How to Get Started with Email Marketing for Etsy Sellers

In the bustling marketplace of Etsy, standing out from the masses can feel like scaling Mount Everest in flip-flops. There are a lot of ways to market your Etsy shop. You could share your products on social media (e.g., Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, even TikTok), collaborate with influencers, host giveaways, book yourself on podcasts, or run ads on Etsy. But fear not, crafty comrades, you will find a ton of success by following my simple steps to how to get started with email marketing for Etsy sellers.

Why Email Marketing Rocks for Etsy Sellers

Sure, social media’s the hotshot hangout, but email offers a cozy cabin in the woods where you can connect with your customers on a deeper level. It’s like having their undivided attention for a cup of virtual tea or hot coffee.

Here’s why email marketing reigns supreme for Etsy sellers:

• Build trust and brand loyalty: Unlike fleeting social media posts, emails foster personal connections through storytelling, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and exclusive offers.
• Target the right audience: Segment your list based on interests and purchase history to send laser-focused emails that resonate. No more shouting into the void!
• Boost sales and conversions: Strategic email campaigns can nudge hesitant shoppers towards checkout, remind them of abandoned carts, and announce irresistible promotions.
• Cost-effective and measurable: Compared to pricier ad campaigns, email marketing offers a bang for your buck. Plus, detailed analytics let you track what’s working and what’s not.

Etsy’s Policies Regarding Email Addresses

Etsy has strict rules about using customer email addresses and specifies that any communication you have with customers should be Etsy-related. You can’t use Etsy conversations to ask people to join your list.

It’s also important to note that you can’t simply add Etsy buyers to your email list without their consent. This can get you kicked off Etsy and is also a violation of spam laws. 

Acceptable Ways To Collect Email Addresses

Even though you can’t add people to your list without their consent or use Etsy conversations to ask customers to join, there are other ways you can encourage shoppers to join your email list. 

Way to grow your email list?

• Include the url in your thank you message to buyers and on your invoice.
• Include a card in with their order with the sign-up link
• Share the url on all of your shop’s social media platforms

You might like this blog post on how to grow your email list.

What can you email your list?

Now, the million-dollar question: what on earth do you email your lovely subscribers about? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a treasure trove of ideas:

• Product spotlights: Introduce new creations, highlight bestsellers, or showcase hidden gems in your shop. Think of it as your own personal Etsy runway show!
• Behind-the-scenes magic: Give your customers a peek into your creative process, studio space, or the inspiration behind your work. Let them see the heart and soul that goes into each piece.
• Seasonal inspiration: Offer DIY tips, gift guides, or styling suggestions that feature your products. Help your customers celebrate holidays, milestones, and everyday moments with your handcrafted goodness.
• Exclusive discounts and sneak peeks: Reward your subscribers with early access to sales, special offers, or limited-edition items. Make them feel like VIPs in your crafty kingdom.
• Community corner: Feature customer testimonials, share creative projects made with your products, or host Q&A sessions. Foster a sense of belonging and build a vibrant community around your brand.

Frequency Matters: Finding the Sweet Spot

Bombarding your subscribers with daily emails is like showing up unannounced with a mariachi band at 3 am. Not cool. Aim for consistency without overkill. Once a week or every other week is a good starting point. Track your unsubscribe rate and adjust your frequency based on your audience’s preferences. Learn more about the basics of email marketing here.

Remember, It’s All About Value

Don’t just hawk your wares like a market hawker. Offer valuable content, helpful tips, and genuine interactions. Your emails should be like warm cookies on a cold day – sweet, satisfying, and leaving your customers wanting more. Ensure you have a welcome sequence to nurture your email audience before selling to them.

Ready to Dive into the Email Deep End of Email Marketing for Etsy Sellers?

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge and inspiration, it’s time to take action! Here are some handy tips to get your email marketing ship sailing:

• Build your email list: Offer to entice opt-in incentives like free downloads or discounts. Place signup forms strategically on your Etsy shop page, website, and social media channels.
• Choose an email marketing platform: Several beginner-friendly options offer user-friendly templates and automation tools. Mailchimp, ConvertKit, and Flodesk are popular choices for Etsy sellers. I prefer Convertkit or Flodesk.
• Design eye-catching emails: Use a clean, mobile-friendly template and add captivating visuals like high-quality product photos and lifestyle images. You might like the email club.
• Write compelling subject lines: Intrigue your readers and entice them to open your email. Think informative, benefit-driven, and slightly mysterious.
• Track your results: Monitor your open rates, click-through rates, and unsubscribe rates to see what’s working and what needs tweaking. Don’t be afraid to experiment and refine your approach.
• Click rates and open rates matter: Learn how to improve click rates and open rates here.

With a little planning, creativity, and these handy tips, you can transform email marketing from a daunting task to a powerful tool for growing your Etsy shop and connecting with your customers on a deeper level.

Want more help with email marketing?

Get expert advice on email marketing, business strategy, SEO, and tech from Melissa, CEO of Not Another VA. Book a Zoom call to ask your burning questions if you want support for your business. You’ll receive a recording of the call to reference later, saving you time and providing valuable insights.

This post contains affiliate links.

Other Helpful Blog Posts

I know what’s like to own a business- and it’s not always easy. Check out my blog on Products for Business Owners for helpful tips!

Need help starting your emails? Check out How to Write Emails that Sell or my Email Club!