The Keys to Success || The Story of Bayan Hippo

Vildan in front of some of her fabrics she uses for her shop

      Shop: Bayan Hippo

      Owner: Vildan

      Founded: 2008

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When and why did you choose to open an online shop Etsy?

I opened my shop on Etsy 5 years ago. I have always sewn anything and tried including clothes, bags, kids clothes, etc. After I had my twins, I looked for a job where I could practice at home.  Therefore, Etsy was ideal for me, since I liked Etsy.

Vildan and her twins

What got you started in your craft?

After my twins, I was at home, and couldn't work anymore.  Since my twins were 4 years old, I knew it was time to try see what I could make at home.  I knew Etsy and thought it had interesting items and people. Working on Etsy was ideal for me as I could only work at home. After I sold my first item on Etsy, it motivated me to keep selling and developing my shop.

Vildan in her studio, flamenco bag in aqua blue, nagy bag in teal blue

Who or what influences your style the most?

I've always think about what I would buy if I were looking for a bag and that's how I decide what type of designs to make for my shop. All the bags that I have made and developed up to now are just as easy to use, but they are also sporty and fashionable.

How do you stay focused and motivated?

I live in Bursa, were you can see traces of several cultures, ancient building complexes with very large outdoor spaces. There is no traffic, no bustle, so I can just sit for hours and drink my Café, and think about new designs for my shop. This part of the design process is very important so that I can clearly think about new designs to sew. 

Vildan at her sewing machine, sailor tote

What would be your insight on “Keys to Success on Etsy"?

Etsy is a very big place of very creative and talented people with excellent and interesting things.

You should have high quality images of your products, because the buyer wants to buy what they see, and the colors should be consistent with the product.  

The description of your products should be simple, detailed, and provide clear information about the product, but the description should be to the point and not over exaggerated.

You should make sure everything is accurate so you do not have a disappointed customer.

You have to carefully package your items to make sure everything is correct before you ship it out.

You should ask yourself if you would be happy receiving this item for yourself.

Always try something new with your products, not following others.