How well did YOUR business do this Christmas?
dazzler Dec 20, 2007 12:45 PMHello.....Happy Holidays, Forum readers!
I have an on-line business. On 12/24, it will be 3 years old.
Q. I was wondering how everyone did overall with their business this Christmas season and what is your product/service?
I am in the handcrafted, 1-of-a-kind jewelry (necklace) business. My business is very personable and I am proud to present "affordable" luxury as a designer. I only use Swarovski crystals, gem stones, fancy glass and quality materials. My packaging is attractive and I am very proud of my work and business. I can't compete with the Wal-Marts and K-Marts and mega outlet malls, however...but my business is classy and respectable and I am very proud of it. In 3 years, I think I have accomplished a lot for an independent designer.
For me, this Christmas season was very disappointing. I know Christmas is not supposed to be about money and profit and it is truly the season of "giving"....but believe me I am extremely overly generous and always reward those that are good to me. But, the harsh reality is that I did not have one single sale the entire month of December, so far. In the 3 years of being in business, this last year was tough and produced the least amount of revenue. I was hoping each year sales would stay the same or get even better. I had a mid-November order and then 2 orders Thanksgiving week and then that was it. ZIP, ZERO, NADA. It was like everyone deserted me for the grand finale event of the year!!! Ha Ha. I am a bit speechless and a little hurt. I try so hard not to be. I have a couple hundred people on my Mailing List, a great clientele, many stars own my work (see my Celebrity page) and customers and VIP's. I've been featured in magazines, my pieces were worn on TV (see my BUZZ). I do banner ads and tried Google Ad words. I really do an outstanding job of networking and communicating. I also send out monthly emails to those on my Mailing List. Everyone says they love my newsy updates but the bottom line is nobody is BUYING. The majority of people are not putting their money where there mouth is for one reason or another. Ouch, that hurts. I just feel like if I can't sell for the busiest shopping season of the year, when will I?
My website is: www.kennethfron.com
I'm hoping to hear from other business owners. Hopefully, there will be some comfort in sharing with others that may be feeling the same. I know it's important to stay positive and focused and keep moving forward.
I keep telling myself....well, this may not be the year for "jewelry".....but I hear and read on the Blog's that people are buying 3 handbags from this designer, and getting items from this high-end store...and it feels like to me, there is just the wealthy and poor - - -no more middle class?