Why I Stopped Selling on Etsy and Amazon

I recently closed my stores on both Etsy and Amazon. It wasn't a decision I made in haste, but it was necessary.

For a long time, all of my business came through Etsy, but ultimately, it was not worth the cost. Etsy not only controls what people see on the platform but also charges to list your products. Lean months still meant listing fees. If I wanted to advertise, I had to do it through the platform. The analytics weren't great.

Listing products on Amazon is like using an eyedropper to fill the ocean. I did well last year, but my advertising budget ate up my profits. Their compliance terms were pretty awful, too. I've had products flagged for copyright issues using the term "braided." Braided is not trademarked. My bracelets for moms were flagged as "children's jewelry," no matter how many times I appealed with photos. 

Enough! So, Shopify is now my only selling platform. I have big plans! Not only have I partnered with Faire to offer unique and handmade gifts, but I'm going to start selling used books, too! My aim is for Washington Street Market to be your one-stop shop for gift giving.