
moosomething says:
hope to be there one day...
2 years ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
Great article and your pictures are really beautiful with a beautiful setting in the backgrounds. Thanks for all of the inspiration.
2 years ago
LadyLuLus says:
:)
2 years ago
cottonbirddesigns says:
Great article!
2 years ago
veronicasclothing says:
Not only are your vintage items fantastic, wow, just the photography makes me want to reach out and touch your fabulous clothes!
2 years ago
ryder says:
Wow! that's a great article. LotZ of grand information!
2 years ago
battysbath says:
Congrats! What a great article :)
2 years ago
SomethingAloha says:
Congratulations! I think it's great this opportunity has allowed you to do what you love...epecially volunteering! I really like your advice on taking pictures. I like to take pictures of my items outside so I can use the natural sunlight.
2 years ago
SomethingAloha says:
Congratulations! I think it's great this opportunity has allowed you to do what you love...epecially volunteering! I really like your advice on taking pictures. I like to take pictures of my items outside so I can use the natural sunlight.
2 years ago
hazelmehoo says:
congratulations and thank you so much for your honest advice...very encouraging! Happy New Year!!!
2 years ago
FlanneryCrane says:
Had an eye on your shop, so it is such a pleasure to "meet" you and hear your story! I love your intro photograph-Lovely! I wish you much continued success in 2010!
2 years ago
FlanneryCrane says:
Or READ your story! Sorry about that...
2 years ago
wrappedNwarmth says:
that was a great article. It's inspiring me to want to do more with my shop. Have a Happy New Year and much success in 2010...
2 years ago
FrancescaStella says:
Congrats! Great shop! I love all vintage things too!
2 years ago
jessicawoodcapps says:
I love all your vintage finds!
2 years ago
thevintagecloset says:
yay for VINTAGE FASHION.....what an AWESOME interview, keep ones like this coming ETSY! :o)
2 years ago
HausProud says:
Yay! Great interview. I love these installments and couldn't be happier to see a vintage shop featured. I always wonder what fellow vintage Etsians do and loved the peek into another sellers world. Thank you for sharing your story and all the wonderful volunteering that you do.
2 years ago
accentonvintage says:
Love the story! I have the same feeling for vintage.
2 years ago
Luncheonettevintage says:
Thanks so much for this piece! This is a great interview and I'm thrilled to see you featuring a vintage shop. So much creativity goes into selling vintage and this is a super example. adVintageous is a sweetie too. and I love the photo of the photoshoot. You hit all the marks. jana the luncheonette lady
2 years ago
AmbivalentRelics says:
In love with all things vintage.....
2 years ago
vintageretrocat says:
Congratulations! I have been a vintage dealer for several years and just recently began selling vintage on Etsy. Glad to hjave you abord, and I'm very happy to see a vintage dealer featured in a blog.
2 years ago
vintageretrocat says:
Congratulations! I've been a vintage dealer for several years and have just begun listing with Etsy. Glad to have you aboard. I am also really pleased tio see a vintage dealer featured with Etsy!
2 years ago
GetReadySetGO says:
congrats!!!!! this is an AWESOME interview and i'm so glad this seller got a chance to share her story- she is a complete doll and i know from myself and other buyers that she is a dream to do business with. great choice for the quit your day job interview:)
2 years ago
nomoredisco says:
Well done - inspired to start looking out for vintage treats!
2 years ago
DowntownGirlDesigns says:
wonderful story. very inspiring.
2 years ago
maxandolivia says:
love the shop!
2 years ago
lonetagrace says:
to hear that it is possible to go from only having your "toes in the water" to quitting your day job in one year is so encouraging!
2 years ago
debrossehardesty says:
So inspiring! Beautiful story.
2 years ago
circleinthesand says:
**waving** from NE FL. Congrats on your shop doing so well!!
2 years ago
AfricanGrey says:
Very inspiring! I too graduated from college during the recession. Etsy has been such a great outlet for me too! Congrats on your success :)
2 years ago
greatgrandmaagnes says:
Yay for vintage sellers! Congrats on the feature...really inspiring!
2 years ago
hotacrossbuns says:
Very encouraging to know, since i lost my job, im hoping i just dont have to go back to one!!! hee hee hee congratulation!!!
2 years ago
sammysgrammy says:
The name of your shop is so clever. I've always loved vintage and estate saling is my idea of "retail therapy". Congratulations on your success both in sales and having an article about you on ETSY's front page. You've attained!! I hope 2010 is a banner year for you
2 years ago
alipink says:
Great article and great seller. Nice to see a vintage seller featured.
2 years ago
Osier says:
i agree alipink, so refreshing to see a vintage seller featured! more, more!
2 years ago
FickleFrog says:
I'm with U, I wish I had a room dedicated to etsy shipping. It's in my den and I have to work at it daily to keep it neat. I too, am glad to see a vintage seller featured. Thanks
2 years ago
UpcyclerEmporium says:
Very inspirational in many ways. Hope to make my shop as successful! Great tip on the newsletter. Congrats on living the GOOD life!!!
2 years ago
LizzyBdesigns says:
Great shop, thanks!!
2 years ago
UrbanJungle910 says:
Congrats! This article has been very helpful and inspiring. Thanks for sharing! I love vintage as well.
2 years ago
TheCurio says:
As a newcomer to Etsy, this was very inspirational for me! Thanks so much for telling your story. I love so many of your vintage things!
2 years ago
TimmerysBebeBling says:
What a GREAT article! I am also a newcomer and find stories like this inspirational as well. THANKS!
2 years ago
VirtuallyVintage says:
Thanks so much for the inspiration! This is exactly what I needed to read. I'd like to start listing my warehouse full of vintage clothing and costumes this year and the notion that I may be able to support myself has given me the motivation I need. I especially took to heart mention of the newsletter... as a new Etsian, however, I'm not sure if this a service Etsy offers or if it's something that Allison does on her own... I hope to learn more... Cheers & Happy New Year to all my new colleagues & friends here & here's to many happy return customers...
2 years ago
Lady80 says:
Love this spotlight! I also sell vintage and I would LOVE to do it full-time, so I am inspired by this story. It can be done..
2 years ago
thyme2sew says:
Thank you for the inspiring story. I have been selling vintage items in a store front but thinking of changing to Etsy full time. Your story inspires me to get going. Check out my vintage fabrics.
2 years ago
BlessedRepublic says:
Very inspiring! Keep up the good work! Thanks for sharing.
2 years ago
DIYing2Craft says:
What an inspiring story...some great practical tips too! Her items are really great, and seem to have a sort of unity even though they are gathered from different sources and eras.
2 years ago
jbeaudet says:
Great story! Thank you for the inspiration and the tips too!
2 years ago
TerrierTrousers says:
Awesome Article! Thank you so much for sharing.
2 years ago
PuppyDogsNPolkaDots says:
I love the story. I actually am in Orlando too. Congrats on your success. I know you must love not having to commute in Orlando, I know how that is!! :)
2 years ago
moonstone11 says:
This gives me hope!
2 years ago
AngelEllie says:
thank you for sharing your story, great inspiration!
2 years ago
HandmadeByKat says:
Your photos are fantastic. Very inspirational! I know I need to work on that. Going to take your ideas to heart. Thanks!
2 years ago
recrudescence says:
Great photos! Very clean and straight forward. I am really impressed with the quality of your products. Photos, photos, PHOTOS! I really need to find the best way to photography my items. Having a little trouble. Grrrrrrrr. Congrats on the QYDJ article!
2 years ago
dustyrosevintage says:
Great to see a vintage story! I LOOOOVE that she volunteers with some of her free time. Good for her!
2 years ago
TaraBell says:
Great article, wonderful etsian...
2 years ago
artowl says:
I love that you do everything yourself-especially photographing yourself.Congrats on your success and the birds are lucky to have you.
2 years ago
KatieConry says:
You have the best stuff ever.
2 years ago
PortugueseVintage says:
I love the ideia of the newsletter!
2 years ago
PortugueseVintage says:
I love the ideia of the newsletter!
2 years ago
pattyscollectibles says:
Great story and good advice!
2 years ago
adVintagous says:
Thanks so very much to Etsy and Mary, and everyone who read! The article was great, but I think I liked reading the comments best of all!
2 years ago
thedootdootstore says:
What a lovely story! Very inspiring and informative. And such neat finds! I would like to see some more general info on how other vintage sellers find their inventory- estate sales, thrift stores, bulk bins, etc. Not their secrets, obviously, but just a view of which places yield great finds. I agree that photos are the backbone of a good store. I also have to do some furniture arranging and it's a real pain. Still hunting for the perfectly lit spot with a white wall... and without pesky electrical outlets muddying up the view!
2 years ago
oshunluv420 says:
I'm new to Etsy and this story was just wonderful! It was very inspiring. I'm a single mother with dreams of one day being able to quick my job and work from home. I 'm typing this with a smile :)
2 years ago
greetzfromtiz says:
I think it's just fantastic, working from home and selling the'for me' most beautiful product:Vintage!I wish wish wish...
2 years ago
YellowElm says:
thank you for sharing your story Allison!
2 years ago
raghousenternational says:
very cool. I love that she's shooting herself...
2 years ago
kathcojewellery says:
Thank You! some great advice and ideas, congrats and well done!!
2 years ago
MyGrandpasPen says:
I know what you mean about a dedicated shipping area - loved the picture of the bed covered with orders!!
2 years ago
urthgypsy says:
I am soooooooooo pummped right now!
2 years ago
designed says:
Very inspiring .. it is so much fun having a job you love. Conratulations and all th ebest for a successful business.
2 years ago
ashleyeaston says:
congrats! love your shop! :)
2 years ago
sweetplanet says:
Absolutely beautiful vintage clothing!! So many things I would love to own, I don't know how you are able to part with most of them. :) Great story, very inspiring!
2 years ago
wabisabi7 says:
I just listed my first item a few days ago and more today, thanks for your inspiring story and ideas I can try myself.
2 years ago
FruitOfMyHands says:
These "Quit Your Day Job" sections are my most favorite features on Etsy, this one included.
2 years ago
LisaLMK says:
One of my favorite things too is to search flea markets and antique malls. Still looking for the time to hit estate sales - really want to do that ! Your pictures are great ! I loved the bedroom shipping area- perfect and very organized ! Great story. Good luck ! Lisa
2 years ago
VintageBygones says:
Thank you for sharing! I have just started selling my one of a kind vintage inventory on Etsy and I appreciate the motivation your article has given me. Best, Heather
2 years ago
thebestdays says:
It sounds like you are living YOUR best days! Good luck and thanks for sharing and inspiring me to hang in there.
2 years ago
jantiques says:
Thanks very much for sharing, love your shop, and your pictures, that is one thing I want to work on in my shop. Thanks Jan
1 year ago
roguegirlvintage says:
Thanks for the inspiration! Great article with some concrete suggestions to try in the future. Continued success!
1 year ago
littlekittenvintage says:
So inspiring! Thanks for sharing your tips & giving others the courage to pursue their dreams!
1 year ago
OnTheRoadVintage says:
Thanks so much for the inspiration. I needed that!
1 year ago
shantyirish says:
what an inspiring article. i too hope i can earn a living off of this someday.
1 year ago
StashingVintage says:
Awesome Allison! I admire you're ambition! I dream of spending my time rescuing & caring for horses & mules. So far it hasn't been my time yet but change, sweet change is gonna come for me! Thanks for sharing your passion for rescuing birds!
1 year ago
vintagenelly says:
Whether I'm ever able to this full-time, I love reading articles like this!! It gives me ideas, inspiration and motivation!! Thanks!
1 year ago
AltogetherLeather says:
Gorgeous store - thanks for sharing your experiences! So cool that you get to volunteer and help take care of birds!
1 year ago
amandabaker1028 says:
Very cool interview. Also really love your shop and especially that it is arranged by size. An Etsy pet peeve of mine is having to click on every item to see what size it is.
1 year ago
4oldtimesandnew says:
You have a beautiful and unique shop! I really appreciate all the insights and tips you (and others) are so willing to share. I hope to develop my Etsy shop into a "real" shop and you have given my renewed encouragement! And loved hearing that you're able to devote time and effort volunteering! Just yesterday I enjoyed a trip to the TX State Aquarium (Corpus Christi) and witnessed the results of such efforts - "animal ambassadors" including several different hawks. Beautiful birds!
1 year ago
AKingsThings says:
Thanks for sharing your story and tips. There is so little vintage vs handmade. Good to see stories like yours...
1 year ago
meeshy says:
Everyone wins -- you, your customers, and the birds!
1 year ago
oppning says:
I really love those stories. Especially this one because you are a vintage seller As a vintage shop ourselves, we are trying to reach the same success, but we just started. Hopefully next year ! It is very encouraging, because it is hard to evaluate how things are going to work out in the long run. Thanks for sharing your story !
1 year ago
FairyFiligree says:
Great advice - lovely pictures & many thanks to the this lovely lady.
1 year ago
VintagePossessions says:
Thank you so much for sharing with us all. I am doing the same thing as you, just waiting for the sucess to catch up! I will keep on pushing foward, thank you for the inspiration. It can get lonely so it helps a lot to hear others are going through the same thing. Congratulations on your success so far and may it continue!
1 year ago
VintagePossessions says:
Thank you so much for sharing with us all. I am doing the same thing as you, just waiting for the sucess to catch up! I will keep on pushing foward, thank you for the inspiration. It can get lonely so it helps a lot to hear others are going through the same thing. Congratulations on your success so far and may it continue!
1 year ago
BoutiquebyGrace says:
Wonderful shop! What a life!!
1 year ago
PoetryofObjects says:
Congratulations! It's inspiring to read about those in the Vintage category stepping out and making their shop work successfully! You look so great in that pink dress!
1 year ago
KKCollectibleCollage says:
Hi! I love your story and we love vintage. Our store is new, and I was afraid vintage didn't do much since Etsy has so much wonderful handcrafted items available. It's so good to hear that you are doing so well, I'm inspired to get putting things in our store! Thanks! PS We have a bird too, and our 5 acres in the country is an unofficial bird refuge...I especially love the quail.
1 year ago
Julesnhearts says:
wishing you the best of luck, hope it goes from strength to strength, thanks for tips on photography as that it what I'm struggling with!
325 days ago
stellartatter says:
"Also, it is frustrating when I tell people what I do, and they act like I told them I live on the moon." This. I can relate. Sometimes, the thought that others do not see my work as "work" brings me down. It's even harder when the people closest to you are the ones who do not believe in what you do or what you can do. But, great to hear you are striving and thriving! Thank you for your story!
165 days ago