I intended to write this blog post a year ago, at the start of 2023. As the year unfolded, I made a decision to transform my Coral Quail business into the fun and eclectic shop I had always envisioned. Although the idea was initially vague, my journey from an arts and crafts venture to an online store has been a learning experience filled with twists and turns.
Setting up shop at my first vendor event
When I started Coral Quail in 2013 as an arts and crafts business, I began by creating souvenirs to sell at my family’s RV Park in Elephant Butte, New Mexico. Despite crafting handmade items, including some elephant-themed trinkets, the response was lukewarm. A shift to selling T-shirts and hoodies proved demanding with little payoff. It was clear - a change was needed.
Elephant Butte Lake
In 2016, my husband and I jumped at the opportunity to start a photography business, filling the void left by a departing local photographer. Equipped with a good camera and experience from our video production business, Coral Quail Photography was fairly successful, catering to various clients. However, the pandemic in 2020 halted our progress, prompting a need for reinvention.
Skirts from my vintage collection
In 2023, I contemplated the idea of launching an online shop, inspired by a collection of vintage dresses from my grandparents' western shop. These neglected dresses, dating back to the 1950s, became the foundation for my Etsy shop, where I sold not only clothing but also vintage accessories and handmade items.
Reflecting on my first year, I acknowledge the challenges and successes. Looking ahead, I've crafted a plan for the upcoming year.
Tea towel printed with my own design
Push Myself Creatively: Delving into fabric pattern design, I've discovered a newfound passion. Utilizing an online platform, I can print my patterns directly onto fabric, opening doors for creating unique products like tea towels, throw pillows, and bags.
Create a Product Line: Although ambitious, developing my own product line is crucial for sustained success. While I have a vintage inventory, my goal is to establish my own designs as best sellers.
Branch Out: Acknowledging the need to diversify, I plan to explore additional selling platforms beyond Etsy. The ultimate dream is to have a brick-and-mortar shop, but I'm open to starting small with vendor events or pop-up shops.
Be More Social: Confronting my struggles with social media, I plan to adopt a more honest approach. Embracing visual storytelling on platforms like YouTube, I want to share my creative process authentically, moving beyond a traditional sales pitch.
As I embark on the challenges of 2024, I am excited about the evolution of Coral Quail. The next phase promises growth, creativity, and a renewed commitment to making my business thrive.
