When you visit my website or browse my social media, you might notice I offer products through both my exclusive shop and third-party platforms like Zazzle. If you’ve ever wondered why I don’t stick to just one place, this post is for you!Running a creative business in 2025 means embracing flexibility, strategy, and multiple streams of income. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at why I use both approaches — and how it benefits you as a shopper and supporter.
—1. More Ways to Discover My Products
Zazzle is a large marketplace, and having my designs available there helps new people find me. It’s like having a booth at a giant online art fair — customers can stumble upon my creations even if they’ve never heard of me before.At the same time, my exclusive shop on abbyjuli.com offers a more curated, personal experience. It’s where I showcase selected collections, behind-the-scenes updates, and blog posts (like this one!). It’s my home base online.
—2. Different Products, Same Style
Some products — like custom mugs, glass cutting boards, or premium paper goods — are easier to offer through Zazzle, where they specialize in high-quality manufacturing. Meanwhile, my website focuses more on apparel, digital items, and handmade-style designs tailored to my brand.Using both lets me offer a wider variety without compromising on quality or style.
—3. Backup Options for Inventory and Shipping
I use third-party platforms like Zazzle because they handle production, packaging, and shipping. This makes it easier to scale, especially during holidays or when I release new designs quickly.With my exclusive shop, I have more creative control over the layout, branding, and how collections are displayed — but it also means managing more on the back end. Balancing both means I can stay efficient and creative.
—4. Special Perks on Each Platform
Some customers love Zazzle’s bulk discounts, easy customization tools, and international shipping options. Others prefer the exclusivity and community vibe of shopping directly from my site.I want to give you the freedom to choose what fits your needs — while knowing you’re supporting the same artist either way. 😊
—5. It Supports My Bigger Mission
Whether you’re buying a cozy hoodie, a mental health-inspired sticker, or a thoughtful gift, every order helps me continue creating. My goal is to inspire joy, comfort, and creative expression — and having both platforms allows me to do that more sustainably.
Here’s a quick look at what each platform offers:🛒
My Shop (WooCommerce on abbyjuli.com)
Pros: Full branding control, better profit margins, the ability to grow my email list and create a cozy, custom experience.
Cons: Takes more time to manage, requires plugins and fulfillment tools (like Printify), and traffic building takes time.🎨 Zazzle
Pros: Handles all production and shipping, offers unique products like mugs and glass cutting boards, and exposes my art to new audiences.
Cons: Less creative control, lower margins, and branding is limited to their platform structure.
—Why I Use Both
Zazzle gives me access to a wider product range and a bigger marketplace. My website lets me create a personal, curated shop experience where I can connect more deeply with you.Using both means I can offer more variety, test new ideas, and grow more sustainably — all while staying true to my creative mission.
—Final Thoughts
Using both my own store and trusted platforms like Zazzle isn’t about being everywhere. It’s about making it easier for you to support my work in the way that fits your lifestyle — while staying true to my brand values and creative vision.So whether you shop directly on abbyjuli.com, or browse my Zazzle store, just know — I’m grateful you’re here. 💛
