The Handmade Business Reimagined By Royce Amy Morales
A
s a conscious, dedicated body-mindspirit indie business, undoubtedly your mission-driven direction is clear. Yet, you’re hesitant to jump in to add handmade products to your inventory mix. Maybe you’re concerned about not getting enough merchandise from a small production source. Or, you may fear that makers won’t be businesslike to work with, or their quality won’t be consistent, licensing regulations or hygiene requirements won’t be met, or you’re simply afraid that you won’t receive your order on time. And, you just might be thinking ‘selling handmade is more trouble than it’s worth.’ If you find yourself feeling some of these apprehensions, brought on by either hearsay or personal experience, hopefully the following words will inspire you to reconsider your decision.
TO BEGIN WITH… Let’s start with some inarguable reasons that carrying handmade is good: It’s innovative, unique and will never be carried in chain stores. Selling handmade helps keep money circulating in your local community as well as the nation. Although the contribution of a single small business to the gross domestic product is minuscule, together it’s responsible for almost half of the private nonfarm gross. Handmade creations are inherently healthier for the environment, consuming far less energy than mass-produced items to make and typically utilizing safer, more eco-friendly materials. Most importantly: Selling handmade can boost your shop’s bottom line since customers appreciate owning one-of-a-kind items. Not enough? It’s seriously good karma to pay it forward by supporting other small businesses and the customers wanting to support yours!
The Good Vibe Edition I November/December 2020 7
