Welcome to eCommerce Shootout, Spunger’s new series dedicated to exploring the in’s and out’s of different eCommerce solutions. Our first article features Cloud & Lolly, an Edmonton, AB based jewelry studio who uses (and loves) Shopify.
Why did you choose Shopify – what features, etc. helped you make this choice?
I chose Shopify because they appealed to my need for not only an ecommerce site, but as an all encompassing website. Being able to house everything (blog, store etc.) under one roof was a huge plus!
What other ecommerce platforms did you look at?
I tried Wix.com, but they weren’t optimized for smartphones or tablets, and they were still using Adobe Flash. After Apple announced they wouldn’t support flash, that made me abandon Wix.
I then looked at WordPress (which was only used for blogging at the time) and the various plugins for shopping carts (zencart was the main one) seemed daunting, especially having come from the Etsy.com world. I wasn’t at all familiar with WordPress (there was coding involved, and when I hear coding or anything to do with web-development, I run!)
The features that Shopify offered was a huge draw. From building a functional ecommerce website easily to backend ease of use (tracking visitors, where they came from, how they found my shop etc.) relatively simple and user friendly to set up. The templates were a lifesaver to do all myself, as I didn’t have a budget to pay a web designer.
How has your experience been so far – pros, cons, frustrations?
My experience so far (have been using Shopify for over 3 years now) has been great! The gang at Shopify keep us all apprised of updates, new features, marketing tips, and the list goes on. I use their smartphone app and payment swiper for in-person sales. Customer service is fantastic, as is the customer service from the design company I purchased my template from (located in the UK) The add-on, third party app selection is so helpful! Lots are free and each comes with their own customer reviews.
Are there any features lacking that you would like to see added?
As for features that are lacking? For me, it’s not much! I do wish I could add a product description when I make a new listing on the Shopify app, and I’d like to be able to see a bit more of the back end stuff (instead of having to log in through Safari) Also, when I make a sale, the money seems to take FOREVER to hit my bank account. I think it’s 5-7 business days.
What would it take you to change to a different commerce platform?
What would it take to make me change platforms? Nothing. Shopify keeps improving all the time, and embrace each and every new shop under their umbrella. I can do changes myself, or get their team to do small changes beyond my scope for a small fee. The ease of use and customer service will keep me a customer for life!
About Cloud & Lolly
Cheryl Currie has been a passionate crafter & designer from the get-go. She left her graphic design and art direction career in 2009, and embarked on a new adventure called; Cloud & Lolly Jewelry Studio.
Her individual style and self-taught techniques create truly innovative & unique collections. By using a variety of mixed metals, semi-precious stones, vintage elements & hand-forged copper and brass pieces, her aim is to create jewelry that encourages strength, confidence and a sense of adventure in its wearer.
Shop our collection online or in person at various Edmonton & area markets throughout the year.
Find Cloud & Lolly on Instagram, Twitter & Pinterest!
