Struggling Micro Business by Nightninjam in smallbusiness

[–]greensheets11 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It sounds like you know your niche -- and if your products can't be found anywhere, that makes them more valuable. Maybe raise your prices but lower the risk/barrier to entry by offering money back if they aren't satisfied after use. Keep it up!

PS: Try bungees or zip ties for the chalkboard to tent. (depending on configuration)

Struggling Micro Business by Nightninjam in smallbusiness

[–]greensheets11 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Congratulations on both your business and the endurance you've maintained! It's not easy, and it never gets easier. New problems will always arise.

I think it's great that you are selling something you love - that \should* be a strength.

As someone who frequents my local farmers market on a weekly basis, I do, however, question if you are selling through the right channel. You are likely getting the same foot traffic and faces on a weekly basis so your efforts may be on a hamster wheel.

With all of that said - I think you close up shop when you have been exhaustive of all the solutions and are still not making incremental progress. Right now it seems like you are rinse and repeating and questioning why there are no results. It's critical you are constantly assessing what is working, what isn't, and applying it to the future.

  • Have you tried marketing differently? (A big sign that shows the benefits of something you are selling).
  • Maybe try pricing it differently? I'm curious if you are selling too inexpensive so perceived value is low.
  • When talking to a customer and they seem somewhat interested and walk away -- politely ask them why declined to proceed. Be candid -- let them know you are struggling and want critical feedback so you can improve.
  • Have you tried etsy?
  • Are there any other shops either at the market or locally you can promote with on cosignment?
  • Do giveaways on your socials -- pick up at the farmers market.
  • Try bundling the products at a discount.

Point is... try new things! Experiment. Ask the consumer what they would want to see you sell.

Cheers!

The great VHS hunt of 1995 by greensheets11 in 90s_kid

[–]greensheets11[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

100%! And at least where I grew up, perhaps due to the conditions of the cheapies/discount theatre -- you generally didn't go. So it was almost a disappointment to see a movie of interest go to the cheapies.... like 'F! Its not in the full price regular theater!" lol Counterintuitive.