Brand Standards Guide

These guidelines help ensure a consistent, professional experience for WhirliGig customers while allowing your unique maker voice to shine through.

Product Photography

  • Use natural lighting whenever possible—soft, diffused light works best
  • Clean, uncluttered backgrounds (white, light gray, or natural wood)
  • Show multiple angles: front, back, side, detail shots, and scale reference
  • Minimum resolution: 1200x1200 pixels for main images
  • Include lifestyle shots showing the product in use when appropriate
  • Avoid heavy filters or color adjustments that misrepresent the product
  • Ensure images are in focus and properly exposed

Product Descriptions

  • Minimum 200 words (aim for 300+ for featured products)
  • Include materials used with specific details (e.g., 'sterling silver .925' not just 'silver')
  • Provide exact dimensions (height x width x depth/diameter)
  • Describe the making process and what makes your piece unique
  • Include care instructions specific to the materials
  • Mention any story or inspiration behind the piece
  • Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation
  • Write in a warm, personal tone that reflects your maker story

Product Titles

  • Be clear and descriptive (e.g., 'Hand-Thrown Ceramic Mug - Forest Green')
  • Include key details: material, color, size if relevant
  • Avoid ALL CAPS except for acronyms
  • Avoid excessive punctuation (!!!) or special characters
  • Keep titles under 60 characters when possible
  • Use title case capitalization

Pricing Guidelines

  • Price competitively with similar handmade items in your category
  • Factor in: materials cost + time + overhead + desired profit margin
  • Remember that commission (8-15%) will be deducted from your sale price
  • Consider offering volume discounts for multiple items
  • Price consistently—similar items should have similar pricing
  • Don't undervalue your work—customers understand handmade quality costs more
  • Update prices if material costs change significantly

Customer Service

  • Respond to inquiries within 24 hours (1 business day)
  • Maintain a professional, friendly, and helpful tone
  • Answer questions thoroughly—provide measurements, materials info, etc.
  • Be honest about timelines, especially for custom orders
  • Proactively communicate if there are delays
  • Thank customers for their purchase and support
  • Handle complaints gracefully and work toward fair resolutions

Packaging Standards

  • Use secure packaging appropriate for the item (bubble wrap, tissue, boxes)
  • Include your business card or a thank-you note
  • Consider branded packaging (stickers, stamps, custom tissue) to enhance unboxing
  • Use eco-friendly materials when possible (recycled boxes, biodegradable peanuts)
  • Ensure fragile items are well-protected with adequate cushioning
  • Seal packages securely with quality tape
  • Include care instructions if not already in/on the product

Remember

These are guidelines, not rigid rules. We understand that handmade goods have natural variations, and that's part of their charm. The goal is to present your work in the best possible light while maintaining honesty and authenticity.

If you have questions about any of these standards or need help implementing them, please reach out to our vendor support team at [email protected]. We're here to help you succeed!