How to Start an Online Store for Your Handmade Products
Define Your Niche
Gifts perppes
Personalized handmade products (mugs, keychains, boxes)
Organic beauty products or DIY kits
A well-defined niche helps you attract the right audience.
Set Up Your Brand
Your brand includes:
A unique business name
Logo and brand colors
A clear tagline or brand story
Consistent packaging style
Social media presence (Instagram/Facebook)
Remember: People don’t just buy your product — they buy your brand experience.
Choose Your Selling Platform
You can either build your own website or sell through marketplaces. (More on this below
Must-have elements for your e-commerce site:
Clear Product Categories
Group your products logically:
Gift Hampers
Wedding Specials
Festival Packs
Baby Shower Gifts
Make it easy to navigate.
High-Quality Images
Use clean, professional photos. Show:
Multiple angles
Packaging
Sizes or variations
Real-use scenarios
Photos build trust and excitement.
Detailed Descriptions
Explain what’s inside each hamper or product, including:
Materials used
Customization options
Delivery timelines
Good content = fewer questions = faster purchases.
Pricing & Offers
Always display the price clearly and mention any:
Offers or bundles
Discounts for bulk orders
Free shipping details
Add to Cart + Payment Integration
Your website should support:
Online payments (UPI, cards, wallets)
Cash on Delivery (if possible)
WhatsApp order button (optional for small stores)
Trust Elements
Include:
Customer reviews
Return/refund policy
Secure checkout icons
“As seen on” or media mentions (if any)
These improve conversion rates.
Best Platforms for Selling Online in India
Now let’s look at your options. You don’t always need a developer to sell online — platforms like Shopify and WooCommerce make it easier.
Shopify
Easy drag-and-drop store builder
Secure hosting included
Mobile-friendly themes
Payment gateway integration
Monthly fees starting at ₹1,994
Best for: Beginners who want everything ready-made.
WooCommerce (on WordPress)
Free plugin for WordPress
Highly customizable
No monthly fees, just hosting costs
Good for SEO
Best for: Businesses who want flexibility and already have a WordPress site.
Instamojo / Dukaan / Blinkstore
Indian platforms for quick store setup
Easy for first-time users
Good for WhatsApp or Instagram sellers
Affordable pricing (some even free)
Best for: Small businesses, solopreneurs, or regional sellers
Marketplaces (Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho)
Big audience reach
But high competition and fees
Difficult to create brand identity
Best for: Volume-based selling, not niche handmade gifts
How Gift Businesses Can Sell Successfully on Instagram
Instagram is a game-changer for gift and craft-based brands, especially in Kerala. Here’s how to grow your gift hamper brand using Instagram:
Use Reels Consistently
Show:
Hamper-making process
Customization options
Unboxing experiences
Customer feedback
Reels increase visibility and engagement.
Create a Theme for Your Feed
Use your brand colors and similar editing styles to create a visually pleasing profile.
Use Hashtags & Geo-Tags
Use hashtags like:
#GiftHampersKerala
#CustomGiftsIndia
#MalappuramBusiness
#KeralaGiftIdeas
Always tag your location to attract local buyers.
Use Story Highlights
Create highlights like:
Price List
Hamper Ideas
Testimonials
Delivery Info
Festive Specials
This acts like a catalog for new followers.
Collaborate With Influencers
Micro and nano influencers in Kerala can showcase your product to the right audience — especially during festivals or wedding seasons.
WhatsApp Marketing Tips for Product-Based Businesses
WhatsApp isn’t just for chatting — it’s one of the most powerful marketing tools for small businesses in India.
Set Up WhatsApp Business
Create a professional business profile with:
Profile photo & logo
Business hours
Website or catalog link
Quick replies for FAQs
Use Product Catalog Feature
Upload all your products or hampers as a catalog. Customers can browse and order directly via chat.
Send Updates & Offers
Use Broadcast Lists to send:
Festive discounts
Stock updates
New arrivals
Order confirmations
Always get opt-in before sending marketing messages.
Group Your AudienceSegment by interest:
Corporate gift buyers
Birthday/Anniversary clients
Festival pre-orders
This allows more personalized follow-ups.
Final Thoughts
Starting and growing your handmade business online doesn’t require a big budget — but it does need smart planning and the right tools.
Here’s a quick action checklist:
Define your niche and brand style
Build an e-commerce website (Shopify or WooCommerce)
Use Instagram to showcase and connect
Set up WhatsApp Business for personal marketing
Keep testing, improving, and engaging your audience
Need Help With Your Online Store?
As a freelance digital marketing expert based in Malappuram, I specialize in helping small businesses like yours with:
Website and e-commerce store setup
Social media marketing for gifts and handmade brands
WhatsApp marketing automation
Product photography and reels
SEO and blog content creation
[Contact Me]
Freelance digital marketing expert in malappuram
contact : 7012632763