Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Updated Seller Resources Page


One of the great things about being on the team is that there is an amazing group of people to go to for advice. Here on the Etsy West Michigan blog we want to help, too! That's why a few months ago one of our team leaders, Cathy from JustJaynes, set up the Seller Resources page. This page has recently been updated with more links to info about setting up social media tools, taking great photos, and more.

Here are some links you can find there - How to Effectively Use Social Media, Ten Simple Tips for Success on Twitter, and How to Brighten Your Photos.

What other topics would you like to see in the Seller Resources?

Monday, June 28, 2010

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Team Tag Reminder

Did you know that our team has a team tag? It's "etsywmi team" and if you're a member, you can use it as one of your 14 tags on as many items as you like. Now, why use one of your valuable tags for EtsyWMI? First, it will help to identify you as an Etsy West Michigan team member. Secondly, it will help teammates to find your items to include in team treasuries like this one I made last night.


Treasuries are a great tool for sharing the wonderful pieces our team has to offer. Some treasuries are lucky enough to be selected by admin and be featured on the front page of Etsy resulting in hundreds of views for those featured!


One final reason to use the "etsywmi team" tag is that we promote it! At opening day of the Fulton Street Artisans Market flyers were handed out teaching shoppers how to search for team items on Etsy. We also have a badge which you can add to your blog or as a photo in your listing to help promote our team.

In addition to searching our team tag, you can see our members and their work by checking out our newly updated EtsyWMI Members Blog and our team profile. For starters, be sure to take advantage of being a member of Etsy West Michigan by using our "etsywmi team" tag in your shop on as many items as you like!

Monday, June 21, 2010

Members Monday: Silvine Photography

Time for a new featured member! This week it's Michelle from Silvine Photography.


Tell us a bit about yourself and your shop.
I took many of my photographs while living in and traveling through Europe, Asia and Africa. I loved the different kinds of people I met and the various cultures I experienced. Each one of my photographs is like a candid shot of someone's life in another country. Through my photography I want to erase borders that may exist because of distance, language or misunderstanding. My shop allows me to share different cultures and my experiences with others.

What are you currently working on?
I'm developing a new line of photo greeting cards and travel journals.

   

What do you like to do in your free time outside of your business?
I usually spend my free time brushing up on my languages, cooking or playing tennis.

Where would you like to see your shop and business in a year?
In a year, I'd like to see my clientele grow and be able to enter more events so that I can share my art with a wider range of people.


Where can we find you online and/or locally?
My website is www.silvinedesigns.com. Otherwise you can find me on Facebook or  Twitter. Locally I'll be at the Fulton Street Artisan's Market every Sunday this summer, and in late September I'll be exhibiting at Ottawa Tavern in downtown Grand Rapids for ArtPrize 2010.

Michelle also has a wonderful jewelry shop on Etsy in addition to her photography.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Etsy Craft Party!

This Friday is Etsy's birthday and they're celebrating by inspiring craft parties all over the world! Etsy West Michigan will be hosting a craft party meet-up and everyone is invited.


The party is this Friday, June the 18th, and will be at Schuler Books on 28th Street in Kentwood starting at 8pm. You can RSVP on Facebook or on MeetUp.com. Feel free to bring your camera & crafts to work on and share. Hope to see you there!