Etsy Seller Interview with Jess of FatPomPoms

How FatPomPoms 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?

Hello! I am Jess, the proud owner of Fat Pom Poms! We offer a wide range of Pom Pom-related products, including earrings, headbands, and DIY Kits, among others. I embarked on my Etsy selling journey when I discovered my passion for making pom-poms. Initially, I was creating them in the comfort of my bedroom, but as demand grew among friends who wanted to purchase them as earrings or headbands, I realized that setting up a shop was a viable option. In 2015, I released my first pom-pom collection, featuring a headband that continues to be a popular item today. My aim was to craft unique and timeless wearable art pieces that spark conversations.

Over time, I have refined my skills and carefully selected the finest and most vibrant yarns for my pom-poms. All of my products are meticulously handmade in my studio, located in Margate, UK. However, I recently introduced a brand new product, The Giant Pom Pom Maker, which required assistance from a UK-based laser cutter. Together, we created a one-of-a-kind design. Upon receiving the cut components, I apply varnish in my studio before sending them worldwide in their custom packaging. By incorporating quality materials and innovative ideas, I strive to offer exceptional pom-pom creations that bring joy to customers worldwide.

Favorite items

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

Choosing a favorite product is a challenge because each item signifies a different aspect of my long-lasting journey. Among them, the pom-pom crowns hold a special place in my heart due to their stunning beauty and the abundance of creations during the summer season. Another noteworthy product is the Tinsel Pom Pom Earrings, which played a pivotal role in boosting my shop's popularity after a pair went semi-viral during the festive season of 2017. I have since expanded the range, having crafted countless pairs to date. Lastly, the Pom Pom DIY Kits have allowed me to spread the joy of pom-pom making far and wide. Currently, the range consists of 13 kits, with more exciting additions planned for the future. What better gift can one offer than the opportunity to learn a new and relaxing craft?

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 surprisingly didn’t take long for my first sale, as it was through Instagram! Utilizing social media was a natural step for me in marketing my shop, and it didn't take long to realize its immense value. Over the past 9–10 years, I have religiously leveraged social media as a powerful tool to introduce new audiences to my shop. In the early days of posting on Instagram, my approach was organic and unpolished. However, this authenticity seemed to resonate with people as I shared my journey of improving my pom-pom-making skills and developing my unique style. Furthermore, I diligently keep up with SEO, incorporating relevant keywords and ensuring that my listings are visually appealing in order to attract a wide audience.

Managing FatPomPoms

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 am the sole manager of the shop, taking care of every aspect from photography to responding to messages, editing listings, and making adjustments to the shopfront as needed. While I do utilize SEO websites like ERANK, Marmalead, and Sale Samurai, I don't keep up with them strictly, as I’d never get anything else done! To simplify the shipping process, I rely on Royal Mail Click and Drop, which is seamlessly connected to my Etsy shop. With the aid of a thermal printer (which has proven to be a game changer), I conveniently generate shipping labels. Additionally, my boyfriend graciously assists by dropping off all the parcels at our local sorting center on his way to work.

The future of FatPomPoms

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

My aspirations revolve around expanding the reach of my Pom Pom Kits, infecting even more individuals with the joy of pom poms. It would be immensely gratifying to witness my kits gracing the shelves of numerous stores and attaining household recognition. Furthermore, I have a deep desire to collaborate with my favorite brands, using the medium of pom-poms to craft compelling content for them. Given the success of some of my videos, which have gone viral over the past year, I believe I possess the ability to flourish as a content creator for others as well. And dare I say, I wouldn't hesitate to embrace a book deal? Dreaming big is key!

Advice for new sellers

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

1. To succeed, it's crucial to find a niche that sets you apart.
2. Consistently post on social media, offering glimpses behind the scenes of your shop.
3. Leverage tools like Marmalead to gain insights into SEO strategies and discover the most effective keywords to utilize.
4. Consider investing in a high-quality camera as an initial priority. It was the wisest decision I made nine years ago, using my savings from sales and my day job, and it continues to pay dividends to this day.
5. Rather than imitating others, seek inspiration from sources beyond your niche.
6. Remember, building a loyal customer base takes time, and initial sales may be modest. Patience is key; it took me a year to achieve my first 50 sales.