How NorthShoreShells got started

Introduce your Etsy shop and tell us your story. How did you begin and decide on what to sell on Etsy, and how do you create your products?

I started my Etsy shop because I had become disabled and was snorkeling in Hawaii to try to improve my health. As part of the snorkeling process, I was trying to focus rather than just swim around, and I started picking up seashells. Pretty soon I had so many shells, and since I am a naturally artistic person, I started making things. That led to craft fairs, and finally, in 2009, I opened my Etsy shop. I was just selling whatever I felt like making, and it wasn't until 2017 that I decided to sell craft supplies, including seashells, sea glass, gemstone cabochons, and certain products that I make. I only have 17 listings at the most. I used to source my products naturally from the ocean, but now that I'm older, it's difficult for me to snorkel dive every day, so I buy my locally sourced products from other younger people doing what I used to do. 

Favorite items

What are your favorite items? What makes these so special? Why do you think these items might be selling well?

I just love all of the shells and the colors; I'm an artist, and I think they're just beautiful. I don't really have a favorite.

Hawaiian seashells, bangle bracelet, cone, cowrie, bulk seashells, jewelry supply, beach decor, mermaid gift, surfer choker

Getting sales on Etsy

How long did it take for you to earn your first sale and how do you currently attract customers to your Etsy shop?

I've been on Etsy since 2009, and I don't remember how long it took to get my first sale, but I do use my Facebook page and my Instagram to generate sales currently. I have a large return customer base (50% of orders) but they aren't referring people very often.

Managing NorthShoreShells

How do you manage your shop? Are you running solo or do you have any team members? What tools or services do you use to run your shop and how do you handle fulfillment?

I do everything myself; I have a handy-dandy printer and print shipping labels, and I have a shipping station and a packing station, which double as my office desk. I also have a work area in the backyard, like a shed. I don't really use many apps; I use Etsy Snippets, a calculator, voice-to-text communications, and photo editors because a huge part of selling my things is sending people custom photos with accurate color. It just sort of comes naturally to me.

The future of NorthShoreShells

What goals do you have for your shop in the future?

I'm winding down in my shop; I'm 72 now, and it's all become a bit too much for me. So I'm gradually reducing my hours and will eventually sell off all of my inventory. 

Advice for new sellers

What’s your advice for a new seller starting an Etsy shop?

Be sure to learn all about SEO, as it is critical to getting found in searches on Etsy.

Some sellers really get inspired by hearing numbers. Feel free to share these if you like.

Question: How much is your monthly revenue?
Answer: Plus or minus $2500

Question: What is your average profit margin?
Answer: 30-50%

Question: What is your shop’s conversion rate?
Answer: Right now, 1.4

Alura Team
Alura Team

Alura is your all-in-one platform for selling on Etsy. With more $500.000+ gross sales over four years selling on Etsy, Alura is built by experienced sellers for sellers. Start with a free account and explore all the features you need to start, run, and grow your Etsy shop.