I’ve decided to close my online shop. It wasn’t an easy decision, but in the end I felt that moving on was the most positive option.
Over the last year I’ve learnt a lot. The best thing was choosing the stock. I sourced things from small, independent producers, plus a few larger wholesalers. It was such a pleasure getting to know theses wonderful crafts people – there are some really talented makers out there. That was the easy bit.
I have to be honest with you: the hard bit was trying to sell the beautiful things I’d chosen. I could have kept the shop going, but it was only ever going to plod along unless I made some big changes and invested a lot more money into it. Which doesn’t feel like the right path for me at the moment.
I had no illusions about running a shop – I knew it was going to be tough. But I hadn’t realised just how tough. In the end I decided that perhaps the idea of a portfolio career – where you have a finger in lots of pies – wasn’t such a good idea after all. A bit like being a jack of all trades, but master of none.
A big part of my heart lies with writing. I can still have a shop, but it’ll be one full of words.
I really want to get back to basics with this blog, to fill it with beautiful and useful content. And I want to become a published writer. I hope the two will dovetail together nicely. I need and want to earn a living at it.
Thank you for all your messages of support this week – they mean a lot! Maybe you could help me out by letting me know in the comments below the kind of posts you’d like to see more of? I’m thinking about blogging advice, would that be of interest?
Plus, don’t forget there’s an amazing 50% off everything in my shop until it closes at the end of the month. Use the code FINAL50 at the checkout to receive your discount!
I am So very sorry to hear that your shop is closing, I loved getting updates. I’ve saved one purchase, a brooch, for my friend’s birthday next month and only put a flower in a little vintage bottle the other day. I always meant to message you about the vintage house money box I bought – we gave it to my Dad to test if he could open it (he has no common sense so it was very funny). I also have the autumnal necklace which powered me through 2 tough weeks at work. I only discovered you last year so I look forward to keeping in touch with you through the blog.
Oh Natalie, that means so much! It actually made me have a little cry – but in a good way! Thanks for your support xx
So sorry that you’re closing your lovely shop – I adore the bits and pieces you stock and receiving a Marmalade Pie parcel was such a treat.
I’ll be keeping a close eye on your blog and can’t wait to see the next chapter for you!
Beckie xx
That’s so sweet of you to say so Beckie! xx
Hope this big step will work out really well XXXXXX
thanks Ruth!
I wish I had the money to buy the lovely things in your shop. Sorry to hear it is closing. I had my eye on some necklaces and brooches. But I do think you are making the right decision, as I love your blogs and linking blogs and selling needs to be very subtle or it can detract a bit from the message. I think you’re a great writer and you keep me inspired as a mum. I particularly like your blogs about food, homemaking, family life and fashion. Your personality comes shining through in your writing and it gives me ideas and inspiration. I am not quite sure how you make a good living from this kind of work, but I am sure you have the talent to do so. I will be following your next step!
Thanks Anna – that’s so great to hear! Thank you for your kind words xx
Aaah chick. I’m really sorry you’ve had to shut your little shop; but — as an online retailer for many years — I know how hard, and how much investment, you need to put in, in order to make it worthwhile. I ran Mooks Design for years, then when I had the boys I decide I couldn’t commit and wound it down, so the only platform I’m selling my designs on is NOTHS. When I have the time — and money — I’ll resurrect it. It will work well with my blog — I’ll certainly have a great platform to promote myself. FOR FREE!! Which will be a total novelty!! Good luck in your next move. Wishing you every success! xx