SupplyRiot. The little Etsy shop that has kept me in business for nearly 2 years. But sometimes you have to learn to let things go, and for me, right now, it is that time.
I was able to open shop with a $500 loan from a friend, and from there it really has been a fantastic experience. I've learned a lot about business, marketing, promotion, wholesale purchasing, and so much more. I've connected with so many AMAZING people, more loyal & dedicated customers than I could have hoped for, and some really great friends that I never would have met otherwise.
Lately, however, I've come up against a brick wall that will not allow me to continue this business. At first I was so frustrated and upset and I kept trying to scramble for the resources that I would have needed to keep SupplyRiot afloat. It has taken some time, but I now realize that it needs to sink. SupplyRiot is not where my passion lies. It was a temporary way to make money, and I had a lot of fun. Making money is one thing. I can do that in a lot of ways without spending every waking moment trying to promote a business that does not fulfill my purpose. It is time to work for money, and spend every other waking moment painting and promoting my artwork. THAT is where I belong, and where my energy and time needs to be.
So I want to take a moment to sincerely thank every single person who has come to my little Etsy shop, with a special thanks to those of you who have come back time and again and suggested me to your friends. I can't express how grateful I am to all of you who have supported me in more ways than I can count, from the Etsy Supply Street Team to each new customer and friend. Thank You!
Two final notes:
First, I am leaving the shop open until I sell the remainder of my stock. I can sell each item individually as listed, or if you would like to buy a quantity of things (like all of my washi paper, for example) send me an email or convo and we can work out a deal (yay for deals!).
Finally, I will be offering limited supplies (like ring blanks, for example, and a couple of other relevant items) in my art shop on Etsy. Check out LeaKArts.etsy.com for updates over the coming weeks!
8 comments:
Congrats Lea! I know that sounds weird but seriously it takes a lot of guts to make a change like that & I think it will do you a world of good. Best of luck!
I just closed my supply shop, too. It was a tough decision, but needed to be done!
I know exactly how you feel and am working toward exactly the same thing in a sense. Selling supplies is taking much of my time (and does make money) but I really want to pursue the artistic side of things so I too am seriously destashing and downsizing my life. It may take a while to move all the inventory but I look forward to moving on. Good luck to you Lea! I wish you all the best - in life and in art!
Go Lea! I will give you a hug the next time I see you! A big hug!
I know exactly what you mean - my shop is nearly empty right now cos I need to make more stock - but I'm too busy doing other things! Still, I managed to sneak in an order from you before you close!! What will I do for wahi paper when you are gone!?
Thanks everyone! Becky, that doesn't sound weird--it's so true! Celia! I'll go check my shop! I'm sure there are some other washi sellers on Etsy by now ;) And I know what you mean, too--my art shop needs some serious attention right now! Let's get in gear! :)
Best of luck as you move onto new opportunities! We will miss you at ESST!
Michelle-
awwwww, Lea, I'm so sorry to see you go, but I'm excited for you as you explore this new area of your life. I wish you all the best and hope you have much success doing what you really want to do!! Good luck sweetie!!!
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