Boost Your Candle Business: Etsy vs Own Website Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Background
3. The Decision to Switch from Etsy to Own Website
4. The Benefits of Having Your Own Website
   1. Customization and Creative Freedom
   2. Email Collection and Marketing
   3. Cost Comparison: Fees on Shopify vs Etsy
5. Considering Reopening the Etsy Shop
6. The Importance of Repeat Customers
7. Tips for Collecting Emails
8. Exploring Shopify Apps
9. Conclusion
10. FAQs

Should You Sell on Your Own Website or Etsy?

As an entrepreneur in the candle making industry, the decision to choose between selling on your own website or a platform like Etsy can be a challenging one. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of each option and help you make an informed choice.

Introduction

Selling candles has become a passion for many, and as the market continues to grow, it's essential to find the right platform to reach potential customers. Two popular options are selling on your own website or utilizing the Etsy platform. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, and understanding them will help you determine the best fit for your business.

Background

If you're new to the candle making business, let's provide a brief overview of the two platforms. Etsy is an online marketplace where individuals can open a shop and sell handmade or vintage items. It attracts a large customer base actively seeking unique and handcrafted products. On the other hand, having your own website gives you complete control over your brand and allows for more customization and creativity.

The Decision to Switch from Etsy to Own Website

Many candle makers start their journey on Etsy due to its built-in customer base and ease of use. However, there often comes a point where considering opening your own website becomes a tempting option. This decision may arise due to a desire for more control, better profit margins, or expanding business opportunities.

The Benefits of Having Your Own Website

1. Customization and Creative Freedom

Having your own website allows you to unleash your creativity and fully customize your online store. Unlike Etsy, where you're limited to their design templates, you can experiment with different layouts, add unique features, and create a visually appealing storefront that's a true reflection of your brand.

2. Email Collection and Marketing

One significant advantage of a website is the ability to collect customer emails. By building a subscriber list, you can engage in email marketing campaigns, providing customers with updates, promotions, and exclusive discounts. This direct communication channel is invaluable for fostering loyalty and encouraging repeat purchases.

3. Cost Comparison: Fees on Shopify vs Etsy

When comparing costs, it's crucial to consider transaction fees and monthly expenses. While Etsy charges a transaction fee for each sale, platforms like Shopify have a monthly subscription fee but lower transaction fees. It's essential to calculate these costs based on your sales volume to determine which option is more cost-effective for your business.

Considering Reopening the Etsy Shop

While embracing the advantages of having your own website, it's worth considering reopening your Etsy shop as well. Expanding your sales channels can expose your products to a broader customer base. With proper optimization and synchronization between both platforms, you can tap into Etsy's organic traffic while still maintaining control over your brand.

The Importance of Repeat Customers

One crucial aspect of running a successful candle business is securing repeat customers. These customers not only generate consistent revenue but also tend to spend more per transaction. With a combination of marketing strategies, utilizing email lists, and customer engagement, you can increase customer loyalty and enhance long-term profitability.

Tips for Collecting Emails

An effective way to build a customer email list is by offering incentives and opportunities for customers to subscribe. Whether it's through pop-ups on your website, participating in local events, or creating irresistible lead magnets, such as free guides or exclusive discounts, actively collecting emails ensures you have a pool of interested customers to target with your marketing efforts.

Exploring Shopify Apps

Shopify offers a vast selection of applications that can enhance your website's functionality and improve the overall customer experience. From inventory management to social media integration, these apps provide endless possibilities for enhancing your store's features and optimizing its performance. Exploring and testing various apps can greatly benefit your candle business.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to sell on your own website or Etsy requires careful consideration of various factors. While Etsy provides a ready-made platform with a built-in audience, having your own website offers more customization and control, along with the ability to collect customer emails for email marketing campaigns. The choice ultimately depends on your business goals, creativity, and long-term vision.

FAQs

Q: Is it possible to sell on both a personal website and Etsy at the same time? A: Yes, many entrepreneurs choose to sell on both platforms to maximize their reach and exposure.

Q: Can I integrate my personal website with Etsy to streamline operations? A: Yes, there are apps and plugins available to connect your personal website with Etsy, ensuring seamless updates and inventory synchronization.

Q: Which platform provides better profit margins? A: Profit margins can vary based on factors such as transaction fees, sales volume, and operational costs specific to your business. It's advisable to carefully calculate costs and analyze profit potentials based on your unique circumstances.