Introduce your business and tell us your story: How did you decide on what to sell, and how did you source your products?
I believe that happiness comes by living authentically, simply, and sustainably. Essentially less bling and more raw authenticity. Or as I like to put it, less Kardashian more of us tea loving girls-next-door! I started One Happy Leaf as I believed style and sustainability should be the norm and not the exception. I wanted to prove that it's possible to have beautiful jewellery that literally doesn't cost the earth. Designed and hand-made in Australia. I choose to use products that are environmentally sustainable. The bamboo that I use to make the jewellery is eco-friendly and Forest Stewardship Council certified.
How did you earn your first sales? Which channels are now generating the most traffic and sales for you?
My first sale was at the local markets run by my local government/council. I attended the market to see if anyone was interested in my jewellery, and really didn't expect a sale. I was shocked when half of my jewellery I made was sold that day! The profits from the market was re-invested back into the business so I could expand the jewellery collection. That day changed my life forever and put me on a new pathway in designing and creating beautiful eco friendly jewellery for a living. As for what generates the most traffic and sales, the list is as follows: my wholesale clients (I sell to over 40+ stores both in Australia and internationally), Etsy, my website on Shopify, and local and interstate markets.
Tell us about the back-end of your business. What tools and apps do you use to run your store? How do you handle shipping and fulfillment?
Shopify app of course! Dropbox is always a favourite of mine. Snapseed to editing photos on the run. PayPal Here for processing credit cards at markets. Evernote for storing my random thoughts, and of course Instagram! I handle the shipping and fulfilment of all my orders in my studio.
What are your top recommendations for new store owners?
My advice would be to ensure you have a very, very detailed plan. Have the usual short- and long- term goals for revenue, but also set goals for social media and other channels which can generate sales. Check in with those goals on a monthly or quarterly basis. Also, don't be afraid to reach out to other businesses to ask for help. I am always blown away by the generosity of business owners who have provided me with excellent (free!) advice. If I could leave you with one quote if would be "Dream big. Start small. But most importantly start.” - Simon Sinek.