I have enjoyed collecting and selling collectibles and farm primitives in an antique store but also wanted to sell online. I did my research and decided to open a Ruby Lane shop in February. It took a weekend to fill out forms and list my ten chosen item. On February 4, I got a gmail saying my shop had been accepted but I needed to make a few changes mainly in categories. I completed the changes and later that evening, Chessie & Nestor Go Antiquing was up and running.

What are my experiences as a new shop owner after almost two months? My experiences have been very positive. I check my gmail a few times a day and reply on the Ruby Lane site. I have an iMac and no additional software was needed to use the Ruby Lane site. I do receive some phone calls from customers with questions before ordering. I did purchase a new digital camera for better photos. The online support was very helpful when I had questions. I check Google Analytic's daily and see what shop items are popular and where my customers are located. Adding items weekly really helps sales. I try to stay a featured shop on one or two lanes.

Ruby Lane does an excellent job of promoting new shops. I have taken advantage of the Mentoring Program and did one session on Picture Perfect Packing. I also was shopped by a Secret Shopper. I am exclusively on Ruby Lane and I receive some free advertising by adding items weekly. My customers have enjoyed their shopping experience and will visit my shop again. Most customers look at the daily arrivals to see what is new.

What to do before opening a Ruby Lane Shop? I did visit shops and ordered from two shops to check out the details of ordering, shipping and receiving a package. I bought bubble wrap, packing peanuts, permanent markers, return address labels, and collected a supply of boxes. I checked with my local post office for advice. I already had a small business checking account and ordered a business credit card. I opened a PayPal account. I got my collectibles in order and organized. I made a light box before taking photos, organized a box packing area, and storage area for online items. Although I put information on computer sites, I use notebooks for recording information before adding items to my site, taking packages to the post office, and keeping track of orders.

You may consider opening a Ruby Lane shop.They have the tools to make your shop successful. It is easy to add items and photos with a spelling check and modify option. The customers are sincere collectors who enjoy shopping online.

Noel Merkel

Chessie & Nestor Go Antiquing

http://www.rubylane.com/shop/chessie-nestor