Laura Nyahuye: Navigating creating a movement through selling my work
As orders are coming in, there are technical things I am learning, realizing, figuring out, and reflecting on.
I am figuring out advertising/promoting/marketing…
I am creating and selling to create a movement. A movement of #solidarity #love #hope #connection and #freedom.The concept is that by wearing and displaying the artwork in our homes, we can generate a ripple effect of these values for migrant communities, particularly for migrant women and artists. In addition, £3 from every sale is contributed to an artist hardship fund @Maokwo
The shop is not a typical shop, so traditional advertising doesn't seem appropriate. I believe blogs and narratives are the most effective methods to showcase the store. At present, the shop’s photoshoots, doesn't reflect the diversity of the women who support it, and vice versa. Therefore, I am planning a photoshoot that will bring together women from various backgrounds. Feedback and ideas are welcome!!!
I realized…
After receiving several inquiries about sizing, I realized that I needed to add some sort of guidance. I have to say this was challenging. Why? Initially, I hadn't intended to size the garments, but it became clear that a one-size-fits-all approach wouldn't suffice for my customers. Now that I am creating clothes for others, maintaining my designs with a 'one size fits all' approach is not effective. I have developed two sizes, and formulating the size guidelines has been quite satisfying.
Reflections and technicalities
On reflection, I am glad that I gave the customer a 2-week window period from purchasing and posting. The 2 week window period has removed any pressure, on my end, whenever I have faced technical challenges. Additionally, I'm thinking of expanding the choices for heavy fabric; although the list may become quite extensive, I feel it's beneficial as it provides another layer of personalised touch!
Maintaining communication with my customers immediately after they receive the purchase notification is another aspect I'm working on. I want to avoid generic messages, yet I also consider my own experience of receiving a purchase notification. Therefore, I'm exploring what meaningful communication and updates could entail.
Finally every day it’s slowly dawning on me that, the shop is OPEN and I’m grateful for all the support and trust…
This August bank holiday, I'll be at David's Tent selling my artwork! It's a worship event I've attended for nine years, and I'm really excited about it!
Overall, I want to create an EFFECTIVE and MEANINGLFUL movement.
Thank you for reading!!!!