There are also legal requirements that you should keep in mind: an imprint, data protection guidelines and clear return rules are mandatory. “This is not only required by law, but also creates trust among your customers,” emphasizes Jaffé. Many website construction kit and hosting providers offer templates or support in creating them or even warning protection packages. You can also find ready-made privacy policies online - and don't forget that a cookie banner is also mandatory. When you build your website, there are always plugins you can use.
3. From the idea to the signature look
There are thousands of online shops on the Internet and motivated people who sell their homemade items on the Internet. What doesyouto something special? Why are your products different? Whether it's handmade candles or self-crocheted headbands - your product should offer clear added value for your future customers. “Find your niche and stay authentic. This makes it easier to build a loyal target group,” explains Renata Jaffé.
Then let's go to your mood board: What should your customers think when they come to your site? How do you present yourself? Minimalist and in black and white? Eccentric with bright colors and?
4. Present yourself like a professional
Have you decided on an aesthetic? Then you should also implement this in your packaging. “You have already thought about what your product stands for and what makes it unique. Now let these thoughts flow into your design, your color concept and your product descriptions,” recommends Renata Jaffé.
By the way, you don't have to be able to program to set up your own online shop. Since I have often worked with Wordpress myself, I can usually tell at a glance when a website has been created with it: and there really are a lot of them. Wordpress is - like many other providers - a content management system with building blocks where you just move individual blocks back and forth and can easily create your website. The good thing about Wordpress is that there are many plug-ins from developers and you can do a lot yourself even with basic coding knowledge. Other providers like STRATO or Wix make it even easier for you, with an easy interface and support for hosting and domain registration.
“Use your basic concept to choose a design that fits your brand and keep it clear. “Less is often more,” explains Jaffé. “With high-quality photos and clear branding such as a logo or a cool color concept, you ensure recognition value,” she adds.
5. Create visibility: Use the power of social media
“Even the best online shop won’t sell anything if no one can find it,” says Renata
Jaffe. Make sure your website contains relevant keywords that potential customers are looking for. The keyword here is: SEO, i.e. Search Engine Optimization. Your site should be easy to read for search engines so that you are at the top when someone googles “homemade postcards”. If you plan your website using a builder, there is often support here.
In addition, you should not underestimate social media: use platforms like
Instagram, TikTok or Pinterest to further showcase your products.
“Authentic content and a small, preferably personal look behind the scenes
are particularly well received,” recommends Renata Jaffé. Post making-of videos, share
inspiring stories behind your products or show how they are used in everyday life
become.
Don't forget: As easy as it looks on Instagram, videos take a lot of time to create and post-produce. Yes, there are a lot of tools out there, but depending on how perfectionist you are, it might still take a while to get your video good. Work this time into your schedule so that you don't end up overwhelmed.
6. Sell emotions, not just products
Whether it's handmade candles or a self-crocheted headband - people buy because they expect a certain emotion or experience from it. “Package your products lovingly and add a handwritten note – small details like this create a special shopping experience and are more likely to be remembered,” adds Renata Jaffé. When I buy from small businesses, I'm always incredibly happy when my package included a matching tea bag, a small sticker, or some glitter.
