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Story by
marymary
Published on March 30, 2009 in Spotlight |
Photo by |
Elizabeth of nelladesigns opened up shop on Etsy after the persistent urging of one of her close friends. Her sales started picking up and she began to rethink her Etsy shop as more than just a favorite pastime. After leaving her full time graphic design job, she's been making a living through her shop sales and wishes now that she had taken the advice from her friend much sooner!
How did you originally get into the business of making things?
Growing up, I always loved to make things for friends and family in lieu of store-bought gifts. I enjoyed seeing their faces when they first laid eyes on whatever it was I had created for them. However, I would have to say that over the past decade or so I began to delve more into this pastime, as it became a great stress reliever from my 9 to 5 graphic design job.
When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
Being my own boss and doing things on my own terms has ALWAYS been a dream of mine. I just never knew how to go about doing it. Joining Etsy and opening up my own store was a bit of a fluke, actually. One of my oldest friends kept mentioning over and over in passing how I needed to open a shop on Etsy. I kept blowing her off until one day on a whim I decided to take the plunge.
At first I had no idea what I would sell, but knew that I had always loved all things paper. I was the kid that got a stationery set with stickers, but would never use it because it was too pretty. Being a full time designer for a magazine, I really went into it as more of a hobby and had no idea that it would turn into what it has. I would have to say though that in the last 6 months or so I started to get serious about it and really had high hopes of quitting my design job and focusing full time on Nella. I had only been in business a little over a year when I took the plunge. Having been the latest victim of the recession and cutbacks, I was really forced into running Nella full time a smidge sooner than I had hoped, but I am a firm believer of the whole sink or swim mentality.
Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
As I said above, I really jumped into it feet first. It wasn’t until after I started making sales that I realized I should probably look into getting the proper licenses, etc. and start saving money for the following tax season. Luckily, I was able to get in contact with several wonderful fellow Etsians who gave me fantastic advice on how to go about doing things the right way and also sharing with me some of their mistakes. The Etsy blog articles were also a big help and vital resource for me. I also just recently sat down with my first ever CPA and it was a big eye opener for me. I highly recommend doing so if you think that having your own business is something you are really serious about. For me, this has really been a learn-as-you-go kind of experience, but so far so good.

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
There are several things that have worked well for me. One is getting my name out there. Word of mouth is vital and can really help with sales in the long run. Blog features have also helped with sales a great deal. I recommend compiling a list of favorite blogs and contacting them. Introduce yourself and your product and they just might do a write up on you. One of the highlights of this past year was having the honor of being featured in Mary Englebreit’s Home Companion magazine! It was a case of sheer luck, as I was lucky enough to be spotted by their style editor. Nothing beats national exposure! I am still getting business from that feature months later.
My best marketing tip is something very, very simple. Posting items throughout the day will help you gain exposure and keep you at or near the top of each category. Experimenting with this has really helped me. After a while a pattern will emerge and you can begin to see what times are best to post.
What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
In the past I have had the opportunity to run ads in local publications. It really didn’t churn up any business for me.
Walk us through your typical workday.
One great perk of being your own boss is that every day is different! I generally separate my days into design days and shipping days.
- On an average design day I usually start out by checking emails and writing down any orders that I may have gotten overnight.
- I will then spend time emailing anyone that I received convos from.
- I usually do a glance over the Paper Goods category of Etsy to see what has posted and then determine which items I would like to re-post.
- After posting, I get down to designing either existing orders or a new design that might have been percolating overnight.
- Time for breakfast! After a quick bowl of cereal and a 10-minute visit with the ladies of The View, I am back to designing and printing.
- I usually take a break in the early afternoon to run any errands that I might need to do or even go for a quick run! (Ah, the joys of being your own boss.)
- More item posts!
- Then mid to late afternoon and evening usually have me prepping and packaging orders to go out the next shipping day.
- And if I can muster up any more creative flow after that, I will go over any new designs I have in the works.
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
The freedom to do whatever, whenever I like. I am enjoying the thought that I can take off whenever I like and not have to run it by anyone! Go to the beach on a Tuesday? Sure! Not having to put up with corporate rules and regulations is nice too. I can wear jeans as much as I want! For me, the perks outweigh anything else. I don’t mind working alone; in fact, I find that I flourish in doing so and really produce better results. The only thing I somewhat miss are the events that I used to go to with my creative team.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
I would have listened to my friend's urging and done it sooner! I am a person that likes to be prepared, so I think I really did everything the right way the first go round. Advice I would give to someone looking to take the leap is to plan, plan, plan. Try and start it out just as a side gig for a while to see if you can really make a go of it. And talk to people in the know. A CPA. Fellow Etsy shop owners, etc. Also, BE PATIENT...success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process, and one that cannot be rushed no matter how anxious you are! I am still learning this after a year!
What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
GROW. GROW. GROW. I hope to continue to get my name out there and share my products with as many folks as I can. I want to stay positive and focused and to continue to dream big! After all, this one came true and maybe if I am lucky, I will even get one of my products featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things one day. Oprah, call me. 
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I would like to give a big thank you to the entire Etsy team for making dreams come true for lots of people during these tough economic times. Keep up the good work!
Please join Elizabeth for a follow-up Question and Answer session this Tuesday, March 31st, 2009 at 3pm EDT in the Auditorium room of the Virtual Labs (the VL schedule is magically in your local time). See you there!
You can find some of our previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.
| Tags | Columbia, custom, invitations, Mother's Day, nelladesigns, Paper Goods, personalized, quit your day job, sellers, selling, South Carolina, success story, Weddings |
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159 comments Login to add your own!
StephanieFizer
your shop is so very lovely! thanks for sharing your story and congrats on taking the big plunge :)
KalliopeJewelry
Charming work! Best wishes for continued success Elizabeth, and thanks for sharing your story!
maiziedesigns
What an inspiring story. Thanks for sharing and good luck to you!
siennaorlando
Another, wonderfully positive story. Thanks for the advice!
sherrytruitt
Continued success to you, Elizabeth. You have a great style that sets you apart.
EJPcreations
Such a great article! I dearly love mondays just now just so I can read the quit your day job articles.
ScottieinaCanoe
Lovely work and a great story. Very practical advice. Thank you!
danamariejewelers
Thank you for such a great interview and the great advice! I am new and still trying to get my name out and getting a little frustrated!! Best wishes and continued success always!
wanderingmoon
Inspiring! And full of good advice. Thank you so much for sharing your story Elizabeth!
jewelalchemy
congratulations!! lovely stuff, I am looking at the exact same notebook (pink/green stripe) that's on your desk!
Hey Oprah, call me too :)
baconsquarefarm
Lovely shop and another great success story~ Dream big, the sky's the limit, Who knows Oprah's favorite things as well~!
adorablekido
Your paper goods are lovely! And your advice for a new Etsy like me is helpful. Thanks a ton!
MyJunkyTrunk
I loved this story! So inspiring. Congrats on all of your success!
SleepDreamPlay
what a positive read. She really does have a great product.
PipocaHandmade
Nelladesigns, your shop is gorgeous! Congratulations on your success. I have you hearted for special occasions now...your prints are perfect!
PaperMango
Thanks for featuring someone from the "paper goods" category. I was beginning to think the only people that could make it full time were jewelers and other high ticket item artists.
artwithallie
What an inspiration you are Elizabeth to a new Etsy seller like myself. You go girl!
She didn't think she could do it...but she could!
THIMBLEandACORN
Great interview! I love love the botanical and floral prints!
Lydiaandpugs
What a great role model! Love your stuff! Someone to definitely look up too! :)
zombuki
I always love the tips :3 and your work is lovely! The colors are so bright and clean on the ones with silhouettes :3
bunnyboutique
I constantly love to feel a part of a larger group of similar aspiring individuals when I read these articles. I'm so thankful for etsy who provides the vehicle for all of us to pursue our dream day jobs :)
lilyandlou
I have been a big fan of this shop for a while now!!!Great designs!
AlwaysChic
I actually saw your items when I was browsing online about a month ago, and I am so excited to see that Etsy decided to write an article about you. I have had a successful website off of Etsy, and I currently run a successful jewelry business but I look forward to the day when I have a successful Etsy shop! Bravo to you!
nelladesigns
Thanks to everyone for such wonderful comments..Etsy sellers are the best! :)
jenglo
Wow! Incredibly helpful advice from an Etsy pro! Thanks so much. :)
Yoursewsweet
For someone who is new this was very inspiring for me. You said things dont happen over night. That ia something I need to remember because I get to anxious. I appreciate all your words of wisdom..Thank You!!!
fatcrowpress
Another inspiring story! This is one of my favorite series, I can't wait to write my success story!
PaperAdventures
I agree, as a small new shop, I'm also anxious for that first sale, lol! But the article is calming and helpful at the same time, thanks :)
bbbennyandthejet
What a fantastic desk-space! I love seeing everyones work area on these features.. *grin*.. congrats on making it all happen!
ScamperingScotties
I LOVE this shop! This is such an inspiration to everyone hoping to one day quit their day job and just run their shop full time!
4TheSparrowsNest
Gorgeous work!! Great advice, Elizabeth. You're inspirational for us all; I love what you said about being patient too and working hard towards your goals!!
twofloridagirls
I love your shop. Thanks for sharing your story! So inspiring! I think this year Oprah's Favorite Things should all be handmade! :)
MyWisteriaCottage
Aways love adive on how to "Quit the day job" Seems that there is a common theme of beleive in yourself from ETSYs. Their friends and family saw it before they do. PLEASE FAMILY,TELL ME TO GO AHEAD! Anyway,nice article.
ArtFromTheHeartBySue
I loved your article! Having a positive outlook and determination is key and a great attitude! Thanks so much for your insight...
rejenerate
I'm sure Oprah is googling for your phone number now Elizabeth :)
Jenifersfamilyjewels
Thank you for sharing yet another inspirting story marymary!
BaysideBoutique
Thank you for the interview and the tips, very inspiring!!!
SidonieRicat
Very nice designs Elizabeth!!! Loved that interview, great REAL story…
voleurdebijoux
Fabulous article!! Thank you for sharing your story with us. :)
LemonLollipop
Your desk itself in an inspiration!
Congratulations on your success!!!
glutamatedesign
Thanks for being inspiring and sharing your story with us!
sandali
You have an amazing shop -- really fun & exciting !! Awesome article -- thanx for sharing your story with us -- always great to hear other people's stories ;)
saraaires
I just love this chronicle... Everyday Etsy makes me want to be a better crafter, and dream all about quiting my own dayjob... thanks for sharing and encouraging us all!
Lovelly designs Elizabeth!
themagpiesdaughter
I love this shop and this lady. So inspiring and really lovely. I have a big grin on my face after reading. ;)
Shroompiloop
Elizabeth -- your work is beautiful & your story inspirational !! Looking forward to taking those steps myself ;)
jeannesu
It is refreshing to hear someone say they like to work alone. There is so much pressure to be social all the time. Enjoying your own company in a productive way is nice.
KatWings
that's so awsome! congrats on taking the plunge and making it with your own business! i love quit your day job articales!
easelarts
Love your things! Still hoping to take the plunge myself one day and that might be coming sooner with my contract ending in two months. Thanks for the inspiration.
worksandfinds
Great article, fabulous seller. So inspiring. I love these "quit your day job" articles.
jenniferdennispotter
Beautiful work and great story. Thanks for all of the details of the schedule. Time management can be a challenge when working from home and I think I need to write out a general schedule for myself. Congrats on quitting your day job!
MossRoseDesigns
Thank you for showing us how it can all come together!!
KJoannRussell
The silhouettes are adorable. They take me back many years to school bulletin boards I created with intricate black silhouettes cut out with scissors! Thanks for sharing advice from your experiences starting a shop.
wristcandycreations
Beautiful designs! I just love the colors you use and the overall look of your shop...very friendly, very inviting and beyond adorable! Congrats and thanks for sharing some tips on your success! Best wishes.
klacustomcreations
beautiful work, I saw some of her items in the gift guides and they surely caught my eye.
HISSIFITS
Very inspiring and I do love your creations! Keep up the great work!
elisasherejewelry
I love these features! Really nice work and I agree, working for yourself is the best.
plumesami
Wow Great to see a success story. I think the economy has hit everything pretty hard but it is inspiring to see there is light through Etsy!
Smooches
Steph
analoukopoulos
I really wish I can do that, quit my day job....
Your items are beautiful
sancuary
Been there and done that, if only this article came out sooner, i would not have had to dig so hard. Great article!
TDavio
Very nice stuff! I'm still dreaming of the day i quit my day job (I hope my boss doesn't read this ;)
formandfunktion
I love your designs and attitude! Thanks for some great tips for new Etsy shops!
cloud9designstudio
inspiring story! great shop! love the "you are my sunshine" print. i want that for my son's room! :)
http://cloud9designstudio.etsy.com
http://cloud9design.wordpress.com
http://cloud9emporium.wordpress.com
apillustration
Thank you so much for the inspiration! I can't wait to get started working for myself!!!
dogwooddesignsstudio
Very inspiring & fun to hear all the success. keep up the good work.
artbytrudy
Elizabeth......I just jointed last weekend..reading your words came at a perfect time!
EstherMalka
From a brand new Etsy shop, thanks for your share!! Very inspiring!! Check out my shop and tell me what you think.
christinenorton
Really good advice and inspiration! Thanks for sharing your story!
ovgilliesdesigns
Quite informative article. Thanks a lot for sharing it!
raincrowgalleries
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful and inspiring story. Blessings!
magpieandbutton
A wonderful interview... and what a beautiful shop!
Good luck Elizabeth :)
lucywallis
I love the 'quit your day job' features, and yours was no exception!
Thank you for sharing.
Lucy x
Franche
Thank you so much for your fantastic story! Now, if we could all make our dream come true!
ilovebetty
this is so great! i'm beyond jealous! i love this feature too, it gives the rest of us so much hope. thanks, please keep them coming!
cajunrosedesigns
Jealous!!!!One day I plan to leave the world of bank auditing and to what I really love full time. Congrats!!!
colbyjune
Very jealous! I guess it helps to be consistent. I posted a few things and felt discouraged because there is so much on etsy. Great to know you need to be posting multiple times daily. Thanks!
MostlyLulu
Just joined Etsy today and your story is very inspiring. Keep up the good work!!
highaltitudeweavers
Hi,
After reading your story,I was very inspired,and immediately joined Etsy to open my home based business.Thanks for the push I needed!!
imajenn
Your stuff is great and I hope to make my shop as succesful as yours very soon!
jewelsbyjoani
totally a NEWBIE. and as I have been looking around etsy for advice, and particularly how to do this......I found Nell. great motivator for me.
p38flygirl
I am a newbie..Not sure I have my niche yet..But am working on a line of fun childrens clothing that is affordable and fun..So be watching..I will probably post new dresses next week
I am open for any advice that I can get..thanks
vivilian
such a great story. love it
vivilian.etsy.com
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FashionTouch
Very inspiring article! Thank youf ro sharing your story with us. Wishing you all the best success!!!
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