In this episode, I speak with maker Lisa Zimmermann of Oak & Oliver Candle Co. who tells us the unique ways she pivoted her business during the pandemic and how it’s skyrocketed her success. Interestingly enough, pivoting for Lisa didn't just mean ramping up messaging for her digital storefront on Etsy - she was already doing that. Lisa was forced to get even more creative + in a matter of DAYS was able to whip up one of the best collaborative ideas I've seen come to life in a long time: a virtual market with local makers in her community.
From production to execution, it was truly incredible (and inspiring!) to witness Lisa's magic come to life with this virtual market + even more exciting to see how her idea continues to bloom...and I'm not just saying that as her friend :)
Lisa is telling us how she came up with the unique idea, saw it through and continues to evolve it. Of course, we talk about some other helpful tid bits along the way that she's also doing on top of that to scale her small batch soy candle business out of her home. Believe it or not, the virtual market wasn't the only way she got creative.
Tune in for this truly insightful conversation with a business owner, product maker, + genuinely amazing human being who's doing it RIGHT.
Oh, and did I mention that Oak & Oliver isn't Lisa's full-time gig? She got her start in the Silicon Valley tech scene (*cough* Google *cough*), and now works at a global software. I don't know where she finds the time but she does + I hope her stories of taking massive imperfect action will inspire you to do the same with your business too.
Episode Highlights:
>> [1:24] The story of how Lisa got started with Oak & Oliver Candle Co. back in 2015 + where she is now on her 5 year brand-iversary.
>> [4:50] How she learned to create a product that was a long time interest but completely new to her. Great tips for the aspiring makers out there who want to make something of their own!
>> [7:40] A look at how Lisa creates thriving wholesale partnerships with local shops + what she does to strengthen those relationships regularly, in addition to running her online shop on Etsy.
>> [9:45] 5 examples of how Lisa uniquely scaled her online business during the pandemic, starting with taking her makers markets VIRTUAL + starting a subscription program for her candles on Etsy.
>> [18:24] The only thing required to successfully grow your business as a maker in today’s world. Hint: it’s not money.
>> [22:22] Helpful tips for categorizing your online shop, whether on Etsy or Shopify, + Lisa’s #1 piece of advice for other aspiring product makers out there.
>> [26:58] Lisa shares a special gift with Brand in Bloom listeners! (Scroll down for more info)
----
This episode is from an earlier chapter of the show, before evolving into the Life with Liz Podcast, which is centered around self-love and personal growth for women. I'm grateful you're here as this work continues to grow and deepen. Thanks so much for being a part of the journey.
Watch Liz's FREE Workshop:
If you’re ready for a gentler way to grow, watch my free 25-minute workshop. It’ll show you the mindset shift that helps you stop fixing yourself and start feeling like you again. Watch now at elisabethfleming.com/free-workshop
Read Liz's Book:
Discover Liz’s book, Powerhouse: 3 Steps to Thrive as the Incredible Woman You Already Are — A Framework for Self-Love and Expansion: elisabethfleming.com/book
Connect with Liz:
Website: elisabethfleming.com/welcome
Instagram: @mslizfleming
Podcast: The Life with Liz Podcast
If you loved this episode, rate and review it to help it reach the women who need it most!
© Elisabeth Fleming / Thetrameda LLC
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
