My Etsy Shop vs. My Shop on Etsy

Which do you say?

"My Etsy Shop" vs. "My Shop on Etsy"
You might think it’s just semantics, but there is actually a huge, important distinction there.  
Let’s consider the implications of each;

“My Etsy Shop”- You are relinquishing the branding, identity, and power to Etsy.

“My Shop on Etsy” - You are taking control of your own space, your brand, and honoring the space Etsy provides.

Why all the nit-picking? Well, let me tell you. The handmade and small creative business community understand the dynamics of having a shop with Etsy. We get that it’s you. You design, make, create, and do it all.  And let me just say unequivocally that I love Etsy - it’s given me an opportunity I might not otherwise have known.

But there is a world beyond Etsy-dom.  (truly, I’ve seen it!)

It includes family, friends, neighbors, a long lost high school pal, hair dresser, fellow parent at the preschool,  husband’s co-worker, dentist, son’s pediatrician, the local barista.....

These are all folks who have inquired into my business just in the last month. And each were mistified by the concept of Etsy. Yes, even now.  And it’s not so much that Etsy is a confusing concept or that these people are especially un-tech savvy. But the distraction comes from the co-branding.  Our business identity co-mingled with Etsy.

I’ve seen it in print too. In fact, I’ve written two letters to the editor of major publications for identifying handmade creations as “Etsy’s coasters” or “art print by Etsy.”  Meaning that the wonderfully talented and awesome artist just lost all credit (or potential sales & recognition) to Etsy.

So, what to do?

Remember to say, “My shop on Etsy.”  {with the emphasis on “my”}

Go ahead and love Etsy all you want (I do!), but love your shop enough to claim it. 

_______________________________________________________________________________

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic, tell me what you think!

{image credit, the lovely shop Cosas Minimas}