Getting Started

Vendor Onboarding Guide

Welcome to WhirliGig! Follow this step-by-step guide to set up your shop and start selling your handmade goods to thoughtful customers.

1

Complete Your Vendor Profile

Set up your shop identity and maker story

Tasks:

  • Upload your shop logo (square format, minimum 400x400px)
  • Upload a shop banner image (1200x400px recommended)
  • Write or refine your maker story (aim for 300-500 words)
  • Describe your craft process in detail
  • Add your location (city and state)
  • Set your shop policies (processing time, custom orders, etc.)

💡 Pro Tip: Your maker story is one of the most important elements—customers connect with the person behind the craft. Be authentic and share what drives your creative process.

2

Add Your First Product

Create a compelling product listing

Tasks:

  • Take high-quality photos (minimum 3-5 images per product)
  • Write a descriptive title (include material, color, key features)
  • Write a detailed description (minimum 200 words, aim for 300+)
  • List all materials used
  • Provide exact dimensions
  • Include care instructions
  • Set your price (remember to factor in commission)
  • Add inventory quantity
  • Select appropriate category

💡 Pro Tip: Your first product sets the tone for your shop. Choose something that represents your work well and has broad appeal.

3

Set Up Shipping Policies

Configure how you'll fulfill orders

Tasks:

  • Determine your processing time (we recommend 1-3 business days)
  • Set shipping rates for different regions if applicable
  • Decide on shipping carriers you'll use (USPS, UPS, FedEx)
  • Determine if you'll offer expedited shipping
  • Set international shipping policies (if applicable)
  • Plan your packaging approach

💡 Pro Tip: Be realistic about processing times. It's better to under-promise and over-deliver than to set expectations you can't meet.

4

Review Order Management Process

Understand how to fulfill customer orders

Tasks:

  • Familiarize yourself with the vendor dashboard
  • Learn how to view new orders
  • Practice marking an order as shipped
  • Understand how to add tracking information
  • Know where to find customer shipping addresses
  • Review the customer communication tools

💡 Pro Tip: You'll receive email notifications for new orders, but check your dashboard daily to stay on top of fulfillment.

5

Test the Checkout Flow

Experience what your customers will see

Tasks:

  • Visit your shop page as a customer would
  • Click through to your product detail pages
  • Check that all images load correctly
  • Read through your descriptions for typos
  • Verify pricing is correct
  • Test the 'Add to Cart' functionality (don't complete purchase)

💡 Pro Tip: Ask a friend or family member to review your shop and provide honest feedback before you officially launch.

6

Go Live!

Launch your shop and start selling

Tasks:

  • Ensure you have at least 3-5 products listed
  • Double-check all product information
  • Confirm your Stripe Connect account is set up for payouts
  • Share your shop link on social media
  • Tell friends, family, and existing customers about your new shop
  • Set aside time to check orders daily

💡 Pro Tip: Launching is exciting! Remember that building a successful shop takes time. Be patient, keep adding products, and engage with customers.

Video Tutorials Coming Soon

We're creating step-by-step video tutorials to walk you through each part of the onboarding process. Check back soon or contact vendor support for personalized help.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get approved?

Most applications are reviewed within 5-7 business days. We'll email you with our decision and next steps.

Can I edit my products after listing them?

Yes! You can edit product details, photos, pricing, and inventory at any time through your vendor dashboard.

What happens when I get an order?

You'll receive an email notification immediately. The order will appear in your vendor dashboard with the customer's shipping address and order details. You have 3 business days to ship the order.

How do I get paid?

Payouts are processed weekly via Stripe Connect. You'll receive payment for all orders completed the previous week, minus the commission rate. Funds typically arrive in your bank account 2-3 business days after processing.

Can I offer custom orders?

Yes! You can indicate in your shop policies that you accept custom orders. Customers can contact you through the platform to discuss custom requests.

What if I need to take a break or go on vacation?

You can put your shop in 'vacation mode' through your vendor settings. This will hide your products from search results and display a message on your shop page.

Need Help?

Our vendor support team is here to help you succeed. Don't hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns, or feedback.