For the last few months, we’ve placed different niches in
the spotlight. We hope to help you choose a market that you can specialize in.
We usually focus on the more common, generic markets such as shoes, apparel,
antiques, baby items and more. Today, we’re delving deeper into our study of
specialized stores.
Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime events for most people.
Those who go the traditional route are more than willing to spend a few
thousand dollars on this day to celebrate love. It is one of those niche
markets that is rarely targeted by retailers thinking that it may not have as
much demand as the safer bets. But look at it from a different perspective. Your
target audience will most likely buy in bulk, seasonality has very little
effect on the sales trends, there is no need to hard sell and the level of
competition is low.
So if you were to consider this as one of your options, the
first thing to ask is what you should sell. This will dictate how you
categorize your store and in the bigger picture, how you market yourself as an
online store.
First, create a
category for wedding souvenirs or favors. This is something that hands-on
brides will always think about the internet as a good source. Wedding souvenirs
can be virtually anything, but it would be wise to choose items that are either
edible or practical. And most of all, it should be something available by bulk.
From shot glasses to teddy bears, wine flutes to tins of mint, think of items that
you would want to receive at a wedding as a token of thanks.
Next, focus on the gifts to be given by the couple to their
entourage. Here, you can have a men’s line and call it gifts for the Groomsmen.
You should also have a women’s line for Gifts for the Bridesmaids. Don’t forget
about gifts for the parents, which should be something for a more mature
audience.
Bridal showers are also part of the wedding market. So think
about items that will be needed for that occasion. It can be balloons, bridal
shower kits, games, bath sets (for spa-themed parties), invitations, thank you
cards and more
Then, create a whole category on wedding supplies. Here, you
can include some traditional wedding items such as the veil, the chord, the
coins, the unity candles and more. Invitations and place cards can also be
included here again. Don’t forget some materials for the DIY bride such as
ribbons, flowers, specialty paper, boxes, bags and wraps.
Bridal accessories is another category you can have. Here,
you should consider headdress such as tiara or a jeweled comb. Fashion tape,
girdles, garters, handbags, shoes and more. Don’t forget the jewelry for the
bride and her bridesmaids.
Last but not the least, you should have a category on
post-wedding items. Include thank you notes, keepsake albums and gown
preservation kits.
There are a ton of things you can sell to the
soon-to-be-weds. Continuously do research on the trends so you can expand your
categories and offer items that answer their needs.
Happy selling!
