Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hi All!
I have a handcrafted jewelry business in which I am the sole owner and designer.  I am looking to expand my clientele (aren`t we all) and am borrowing and expanding an idea from StartUp Nation.  I am taking the idea of a superstar list and applying to my clients whom I think would be great at spreading the word and who will help increase sales. 
The superstar idea has three opportunities to earn 20% in free jewelry or 20% commission.  1. Host a show.  2. Direct clients to my online store to purchase  3. Independent sales.
I am stuck on the Independent Sales portion.  I do not want my business to become an MLM, I want this "program" to be more like an affiliate program.  But since I offer a hard good and not a service, I think it makes it more difficult for the independent sales person to sell the pieces.  I don`t really want them to have to purchase an inventory.
I had an idea of a traveling trunk show where a superstar can "check out" or "rent" a selection of pieces he/she thinks he/she can sell. 

Is this a good idea?  Is it worth pursuing?  Is 20% fair?  Any ideas, or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Thanks!




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Rachael Loving
http://www.lovingjewelry.com
Luscious Jewelry for Today`s Woman

Hey Rachael,

I understand where you are coming from. I`m building on the same journey as you. I`ve created an affiliate program. I believe your commission is quite fair.

Through what I`m learning, I`d suggest on determining what businesses will you your products tie with and approach them to great a joint venture (join your affiliate program). I`m sure there are some nice online retailers who could use a section of jewlery to help with their customer base. Find those who you can improve their product line with yours.

I hope you`ve found some value in what I`ve shared.

Peace,

C.F. Jackson

Thank you C.F. for your response.  I did find it helpful!
Initially  I was thinking of offering the "affiliate program" to my past clients; I hadn`t thought of offering it to retailers.  I do have a wholesale price available for my pieces, which I thought would be sufficient for retailers. 
Ok, let`s go with the idea of an affiliate like program or a true affiliate program for my products.  How do I find retailers/galleries, etc?  How do I track orders for the affiliate program?  I know it has to do with the coding on my website, but I`m not sure how to do it.  Currently I am using PayPal for my shopping cart, and have found that it is quite limited.  Am I able to do this with PP or do I need to find another shopping cart?

Thanks!
PS-If there are any high-end retailers reading this, please email me! Let`s talk!


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Rachael Loving
http://www.lovingjewelry.com
Luscious Jewelry for Today`s Woman

Hey Rachael,

I came across a great site that will allow you to create an affiliate program at www.mals-e.com.  It will be a great addition for you overall. It allows you to have an affiliate program, without all the technical stuff.

With this site, the affiliate creates their account.  They are able to view the click thrus and sales made. You can easily see what your affiliates are doing. And it ties in with Pay Pal, too.

As for finding the retailers/galleries, Rachael, you`re going to have do some Google searching. Search locally or regionally at first for this market. Being that you are targeting those with online presence, the internet is your tool. You`re able to see their websites and determine if you want to approach that business.

Peace,

C.F. Jackson