Etsy Shop is Closing

www.etsy.com/shop/fizzyparty

In 2013 I started a new venture and opened an etsy shop.  It all started with tulle wreaths I was creating for party bloggers to use in their parties.  I expanded the shop to include tulle poms, felt banners and glittery items.

I opened the shop because I like to craft, it's fun to see my items at peoples parties, you know  I love parties and it would be a way to make some money for Fizzy Party.

I've been fortunate that all my customers have been happy with items they've ordered and have received 5 star ratings from them all.

So why have I been struggling with the decision of whether to keep the shop open or close it?

• I've been told by other bloggers that it doesn't really fit and it's confusing because it doesn't match my blog. 
• The shop has been open for almost 5 years and I've made 77 sales. That's 15 sales a year. 
• The shop is the only place I make money for Fizzy Party and with just 15 sales a year, I'm not bringing in much money.  It covers my etsy fees and blog domain fees and that's about it. 
• In order to really have a successful shop you need to really work at it.  Pushing the shop consistently, adding new items weekly and having professional photos taken. 

I've been waffling back and forth between really focusing on the shop and pushing it hard, adding new items and re-doing all the photos or just closing it so I can focus on something else. If I keep the shop open I have to seriously push the shop which will eat into the time I have to bring you party inspiration.  If I close the shop I feel like it would open up space for new opportunities.  Is keeping the shop open holding me back from pursuing something I was meant to do with Fizzy Party?

I've been thinking this over for a year, longer than I should have.  I kept it open because all those 5 star ratings meant happy customers throwing fun parties and weddings.  I've decided to close the shop January 1, 2019.  I'm hoping to sell all my remaining inventory by years end.  So fair warning ;) you'll be seeing a lot more of my shop across social media until the shop closes.

Some of you may be wondering if I feel like I've failed with my etsy shop.  I really don't.  I know I didn't put as much effort into it as I should have to really make it a success.  I had fun crafting items for peoples parties and knowing lots of fun and memories were had at those parties.  I got to create things I enjoyed creating but it's time to close this door so another one can open.   And I'm not ruling out the possibility of opening the shop again with different items to offer.

Thank you to all the customers over the years.  I truly enjoyed making your items and was so thankful for every purchase made.

5 out of 5 sta

Top 5 Gifts at Uncommon Goods for People Who Like to Throw Parties

 Chatting with a friend the other day about places we like to shop she mentioned Uncommon Goods, http://www.uncommongoods.com/  as one of the places she visits regularly when looking for the perfect gift.  To be honest I hadn't visited Uncommon Goods site in awhile and WOW! I can see why it's a go to site for gifts.   I really like that they work with artists and small manufacturers.  Several of my friends are artists so I know the value of supporting their trades.

Here's my Top 5 Gifts for people who like to throw parties.  Whether you're the one throwing the parties or you need a hostess gift for someone in your life, like me ;), who likes throwing parties, these gifts can't miss.

1. Macaron Kit 
The DIY kit section here  is every hobby enthusiasts dream.  From cheese making, to sushi making to brewing kits and more.  I'd never run out of party ideas shopping this section.  Every weekend, ok, every other weekend, don't want to burn my friends out, I could host a DIY party.  Since I love to bake I'd start with the macaron kit, My friend and I tried making macarons once before but we didn't have this great kit to make it easier.  I think I need to host another macaron making party.

2. Cheese Boards
Fall is here and that means cheese and wine parties.  What a great way to spend time catching up your girl-friends.  There are some beautiful cheese boards to be found.  Not only are these great for gifts for yourself but they are perfect for hostess gifts.  Cheese boards are one of those things that people who throw parties always have on their wish list but just never seem to buy.
More ideas for gifts for her can be found here

 3. Lightbox
I love light boxes for parties and when the party is over you can use them as decor. They are SO hot right now.   Fun for teens, friends and hostess gifts.
More birthday gifts can be found here

 4.  Smartphone Instant Photolab
Tech gadgets are almost always associated with men, and while there's a great men's gift section, here  I say women love tech toys too.  How fun is this Smartphone Instant Photolab for parties. Set up a fun backdrop, snap some silly pics and boom! you can send your friends home with a party souvenir. I have a feeling your friends will want to snap more pics at your party just so they can use this fun tech toy.

5. Can't forget the kiddo's
While I don't have kids, many of my friends do and they can't always leave them at home to attend my parties.  Here's where the kids gift section comes in handy. Loads of fun gifts for all ages can be found here.  I love these animal temporary tattoos. They're so bright and colourful and if you have several kids over they can make up little stories with them and entertain themselves for hours so mom can enjoy time with the adults.

Ready to check out and nab a hostess gift?  A super cool thing about Uncommon Goods is at check out you can select a non-profit to receive a $1.00 donation.  Uncommon Goods has donated $1 million dollars since they started this program in 2001.  Pretty cool.