Thistle & Clover’s Tips for Designers: Approaching Boutiques

What do boutique shops look for when picking which designers they’ll carry? We asked boutique owners Camilla and Rand to share a few tips. While every boutique is going to have a different process and unique criteria, we think Camilla and Rand’s advice goes a long way. Let’s draw back the curtain on Thistle & Clover‘s Open Call.

Since opening our doors in March 2008, our Brooklyn-based boutique Thistle & Clover has held quarterly Open Calls for young, up-and-coming talent from the New York metropolitan area. We see around 15 to 20 designers per Open Call. But since our store has limited space, we can only invite around three or four designers to be showcased at the store. We’ve found that as the program grows, this process gets harder and harder for us to do! Needless to say, there’s always a glass or two of wine involved…

Etsy has asked us to pull together some of the qualities that we look for in a collection for you guys. And we’re just delighted to do so! Etsy is an endless source of inspiration for us and many of our Open Callers have used this fantastic site as a platform to sell and promote their wares.

  • Do your research. Each store you approach will have a different set of guidelines for design submissions. Your best bet is to call/email the store directly to ask how they prefer to receive information. By all means, if you get an owner or buyer on the phone, introduce yourself! Just remember to keep it short and sweet.

Page from Dace‘s lookbook

  • Presentation, Presentation. Your next move will be to send the store line sheets and a lookbook either by email or snail mail (though email is free!). The goal is to catch the eye of the store buyer with a presentation that is unique enough that they’ll head to your website or Etsy shop to check out more of your work.Think hard about creative ways to represent your line. And keep in mind that sometimes simple is best. One strong image can make a far bigger impact than a few weaker ones. It was a simple postcard that inspired us to get in touch with T & C favorite LEWIS.Innovative/creative presentations can also help you distinguish yourself: Teeny House Bunny sent us shipments in vintage cigar boxes, which are both whimsical and useful for display purposes.
  • Include your facts. When sending over images, it’s imperative that you also include line sheets, a bio and any press clippings that you may have of your work. This helps the store come to understand your line as a whole. Here’s a new fragrance line we picked up that does a great job with this.
  • Establish Your Brand as a Lifestyle. At T & C, we try to do more than just sell a pretty product. We want to tell the story behind our labels, to editorialize all your hard work! And all of that information comes from you. The more you turn your piece of jewelry, or painting or antique into a “story,” the more your customers will understand your product. Cassandra La Valle of Coco & Kelley exemplifies this motto. Her Etsy shop acts as an extension of her wonderful blog, and the vision translates seamlessly.
  • Create a cohesive collection. The last and perhaps most important thing we look for when selecting labels for the store is a cohesive collection. When Cate Reilly of Green Eyed Girl visited our store last February, we were struck by how directly her aesthetic vision was communicated to us. Every piece fit into her collection flawlessly. Cohesiveness will help showcase your work, and makes it easy for the buyers/store owners to envision how your line will merchandise in with their other collections.

That’s all for now! We hope this sheds a little more light on a notoriously opaque process. The next Open Call will take place on Thursday, July 29 from 11-7:00 p.m. if you’re interested. If you have any more questions, you’re welcome to email us at our store account info@thistleclover.com or post them to our Facebook page. We’d love to hear from you!

Thanks for the tips, Camilla and Rand!

The ladies of Thistle & Clover will also be on a panel for Day of Fashion — Brooklyn Style at the Brooklyn Museum. Etsy is partnering with the museum, and we’re very excited to be celebrating the local fashion scene — five Etsy sellers will be showing their looks on the runway! Spread the word and we hope to see you there. 

Panel Discussion: “Brooklyn Aesthetics”
Saturday, June 26, 2010, 2–3:30 p.m.
Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Auditorium, 3rd Floor
Moderated by cultural critic and fashion editor Michaela Angela Davis, this panel will explore how Brooklyn style relates to international trends, culture, and race. Participants include Camilla Gale and Rand Niederhoffer, co-owners of Fort Greene’s Thistle & Clover; Skye Parrott, creative director of Dossier Journal; and Quincy “Ouigi” Theodore, owner and creative director of the Brooklyn Circus.

Seller Handbook | Shop Local Boutiques (Our new series!)

  • MegnificentCo

    MegnificentCo says:

    Thank you for the helpful tips! It is true that one strong image beats multiple weaker ones. Great info!

    1 year ago

  • twoknit

    twoknit says:

    Great tips !!!

    1 year ago

  • akcArt

    akcArt says:

    Nice items! Helpful information for all of us! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • reiddamnit

    reiddamnit says:

    thanks guys! Hope to make a time with you next week, check your inbox...

    1 year ago

  • thelittlemarket

    thelittlemarket says:

    Great article....lots of great tips that can be applied no matter what you sell. Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • FableAndLore

    FableAndLore says:

    Great information...thanks for sharing!!

    1 year ago

  • RainyPenguinVintage

    RainyPenguinVintage says:

    Camilla and Rand, Thanks so much for all the info. I actually sell vintage things, but right now I'm trying to figure out a "style" for my shop, so in some way this also applies to me. I especially like the "establish a brand as a lifestyle" tip. That is such an interesting concept and definitely seems like it's an important part of being a successful retailer. Thanks again. Jeanne RainyPenguinVintage

    1 year ago

  • candacejean

    candacejean says:

    Oh I've been NEEDING this! Thanks so much Camilla and Rand!

    1 year ago

  • spiralla

    spiralla says:

    very helpful tips. Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • Ayca

    Ayca says:

    Great article! Thanks for sharing :)

    1 year ago

  • tangente

    tangente says:

    I think presentation is the hardest part especially with clothing. You need a photographer, a model, lighting, a location... and then repeat for each season. I hope to have a professional look book by the end of the summer (fingers crossed)

    1 year ago

  • sleepymoondesign

    sleepymoondesign says:

    Thank you for sharing. This is great advice and I love their store!

    1 year ago

  • breadandroses2

    breadandroses2 says:

    Good info. Many thanks!

    1 year ago

  • NaturalAmber

    NaturalAmber says:

    Great article! :)

    1 year ago

  • poplovedesigns

    poplovedesigns says:

    excellent tips for all the up & coming designers here on Etsy. It sounds like a lot of these tips could be good just for marketing your brand online as well. Thanks! <3 Andrea

    1 year ago

  • TheAmberDawn

    TheAmberDawn says:

    Love the insightful info you've presented here! Looking forward to being able to put it into practice in the future.

    1 year ago

  • ModFarmgirl

    ModFarmgirl says:

    Wonderful tips! Thank you!!!

    1 year ago

  • VelvetBitchOriginals

    VelvetBitchOriginals says:

    Thanks for the great article!

    1 year ago

  • paramountvintage

    paramountvintage says:

    oh i adore the cilantro charm necklace!

    1 year ago

  • steinschmuckdesign

    steinschmuckdesign says:

    Thanks so much!!!

    1 year ago

  • ScrapHappyLyrebird

    ScrapHappyLyrebird says:

    Good tips for whole-sale too maybe, thanks!

    1 year ago

  • LaBronz

    LaBronz says:

    Great tips! Thank you! :) See you at the "Brooklyn Style" Fashion Show!

    1 year ago

  • juicychristians

    juicychristians says:

    I really enjoyed this article! Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • manvsgeorge

    manvsgeorge says:

    Excellent tips -- thank you for sharing them! I agree with ScrapHappyLyrebird -- can be applied to wholesaling as well.

    1 year ago

  • LittleWrenPottery

    LittleWrenPottery says:

    Great post I've been thinking more about how to approach shops lately, some excellent tips.

    1 year ago

  • poppyswickedgarden

    poppyswickedgarden says:

    great helpful article:)

    1 year ago

  • actionjackson

    actionjackson says:

    I've been trying to find new shops to sell my jewelry through. These tips will help me to strive for a more polished presentation. Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • Xiefashionstudio

    Xiefashionstudio says:

    Thanks for sharing!!!great tips!!

    1 year ago

  • edor

    edor says:

    Great advice not only for approaching boutiques but for your own shop/work as well!

    1 year ago

  • JennySchu

    JennySchu says:

    I love this and am passing it on to a friend who is opening a new botique in my area! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • undermyfeet

    undermyfeet says:

    WOW great tips! Thank you so much.

    1 year ago

  • lv2cr8

    lv2cr8 says:

    Thank you for sharing these tips with us!

    1 year ago

  • Waterrose

    Waterrose says:

    Wonderful information!

    1 year ago

  • WoodlandBelle

    WoodlandBelle says:

    I don't create clothing, but I do make accessories and still find this information to be very valuable. Some great advice here on presenting your line and establishing your brand. Thank you Camilla and Rand!

    1 year ago

  • lovelygifts

    lovelygifts says:

    Great article and wonderful tips!

    1 year ago

  • cocorosecouture

    cocorosecouture says:

    super great to know - love this article!

    1 year ago

  • fringe

    fringe says:

    Excellent article. Thank you for sharing this valuable information. I wish you continued success and all the best.

    1 year ago

  • princessdoodlebeans

    princessdoodlebeans says:

    So super helpful and enlightening! Thanks much for all this delicious information.

    1 year ago

  • jpstyle

    jpstyle says:

    Wonderful article! Thank you so much :)

    1 year ago

  • jewelrybyjg

    jewelrybyjg says:

    very helpful..thanks for the tips!

    1 year ago

  • Radness

    Radness says:

    super helpful! I was in need of these tips, as I too am beginning to approach boutiques! Keep it short and sweet- check! thank u!

    1 year ago

  • AZCreativeStudio

    AZCreativeStudio says:

    Great tips!

    1 year ago

  • AnnaBGreen

    AnnaBGreen says:

    Those tips were really helpful.

    1 year ago

  • janewearjewelry

    janewearjewelry says:

    Lovely tips! Thank you for all of the great examples! Very inspirational :)

    1 year ago

  • craftpile

    craftpile says:

    Great information!! Love the selections!

    1 year ago

  • rule42

    rule42 says:

    Thanks for writing this. I've been mulling over how to approach boutiques with my pinwheels and this really helps!

    1 year ago

  • amoronia

    amoronia says:

    I think that is great advice for everyone! Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • piperewan

    piperewan says:

    good advice! i am forwarding this article to my new sales rep for help with her training.

    1 year ago

  • bylynnkrestel

    bylynnkrestel says:

    great advice...thanks!

    1 year ago

  • OsoVictoria

    OsoVictoria says:

    Thanks for sharing the tips, I would love to get over and vist your shop one day!

    1 year ago

  • KatyScudieri

    KatyScudieri says:

    Great article and great tips!

    1 year ago

  • lindaketelhut

    lindaketelhut says:

    wonderful tips. thanks for taking the time to share!

    1 year ago

  • realfaery

    realfaery says:

    I was eating up every word. Very inspiring!Really! Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • thefortunatehome

    thefortunatehome says:

    Good advice for sure!

    1 year ago

  • louloudo

    louloudo says:

    Awesome, thanks for thoughtfully putting down this information, it's genuinely very helpful to know what you look for. x

    1 year ago

  • HeartandCrafts

    HeartandCrafts says:

    great information, thanks for this thoughtful post!

    1 year ago

  • thetailorsstories

    thetailorsstories says:

    We've been their store before. The store was so cute! Thank you so much for sharing info.

    1 year ago

  • DotD

    DotD says:

    Thanks for helpful info.!

    1 year ago

  • francesroseis

    francesroseis says:

    Thanks for the advice... going to stores with your work is the hardest part of all, so all the tips are very helpful!

    1 year ago

  • PierogiPicnic

    PierogiPicnic says:

    I bookmarked this for reference. Thank you for sharing such incredible insights!!!

    1 year ago

  • julessabjewelry

    julessabjewelry says:

    Great advice ladies! I haven't been brave enough until now to try the boutique world, but you've inspired me!

    1 year ago

  • jadedseas

    jadedseas says:

    Wonderful advice ladies! thanks

    1 year ago

  • SABRINATACH

    SABRINATACH says:

    Thanks , really helpful for me .

    1 year ago

  • RPriestEllgyCo

    RPriestEllgyCo says:

    Maybe I'm just a newbie but that the heck is a line sheet? . . . A line drawing of the garment??

    1 year ago

  • MaruMaru

    MaruMaru says:

    This was great, I never thought about all of that stuff

    1 year ago

  • MelroseFields

    MelroseFields says:

    Thanks for the advice!

    1 year ago

  • CloudLoveBaby

    CloudLoveBaby says:

    your shop is stunning! thanks for introducing me to some more great etsy sellers!

    1 year ago

  • jaksenlanier

    jaksenlanier says:

    Such a very nice topic about this article.I am agree with this artilce. Force Factor

    1 year ago

  • jaksenlanier

    jaksenlanier says:

    Such a very nice topic about this article.I am agree with this artilce. http://www.healthproductreviewers.com/force-factor-review.html

    1 year ago

  • davisdesignsau

    davisdesignsau says:

    Fantastic advice!! more exploring of shops to do now :-)

    1 year ago

  • elishalong

    elishalong says:

    Thanks so much for those tips! I'm trying to get into more shops and this is super helpful!

    1 year ago

  • LIDOSkincare

    LIDOSkincare says:

    THanks for the advice! as a biz owner, Im always looking for tips...especially from the 'buyers' point of view

    1 year ago

  • ErikaPrice

    ErikaPrice says:

    Great tips - I sure need them too!!!

    1 year ago

  • NoMoreTwistHandmade

    NoMoreTwistHandmade says:

    i am just beginning the process of putting together a look book and line sheets, etc. and looking considering what shops to approach. this is extremely helpful advice, as most of the "how-to's" i've found on this subject are not from an actual buyers perspective. i appreciate you both taking the time to share!

    1 year ago

  • glorioushats

    glorioushats says:

    Very helpful, clear, concise, and most of all motivating. Thanks so much. Jane

    1 year ago

  • JunebugbyJme

    JunebugbyJme says:

    Thanks so much. I am actually working with a boutique right now in LA. I am very interested in getting in with more shops. Tips are always a great thing.

    1 year ago

  • MYDIAMONTE

    MYDIAMONTE says:

    THANKS!!! GREAT TIPS, THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO MMMMMMM....(():

    1 year ago

  • FerntreeStudio

    FerntreeStudio says:

    Wonderful information, thank you! I am starting to put together items to go make calls. It is very intimidating after being anonymously behind a computer avatar!

    1 year ago

  • devarrs

    devarrs says:

    THANKS SO MUCH!!!

    1 year ago

  • MartiniJewels

    MartiniJewels says:

    LOVE the idea of a postcard! Going to contact my printer right now!

    1 year ago

  • CreativeGoldsmith

    CreativeGoldsmith says:

    Thank you!! Great tips for marketing...getting on it now!!

    1 year ago

  • maryzeran22

    maryzeran22 says:

    This couldn't have come at a better time! I am getting ready to hit the streets with my line of postcards and giclee. I have already discovered through phone calls that making sure your line fits with the shop is super important!

    1 year ago

  • Ladendesigns

    Ladendesigns says:

    I really appreciate that you have addressed this topic! It can be really scary to approach shop owners, especially in the line of jewelry where there is soooo much and it is that much harder to stand out. Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • julsofparadise

    julsofparadise says:

    Thank you SO much for a great and very informative article!

    1 year ago

  • BeadedTreasurebySue

    BeadedTreasurebySue says:

    Thank you for the wonderful tips and ideas. Very insightful.

    1 year ago

  • MixedMetals

    MixedMetals says:

    Great tips and information. Thanks so much!

    1 year ago

  • stitchuation

    stitchuation says:

    This kind of article is really helpful! Even though I am just in the baby-step mode, I love being able to eat up this kind of info!

    1 year ago

  • TheRoyalDetails

    TheRoyalDetails says:

    Great tips, thanks!

    1 year ago

  • Dreamcatcherdesigns

    Dreamcatcherdesigns says:

    Thanks for your article. In case anyone has further interest in this topic, I have 3 short articles about selling to boutiques that can be accessed through the jewelry makers blog at this address: www.magpiegemstones.com The exact articles addresses are: http://www.magpiegemstones.com/boutiques.html http://www.magpiegemstones.com/Boutique2.html http://www.magpiegemstones.com/Boutique3.html There is some information on various parts of my blog at www.dreamcatcherranch.net/designs. This is a good topic and we can be very important to the boutiques.

    1 year ago

  • sycamorestreetpress

    sycamorestreetpress says:

    Great info! We've been selling our stuff to boutiques for 2 1/2 years now, but I can still definitely use this advice. Nice to hear it from the shop owners themselves. Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • mediumcontrol

    mediumcontrol says:

    wonderful article. i found a lot of new brands to check out and lots of inspiration - thanks

    1 year ago

  • hamatova

    hamatova says:

    Thank for the information and tips!!!

    1 year ago

  • Kankou

    Kankou says:

    This was a good read, one that I bookmarked! I find it relevant to even people who intend to have just an Etsy shop. I have approached a shop in my local town and she seemed very interested but did not get back to me... yet :-) When I went to see her, i was just wearing a necklace, had Moo cards with nice pics on them: she appreciated a lot seeing the product -I was talking about- on me

    1 year ago

  • inspiredartprints

    inspiredartprints says:

    Great information. Thank you.

    1 year ago

  • Salzanos

    Salzanos says:

    This was one of the few that I read every word and made some changes! Very helpful, and thought provoking, which I LOVE. Meat and not pablum ;-) Great read!! I hope I can overcome my overwhelming fear of approaching a boutique with my product. I know I have a excellent product but I fail at person to person selling. Maybe I should find someone who can do the selling? hmmm, Thanks

    1 year ago

  • thistleclover

    thistleclover says:

    so glad you guys enjoyed reading the article and are motivated to put our tips to use! please do feel free to email us at info@thistleclover.com if you ever need a specific question answered. xxt&c

    1 year ago

  • LoveAtFirstBlush

    LoveAtFirstBlush says:

    Great to hear this advice from boutique sellers. Thank you Camilla and Rand! I am definitely gearing up to contact some boutiques later this year and this info was very valuable.

    1 year ago

  • ABoxForMyTreasure

    ABoxForMyTreasure says:

    This is incredibly helpful and exactly the type of information that I was looking for - many thanks!

    1 year ago

  • valkasinskas

    valkasinskas says:

    Good reinforcement that we all need! Thanks for the inspiration! Val

    1 year ago

  • artbybrooke

    artbybrooke says:

    Good tips! Just what I needed to hear as my next step is selling wholesale to boutiques and gift stores. Does anyone know of an article/website for crafters approaching boutiques (as opposed to clothing designers)?

    1 year ago

  • AugustynArtworks

    AugustynArtworks says:

    Thanks for the information, it was great to hear from the store owners perspective. I have my own verbage I use, but love to grow & try new ways to make an impact & with my art!! Have a peaceful day ! Mary

    1 year ago

  • mudturtlesandmore

    mudturtlesandmore says:

    Thanks for the ideas~ I've been debating about trying to get my shoes/ baby nursing capes/ and baby nursing pillows in a boutique!

    1 year ago

  • LittleRedHenPress

    LittleRedHenPress says:

    This was just what I needed to read. Thank you ladies! I am planning to try and get my items in local stores in the upcoming months, and I really needed some advice about this. I'll be referencing back to this when the time hopefully comes. ~Kate

    1 year ago

  • prettychrissy

    prettychrissy says:

    Thank you so much for this! Awesome information!

    1 year ago

  • WarpedMetals

    WarpedMetals says:

    Thank you for the great info!..it helps at the perfect time, as I am about to approach local galleries about my work, a scary proposition at best for a first-timer.

    1 year ago

  • darlimoda

    darlimoda says:

    Thank your time to share. I found this article very helpful especially the story behind the art.

    1 year ago

  • KalliopeJewelry

    KalliopeJewelry says:

    Very helpful tips, thank you!!

    1 year ago

  • MischievousKitty

    MischievousKitty says:

    This post was fantastic! I'm hoping to eventually approach some boutiques near where I live, and now I have some wonderful advice to follow when I do!

    1 year ago

  • JanuaryJaniesJewelry

    JanuaryJaniesJewelry says:

    Good Advice!!!

    1 year ago

  • favorecare09

    favorecare09 says:

    Awesome and Helpful. Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • OrdinaryMommy

    OrdinaryMommy says:

    This post was super insightful and full of pertinent advice. Thanks so much for taking the time to share!

    1 year ago

  • thirddayluxurysoaps

    thirddayluxurysoaps says:

    Your article was awesome..thanks, keep givin it.. i need it.

    1 year ago

  • FancyBoutique

    FancyBoutique says:

    Great article! Thanks a bunch for sharing!

    1 year ago

  • jv1533

    jv1533 says:

    Great advice! Thanks for sharing. :)

    1 year ago

  • deezigns66

    deezigns66 says:

    great article, appreciate all the tips.

    1 year ago

  • cakagi

    cakagi says:

    Thank you for the great tips! I definitely want to expand my jewelry line to retail stores but it can be a little intimidating. These tips are definitely a big help! Mahalo!

    1 year ago

  • PaisleyPurse

    PaisleyPurse says:

    Thanks! I am just beginning to toy with the idea of approaching the eclectic stores in our small town--your info will be so helpful!

    1 year ago

  • mysweetprairie

    mysweetprairie says:

    That's great! and great timing. I have the shops selected and a rough plan of what to bring to them. This is so very helpful!!

    1 year ago

  • CounterFitCakes

    CounterFitCakes says:

    Thanks so much for the tips. I'm just starting out and trying to figure out how to market my CounterFitCakes.

    1 year ago

  • HitchHollowDesign

    HitchHollowDesign says:

    To me this has been invaluable! Ladies, thanks for stopping me from just showing up on the doorsteps of the shops that I'm interested in ! Congrats on your shop's success.. it looks wonderful !

    1 year ago

  • HightowerBotanicals

    HightowerBotanicals says:

    I adore Thistle and Clover and had a great time selling my jewelry there! Its such a cute store and definitely worth checking out if your in the NYC area. Camilla and Rand are lovely to work with. Great advice. (Thanks for showing my Cilantro necklace too!)

    1 year ago

  • BambuEarth

    BambuEarth says:

    all of these shops are just darling. great tips too!

    1 year ago

  • carlossantiago

    carlossantiago says:

    I love this store!!! so cute and modern!

    1 year ago

  • DolineBlochDesigns

    DolineBlochDesigns says:

    great tips...thanks for sharing :)

    1 year ago

  • 310jewelry

    310jewelry says:

    Great advice! Approaching boutiques is my most feared challenge. Nice to get a boutique owner's view.

    1 year ago

  • bhangtiez

    bhangtiez says:

    Great tips...thank you!

    1 year ago

  • jechorydesigns

    jechorydesigns says:

    Great information!

    1 year ago

  • LavenderField

    LavenderField says:

    Wow! Thanks so much for this. I would most definitely like to take my shop to the next level, so thank you for the tips!

    1 year ago

  • ozzana

    ozzana says:

    Great tips! Thanks!

    1 year ago

  • meltemsem

    meltemsem says:

    Thank you so much for sharing this helpful tips with us.

    1 year ago

  • TheLeftBank

    TheLeftBank says:

    Thank you for the advice/ideas. Greatly appreciated!!

    1 year ago

  • DeNovoStyle

    DeNovoStyle says:

    Thanks for the ideas!

    1 year ago

  • pveshop

    pveshop says:

    I wonder if Thistle and Clover would need any artwork or note-cards? Love the concept - great tips! pve

    1 year ago

  • BlueToad

    BlueToad says:

    great insight, thank you!

    1 year ago

  • BodaciousBiddies

    BodaciousBiddies says:

    Great suggestions! Thanks!!!

    1 year ago

  • SnazzySnugglies

    SnazzySnugglies says:

    Thanks for the great tips!

    1 year ago

  • VooDeDooDolls

    VooDeDooDolls says:

    Voo De Doo Dolls to be carried by Moonflower a little shop dedicated to the Goddess within in Hyannis, Cape Cod MA. They offer unique gifts, readings, classes and events. Wonderful to be endorsed by a brick and mortar. Thank you for your enlightening article. voodedoodolls.etsy.com

    1 year ago

  • GemdropsoftheFalls

    GemdropsoftheFalls says:

    We have displayed our jewelry in 2 local salons so far, but have met with a boutique in Cleveland also. These tips are very helpful. We partner with another shop on Etsy, ArtsNCrafty, and she does most of our signage and photographs so we look professional and cohesive. Thanks for the tips to keep in mind for the future!

    1 year ago

  • eleonoraesposito

    eleonoraesposito says:

    Interesting suggestions! Thanks

    1 year ago

  • streetnoodles

    streetnoodles says:

    wonderfully informative...so glad i caught this blog b4 i left on my road trip :D

    1 year ago

  • Gwendolynsdesign

    Gwendolynsdesign says:

    what great suggestions for those of us procrastination in this area... thanks for calming the brick & morter jitters!

    1 year ago

  • Almcleary

    Almcleary says:

    Thanks for the tips - I wonder if cold calling will work?

    1 year ago

  • StressBeGON

    StressBeGON says:

    I've been wondering about how to get my items in a brick and morter store. While I'm currently not making clothing (I have in the past), there is good information shared for approaching a store in general. Thanks.

    1 year ago

  • VintageTwisted

    VintageTwisted says:

    Thanks for the starting point. Not coming from this world, I had to look up what look books & line sheets were. Since I'm selling one of a kind furniture, I think the look book is perfect! Wish I lived near your store- I love that you're giving new designers an opportunity. Good for us shoppers, your new talent & brings uniqueness to your shop!

    1 year ago

  • RomanceCatsAndWhimsy

    RomanceCatsAndWhimsy says:

    Love the sunshine yellow flower belt with the black polka dot top - that looks fabulous!

    1 year ago

  • knotworkshop

    knotworkshop says:

    How do I know if my products are cohesive?

    1 year ago

  • matryoshkasbysallie

    matryoshkasbysallie says:

    Some useful tips. I liked the emphasis that was put on having a neat presentation but also creative. I think sometimes people are too worried about doing things right to incorporate creativity.

    1 year ago

  • ANANEE

    ANANEE says:

    really love the sheer V DRESS

    1 year ago

  • wintersummer

    wintersummer says:

    Loved the usefull tips! Thanks. _____ oo // \\ (_,\/ \_/\ \\_/_\_/> /_/ \_\

    1 year ago

  • SugarFlower

    SugarFlower says:

    Great article and wonderful tips!

    1 year ago

  • BayMoonDesign

    BayMoonDesign says:

    This is a great article with wonderful insights into the business world. I would love to see more articles like this one.

    1 year ago

  • saintesmariesjewelry

    saintesmariesjewelry says:

    great tips! thank you!

    1 year ago

  • ipopdesigns

    ipopdesigns says:

    Thank you for sharing these tips, being a new designer myself, I found this article to be both encouraging and very practical. Thank you for sharing with us!

    1 year ago

  • ahdQuiltsAndSuch

    ahdQuiltsAndSuch says:

    Such a great read...useful information for all shops! Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • Lillypicadilly

    Lillypicadilly says:

    Thank you for an interesting and helpful artical.

    1 year ago

  • elementjewels

    elementjewels says:

    thank you for the tips! I think the idea of a line sheet on a postcard is particularly useful. It is different and simple:)

    1 year ago

  • aistheta

    aistheta says:

    Thanks for the great tips. It's always nice to hear the philosophy of boutique shop owners. To hear what they are looking for when it comes to placing product in their shop. I am going to try to tell more of the story behind my jewelery.

    1 year ago

  • karazidesign

    karazidesign says:

    so helpful to get different points of view on this topic. thanks for yours!1

    1 year ago

  • KathrynGreenwald

    KathrynGreenwald says:

    Perfect, helpful advice. I've been wanting to get my one of a kind hand painted handbags into some botiques. Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • licgifts

    licgifts says:

    That is very nice tips to know before contact shops. Will stop by this store soon!

    1 year ago

  • bettylaboutique

    bettylaboutique says:

    Great tips and very helpful,thks.

    1 year ago

  • cardinalhouse

    cardinalhouse says:

    this is a great article, but how I would LOVE TO SEE EXAMPLES!!

    1 year ago

  • LuBluDesigns

    LuBluDesigns says:

    Thanks for the great tips. I have lots to work on.

    1 year ago

  • museumshop

    museumshop says:

    Very useful info. Thanks.

    1 year ago

  • snowfaerie

    snowfaerie says:

    These are some fantastic ideas ~~~~thank you!

    1 year ago

  • talesofcamelot

    talesofcamelot says:

    This is great. I have been approached by botiques some wishing for an exclusive. However what I have found the latest one,a high end botique(that is opening soon)as I thought we were all set, we had photo shoot of their new line with photos of my one of a kind jewelry, they asked & made copies of my Bio, artist and product information. They have used the information and photos & now wanting everything on consiment which was not our orgional agreement. Any advice?

    1 year ago

  • toombatik

    toombatik says:

    thank you very much, great suggestions

    1 year ago

  • rawadesign

    rawadesign says:

    Very helpful and generous tips... Thank you!

    1 year ago

  • THINGMAJIG

    THINGMAJIG says:

    I feel enlightened, still intimidated, but definitely enlightened.

    1 year ago

  • shopdomestica

    shopdomestica says:

    This was a great article - I love getting inquiries about selling at my shop, but it's quickly apparent when a maker's just not quite ready to consign or wholesale. These tips will def push some sellers ahead of the pack. I think Tales of Camelot should restate her position with the boutique and if they don't like her terms, back out and be very clear that she wants them to remove her name + info from their website + promotional pieces. She can write not being paid a rental fee on the jewelry to experience (always get a fee that can be negotiated into a "waved if you wholesale with me" agreement. I'm completely transparent with my customers and suppliers - in my estimation, shady is shady.

    1 year ago

  • thepinklocket

    thepinklocket says:

    Thanks--great advice

    1 year ago

  • herbanlifestyle

    herbanlifestyle says:

    Wonderful article! Thank you so much for sharing this information. I love the aesthetics and mission of Thistle & Clover. Congratulations, Rand! TMS CT represent!

    1 year ago

  • HappyCampers12345

    HappyCampers12345 says:

    Great food for thought. I need to work on this!

    1 year ago

  • TheWinglessBird
  • katherinelkerrison

    katherinelkerrison says:

    really good info on here. putting new line together at the moment to excited! there is chiffon and capes everywhere. Its great to get a buyers point of view and there detail on the points was very very helpful! thanks gor your help ladys! my sister is in love with your online shop!

    1 year ago

  • DeathByVintage

    DeathByVintage says:

    good stuff. thank you.

    304 days ago

  • whybecause

    whybecause says:

    These are some great tips. I'm scared and excited to try them!

    290 days ago