We recently connected with Chiquita Riddick, M.Ed and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Chiquita, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear how you think where to draw the line in terms of asking friends and family to support your business – what’s okay and what’s over the line?

I have conflicting emotions about seeking support from my friends and family for my business. I welcome those who show genuine interest, but I also harbor reservations because I fear potential disappointment if expectations aren’t met. I recognize that not everyone will provide the support I hope for, even if they’re close to me.

While it’s natural to share information about my business with loved ones, emphasizing my enthusiasm and objectives, I strive to avoid exerting pressure and always respect their boundaries. I refrain from assuming they’ll offer financial support.

There’s a saying that if only friends and family support your business, it’s not a real business. However, I refrain from imposing specific expectations on them. Instead, I firmly believe that genuine support comes from those who choose to offer it. This support may manifest in various ways such as sharing posts, engaging with content, attending events, spreading the word, leaving reviews, or providing constructive feedback—all of which contribute to the growth of my venture.

Chiquita, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I launched my business in August 2019, initially experimenting with glasses for a group trip with friends to gauge their interest in the concept. Starting out, there’s often a sense of uncertainty about the path ahead, but I plunged in nonetheless.

What began as a simple idea for drinkware evolved into something more. In April 2020, amidst the challenges of COVID-19 and while maintaining my 9-5 job from home, I expanded into designing t-shirts. This decision proved instrumental in navigating the pandemic period, keeping me occupied and truly embodying the phrase “Booked and Busy.” Over time, I’ve expanded my product range to include tote bags, coasters, hoodies, sweatshirts, hats, games, mugs, tumblers, journals, and aprons—all of which have been highly requested by my customers.

Setting myself apart through exceptional customer service, top-notch products, and thoughtful packaging has been my priority from the start. I aim to provide a five-star experience with every interaction. Positive feedback from customers serves as validation of this commitment, indicating their satisfaction, loyalty, and the positive impact my business has on them. It reinforces my dedication to nurturing these positive relationships.

The moments that fill me with the most pride are when my followers, potential clients, friends, or family engage with my business-related content. Whether it’s tagging me in a post, sending a positive message, interacting with my posts, or simply offering words of encouragement, these gestures remind me to persevere and let me know that my efforts are seen and appreciated. To all of you who contribute to this support network, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude and love. Your genuine support means the world to me.

How’d you think through whether to sell directly on your own site or through a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc.

I initially chose Etsy as my selling platform and continue to utilize it today. There are several advantages to this choice. Etsy enabled me to kickstart my business immediately and reach new audiences that I wouldn’t have accessed otherwise. The platform’s streamlined setup eliminated the need for individually invoicing customers; they could simply order directly from my site. While Etsy’s user-friendly interface effectively showcases products, managing a large inventory can be time-consuming. Nonetheless, Etsy offers helpful seller support and tutorials, which have been invaluable throughout my journey. Integrated payment processing enhances convenience for both sellers and customers, while the platform’s international reach expands market potential.

However, there are also some drawbacks to selling on Etsy. The platform imposes various fees and commissions, including listing fees, transaction charges, and a percentage of each sale, potentially impacting profits. Additionally, supplementary fees may apply for services like advertising. Competition is prevalent, and similarities among listings mean potential customers might choose a cheaper or more readily available option. Furthermore, Etsy’s policies and algorithm changes can impact visibility, ranking, and overall business strategies, necessitating adaptation.

In summary, Etsy offers a lucrative opportunity for small businesses to access a global market and leverage an established platform. Nevertheless, it’s essential to carefully consider factors such as fees, competition, and platform policies against your business needs and time constraints. Conducting thorough research can help determine the most suitable sales platform for your business, considering factors like fees, reach, and customization options.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

Engaging on Social Media – While juggling a 9-5, I’m actively working on boosting my presence on social media this year, aiming for increased interactions with my followers.

Delivering Outstanding Customer Service – Prioritizing exceptional customer service above all else.

Hosting Pop-Up Events – These events provide a personal touch, allowing you to experience the genuine me firsthand.

Authenticity Always – I consistently present myself authentically because there’s no one else I’d rather be.

Encouraging Repeat Purchases – I cherish my repeat customers as their loyalty is a testament to their trust in me and my craft.

Celebrating Customer Happiness – I take joy in showcasing my customers when they share their purchases from me.

Stay tuned for exciting developments coming your way soon!

Contact Info:

• Website: lynaycreationsllc.etsy.com
• Instagram: atouchoflynaycreationsllc
• Facebook: A Touch of Lynay Creations
• Other: TikTok: Lynay_creates

Image Credits
The photos featuring the drinkware and journals (2) were captured by Christina Davis, while the main photo for the article was taken by Crystale Spearman of EyeImagery.