Lincoln University, Pennsylvania, United States
Dandy-Lion Designs
I took a leap in 1993. After years of working in retail for others, I decided to open my own business. I knew I had the talent and was dying to express myself creatively. I am now my own boss and still love what I do. One of my favorite things is when clients send me pictures of their kids with my products!
Dandy-Lion Designs has one very happy employee...me! I work from a home studio where I make my products and run my website.
I am a creative person and get bored easily with routine. Owning my own business allows me to express that creativity and be involved in every aspect of selling what I have created...for better or worse!
Here’s just a bit of what we can cover in our PivotPlanet session(s):
• Discuss how to start selling your handmade product through the craft show market
• Review strategies for selling your product -- how to find craft shows, wholesaling your product, consignment, via your website, etc.
• Talk about what it takes to market and display your product in a craft show venue
• Learn how to buy supplies wholesale
• You will also receive a comprehensive list with 100+ do's and don’ts for selling at craft shows
• And anything else you want to ask about the profession I love!
I am the owner of Dandy-Lion Designs. My website offers a selection of children's clothing and accessories. I taught myself to sew at a very young age and have always enjoyed taking raw materials and creating something beautiful. Starting my own business allowed me to pursue my desire to sew but also to be in the retail business, which I have always loved. I have the freedom to work as little or as much as I like. But most importantly, it has allowed me to be home with my son every day when he gets off the bus. It is also a great learning experience for him and he enjoys helping with the business...as long as I pay him!
I’ve gained a lot of different experiences in my 30 years working in retail. Over the years I’ve trained employees, managed a retail store, figured payroll, scheduled, done the bookkeeping, marketed and managed my own website. In my own business I sell products retail as well as wholesale. One of my favorite things is selling at craft shows and meeting my customers face-to-face. They send me photos of their kids with my products which I absolutely love receiving.
The most important thing I learned over the years is to always keep your business new and fresh. You have to keep up with the trends and what customers are looking for. You can’t become complacent when things are running smoothly. You always have to be looking ahead to see how you can keep moving forward while maintaining the tried and true. It’s a balancing act for sure.
This philosophy, coupled with my excellent product and commitment to customer service has kept me in business since 1993. I have many repeat customers from the early days. I believe it is because I provide quality products that I stand behind 100%.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is just because I am self-employed doesn't mean I have to do it all myself. Ask for help when you need it. Be open to constructive criticism.
Over the years I have met many stay-at-home moms who say they wish they could do what I do. I want them to know they can do it! You just need an idea, a product or a service that there is a need for…and then create your business model and write a brief business plan. I love being an entrepreneur!