:: Oct 22 :: From Hobby To Wholesaling Wrap :: Art Bites Forum Q&A

For those who have always dreamed of selling their handmade wares in a shop or gallery, last Saturday's Q&A  session provided valuable insight to help them on their crafty ways from Hobby to Wholesaling.

 

 There were also many emerging and established artists and crafters who not only learned some extra tips and tricks from the panelists but had the opportunity to ask questions and share their experiences too.

Super assistant Teneale took notes throughout the day on her trusty vintage typewriter and added them to the the BrisStyle Indie "Tree of Knowledge" for all to take noted from.

Nicole from Collecting Feathers held court with her colourful and down to earth experiences about when she first started out wholesaling.

Amanda from Hungry Designs explained how wholesaling has given her more freedom and time to illustrate, create, and develop her  unique range.

Belinda from Sybella shared her experiences about selling "bespoke" items and the importance of pricing "one of a kind wares" accordingly.

Mel from Kimono Reincarnate captivated everyone including the panelists with her wealth of information from her full time crafting practices and trade show experiences.

  Kellie Christie gave very practical advice about pricing items which involve salvaged or recycled/ vintage components and how to evolve that range into a signature style of your own.

 The vibrant Vicki from in.cube8tor gave valuable advice from a retailers perspective as well as how  their gallery make it super easy for both customers and artists alike.

Delicious morning Tea :: Indie Cupcakes by Tanz

 
10 TOP TIPS to get you inspired:
1)  When working out how to price an item, take into account: materials, research
for materials/ designs, prototypes, consulting time, time taken to drive to your
stockists, all your packaging and merchandising materials, photography etc.

2) Selling your wares is all about building relationships and there’s nothing more
important than establishing sound relationships with any party selling your
wares. These relationships need to be nurtured and clear lines of
communication right from the start are paramount.

3) Another benefit of consigning is that often you have control over your displays
therefore experimenting with a different look for every story you create.

4)  Ensure you obtain and understand a written consignment agreement & don’t be afraid to
negotiate.

5) Stay in contact with the retailer to ensure your stock levels are at their optimum.

6)  Simple Wholesaling Formula:  Cost Price (Labor + Materials Cost) x 2 = Your Wholesale Price
Wholesale Price x 2 = Retail Price.

7)  Branding is very important to both potential stockists and customers alike. Some people will
even notice your name, logo, font or business card before your actual product ! From a stockists
point of view, tags are extremely important.

8)  If other people are making something similar then take the time to think about
how you can put your own twist on it – make it truly yours in your own unique
way.

9) When meeting with a potential retailer dress in a way that you want your product to be looked at. Your own personal presentation is paramount as it reflects the quality and energy of your work.

10) Love what you do and look at every experience as an evolution to a better and stronger business.


Most of importantly embrace other crafters and the crafting communities that you are involved in and continue to build relationships that will support and inspire you!

Thank you to the panelists, the wonderful and creative audience and to all the team from Brisbane City Council's Creative Communities.
 
Our last BrisStyle Info Session for the year is being hosted next Saturday and is set to be a real hoot.
 
STOP PRESS: More Seats have just been released so to secure to secure your place please email: brisstylemarketing@gmail.com  so we can lock you in!!!


Here are all the details:

 :: NOV 5 :: Social Media :: From Etsy and Beyond ::
with BrisStylette Jess Van Den from *Bespoke Zine* and Epheriell

 It's hard to ignore the popularity of social media in today's competitive marketplace. With so many social media outlets available, it can be hard to know where to begin and how to make it work for any emerging indie craft business.

If you would like to know how to get started with social media and how to make it work for you, then this information session will answer all of your questions.

Presented by top blogger and social networker, Jess Van Den - from Epheriell Designs - participants will be sure to come away with lots of tips and tricks to kick start their success with social networking from handmade websites such as Etsy, to facebook, twitter, blogs ...and beyond.
Presenter: BrisStylette Jess Van Den from Bespoke Zine and Epheriell
What: BrisStyle Information Session
When: Saturday, November 5, 2011, 9.30am for a 10am start til 12pm
Where: St Augustine's Church Hall, Racecourse Rd Hamilton
Cost: FREE

BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL : email:: brisstylemarketing@gmail.com 

Looking forward to seeing you all on Saturday!