by Jennifer Yuan
www.ebbandpflowlookbook.tumblr.com
jennifer@ebbandpflow.com
If you are just starting out, and you are trying to increase the visibility of your product, consignment is one option. BUT, there are many things to consider when placing your babies in someone else’s hands.
1) Do you have stock on hand to sell in case someone wants to purchase directly from you?
2) What are the terms of consignment with the shops in question? Are they splitting 50/50, 60/40? How long does it take for them to pay you? Will they pay you for any items lost or stollen? How long will they test out your products on their shelves or in their display cases if nothing sells.
Fortunately all of these are negotiable. If you do not feel comfortable with any of the terms, then you can say “no” prior to agreement.
3) Is their staff “into” your product. It is really helpful when the people who will be selling your product are just as enthusiastic about your product as you are.
If all seems well and you decide to place your items on consignment with a brick and mortar then I highly suggest that you visit the establishment every now and then to see if your items are displayed properly or just shoved into some drawer. Even if the store is high-end or has a fabulous reputation, no one cares for your items more than you do. Store owners tend to push items that have already been paid for or are brand named/fast sellers.
Good Luck!
