Interview: Quality Bags from Dee's Deezigns

We all know how important quality is over quantity and Dee, Founder of Dee's Deezigns, is all about quality. Dee mentions that her dedication to quality has lifted her above the competition. I had the opportunity to speak with the Tennessee based bag designer and here's what she had to say:

Q. What is the main site address for your business?
http://www.bagladymomma.etsy.com

Q. Tell us about the products you make and the materials you use.
Like many other fine artists on Etsy, I design handbags, totes, diaper bags and their accessories. I offer a wide variety of sizes and styles, as well as fabrics. I like to think I offer something that appeals to any age. The fabrics I use range from wild and colorful to classic and elegant.

Q. How long have you been developing your craft?
In the year 2006 I wanted to make a bag for my daughter. I saw a local TV show about making bags from placemats. I wanted to try it, so I made a few and gave them away to my Sisters. That is how it all began...

Q. How did your craft evolve into a global store front?
I found Etsy in April of 2006. I started out making candy wrapper purses and it has evolved into a fairly successful business today.

Q. What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
I am still working on the marketing side of the business. I am definitely open for suggestions on this subject. What worked for me initially was getting involved in the forums on Etsy. More recently I made a facebook business page. I like to invite others to post their projects and/or shop on my facebook wall to show off. I am also active on Twitter and belong to many Social Networks.

Q. What mistakes have you made while building your Etsy shop that you wish someone had advised you NOT to do?
When I established my shop on Etsy I didn't really think about a name for my business. That is the reason for "bagladymomma". Although Unforgettable, It doesn't reflect the true name of my shop.

Q. Is your Etsy business a full time job or is it something you do in your spare time?
My vision is to make it my full time job; However, I still have to supplement our income by working a part-time job outside the home.

Q. What goals do you wish to accomplish within the next year for your Etsy shop?
As stated above, my goal is to make this my ONLY job. It's what I have a passion for and I think it shows in the quality construction and attention to detail in my work.

Q. Tell us a little about yourself.
I have been married to my best friend for over 32 years. We have 3 grown children who are all thriving on their own. We live in the beautiful State of Tennessee just south of Nashville.

Q. Outside of Etsy, in what venues do/have you sold?
In addition to my Etsy shop, I just opened a studio on Artfire. I also have several consignment shops scattered across the U.S. that carry my product, as well as a few wholesale buyers.

Q. What sets you apart from other sellers in your niche?
I think my attention to quality and detail shows in all my work. My products will outlast you!

Q. List one or more Etsy sellers which you admire? And why?
I have several Etsy sellers that I admire. I don't want to name one without naming them all and there are just too many.

BONUS: Q. What steps are necessary to reach the amount of sales that you have achieved. What's your secret?

Be prepared to spend many hours getting involved on the forums. Not just the promotions section either (that section moves way to fast and you'll never get seen). Ask questions, Answer questions, Give advice, Ask for advice, etc.
I renew or list items daily on Etsy. Until/Unless Etsy gets a system that shows everyones items in random order, renewing or listing a new item daily is a must. Try buying into your category showcase and see what it does for you.
Get involved on social networks such as http://etsylove.ning.com/ (feel free to contact me for a list mine if your interested in more), Create a Facebook Business page. I invite other shops to post their shop on my facebook wall, I then send a tweet out about it. Which brings me to Twitter, Created an account and promote yourself and others.
I tried projectwonderful.com but ended up spending way too much money. But you should give it a shot for your business. Maybe it'll work for you.
I've done lots of giveaway's on various sites. To find sites that feature giveaway's go to http://etsygiveaways.blogspot.com/ and see what sites other shops are featured on. However, I've since sworn off giveaways because they generally do not generate enough sales to offset the item you are giving away. But again, they might work for you.
Offer a quality product and superb customer service, word of mouth is the best advertisement!