ASSIGNMENT ONE
INTRODUCTION
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To Create a Retail e-commerce site offering an alternate option to the mostly disposable party décor competition
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Natural, Rustic and Enchanting Party and Home Decorations - for Online Purchase & Rental
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Ideal E-Commerce Digital Business B2C Model
Global Online Tech Savvy Target market
Products very aesthetically pleasing - perfect fit for social media promotion
Online Orders via Shopify website (currently under construction)
THE IDEA/CONCEPT
As a former event dresser, I sourced many unusual and rustic props from European suppliers & florist wholesalers. I received great feedback from kids looking at shop windows etc, & funky Mums looking beyond the typical plastic pink princess decorations. DNatural, Rustic and Enchanting Parties where decor can also be used for bedroom styling.Categories will include:
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Party /Garden Room and table décor
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Local Rental of Toadstool tables and stools; Large Fairy House;
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Craft / party activities
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Floral Sundries
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Party food suggestions
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Links to performers / caterers etc
PROMOTION
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Promotion through newsletters, strong SEO, Videos, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & Twitter & Blogs
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How to Videos
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Focus on client party images and interaction
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Plan to add Seasonal Lines
Rental Products
Local Dublin ABC Mothers’ of Girls from Age 3 to Age 10
Online Products
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Global - ABC Mothers’ of Girls from Age 3 to Age 10
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Global Party Planners
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Global Sisters/ Friends of Brides/ Pregnant Friends for Baby Showers
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Global Fairy collectors / Craft lovers
Customer Generation
IN THE MARKET PLACE
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Local Park Farmers Markets / Small Xmas Fairs/ Fairy Trail Venues
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School fetes
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Women’s / Local Networking Events
ONLINE
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Promotion through newsletters, strong SEO, Videos, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & Twitter & Blogs
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“How to decorate” Videos
IMPLEMENTATION - HOW?
Use of Shopify as Selling Platform
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Issues: lack of familiarity of the site
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sourcing stock from reputable buyers & negotiating minimum orders; initially dealing with Covid related delays. Trying to assess adequate quantities.
Product Imagery:photography sessions were lengthy and challenging as hard to be outdoor. Many rain checks due to weather!
Logistics /Storage : currently in storage in large shed – future storage & distribution options need to be researched. Drop shipping not an option for most of these wholesalers.
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sourcing best delivery partners & applying correct global charges /strategy (including packaging)
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presentation to customer reflecting clear and consistent brand Identity
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currently self funded – assessment of future financial needs
Digital Essentials: strong SEO & social media marketing
Shopify provides excellent support in site development and SEO. Skills learnt on this course in digital imagery and marketing will enable effective implementation.
CONCLUSION
This summary very much brings a realisation of how much more work & learning is required. The sourcing of products and uploading of these to Shopify is the easy bit! Ensuring a clear and achievable business model and divising a marketing strategy will be quite daunting. I do feel very isolated doing all this myself, and welcome any opportunity for brain storming/ feedback from others.
