I hope everyone's had a craftacular week so far! I've been busy with our new kitten, Willy. So far, he's made friends with the older female Simone. The younger female, Simone's daughter Stringbean, however, still hisses at him. So, I'll keep working on that. Hopefully everyone will be friends or at least tolerate each other before long. lol.
In my experience as both a shopper and a handmade seller, I can vouch for the importance of even the smallest details when it comes to custom orders. As a shopper, I may not expect themed packaging tailored to my specific request, but I do want to feel that my order was appreciated. As a handmade seller, you can accomplish this by including a handwritten note or thank you tag with the order. You could also focus on the inner packaging such as using tissue paper or organza bags that are in your branded color(s). Another touch is simply by using a specific color or themed bubble mailer to ship the items in which it is easily recognizable by repeat shoppers- sort of like that Tiffany blue in the jewelry world.
I made a video showing some examples of my various custom packaging photos as well as some of my decorated tags and cards. Most of these are in obvious themes because I like to coordinate my packaging to the theme of the design. As a handmade jewelry designer that receives many custom orders, I like to offer that extra "touch of sparkle" by paying attention to the details such as the meaning of charms used or themes in stories that pertain to the piece I created. I will often research a book or movie so that I can pick up on extra information that my customer didn't mention, which they are pleasantly surprised by once they receive their order. My sparkly shoppers typically come back to me because of those details.
You don't have to get specifically themed. You can choose a homespun feel to your packaging or you can select branded colors for your business and use those as your "signature" style. The fact that you've taken an extra step to carefully package an order and/or thank your customer via an actual written note or special decoration will establish your reputation and fan base.
Don't just stop with packaging though, as your total business "picture" can be painted with the inclusion of a nice business card, brochures and promotional items with a logo. These items also lend a more designer feel to your handmade business, gives customers confidence to purchase from you since you aren't likely to disappear once they place an order, and it is also a way to market yourself and network. As an artist or crafter, you're already paying attention to details...just be sure to incorporate that eye to your business model as well.
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