
Show Notes
Introduction to Frosted by Lane
- Creation of Instagram account and initial sales within 24 hours
- Transition from product drops to a Shopify store
Challenges with Shopify Transition
- Comparing product drops to Shopify
- Decision to choose Shopify over Etsy
- Initial payment process through Venmo and challenges encountered
- Difficulties with pricing, shipping and product photos on Shopify
Product Photography Setup
- Experimentation with lighting and backdrops
- Use of budget-friendly fabric backdrop and ring light
- Frustrations with steaming fabric backdrops
- Maintaining consistency in photography with a phone and tripod
Marketing and Social Media Strategy
- Handling two separate business entities on Facebook
- Hesitation towards using TikTok for marketing
- Focus on Instagram and Facebook advertising and sales through Shopify integration
- Challenges with using Meta
Shipping and Local Pickup
- Decision-making process for shipping and pickup options
- Initial pickup success and subsequent challenges
Brand Development and Logo Creation
- Inspiration from the movie “How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days”
- Use of Canva for logo designs
- Creation of heart-shaped fake cake logo resembling frosting
Custom Order Experiences
- Difficulties with shipping heavier items and absorbing extra costs
- Custom orders via direct messages and for a photography project
- Boost in confidence from participating in a professional photo shoot
Platform Management Issues
- Struggles with setting up and integrating Etsy with Shopify
- Manual integration of products on both platforms
- Tracking business expenses using “You Need A Budget” (YNAB)
- Realization about correct cost and pricing calculation
Product Streamlining
- Focusing on items that take less time to make
- Discussing the popularity and appeal of her products
Development and Expansion of Product Line
- Transitioning from making products for friends to selling
- Building a local following via Instagram
- Expanding the product line to include functional items like clocks, picture frames and mirrors
Frosted’s Fake Cake Creations
- Inspiration from a local vintage shop and online DIY research
- Materials used: paper mache, wooden boxes, lightweight spackle and cake piping bags
- Learning new frosting techniques and adapting them
Customer Reception and Concept Challenges
- Difficulty explaining the concept of fake cakes at markets/art shows
- Positive reception from those who understand the concept
Business Management Tools and Expansion Plans
- Using the YNAB app for budgeting and tax reporting
- Gathering ideas from social media and Pinterest
- Plans for expanding presence through markets and community events
Find full show notes, including links mentioned in the episode, at carrierollwagen.com.
Carrie Rollwagen