3 minute read
LIFE EDU
Other opportunities for local in-person sales include “An Affair of the Heart” (aaoth.com), Mayfest (tulsamayfest.org), Tulsa Farmers’ Market (tulsafarmersmarket.org), Hummingbird Fine Craft (facebook.com/hummingbirdfinecraft), Sand Springs Herbal Affair (sandspringsok.org), and Made (shopatmade.com).
Countless makers choose to sell their products online. Advantages of selling online may include lower overhead, higher profit margins, and a large potential customer base. However, there are some challenges, too. Expanding your market means nationwide competition from similar products. Facilitating shipping can be expensive and timeconsuming. Selling online also requires some basic computer skills.
To stand out online, it’s important to have a strong brand identity with a memorable business name and logo, as well as the use of great titles, descriptions, and photos for your products. Maintaining social media channels is important for promotion.
Etsy (etsy.com) is probably the most well-known e-commerce site for crafts. It has name recognition and visibility, and it’s also userfriendly. However, it’s highly competitive, with close to 2.7 million sellers. You’re responsible for fulfilling your orders, although there are multiple software tools available that can assist with that. The Etsy website has information about its fee structure.
Amazon Handmade (amazon.com) is another alternative. A huge name in e-commerce, the site can help fulfill your orders. Handmade takes a percentage of everything sold, and there is an application process to be invited to sell. Other online selling options like eBay, Shopify, or even your business Facebook page are also options.
If you decide to sell your crafts, don’t forget why you chose to craft in the first place. Barber offers these thoughts.
“Do what you love. That’s my motto. Do whatever makes you happy. If people like it, just embrace that fact, and share it,” she said.
Virtual & In-Person Programming NOVEMBER 2022
Silver Linings
Join us every Wednesday on LIFE’s Facebook page for short segments on a variety of topics including upcoming events, Senior Center Spotlight, Ask SeniorLine and living your best life.
Medicare Part D Enrollment Assistance Wednesday, November 2
Medicare Part D Open Enrollment runs through December 7. If you are confused about your prescription drug coverage, this segment will tell you all about the Medicare Assistance Program at LIFE and how we are helping.
Crafting with Roxanne Wednesday, November 9
Join Roxanne as she gives step-by-step instructions for making a fall pumpkin wall hanging. Materials needed are a wooden wall-hanging pumpkin, 12 x 12 orange craft paper, a 6-inch orange deco mesh; a hot glue gun; three different 2-inch wide fall ribbons, fall leaves, and a small pinecone or pumpkin.
Hector Arrazola will give us a glimpse of how creativity comes to life at Maker Space ahead of his seminar on November 17.
Community Education
All classes are at Legacy Plaza East Conference Center, 5330 E. 31st St. in Tulsa, unless otherwise noted.
“Coping With Grief During the Holidays” November 2 – December 21 • Wednesdays, 3 – 4 p.m.
LIFE’s Central Office, 5950 E. 31st St. (west of 31st & Sheridan)
The holidays can be an especially difficult time to cope with loss. If you are struggling with grief this holiday season, please join Martha Blan, LCSW-P, for an 8-week grief support group, where members will process feelings, practice coping skills, and have a safe space to share their grief journey. Space is limited. Please call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1119, to reserve your spot.
“Tulsa City-County Library’s Maker Space” Thursday, November 17 • 10 – 11a.m.
Legacy Plaza East Conference Center, 5330 E. 31st St.
Join us for a fun and inspiring look at the Maker Space housed at Tulsa’s downtown library. We’ll learn all about the equipment and materials available to use and the many types of projects they can facilitate. If you have even one creative bone in you, this seminar is for you! To register, call (918) 664-9000, ext. 1181 or go to LIFEseniorservices.org/education.
