What's Happening?
Kevlyn Walsh, a Denver-based entrepreneur, has successfully expanded her business from Etsy to Shopify, launching a second brand called Bake It Fancy. Initially starting with Festive Gal, an Etsy shop
selling custom gifts and party supplies, Walsh has now diversified her offerings with Bake It Fancy, focusing on baking accessories. This move comes as Walsh navigates the challenges of managing employees, production, and Etsy's constraints. Her journey began in 2019 when her handmade headbands gained popularity at a Christmas party, leading her to open an Etsy shop. Over time, her business grew, allowing her to leave her teaching job and focus on her entrepreneurial ventures full-time.
Why It's Important?
The expansion to Shopify signifies a strategic shift for Walsh, aiming to reduce dependency on Etsy due to its declining traffic and inconsistent seller support. By diversifying her sales channels, Walsh is mitigating risks associated with relying solely on Etsy, which has faced criticism for quality control issues and the removal of legitimate listings by AI bots. This move could serve as a model for other small business owners seeking to enhance their brand visibility and control over their operations. The transition to Shopify allows for greater customization and flexibility in product offerings, potentially increasing customer satisfaction and sales.
What's Next?
Walsh plans to grow Bake It Fancy independently, leveraging Meta ads and content creation to drive traffic. She has set up a media room for filming baking tutorials, aiming to engage customers through visual content. This approach could lead to increased brand recognition and customer loyalty. As Walsh continues to apply her ecommerce lessons, she may explore further expansion opportunities, potentially collaborating with other platforms or influencers to boost her brand's reach.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift from Etsy to Shopify highlights broader trends in ecommerce, where sellers seek platforms offering better control and support. Walsh's experience underscores the importance of adaptability and strategic planning in business growth. Her story reflects the challenges and opportunities faced by small business owners in the digital marketplace, emphasizing the need for innovation and resilience.
