Always strive to improve
Since launching the shop in January, I’ve been researching non-shop on ways to improve my products. One of the biggest hurdles was making sure I was starting my business off on the right foot, legally speaking. I had to come to accept that some things in this world are just destined to be too complicated for me, and are therefore best left to the professionals. I hope to talk more in the future about the process of starting my small business so I can help others, but as I am still very much in the throes of it, I think I’ll wait a bit longer before I start seeing things in hindsight.
Additionally, I’ve been in the process of upgrading the quality of my current product line, a process that has proved to be a bit more gradual than I would like, just based on the time I have available outside of my 9-to-5 job. I started off by upgrading my process of making the die-cut stickers. If you order anything from the new collection, launching on April 18th, you might notice the stickers have a new and improved feel to them. That’s because all my new stickers (including re-stocked versions of stickers from previous launches) now have a clear protective layer over them, giving a more satin-like finish and giving the sticker more structural integrity and durability overall. They are still not 100% waterproof, but are already a huge improvement from my original glossy stickers from the first 2 launches.
Finally, let’s talk tote. The original tote bags that I launched were smaller, and while they were of decent quality. I originally purchased them on Amazon, but since then, I’ve been doing a lot of research on where to buy bulk items for heat pressing vinyl. The NEW & improved totes are much larger, measuring in at 15” x 15”, which means bigger and better designs to come. I plan on reformatting my original tote bag designs to fit on these new and improved ones, but I’m also launching some never before seen designs as well!
In summary, everything about launching and running my own business has been a learning experience. At times, it’s reduced me to tears, and others, it’s filled me with such joy that I can barely contain my excitement. I admittedly spend hours of my work day at my 9-to-5 job fantasizing about being able to take this online business full-time. I need to constantly remind myself that there is no rush, and to take things slow. I have SO many ideas for the future of this shop, but right now, I’m focused on improving my artistic skill set, gaining confidence and insight in my business skills, and creating the foundation of my brand so I can build on it for the years to come.
Sincerely,
Amanda
