As a graphic designer, I have always been fascinated by the idea of creating an online store. However, the process of building a website from scratch can be overwhelming, especially when you have little to no experience in coding or web design. Fortunately, there are several free platforms that allow you to create a stunning online store without breaking the bank. In this review, I will share my experience in using these platforms and provide some tips on how to create your own online store without spending a dime.
Before we proceed, it's important to note that there are several factors to consider when creating an online store. These include your target audience, the type of products you want to sell, and your budget. In this review, we will assume that you want to create a simple online store that sells physical products and that you have a limited budget. With that said, let's dive into the world of free online store platforms.
Choosing the Right Platform
When it comes to creating a free online store, there are several platforms to choose from. The most popular ones include Shopify, WooCommerce, and Big Cartel. Each platform has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to choose one that suits your needs. Here's a breakdown of each platform:
Shopify
Shopify is one of the most popular e-commerce platforms in the world. It's easy to use, has a wide range of features, and offers a variety of themes and templates. The best part? You can create a Shopify store for free. However, the free plan has limited features and you will need to upgrade to a paid plan if you want to access advanced features such as abandoned cart recovery and gift cards. That being said, if you're just starting out, the free plan is a great way to test the waters.
WooCommerce
WooCommerce is a free plugin for WordPress that allows you to turn your website into an online store. It's easy to install and comes with a variety of features such as payment gateways, shipping options, and tax management. The downside? You will need to have a WordPress website to use WooCommerce, which can be a bit daunting if you're not familiar with WordPress. However, if you already have a WordPress website, WooCommerce is a great option.
Big Cartel
Big Cartel is a platform that specializes in helping artists and creatives sell their products online. It's easy to use, has a variety of themes and templates, and offers a free plan that allows you to sell up to 5 products. If you want to sell more than 5 products, you will need to upgrade to a paid plan. The downside? Big Cartel has limited features compared to other platforms and may not be suitable for larger stores.
Designing Your Store
Once you've chosen a platform, it's time to design your store. This is where your skills as a graphic designer come in handy. Here are some tips on how to design a stunning online store:
Choose a Theme
Most free online store platforms come with a variety of themes and templates that you can use to design your store. Choose a theme that matches the style of your brand and products. If you have the budget, you can also purchase a premium theme for a more customized look.
Customize Your Theme
Customizing your theme is where you can really let your creativity shine. Add your own images, fonts, and colors to make your store stand out. Make sure your store is easy to navigate and that your products are displayed in a visually appealing way.
Create a Logo
A logo is an important part of your brand identity. Create a logo that reflects the style of your store and products. You can use free logo makers such as Canva or hire a professional designer to create a custom logo for you.
Marketing Your Store
Now that your store is up and running, it's time to start promoting it. Here are some tips on how to market your store:
Use Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for promoting your store. Create social media accounts for your store and start sharing your products with your followers. You can also use social media ads to reach a wider audience.
Optimize for SEO
Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing your website so that it appears higher in search engine results pages. Make sure your website is optimized for SEO by using relevant keywords, meta descriptions, and alt tags.
Offer Discounts and Promotions
Everyone loves a good deal. Offer discounts and promotions to entice customers to buy from your store. You can also offer free shipping or a free gift with purchase to sweeten the deal.
Managing Your Store
Managing your store is an ongoing process. Here are some tips on how to keep your store running smoothly:
Track Your Sales
Keep track of your sales and inventory to ensure that you're making a profit. Use an inventory management system to keep track of your products and sales.
Respond to Customer Inquiries
Respond to customer inquiries in a timely and professional manner. Use a customer service platform such as Zendesk to manage customer inquiries and complaints.
Stay Up-to-Date
Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in e-commerce. Attend industry events and read industry blogs to stay informed.
Conclusion
Creating a free online store may seem daunting, but with the right platform and design, it can be a rewarding experience. Remember to choose a platform that suits your needs, design a visually appealing store, market it effectively, and manage it efficiently. With these tips, you'll be on your way to creating a successful online store.
| Platform | Pros | Cons |
| Shopify | Easy to use, wide range of features | Free plan has limited features |
| WooCommerce | Free, comes with a variety of features | Requires a WordPress website |
| Big Cartel | Easy to use, free plan available | Limited features |