Updated February 2020, Originally posted March 2019

We know that many of you have a passion for art, photography, needlepoint, or another medium and that you share your passion with others in Plymouth Cards. But we are often asked by our customers, "How can I turn my passion into a business?" So we wanted to give you our tips on how to start your own business and be successful. These are just a few tips to help get you started!

1. Use Social Media 

Even though you are selling paper cards, still use social media to get the word out about your business! Create a page so people can find you and invite your friends and family to like your page! Once you setup the page, be sure to keep it active by posting regularly on it. 

2. Have a website or other online selling site

There are plenty of free website template makers out there for people who are just starting their businesses! If you plan on shipping your products, definitely have a website for customers to browse and a way for them to find you. If you don't feel a website is best for you but you still want to sell your art online, look into selling on our The Booth (no fees if you provide your own photos), Etsy or Artfire. It's a great way to get your work out there and it's already set up for you to sell on.

3. Know your target market

Ask yourself who you are selling the cards to. What are the demographics of your customers? Knowing this will be invaluable in the long run because it will help you better market to who is buying your products!

4. Find local stores/farmer's markets

Be sure to get out into the community and sell your products! Find local gift shops or stores that your product would complement and go pitch to them. A great place to find some are online community pages like Facebook or your local Chamber of Commerce. Once you know who your target market is this will be very easy! Bring with you some order forms, wholesale pricing sheets and some samples of your artwork for them to see in person. This is a great way to get in front of customers who wouldn't know of you otherwise.

Additionally, farmer's markets can be a great way to meet other local business owners and customers who like to shop locally! Even though it may cost money to have a table there, it will be well worth it in terms of advertising for your new business!

5. Share your passion!

Be committed to your business and share your passion with those around you! If you love your business, you will find others who love it as well.

Best of luck to anyone who is starting a business selling their artwork. We love helping make your dreams a reality! Feel free to reach out to check out our cards that will perfectly compliment your artwork. We offer quantity discounts.

~The Plymouth Cards family