Why Moving from Etsy (or Other Platforms) to Your Own Website is Worth It
If you’re currently selling on platforms like Etsy, Amazon, or Not on the High Street, the idea of starting your own website might feel a bit daunting. After all, these platforms are familiar, provide a built-in audience, and make life relatively simple.
But here’s the truth: moving to your own website can be a transformative step for your business. Yes, it’s scary at first, but it’s also empowering, freeing, and one of the smartest investments you’ll ever make in your brand.
In this post, we’ll explore the fears many business owners face when leaving platforms like Etsy—and why overcoming those fears can lead to greater success, independence, and growth.
The Scary Part
Fear of the Unknown
If you’ve been relying on Etsy or similar platforms for years, the thought of managing your own website might feel overwhelming. What if it’s too technical? What if you can’t keep up? These fears are completely normal—but they’re also solvable.
One client of mine felt this way initially but shared:
“I was honestly a bit hesitant to start again. But from our very first conversation, Helen put me at ease and restored my confidence. She listened intently, offered thoughtful suggestions, and translated my ideas into a website that feels so authentically me.”
Loss of Built-in Audience
Platforms like Etsy attract millions of shoppers, giving you a steady flow of traffic. Starting your own website might feel like starting from scratch—but it’s also a chance to build your audience, rather than renting space on someone else’s platform.
Managing Everything
When you’re used to Etsy’s convenient setup, running your own site can feel like a lot to take on. From design to maintenance to marketing, there’s no denying it’s a bigger responsibility. But here’s the thing: with the right help, it’s manageable—and the benefits far outweigh the effort.
The Empowering Part
Now let’s talk about why.
Complete Control Over Your Brand
One of the biggest frustrations sellers face on platforms like Etsy is the lack of control. Your shop looks like every other shop, and you’re limited by the platform’s design and branding options.
With your own website, you’re in control. You can:
- Create a stunning design that reflects your unique style.
- Highlight your brand values and tell your story.
- Offer a seamless, personalised shopping experience that keeps customers coming back.
As one artist put it:
“Helen understood my needs and translated my ideas into a website that feels so authentically me. It beautifully showcases my work, and I couldn’t be happier with the result.”
Say Goodbye to Platform Fees
Etsy’s fees can add up quickly—listing fees, transaction fees, processing fees. With your own website, you’ll still have some costs (like your Shopify plan and small transaction fees), but they’re often far lower. Plus, you keep more of your hard-earned profits.
Own Your Customer Data
When you sell on Etsy, your customer data isn’t fully yours. With your own site, you can:
- Build a customer email list for future marketing.
- Create personalised offers based on shopping behaviour.
- Strengthen customer relationships through direct communication.
This kind of data is invaluable for growing your business, and it’s something Etsy simply can’t offer.
Flexibility and Innovation
Your website is your playground. Want to sell something new? Try a subscription model? Create an exclusive VIP area for loyal customers? With your own site, the sky’s the limit.
Platforms like Etsy are fantastic for starting out, but they come with rules and limitations. Your own site lets you innovate and grow without restrictions.
Scale Without Limits
Platforms like Etsy work well for small-scale operations, but as your business grows, they can start to feel restrictive. Your website can grow with you—whether that means offering more products, expanding internationally, or creating a full-fledged brand.
Getting Started: A Simple Plan
If you’re ready to take the leap, here’s how to get started:
-
Choose the Right Platform
Shopify is ideal for e-commerce, offering everything you need to set up, run, and grow your online store. Squarespace is another great option if you’re looking for a visually stunning site with simple e-commerce tools. -
Invest in Branding and Design
Your website is your shop window, so make it unforgettable. Professional branding and design can help your site stand out and make a strong first impression. If you need help choosing someone to help with this let me know as I know a few good people! -
Develop a Marketing Strategy
Your site needs traffic to thrive. Use social media, email marketing, and SEO (search engine optimisation) to drive visitors to your store. See some of my other blogs to have a look at some of the things mentioned here. -
Provide Amazing Customer Service
Whether you’re answering questions or resolving issues, excellent customer service builds trust and loyalty.
You’re Not Alone
Starting your own website might feel like a huge leap, but you don’t have to do it alone. With the right guidance and support, the process can be smooth—and even exciting.
As one client said:
“Since I started working with Helen, it’s honestly felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders. She’s always on hand to help me out and has so many great ideas on how I can grow my business.”
If you’re ready to stop renting space on platforms like Etsy and start building something that’s really yours to grow and build in the future,I'd love to have a chat. Together, we can create a website that reflects your brand, grows your audience, and sets your business up for long-term success.
-Helen :)