The SPS Team is an international team of artists, artisans and creators working together to promote their finest work!
Every week we are happy and proud to introduce a member of our outstanding team! They come from different backgrounds, countries, cultures and artistic horizons, but they all have one thing in common : they are driven, creative, dynamic, and dedicated to their Etsy business and to their team, SPST!
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Today we are featuring Cindy of PetticoatsPlus, who offers scrumptious vintage fashions and antique collectibles in her Etsy shop. From vintage women's and retro men's clothes to collectibles, jewelry and ephemera, a look around her shop will make you feel as if you are visiting the set of Mad men!
Since Cindy was a columnist for over 2 years, we felt we should give her the floor, be as it may, and have her write her own shop feature.
"I always refer to my upbringing, as "cutting my teeth" in the antique and collectible world. This is due to my mother's love of all things salvageable ...turning that "sow's ear into a silk purse".
PetticoatsPlus is part of my progression as a life-long learner. Though I had sold antique and collectibles for 25 years, I knew nothing about clothes. I was inspired by a desire to rescue these oldies, when working part-time at a local thrift ...one of my many post-retirement jobs!
The name, PetticoatsPlus, comes from my love of marketing. I wanted a name that would stick in the mind. Alliteration is key. The "Plus" was added to "Petticoats", as it left my door open to include collectibles with vintage clothes.
PetticoatsPlus has been opened two years. During this time, I have learned to be much more selective. I realize the value of a label to authenticate clothing and try to purchase accordingly. I believe it gives buyers confidence when seeing the label pictured with each listing.
Models drive my shop. Staging clothes with models makes my clothing come alive ...gives the buyer more interest in browsing and spending time in my shop. I have a large group of lovely models. Photography is also part of my life-long learning agenda. Working with people gives me great joy!
My biggest challenge is finding vintage stock. In this particular area, vintage clothing is not considered valuable. Auctioneers are more than likely to pitch old clothing. Estate sales are rare. My work day is full of hunting, washing, repairs, photography, listing, and promoting. It takes true passion to successfully work for yourself. If I find myself burning out, I simply go without computer access! That isn't hard to do in my locale!
Teams are basically why I've chosen Etsy as a selling venue. I have met lovely friends here. All are like-minded, though we may offer different products. I believe teams are essential to find me posting to threads morning and night!
My best advice to new sellers is, "continue to evolve". You will learn firsthand the importance of photography, pricing, time management and a good team fit. Don't be afraid to change ...switch it up!
I'm taking my own advice on that last comment. I'll be adding more collectibles to PetticoatsPlus. These "sold out" during my first year on Etsy! Plus, I don't have to leave my house to find them!!! "
The SPS Team would like to extend our thanks to Cindy for sharing her valuable expertise with us. Her hard work and passion have definitely paid off, as her shop has many sales to happy customers.
It was so much fun looking at all the fashion and collectibles at PetticoatsPlus.
Give yourself a smile and visit PetticoatsPlus vintage boutique today!
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If you are a member of the SPS Team and wish to be featured on our Team Blog in the series of articles 'Meet our Team Members' do not hesitate to contact our Leader, Natalie!
PRESENTED TO YOU BY OUR LEADER:
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Our shop offers shabby inspired items that are time loved vintage, hand crafted, or skillfully revived. Treasures for the home, special events or gift giving can all be found in our aisles! For an added bit of salty charm, we also feature crafted nautical items. Surround yourself with a cozy feel with something from North and South Shabby!
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Interesting interview, Cindy. Your photos are great! I've tried to show my jewelry on models, but it doesn't work out for me. Yours DO add a lot of interest, just like you say. I especially love your banner! The colors are good; the design is pleasing, balanced and the rippling fabric is enticing! I'm struggling with my own banner.
ReplyDeleteGreat fun visiting your shop!
Diana
Thanks, Diana. Photography is a constant learning process. I do shoot much of my jewelry without models. I find that using fotofuze.com really makes the product pop with a bright white background.
DeleteI've often thought of changing my banner, so thanks for the kudos there. It is a clipped shot from one of my first great finds. I used photoscape.com to size it according to Etsy standards. Best of everything with your shop! - Cindy