Name of your website?Bubbles Baby Boutique
Your name?
Melissa Martinez
Your Location (city, etc)
Elmhurst, NY
Please give us a short summary of your website?
We sell unique handcrafted eco-friendly clothing and accessories for your "bubbles"! We specialize in hard to find Preemie and Newborn sizes. We use only the highest quality materials coupled with an exceptional attention to detail so you can be sure that each masterpiece is a true original made with love! We use Imported 100% cotton and organic eco-friendly cotton baby yarns extensively to ensure that your bubbles and the environment continue to feel and look great! Cotton is also prized for its versatility between the seasons, its ease of care and absolutely perfect for a baby's sensitive skin as it contains no harsh chemicals in its processing. Many of the yarns we use are naturally dyed as well. All items come from a smoke-free and pet-free environment and are machine washable although washing items by hand is recommended due to their delicate nature. Shipping is FREE in the USA!
What inspired you to launch your own website?
I love making things and have always been creating for as far back as I can remember. I also have another website: www.CoverThatBun.com. I also love a challenge and figured if others have done it why can't I.
When did you launch your first website, and what was it?
I launched my very first website in 2002 where I sold Gothic accessories and dolls. I've come a long way since then.
How did you decide on a name for your website?
I call babies "bubbles" as a term of endearment and so the name seemed fitting for the website.
What makes your website different from other, similar offerings?
We offer handcrafted items which have superior attention to detail. We also make all our items from natural fibers so your baby and the environment can keep looking and feeling great.
What is your eventual goal? (To sell it, keep it for income, secure a book or other mainstream media deal?)
My goal is to expand the business and continue to offer quality products which I enjoy making.
How does your investment of time and money balance against your success?
Well, it is a bit difficult sometimes since I basically wear all of the hats in the company. I am webmaster, manufacturerer, public relations and customer service all rolled into one. Knowing that I'm offering the best products to my customers and seeing happy babies and mommies makes it all worthwhile though.
If you had an unlimited development budget for development, how would you change your site?
If I had unlimited funds at my disposal I would open a brick and mortar store with employees.
If your site got really big, really quickly, would you be able to keep up with the demand?
I would need to hire some employees but we'll cross that bridge once we get to it.
What unexpected costs and headaches have you had to deal with?
The premium materials that we use are a bit pricey and website development always has a few snags here and there but overall you have good days and bad ones as with everything so it all balances out.
What has been your biggest challenge?
I think the biggest challenge is constantly learning, often through trial and error, how to build and expand the business etc. I don't come from a business background but I've learned so much along the way. Another challenge at least in the beginning is staying motivated and not becoming frustrated. Sometimes you want to see instant success and when that doesn't happen you start questioning everything.
What method has been most successful for promoting your website?
I think that adding links to free directories, having a myspace profile and utilizing free classifieds are very helpful without spending a dime. Word of mouth is also extremely important and happens over time from satisfied customers.
How has running your website differed from your expectations?
I never knew how much time and effort went into running one until I actually had one.
How long have you run the site already, and how long will you continue to keep it up if you don't enjoy big gains in traffic, income or popularity?
It's been up since May 2008 and I expect to keep it up for a long time.
Who has inspired you to create?
I learned how to knit and sew from my grandmother. My family and friends are pretty supportive of my need to create as well.
What is your website address?
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