Etsy Seller Interview with Nancy of BuckleupBags

How BuckleupBags 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?

Elevate your style with Canadian upcycled seatbelt bags. Experience the perfect blend of uniqueness and fashion-forward designs that you won't find anywhere else. I began selling in 2017 as a way to show the world what I create. We take an unserviceable item and breathe new life into it. Most seatbelts have been rejected due to a flaw, so we are helping to keep them out of landfills and create something beautiful.

Favorite items

What are your favorite items? What makes these so special? Why do you think these items might be selling well?

My large Jet backpack is by far my favorite item in my shop. It's my most accomplished design, and I'm very proud of it. It sells well because of its uniqueness and functionality. I create my designs to help the user organize all the essentials they need to carry and give them a unique sense of style every day.

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?

It took a few weeks to get that first sale. The first time I heard the "cha-ching" notification, it was so surreal. To have someone want to purchase my creations was such a great experience. Adding items and improving my listing helped keep the sales consistent.

Managing BuckleupBags

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?

I'm a one-woman show. I do everything from social media marketing to shipping and receiving. It's all very time-consuming, but so worth it to have your products all over the world. I use several social media platforms, editing apps, printing software, and wholesale purchasing apps to run my shop effectively. Canada Post is my shipping provider, and it works well for my business.

The future of BuckleupBags

What goals do you have for your shop in the future?

The sky's the limit for my little hobby that turned into a full-time career. I'm always coming up with new designs and colors to keep my products relevant and sought-after. I want to continue to grow as much as I can. It's my passion, and I'm so grateful to create every day.

Advice for new sellers

What’s your advice for a new seller starting an Etsy shop?

My advice to a new seller is to do something you love, but make it uniquely your own to stand out from the crowd. Do your research, reach out for help, and always educate yourself on the current and correct way to market your products. Have fun. It can feel overwhelming at times, but if it's something you truly love, it won't feel like work.