Starting a "Shabby Chic"/ Unique Interiors Business

[Carleyx]

Hi,
I'm new here, I just joined to get some advice.
I want to set up a small business selling small unique items for the home, such as those little wind chimes, hanging wall plaques, cushions, candle holders, hearts, bunting. (There's probably loads more I've missed out). Then, possibly larger items such as furniture, lighting, wall art .etc.
After some research, I came across Alibaba, which has most of what I'm looking for but the minimum quantities are way to high, especially as I'm just starting out.
So if anyone could please recommend some great suppliers, I would be grateful.

I would also love to be able to sell handmade items, if anyone has any further information, please feel free to PM.

 

[Socio South West]

There is a company called Gringo who wholesale your sort of stuff - http://www.gringo.uk.com/

There is also the Harrogate Gift Fair coming up next week where there will be several wholesalers exhibiting who will be able to help you - have a browse of the exhibitor list. http://www.homeandgift.co.uk/

 

[fisicx]

I would also love to be able to sell handmade items, if anyone has any further information, please feel free to PM.

Take a look at etsy.com. That;s who you will be competing against.

The problem with your business plan is there is already a load of people already doing the same thing. You can buy all the things you want to sell on ebay, amazon and a thousand other online stores. So to make it work you need a decent investment over a couple of years until you get established. You could easily be spending hundreds of pounds each month on advertising.

 

[Jennie@FreeAgent]

Take a look at etsy.com. That;s who you will be competing against.

The problem with your business plan is there is already a load of people already doing the same thing. You can buy all the things you want to sell on ebay, amazon and a thousand other online stores. So to make it work you need a decent investment over a couple of years until you get established. You could easily be spending hundreds of pounds each month on advertising.

I agree. I think if you try and have a think of how you could differentiate yourself from places like Etsy that would be a good start.

Would this be an online business or would you have physical premises?

 

[Carleyx]

Hi, thanks everyone for your input. Really helpful and much appreciated.

I'm hoping to be selling online and physical premises.