I started a blog and accidentally hit create and my draft is lost. Do I have to rewrite?

Putting God First In Your Business

In the fast-paced world of business, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily operations. However, as a business owner or entrepreneur, it is essential to remember to put God first in all that you do. By incorporating prayer, reading Biblical scriptures, and expressing gratitude after every sale, you can infuse your business with faith and purpose. Let’s explore how these practices can positively impact your business and strengthen your relationship with God.

Prayer: Connecting with a Higher Power

Prayer is a powerful tool that can help you navigate the challenges and uncertainties of running a business. By taking the time to pray each day, you can seek guidance, wisdom, and strength from God. Whether you pray for success in your endeavors, clarity in decision-making, or peace in times of stress, connecting with a higher power can provide you with the reassurance and confidence you need to move forward. Remember, prayer is not just about asking for things but also about expressing gratitude and surrendering your will to God’s plan.

Start your day with a prayer of gratitude for the opportunities and blessings in your business.

Pray for discernment and wisdom when faced with difficult decisions.

Seek guidance from God on how to best serve your employees, customers, and community.

Reading Biblical Scriptures: Finding Inspiration and Guidance

Incorporating Biblical scriptures into your business practices can help you stay grounded in your faith and values. The teachings and stories found in the Bible can provide you with inspiration, guidance, and encouragement as you navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. By regularly reading and reflecting on scriptures that resonate with you, you can align your business practices with God’s principles and teachings. Remember, the Word of God is a powerful source of wisdom and strength that can guide you in both your personal and professional life.

Set aside time each day to read a passage from the Bible that speaks to your heart.

Reflect on how the teachings in the scriptures can be applied to your business practices.

Share inspirational scriptures with your employees or colleagues to encourage a culture of faith and unity.

Gratitude After Every Sale: Acknowledging God’s Provision

Expressing gratitude after every sale is a simple yet powerful way to acknowledge God’s provision in your business. By thanking God for the opportunities, resources, and success that come your way, you can cultivate a spirit of gratitude and humility. Remember, every sale is a result of God’s grace and blessings, and taking the time to thank Him for each transaction can help you maintain a heart of gratitude and generosity. By recognizing God’s hand in your business, you can foster a culture of appreciation and abundance that will attract more blessings in the future.

Take a moment after every sale to thank God for His provision and guidance.

Encourage your team to express gratitude for the opportunities and successes in the business.

Consider donating a portion of your profits to charitable causes as a way of giving back and sharing God’s blessings.

In conclusion, putting God first in your business is not just about religious practice but about building a strong foundation of faith and values that can guide you in your entrepreneurial journey. By incorporating prayer, reading Biblical scriptures, and expressing gratitude after every sale, you can infuse your business with purpose, integrity, and divine guidance. Remember, when you prioritize your relationship with God, He will bless your efforts and lead you towards success in ways you never imagined. Let your business be a testament to your faith and a reflection of God’s grace in your life.

Leave a Comment

Throughout the last few years, I’ve had my ups and downs with selling online. The thrill of finding an amazing deal at the thrift store gave me so much adrenaline. That high would last the entire day and even a day or two afterwards. I would tell my friends and family about this awesome item I found. Slowly, the adrenaline starts to fade and I was left with the no so fun part of photographing and listing the item. This part is a love hate relationship.

My passion is photography, I went through college and focused on product photography. However, pictures for online marketplaces don’t have to be that great. When I started my journey, I would take photos with my big camera as I call it, upload the photos to my computer and do a simple color balance on them. As I’ve collected more items to sell, this process became quite tedious. While I had a system down, it still took time. I eventually moved to just using my phone as that seemed to be good enough for these market places and a much quicker option too.

At the prime of this time, I would start a draft listing with the details I knew from the item I had just purchased, before I even left the parking lot. This way, alot of the basic info was already ready to go, once I had the photos done.

As the months went on the joy started to fade and the motivation was not as active as it used to be. The amount of items I had became overwhelming, and with that, I shut down. Along with this, sales started to slow down as well. Which was to be expected. From my experience in the past, if one is actively listing new items or even re-listing, that make the algorithms happy. When that stops, so do the sales.

I’ve been thinking during this time of what it is that I truly want to do. What direction do I want to go in with selling online. It turns out, starting my own business is what was in my future. That is where I found my joy again. Now I get to create and design ideas to sell on online marketplaces. My goal has shifted from trying to find deals at stores to now creating my own ideas or being able to bring to life an idea that someone has.

While this newly discovered goal has become my primary objective, I still have a side quest of selling the current inventory I have. Just because a goal has shifted, doesn’t mean the original purpose has vanished. I will sell the current inventory I have (clothing, shoes, bags, etc), to make room for the new items that I will create with my laser and 3D printer.

This blog will be a reminder for my future self that it’s okay to be unsure at times especially when things aren’t looking great. There’s always a light somewhere in the tunnel, it just may take a little longer to show.

In a reselling business, slow sale and fast sale strategies refer to different approaches to pricing and turnover based on your business goals, inventory management, and cash flow needs.

Slow Sale Strategy

Higher Prices: Items are priced at or near their perceived market value, allowing for maximum profit.

Focus: Rarity, quality, and uniqueness of the items, such as vintage designer pieces or statement pieces, which can command a premium price.

Timeframe: Items might sit longer before selling, requiring patience and possibly storage costs.

Target Buyers: Collectors or buyers looking for specific pieces who are willing to pay more.

Best For:

Limited, rare, or high-value items (e.g., vintage Gucci silk tops).

Businesses with strong cash reserves that don’t need immediate turnover.

Example: Holding onto a vintage 1940s beaded jacket at $350 instead of discounting it for a quicker sale.

Fast Sale Strategy

Lower Prices: Items are priced competitively or even slightly below market value to encourage quick turnover.

Focus: Volume and quick movement of inventory, which keeps cash flowing into the business.

Timeframe: Items sell faster but at lower profit margins.

Target Buyers: Budget-conscious shoppers or buyers looking for quick deals.

Best For:

Large inventory that needs to move quickly (e.g., fast fashion, everyday vintage pieces).

Businesses needing immediate cash flow or space for new inventory.

Example: Pricing a pair of vintage clip-on earrings at $25 for a fast sale rather than holding out for $40.

Which to Use?

Slow Sale: For your statement pieces, rare vintage items, or designer goods, especially those with hallmarks. This approach maximizes profit and appeals to collectors.

Fast Sale: For less rare, lower-value inventory or pieces taking up space. Use this strategy to keep momentum and free up cash.

Combining both strategies based on the item type and market conditions can optimize your reselling business.

Writing better product descriptions can greatly improve your sales by giving customers a clear, compelling reason to buy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft descriptions that are informative, engaging, and optimized for search:

1. Know Your Audience

Tailor your descriptions to the people most likely to buy your products. Since you’re selling vintage and high-end items, your audience might be fashion enthusiasts, collectors, or people looking for unique, quality pieces.

Example: For a vintage Gucci item, speak to collectors and those who appreciate luxury fashion by focusing on quality, rarity, and brand prestige.

2. Structure Your Description

a. Headline / Opening Sentence

Capture attention with a strong headline or opening sentence. Highlight key selling points like the brand, era, or condition upfront.

Example: “Rare 1970s Vintage Gucci Monogram Shoulder Bag – A Collector’s Dream in Excellent Condition.”

b. Key Features & Benefits

List the most important features of the item. Include size, material, color, brand, condition, and any other details that buyers might want to know. Frame these features in terms of how they benefit the buyer.

Example:

Material: 100% genuine leather for long-lasting durability.

Size: Compact, yet spacious enough to hold all daily essentials.

Condition: Light wear that adds to its vintage charm without compromising quality.

c. Storytelling & Emotional Appeal

Tell a story about the item to create an emotional connection with buyers. People buying vintage pieces often care about the item’s history, how it was made, or how it can enhance their wardrobe.

Example: “This Gucci bag is not just an accessory – it’s a piece of fashion history. Imagine walking the streets of 1970s Milan, where this exact style was the go-to for the fashion elite. Now, it’s ready to make its mark in your wardrobe.”

d. Call to Action (CTA)

Encourage the buyer to make a decision with a CTA. Keep it simple and assertive.

Example: “Add this one-of-a-kind Gucci bag to your collection today before it’s gone!”

3. Include Specific Details

Buyers want to know exactly what they’re getting. Avoid vague descriptions and be as specific as possible.

Measurements: Provide exact measurements (length, width, height, or circumference). Vintage buyers often need this info to determine if an item will fit their needs.

Example: “Dimensions: 10″ L x 7″ W x 3″ D with a 12″ adjustable strap.”

Condition: Be honest and descriptive about the condition. If there are any flaws, mention them in a way that doesn’t discourage the buyer.

Example: “This bag is in excellent vintage condition with minimal wear on the corners and a slight patina on the hardware, adding character to its already unique look.”

Materials: List all materials used in the item, especially for luxury pieces like Gucci, where the type of leather, fabric, or metal matters.

Example: “Crafted from premium Italian leather with a soft suede interior.”

4. Use Descriptive and Sensory Language

Create a vivid picture in the buyer’s mind by using sensory language (sight, touch, feel) that describes the texture, color, or style of the item.

Example: “This soft, buttery leather has a smooth finish that feels luxurious to the touch.”

Example: “The deep burgundy hue adds a rich, timeless feel to any outfit.”

5. Optimize for Search (SEO)

Each platform (Etsy, eBay, Poshmark) has its own search engine. Use relevant keywords to make your product discoverable. Place them naturally in your title and description.

Example: Instead of “Gucci Bag,” use “Vintage 1970s Gucci Leather Shoulder Bag, Brown Monogram.”

Keywords to Consider:

Brand: Gucci, etc.

Product type: Shoulder bag, earrings, etc.

Style: Vintage, boho, retro, etc.

Material: Leather, silk, etc.

Era/Decade: 1970s, 80s, etc.

Condition: Gently used, excellent condition, etc.

6. Highlight the Rarity or Unique Qualities

For your vintage and collectible items, emphasize what makes them special. Buyers often look for one-of-a-kind pieces, so showcase the uniqueness.

Example: “This is a rare find from Gucci’s 1970s collection, no longer in production. Perfect for collectors or anyone looking to add a timeless piece to their wardrobe.”

7. Match Your Brand’s Tone

Keep your descriptions consistent with the tone of your brand. If you aim for a luxury audience, your tone should be polished and professional. For younger, trendy buyers on Depop, you can be more playful or casual.

Luxury tone: “Exquisite craftsmanship, timeless design – this is more than just a bag, it’s an investment in style.”

Trendy/casual tone: “Rock this vintage Gucci bag for an effortlessly cool, retro look.”

8. Add Relevant Tags & Hashtags

For platforms like Etsy or Depop, add relevant tags to help your item get discovered in searches. You can also mention these keywords in the description to improve visibility.

Example Tags: #VintageGucci, #RetroFashion, #LeatherBag, #LuxuryVintage

9. Solve the Buyer’s Problem

Help the buyer imagine how the product fits into their life. Are they looking for something timeless, unique, or stylish? Address how your item solves their needs.

Example: “Need a statement piece to complete your wardrobe? This vintage Gucci bag is the perfect accessory for formal events or casual outings.”

10. Edit and Proofread

Always review your descriptions for grammar and spelling errors. A well-written, polished description builds buyer trust and showcases professionalism.

Example Description:

“Rare 1970s Gucci Monogram Shoulder Bag – Timeless Italian Craftsmanship”

Step back into the glamorous 1970s with this exquisite vintage Gucci shoulder bag. Crafted from premium Italian leather with the iconic Gucci monogram, this bag is a must-have for collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike. The deep brown hue and gold-tone hardware add an elegant touch, while the adjustable leather strap offers versatile styling. This bag is in excellent condition for its age, with only light wear on the corners, enhancing its vintage charm.

Perfect for both day-to-night wear, this shoulder bag is spacious enough for your essentials but compact enough for a sleek look. Add a piece of fashion history to your collection today, and enjoy a true Italian masterpiece.

Dimensions: 10″ L x 7″ W x 3″ D

Material: Italian leather with suede interior

Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minor wear

Date Listed: September 2024

Don’t miss out on this rare find – limited quantities available!

By following these steps, you can create product descriptions that inform, engage, and persuade potential buyers to click “Buy.”

Cleaning suede requires special care to avoid damaging the material. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Brush Off Dirt and Dust:

Use a suede brush or a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush away dirt and dust. Always brush in one direction to avoid damaging the nap (the raised fibers).

2. Remove Stains:

For dry stains, use a suede eraser or a clean pencil eraser to gently rub the stained area. Avoid pressing too hard.

For wet stains, blot (don’t rub) the area immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Let it air dry, then try using the suede brush or eraser.

3. Treat Oil or Grease Stains:

Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the stain and let it sit overnight. Brush it off the next day with a suede brush.

4. Use a Suede Cleaner:

If stains persist, apply a specialized suede cleaner following the product instructions. Test on an inconspicuous area first.

5. Restore the Nap:

After cleaning, gently brush the suede in a circular motion to restore its texture.

6. Protect the Suede:

Apply a suede protector spray to repel water and stains. Do this regularly to maintain the material.

Tips:

Avoid using water directly on suede, as it can leave marks.

Never use harsh chemicals or soap.

Store suede items in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration.