How AdornedbyNicole got started
Introduce your Etsy shop and tell us your story. How did you begin and decide on what to sell on Etsy, and how do you create your products?
I’m Nicole. My love of sewing began by watching my mom make clothes for us four girls when we were little and hearing my grandmother talk about things she used to sew. I began selling on Etsy because I was getting asked to make things for people and wanted a more structured way to sell. I said, "I’ll make one skirt and list it and see how it goes." It sold within a month, so I started listing more.
What inspired me to make made-to-order clothing was my experience shopping at typical clothing stores. I’m tall and curvy, and most standard sizes don’t fit every part of me, especially when it comes to dresses and skirts. That’s why I started sewing in high school—to make clothing that fits not only my size but my personality and is feminine, colorful, and chic.
Favorite items
What are your favorite items? What makes these so special? Why do you think these items might be selling well?
My favorite products are all of them because they are each unique and handmade with care. I love the midi skirt because of its versatility and pockets. I love the high-waisted dresses because they are retro-chic and unique. I love my digital sewing patterns because they encourage other creatives to make their own designs. My items sell because they are pretty, timeless, unique, and well-made. The quilted coat is my most recent favorite.
Getting sales on Etsy
How long did it take for you to earn your first sale and how do you currently attract customers to your Etsy shop?
My first sale was a pleated skirt! I made the sale within the first month of listing it on Etsy. It was a big motivator for me to keep selling my designs and expand to dresses, quilts, and patterns. I attract customers to my shop via social media (Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest, all @adornedbynicole) and by nurturing relationships with previous customers.
Managing AdornedbyNicole
How do you manage your shop? Are you running solo or do you have any team members? What tools or services do you use to run your shop and how do you handle fulfillment?
It’s just me. I am transparent with my clients when setting expectations about lead times and shipping and shipping. I have a degree in accounting, which helps me better organize and manage the ins and outs of running a small business. I don’t get everything right all the time, but I am constantly learning and improving every week. I also have the help of my husband and family when I need it.
The future of AdornedbyNicole
What goals do you have for your shop in the future?
I would love to add more sewing patterns and digital products. Continue to build relationships with my current clients and nurture relationships with new ones. To keep making beautiful, quality garments that are unique, fit you well, are sustainable in slow fashion, and help add more color to everyone’s wardrobe!
Advice for new sellers
What’s your advice for a new seller starting an Etsy shop?
Communicate clearly with customers and help set their expectations. Be honest about what services you offer and what you don’t.
Don’t base your prices off the prices of others; looking at others' prices is a good reference, but remember that you are selling a unique product. Know your costs and set your prices accordingly. Take the time to calculate materials, overhead, labor, labels, packaging, and profits. Research suppliers to get the best price, quality, and customer service. Remember to pay yourself. When you make an item, keep track of how much time it takes and how much it costs to make; this will help you set prices and realistic lead times. Make what you love and make it well. Keep improving your craft. Pay your taxes.
Some sellers really get inspired by hearing numbers. Feel free to share these if you like.
Question: What is your average profit margin?
Answer: 25%
