So, after sending the email to Amazon, I promptly received a reply. They expressed their disappointment about the whole experience and gave me a 30% off credit, amounting to around $6. That's fine, I thought. I wasn't looking for money, but it was a nice response.
The man who replied to my email seemed very heartfelt and sympathetic. His words made me feel somewhat special, though I'm sure I'm one of many who complain about their orders.
So, the point of these segments were to explain that customer service goes a long way. Remaining nice, sweet, and patient wins you customers in the event of a mishap that is, quite frankly, out of your control.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Saturday, March 7, 2009
The Importance of Customer Service: Part 1
Recently I have been dealing with a customer service issue with Amazon.com. My dad's birthday is on Tuesday and he had sent me an Amazon wishlist with some books and DVD's that he would like. So, I ordered them. Two of the items were from Amazon itself, while the third was from a seller within the Amazon community.
A couple days later, I receive an email from Amazon informing me that my package of two items would be sent separately, as one item was not yet able to be shipped. They also wrote that it would be of no cost to me. No problem, I thought.
Today, I received one item. Every time I have purchased an item from Amazon, I've received it nicely package in a cardboard box to keep the item from being damaged. It was not the case this time. I received the item, a 440 page book, in a brown paper envelope. I opened it to find the corners bent and damaged from mailing.
While I understand that it is not Amazon's fault that the book and envelope went through rough mailing, it IS Amazon's responsibility to use protective packaging. I sent an email to Amazon's customer service expressing my disappointment and anger.
Let me know about your experiences. As a seller, have you ever sent an item that ended up getting damaged in the mail? What did you do? As a buy, have you ever received an item that was damaged? What did you do?
Part II will follow in the next few days as this issue is corrected!
A couple days later, I receive an email from Amazon informing me that my package of two items would be sent separately, as one item was not yet able to be shipped. They also wrote that it would be of no cost to me. No problem, I thought.
Today, I received one item. Every time I have purchased an item from Amazon, I've received it nicely package in a cardboard box to keep the item from being damaged. It was not the case this time. I received the item, a 440 page book, in a brown paper envelope. I opened it to find the corners bent and damaged from mailing.
While I understand that it is not Amazon's fault that the book and envelope went through rough mailing, it IS Amazon's responsibility to use protective packaging. I sent an email to Amazon's customer service expressing my disappointment and anger.
Let me know about your experiences. As a seller, have you ever sent an item that ended up getting damaged in the mail? What did you do? As a buy, have you ever received an item that was damaged? What did you do?
Part II will follow in the next few days as this issue is corrected!
Changes!
So, as you can, see I updated my blog layout! What do you think? I'm loved the old one, but I feel like this is more eye-friendly. Let me know what your opinions are! Also, I wanted to update the banner to match the one in my PinkSunrise store. I really need to start creating a cohesive brand a bit better.
I also got a twitter! You can see it at http://twitter.com/shoppinksunrise. Please follow me and I'll return the favor!
I'll write a longer post a bit later. I'm still in bed at the moment!
Audrey
http://pinksunrise.etsy.com
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Snow in March
Today is the first day of March! Only 26 days til my birthday!
I had a wonderful day today. My best friend and I went to the Annapolis Warehouse Sale downtown today and loaded up on tons of goodies. At 75% off original prices, it was too hard to pass up. I spent $100 and got quite a nice loot:
I absolutely love sales! It was a bit crazy, women were either undressing in the middle of the space or fighting for space between a clothing rack and a wall. But it was definitely worth it and I hope
to go in the fall if I'm not at college yet.
So, my bragging is over. Well, not quite. Tonight, Annapolis is covered in a layer of snow that has been falling since about 3 pm. Schools have already been canceled, so I'm planning my day tomorrow. I really want to start crafting again, but I've been so overwhelmed with school, friends, family, boyfriend, college, etc.
Also, I'm sure everyone's been watching MadeByHank. In the past few days she has sold over 100 items as a result of becoming the Featured Seller. I'm sure she is quite overjoyed AND overwhelmed, but it must be so fun! Congratulations!
I'll leave by posting one of my favorite "snow" items. It is supposed to be spring in three weeks, but until then I guess I'll have to love the snow while its here.
This soap must be so wonderful to smooth over dry, wintry skin in a warm shower or bath!
$10 from SugarCandieBeauty
I had a wonderful day today. My best friend and I went to the Annapolis Warehouse Sale downtown today and loaded up on tons of goodies. At 75% off original prices, it was too hard to pass up. I spent $100 and got quite a nice loot:
- Pair of navy cords from Free People. Originally $68, I got them for $28. Saved $40!
- Two Honeydew fruit thongs. Originally $9 each, I got each for $3. Saved $12!
- One black and grey KensieGirl skirt. Originally $58, I got it for $15. Saved $43!
- One white KensieGirl shirt with ruffles. Originally $38, I got it for $10. Saved $28!
- And lastly, one Free People blue flowered dress. Originally $135, I got it for $38. Saved $97!
I absolutely love sales! It was a bit crazy, women were either undressing in the middle of the space or fighting for space between a clothing rack and a wall. But it was definitely worth it and I hope
to go in the fall if I'm not at college yet.
So, my bragging is over. Well, not quite. Tonight, Annapolis is covered in a layer of snow that has been falling since about 3 pm. Schools have already been canceled, so I'm planning my day tomorrow. I really want to start crafting again, but I've been so overwhelmed with school, friends, family, boyfriend, college, etc.
Also, I'm sure everyone's been watching MadeByHank. In the past few days she has sold over 100 items as a result of becoming the Featured Seller. I'm sure she is quite overjoyed AND overwhelmed, but it must be so fun! Congratulations!
I'll leave by posting one of my favorite "snow" items. It is supposed to be spring in three weeks, but until then I guess I'll have to love the snow while its here.
This soap must be so wonderful to smooth over dry, wintry skin in a warm shower or bath!$10 from SugarCandieBeauty
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Ribbons, ribbons, ribbons!
I have quite a few ribbons in my store as I destash and try to get rid of a bunch of things I don't use.
For you sewers out there, I have a gorgeous red, white, blue, and silver flower pattern ribbon. Sew it to a pin cushion, clothing, bag, anything! It's really quite adorable. Yours for only one dollar!
For you sewers out there, I have a gorgeous red, white, blue, and silver flower pattern ribbon. Sew it to a pin cushion, clothing, bag, anything! It's really quite adorable. Yours for only one dollar!
For the scrapbookers, card-makers, and giftwrappers, there is a listing for some glittery fun holiday ribbon. It doesn't have to be used in the holiday season, however! Check out this duo set for only $3.50!
If you love to add an extra flair to your packages, get this patterned yellow raffia. Only $1.50, it will add an adorable flair to your customer's gifts that they will remember at a minimal price!
If you love to add an extra flair to your packages, get this patterned yellow raffia. Only $1.50, it will add an adorable flair to your customer's gifts that they will remember at a minimal price!Monday, February 23, 2009
College
I'm leaving for college at the end of this summer and I am nervous as anything. Leaving my family, animals, and queen size bed to live with someone I don't know in a small room with a bunk bed... spare me! What will I do?
Well, of course, my mind goes straight to the issue of clothing. I have worn a uniform to school for the past 7 years. I don't know what I am going to do when I can wear a different outfit everyday! I've been perusing Etsy and found some great clothing designers and vintage sellers.
I'm also on the lookout for a great bag for books and a laptop. Apparently backpacks are worn by the "dorky" girls, but my view is that there is nothing wrong with that! Anyway, I want one with a large zipper for closure. I've had bags that close with a magnetic snap but my things always fall out and dirt somehow always finds its way in. I also want a few inner pockets for my phone and a calculator or something. I'm looking for a navy blue or black, something simple that will match almost anything. And, most importantly, I want a cute shape.
I'd also like a new wallet. I'm hoping to get my own credit card for only a few small purchases so that I will be able to build my credit score, slowly yet steadily. I know that college students are a credit card company's dream customer, but I promise I won't succumb to debt!
That's what I need for now. Ready for my top picks?
Vintage Soft Baby Doll Bell Sleeve Mini Dress by leasvintage
$25
This mini dress would be SO cute over jeans. It is something different from what I could buy at a mall. I would wear this to study in the library, go out with some friends, or just lounge around the dorms!
The Market Bag in Provincial Blue by moop
$93
This bag is perfect for carrying around campus. It will fit my laptop, a textbook, and will look so fashionable!
Wallet in Mulberry Spade Damask by LBaccessories
$35
Well, of course, my mind goes straight to the issue of clothing. I have worn a uniform to school for the past 7 years. I don't know what I am going to do when I can wear a different outfit everyday! I've been perusing Etsy and found some great clothing designers and vintage sellers.
I'm also on the lookout for a great bag for books and a laptop. Apparently backpacks are worn by the "dorky" girls, but my view is that there is nothing wrong with that! Anyway, I want one with a large zipper for closure. I've had bags that close with a magnetic snap but my things always fall out and dirt somehow always finds its way in. I also want a few inner pockets for my phone and a calculator or something. I'm looking for a navy blue or black, something simple that will match almost anything. And, most importantly, I want a cute shape.
I'd also like a new wallet. I'm hoping to get my own credit card for only a few small purchases so that I will be able to build my credit score, slowly yet steadily. I know that college students are a credit card company's dream customer, but I promise I won't succumb to debt!
That's what I need for now. Ready for my top picks?
Vintage Soft Baby Doll Bell Sleeve Mini Dress by leasvintage$25
This mini dress would be SO cute over jeans. It is something different from what I could buy at a mall. I would wear this to study in the library, go out with some friends, or just lounge around the dorms!
The Market Bag in Provincial Blue by moop$93
This bag is perfect for carrying around campus. It will fit my laptop, a textbook, and will look so fashionable!
Wallet in Mulberry Spade Damask by LBaccessories$35
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Etsy Seller of the Week:
Hello everyone! This week's Seller of the Week is MarissaB. She creates gorgeous bracelets, rings, and necklaces out of beautiful gemstones. Looking for a gift for a friend or yourself? Head straight to MarissaB!
1.Tell us about yourself and your store. What do you make?
My line of jewelry, Marissa B., is entirely handmade. From my design studio in Boston, I design and create the jewelry that is showcased in many galleries and boutiques throughout the country. The jewelry tha
t comes from the Marissa B. studio is made of high quality materials including sterling silver, gold vermeil and precious and semiprecious gemstones. Marissa B. artisan handmade jewelry is the pairing of semiprecious gemstones and precious metals with an eye for exquisite color and texture combinations. Since 2002 I've been offering a new perspective on fashion jewelry by creating a collection of earrings, bracelets and necklaces that reflect the modern aesthetic. From my Boston based studio, each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans working with the finest quality of materials. Every design that adorns our discerning clientele is made with care. Whether you crave a simple line or a bold statement, Marissa B. jewelry satisfies every sophisticated taste.
2.What inspires you?
I gather my inspiration for my jewelry designs from many sources. The vibrancy of the city, the harmony of nature and the complexities of the human spirit combined with a zest for color and form inspires my creative energies. I love looking at home decor and runway styles to get ideas for shape and form. I also love just going to the market and looking at all the fresh fruits and veggies (even fresh fish!) to get inspired for color and unexpected combinations.
3.When did you start your business? Was Etsy your first venue?
I started my business in 2002 selling wholesale to stores. Etsy is a recent venture to sell my work direct from my studio. It's a great feeling to sell direct and spend that extra attention to packaging and include that personal touch.
4.Do you sell on any other venues? Where can we find you?
I sell to a variety of boutiques and galleries worldwide. I've also sold to retalers including the Neiman Marcus catalogue, Henri Bendel, Von Maur and Garnet Hill catalogue. My favorite store are ones that are local and where I've developed friendships with the owners. In Boston the boutique, Shake The Tree is my absolute favorite store to sell my work in and shop!
5.Do you plan on selling full time at any point?
I am already selling full time. My wholesale business has kept me busy working exclusively at my business for the past four years. I'm just starting to connect to the marketplace directly by offering my designs for sale on Etsy.
6.What tips do you have for new sellers? Any advice?
My advice it to take great photos of your work and brand your product effectively.
7.Think up a question – and answer it!
Question: Why do you create?
Answer: When I design I am motivated by the chance I have each day to create, express and innovate. As an artist, I experience creating as a constant process of discovery and invention and I am very grateful for this.
8.Anything else you'd like to share?
I would like to say how thankful I am to all the friends, family, business associates and artists who have guided me, given me their advice, their wisdom and encouragement. Being an entrepreneur and artist can feel like a contradiction at times, but ultimately I find the harmony between the two. It's crucial to balance the business and creative elements of this endeavor and it's an honest effort and belief in my work that helps me achieve it.
(Pictured: Rock Candy Tangerine Bracelet and Pearl Ball Drop Earrings)
Visit Marissa at MarissaB for more of her striking jewelry!
1.Tell us about yourself and your store. What do you make?
My line of jewelry, Marissa B., is entirely handmade. From my design studio in Boston, I design and create the jewelry that is showcased in many galleries and boutiques throughout the country. The jewelry tha
t comes from the Marissa B. studio is made of high quality materials including sterling silver, gold vermeil and precious and semiprecious gemstones. Marissa B. artisan handmade jewelry is the pairing of semiprecious gemstones and precious metals with an eye for exquisite color and texture combinations. Since 2002 I've been offering a new perspective on fashion jewelry by creating a collection of earrings, bracelets and necklaces that reflect the modern aesthetic. From my Boston based studio, each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans working with the finest quality of materials. Every design that adorns our discerning clientele is made with care. Whether you crave a simple line or a bold statement, Marissa B. jewelry satisfies every sophisticated taste.2.What inspires you?
I gather my inspiration for my jewelry designs from many sources. The vibrancy of the city, the harmony of nature and the complexities of the human spirit combined with a zest for color and form inspires my creative energies. I love looking at home decor and runway styles to get ideas for shape and form. I also love just going to the market and looking at all the fresh fruits and veggies (even fresh fish!) to get inspired for color and unexpected combinations.
3.When did you start your business? Was Etsy your first venue?
I started my business in 2002 selling wholesale to stores. Etsy is a recent venture to sell my work direct from my studio. It's a great feeling to sell direct and spend that extra attention to packaging and include that personal touch.
4.Do you sell on any other venues? Where can we find you?
I sell to a variety of boutiques and galleries worldwide. I've also sold to retalers including the Neiman Marcus catalogue, Henri Bendel, Von Maur and Garnet Hill catalogue. My favorite store are ones that are local and where I've developed friendships with the owners. In Boston the boutique, Shake The Tree is my absolute favorite store to sell my work in and shop!
5.Do you plan on selling full time at any point?
I am already selling full time. My wholesale business has kept me busy working exclusively at my business for the past four years. I'm just starting to connect to the marketplace directly by offering my designs for sale on Etsy.
6.What tips do you have for new sellers? Any advice?
My advice it to take great photos of your work and brand your product effectively.
7.Think up a question – and answer it!
Question: Why do you create?
Answer: When I design I am motivated by the chance I have each day to create, express and innovate. As an artist, I experience creating as a constant process of discovery and invention and I am very grateful for this.
8.Anything else you'd like to share?
I would like to say how thankful I am to all the friends, family, business associates and artists who have guided me, given me their advice, their wisdom and encouragement. Being an entrepreneur and artist can feel like a contradiction at times, but ultimately I find the harmony between the two. It's crucial to balance the business and creative elements of this endeavor and it's an honest effort and belief in my work that helps me achieve it.
(Pictured: Rock Candy Tangerine Bracelet and Pearl Ball Drop Earrings)
Visit Marissa at MarissaB for more of her striking jewelry!
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