If you’re listening today that means you’re likely interested in applying for our Paper Camp scholarship! Giving back is one of our core values here at Proof to Product and we give back through our time, knowledge as well as financial scholarships. Since 2011, we’ve awarded over $275,000+ in scholarship funds to creative entrepreneurs who sell physical products to the wholesale market. These brands had big dreams of seeing their products on the shelves of their favorite stores and they have obtained huge results. These scholarships are a big deal and we treat them that way. We typically have anywhere from 80-90 scholarship applications every round of Paper Camp. My team and I dedicate several days to view all the videos, read the applications, review websites, and ultimately whittle it down to one full tuition scholarship winner. It’s never an easy choice, but we do put a lot of care into our selections. And, today I want to share 5 ways that you can stand out when submitting your Paper Camp application. You can view full show notes and more at http://prooftoproduct.com/353   Quick Links: Free Wholesale Audio Series Free Resources Library Free Email Marketing for Product Makers PTP LABS Paper Camp  

Discover the five common myths surrounding wholesale selling that hold back many entrepreneurs. Learn how wholesale is accessible for businesses of all sizes. The conversation highlights the importance of proactive marketing and relationship-building for success in this strategy. Gain confidence in whether wholesale could be a lucrative avenue for your brand with insightful tips and truths that can shift your perspective.

Nellys Siria, the vibrant owner of Cocoa Loves Grey, shares her inspiring journey as a first-generation Latina entrepreneur. She discusses how rejection from her dream store turned into a triumphant partnership. Nellys emphasizes the motivation behind her colorful, laser-cut earrings and the importance of community support. She openly addresses her battle with burnout and the necessity of self-care in creative entrepreneurship. Her story is a testament to resilience, reminding listeners that a 'no' today can lead to exciting opportunities tomorrow.

Dive into a detailed training on how to conduct an effective product audit! Learn the step-by-step process of data collection and analysis to enhance your business operations. Discover strategies for identifying product strengths and weaknesses, optimizing pricing, and maximizing profits. Gain insights into refining your product line to align with your brand goals. Plus, explore the benefits of coaching programs designed to elevate your wholesale strategies and ensure your products are market-ready!

Keli Faw, owner of Crow & Canary, brings 13 years of retail experience to the conversation, alongside her PR background from Microsoft and Nordstrom. She discusses the ongoing challenges retailers face, like managing seasonal returns and strategic buying. Keli emphasizes the impact of online platforms on wholesale, the necessity of transparent buyer-rep-brand relationships, and navigating the evolving sales landscape post-pandemic. The importance of community, storytelling on social media, and adapting to unique store dynamics also takes center stage.

Kristin Fisher, owner of the gifting brand Bocu and a retail strategy mentor with over 18 years of corporate retail experience, shares her insights on optimizing Faire shops. She discusses common mistakes brands make and emphasizes the importance of buyer relationships and strategic pricing. Kristin also highlights the challenges businesses face on the FAIR platform and offers advice on enhancing product presentations and SEO. Plus, she introduces her Paper Camp coaching program aimed at building strong wholesale foundations.

The Proof to Product team is practicing what we preach and we are going on summer break for the next two weeks! We will be back in your ears mid-July and we are so excited about our upcoming episodes.  In the meantime, we are gearing up for another round of our Paper Camp program which will start at the end of August. We only run Paper Camp twice a year, so if you are wanting to learn how to start with wholesale, click here to join the waitlist (we sell out every time!)  Have a great two weeks and we'll see you soon!

Product industry expert Katie Hunt shares insights from a comprehensive industry survey with 925 business owners, discussing revenue, team structure, tech tools, growth patterns, CEO personal challenges, and more. The podcast explores personal struggles like caretaking and emphasizes the benefits of sharing data within the business community.

Join Rachel Kroh, an accomplished illustrator and owner of Heartell Press, as she shares her journey of turning her remote business into a thriving success. Discover how she tripled her revenue by focusing on wholesale and enhancing her infrastructure. Rachel discusses the emotional power of her art, the challenges of managing a dispersed team, and her exciting plans for a special anniversary collection. Her story is a testament to perseverance and creative expression in the world of entrepreneurship.

Janine Kwoh from Kwohtations shares how a massive order led her to revamp her product line, retire hand-painted cards, and focus on operational efficiency. She discusses the emotional aspect, inclusivity in business decisions, and redesigning products for growth. Janine's journey highlights the importance of reflecting on choices and aligning with business goals.