9.) 10 Steps to Start a Successful Side-Hustle

Posted by Steel Cyclone Studios at 9:17 AM

     When it comes to financial empowerment and personal growth, the power of a side-hustle cannot be underrated. Whether you're a gamer, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a person looking for an additional income stream, a side-hustle provides an avenue for you to leverage your skills and interests in a profitable way. In this article, '10 Steps to Start a Successful Side-Hustle,' we will provide a comprehensive guide to help you kick-start your side-hustle journey. This guide draws insights from the strategies of Steel Cyclone Studios, a company that empowers individuals through high-quality custom apparel, video games, and affordable courses on financial education and side-hustles. Get ready to learn how to identify potential side-hustles, create a business plan, balance your day job with your side-hustle, and much more. Let's dive in and unlock the potential of a successful side-hustle.

Understanding the Concept of a Side-Hustle

     Unshackling from the 9 to 5 routine and stepping into the world of side-hustles can feel like a breath of fresh air. But before you dive in, it's important to understand what a side-hustle is, why it's important, and how it can become a money-making venture.

Defining a Side-Hustle

     A side-hustle is a profitable endeavor that you undertake in addition to your main job, typically during your free time. This could be anything from selling custom apparel, like the attractive merchandise offered by Steel Cyclone Studios, to freelance writing or even dropshipping. The main objective of a side-hustle is to earn extra income, but it's also a fantastic way to explore your passions, hone your skills, and potentially create a full-time business.

The Importance of a Side-Hustle

     In a world where financial security is often elusive, having a side-hustle can provide a much-needed safety net. Besides the additional income, a side-hustle can also offer a sense of fulfillment, allowing you to pursue interests outside your regular job. It can help you develop new skills, build your personal brand, and even pave the way to entrepreneurial freedom. Moreover, a side-hustle could be your answer to financial worries and the ticket to a lifestyle you've always dreamed about.

How to Make Money Through a Side-Hustle

     Turning your side-hustle into a money-making machine requires strategic planning and execution. First, identify a niche that aligns with your skills and interests. For instance, if you have a flair for design and love gaming, you could consider selling unique gaming apparel, much like the captivating art designs offered on Steel Wear.

     Next, create a business plan that outlines your goals, target market, and marketing strategies. Remember, customer service and marketing are vital for the success of your side-hustle, especially if it's an online business.

     If you're just starting, consider side-hustles that require low startup costs, like dropshipping or freelancing. These allow you to get a taste of running a business without a huge initial investment. As you start making more money, you can venture into other side-hustles or expand your existing one.

     Remember, the journey to a successful side-hustle is a marathon, not a sprint. With patience, perseverance, and the right resources, you can turn your side-hustle into a thriving business. In the words of Steel Cyclone Studios, "Become who you needed most when you were younger." Let that sentiment guide you as you start your side-hustle journey.

How Steel Cyclone Studios Can Help You Start a Successful Side-Hustle

     From the spark of an idea to the thrill of the launch, starting a successful side-hustle can feel like a high-stakes game. But with Steel Cyclone Studios, you're not playing alone. This dynamic platform offers resources designed to turn your passion into profit, from high-quality custom merchandise to affordable financial education courses and beyond.

Custom Apparel and Merchandise as a Side-Hustle

     When it comes to side-hustles, your passion is your power. If you're a gaming enthusiast with a flair for design, then the endless possibilities of custom apparel and merchandise can be your game-changer.

     Welcome to STEEL WEAR. Here, you can create captivating art designs that resonate with your fellow gamers or build a brand around your unique ideas. The best part? You can customize your apparel and merchandise exactly the way you want. Choose from a variety of designs, upload your own, or even personalize designs with your own text. The control is in your hands, and the opportunity is vast.

Financial Education and Literacy Courses for Side-Hustlers

     The side-hustle journey isn't just about making money; it's about understanding money. That's why Steel Cyclone Studios offers a diverse range of affordable courses that cover financial education and literacy.

     These courses are designed to empower you with the knowledge to find profitable trades, build a solid foundation in the stock market, and create additional income streams. You're not just learning how to start a side-hustle; you're learning how to sustain and grow it.

Empowering Individuals Through Video Games

     But wait, there's more! At Steel Cyclone Studios, the spirit of gaming goes beyond entertainment. They're on a mission to use video games as a medium of empowerment and self-expression.

     From their indie games in development to their commitment to sharing the challenges of game creation, Steel Cyclone Studios seeks to inspire players and aspiring game developers alike. So whether you're looking to explore a side-hustle in game development or simply seeking inspiration for your entrepreneurial journey, this is the place to be.

     In the world of side-hustles, every move counts. With Steel Cyclone Studios, you're not just playing the game; you're changing it. So get ready, player one. Your side-hustle success story starts here.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a Successful Side-Hustle

Ready, set, side-hustle! Let's explore the 10 crucial steps to launching your successful side-hustle.

Step 1: Identify Your Skills and Interests

     Your side-hustle should be something you're skilled at and passionate about. Whether it's designing custom apparel, reselling gaming merchandise, or becoming a freelance game developer, knowing where your skills and interests align is the first step to creating a profitable side-hustle.

Step 2: Conduct Market Research

     Understanding your market is crucial. Identify potential competition and analyze what they offer. Find out what your target customers need and want. This will help you position your side-hustle effectively and set competitive prices.

Step 3: Create a Business Plan

     A solid business plan outlines your side-hustle's objectives and strategies. It should cover everything from your mission statement to your marketing plan. Remember, your business plan is a living document - be prepared to adjust it as your side-hustle evolves.

Step 4: Determine Your Investment

     Every side-hustle requires an investment of time, effort, and potentially money. Determine what resources you'll need and how much you're willing to invest. If you're planning to start a business that requires upfront costs, like a custom apparel business, make sure to budget for those expenses.

Step 5: Check for Potential Conflicts of Interest

     Ensure your side-hustle doesn't conflict with your day job or any agreements you may have with your employer. You don't want to jeopardize your main source of income while building your side hustle.

Step 6: Set a Schedule for Your Side-Hustle

     Time management is crucial. Dedicate specific hours to your side hustle and stick to them. This is where tools like Steel Cyclone Studios' courses can come in handy, helping you manage your time more effectively.

Step 7: Balance Your Day Job and Side-Hustle

     Remember to maintain a healthy balance between your day job and side-hustle. You don't want to burn out, so make sure to take time for self-care and relaxation.

Step 8: Launch Your Side-Hustle

     Once you've prepared everything, it's time to launch your side-hustle. Start small and gradually scale up as you gain more customers and confidence.

Step 9: Market Your Side-Hustle

     Marketing is vital for the success of your side-hustle. Use social media, word-of-mouth, or even a dedicated business page on your website to get the word out. Steel Cyclone Studios' resources can help you master this step.

Step 10: Evaluate and Adjust Your Side-Hustle Strategy

     Finally, remember to regularly evaluate your progress and adjust your strategy as needed. Learn from your successes and failures, and always be on the lookout for ways to improve and grow your side-hustle.

     And there you have it - your 10-step roadmap to side-hustle success. Remember, with every step you take, you're not just playing the game; you're changing it. So gear up, player one. Your side-hustle greatness awaits.

Side-Hustle Ideas You Can Start with Little Money

     Ready to hit the gas on your side-hustle journey but have a lean budget? No worries! There are plenty of side-hustle ideas that require minimal initial investment. Here are five low-cost options that can help you launch your entrepreneurial journey and start banking some extra cash.

Dropshipping Business

     E-commerce is booming, and dropshipping is one of the most accessible ways to get a slice of this lucrative pie. With a dropshipping side hustle, you can sell products online without having to manage inventory or handle shipping. You simply act as a middleman between the customer and the supplier. When a customer makes a purchase from your online store, you order the product from the supplier who then ships it directly to the customer.

    Platforms like Shopify make it easy to set up a dropshipping store, and with Steel Cyclone Studios' courses on dropshipping, you can learn the ropes in no time.

Freelancing

     Got a special skill or talent? Freelancing could be your ticket to side-hustle success. Whether you're a writer, designer, programmer, or photographer, there are plenty of opportunities to monetize your skills. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Remote.co are great platforms to find freelance gigs. As your portfolio grows, so will your income potential.

Affiliate Marketing

     Affiliate marketing is a great option if you have a strong online presence or a knack for sales. As an affiliate marketer, you promote products or services and earn a commission for each sale made through your referral link. Many companies, including Steel Cyclone Studios, offer affiliate programs. It's a great way to earn passive income while promoting products you believe in.

Blogging

     If you love writing and have expertise in a particular niche, blogging could be a profitable side hustle. You can make money through advertising, sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, or selling your own products. Plus, Steel Cyclone Studios offers courses on blogging, helping you turn your passion into profit.

Virtual Assistant

     As a virtual assistant, you can offer various services such as email management, social media management, data entry, and more. This side hustle is perfect if you're organized, detail-oriented, and enjoy administrative tasks. Plus, you can work from anywhere, making it a flexible option.

     Remember, the best side hustle is one that aligns with your skills, interests, and lifestyle. So choose a side hustle that you'll enjoy and be able to sustain. With commitment and hard work, you can turn your side hustle into a significant income stream. Good luck, future side-hustler!

Tips for a Successful Side-Hustle

     Transforming your side hustle into a profitable venture involves more than just launching it. You need to nurture it, just like you would a full-time business. Here are three key tips to help you make your side hustle successful.

Consistency is Key

     Just as the sun rises each day, so too must your commitment to your side hustle. Consistency is the secret ingredient to building a successful side hustle. This means regularly dedicating time to work on your side hustle, even when juggling it alongside your day job. Whether it's daily or several times a week, make sure to carve out consistent time in your schedule.

     Remember the wisdom shared by Steel Cyclone Studios: "Become who you needed most when you were younger." This sentiment rings true for side hustlers. Be the consistent and dedicated entrepreneur you needed most when you started your side hustle journey.

Networking and Building Relationships

     In business, who you know can sometimes be just as important as what you know. Networking is crucial in building your side hustle, as it can lead to collaborations, partnerships, and referrals.

     Join relevant groups or communities, attend events, and don't shy away from introducing yourself and your side hustle to others. You never know where your next big opportunity could come from.

     Also, remember to build solid relationships with your customers. Happy customers are more likely to refer others to your side hustle, creating a beneficial cycle of growth.

Continual Learning and Skill Improvement

     The world of entrepreneurship is constantly evolving, and so should your knowledge and skills. Continual learning and skill improvement are essential for staying relevant and competitive in your chosen side hustle.

     Consider enrolling in courses that can enhance your skills or teach you new ones. Steel Cyclone Studios offers a variety of affordable courses that can equip you with valuable skills and knowledge for your side hustle journey. Whether you're interested in learning about income sources, phone flipping, or how to turn your social media into a cash cow, these courses are designed to empower you to make your side hustle more successful.

     In conclusion, a successful side hustle requires consistency, networking, and continual learning. By incorporating these tips into your side hustle strategy, you're well on your way to building a profitable and rewarding side hustle. Go forth and conquer, aspiring entrepreneur!

Conclusion

     Stepping into the world of side-hustles can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. Whether it's selling custom apparel, offering freelance services, or turning a passion for gaming into a profitable venture, the possibilities are endless. The key to a successful side hustle lies in identifying your skills and interests, conducting diligent market research, and continually improving your craft.

     At Steel Cyclone Studios, we believe in the power of empowerment and positive messaging. Our diverse range of affordable courses and high-quality custom merchandise are designed to inspire and motivate you to pursue your dreams. As you embark on your side hustle journey, remember to stay consistent, build relationships, and never stop learning.

     In the end, a side hustle is not just about making extra money. It's about personal growth, exploring your passions, and perhaps, even making a lasting positive impact on others. So, take the plunge, and may your side hustle become a journey of success and personal fulfillment.

Remember, "Become who you needed most when you were younger." - Steel Cyclone Studios Motto.

     If you're interested in learning more about starting a successful side hustle, visit Steel Cyclone Studios today.

Want to Learn More About Starting a Successful Side-Hustle?

     Intrigued by the world of side hustles and contemplating to take the leap? We're here to guide you further! At Steel Cyclone Studios, we don't just provide a platform for unique, gamer-inspired apparel and merchandise. We also offer a wealth of resources for aspiring entrepreneurs and side hustlers.

     Our comprehensive courses are carefully designed to empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in your side hustle journey. They cover a multitude of topics, from financial education to digital marketing strategies. For instance, our 'Ten (10) Income Sources' course takes you through 10 different ways you can increase your income and achieve financial freedom. On the other hand, our '7 Figure Masterclass' provides insights into transforming your social media into a profitable platform by selling digital products.

     Moreover, Steel Cyclone Studios is all about fostering a positive and supportive community. We believe in the power of networking and building relationships as an integral part of your side hustle journey. Our platform offers ample opportunities to connect, collaborate, and learn from like-minded individuals.

     If you're still unsure about the type of side hustle to start, our blog posts provide numerous ideas for side hustles that require minimal start-up costs. From dropshipping and affiliate marketing to freelancing and blogging, there are plenty of low-cost opportunities to explore.

     So, if you want to dive deeper into the world of side hustles, Steel Cyclone Studios is your go-to destination. Our motto, "Become who you needed most when you were younger," is a testament to our commitment to personal growth, empowerment, and entrepreneurial spirit.

     Ready to embark on your side hustle journey? Visit Steel Cyclone Studios and take the first step towards financial freedom and personal fulfillment today!


Blog Article Sources

• https://www.oberlo.com/blog/side-hustle 
• https://www.steelcyclonestudios.com/about.html 
• https://www.steelcyclonestudios.com
• https://time.com/personal-finance/article/start-a-side-hustle/
• https://www.ramseysolutions.com/saving/side-hustle-ideas

8.) Galactic Rhyme

Posted by Steel Cyclone Studios at 6:09 AM

       Galactic Rhyme is a simple fun vocabulary game for kids to practice words and phrases that rhyme. Help build their skills as they try to match the words that rhyme. Dodge, avoid and shoot the words that don't rhyme. Watch out for those explosive bombs and barrels! Hurry before the time runs out! More updates are coming soon so stay tuned. 

       Here at Steel Cyclone Studios, we are exploring new ways to help kids learn with interactive games and simulations to put into practice their knowledge so they can actually apply what they have learned. The world needs more educational games that will keep kids be more engaged and have fun while learning. Video games have the power to bring students together in new ways, help them learn from failure, encourage them to persevere and overcome their fears all while making complex topics comprehensible and fun. Research shows that using games in teaching can help increase student participation, foster social and emotional learning, and motivate students to take risks. Through games, students can learn a variety of important skills. 

       There are countless skills that students can develop through game playing such as critical thinking skills, creativity, teamwork, and good sportsmanship. Gaming stimulates students and children to play together. Many games require players to work together in teams to achieve goals or to compete against each other. In order to achieve that, students shall refine their communication skills: this will help them to establish better relationships and have high self-esteem. Special thanks to Breshna for making this possible.

7.) 3D Art Assets Now Available!

Posted by Steel Cyclone Studios at 5:49 PM

1957 Chevy Monster by steelcyclonestudios on Sketchfab

     

     Steel Cyclone Studios is on a mission! We are empowering creators by providing a paradise of affordable high-quality 3D art and tools to help bring your ideas to life. Find high quality 3D models that are perfect for everyone from game developers to interior designers and more. Do you want to make progress on your projects but worried you don't have the time or the budget? Cut out all the middlemen, buy directly from Steel Cyclone Studios on Gumroad and save! 

     Import 3D objects and scenes from their library of popular models. Work with a small set of high-quality assets that are easy to modify, assemble and reuse. Save time with pre-built content that is available in the libraries to suit your needs. Save hours of time and money with our affordable products and take your game projects to new heights with these 3D models. Cement your bragging rights in the Metaverse!

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6.) My Shoe Design Journey Part 3

Posted by Steel Cyclone Studios at 11:30 AM

 

Coming Soon...

February 2020

       Back in February of 2020, I was battling the flu. I discovered some amazing news which made my night amidst my sickness! It finally happened! My business logo for STEEL CYCLONE STUDIOS was officially copyrighted by the United States Copyright Office. 

Black History Month 

       Black History Month occurs every February and in my opinion is one of the greatest celebrations in history. I want to take the time to communicate what Black History Month means to me. Black History Month is a stark reality of progresses and advancements we have made in many areas and the lack of meaningful progress made in other areas. Looking back in recent history, we have seen great progress in technology, research, development, just to name a few, but still struggle with the basic concept of equality and inclusion. We placed people on the moon and created electric cars, but yet still struggle with the unjust treatment of someone based on physical appearances. In reality, we have placed great emphasis on being inventors and doer’s, the advancement of things, items and materials but have failed in the advancement of us. We continue to forget that we are people first and foremost. Unfortunately, this very same message easily translates to any historical decade, but it doesn’t have to continue to be the message moving forward. Through listening, learning, and compassion, we can change the message and create a more inclusive environment.

5Ps CasualFly 
       Ironically, the launch of my 2nd pair went by faster. The release of my second product was a swifter and more successful endeavor, primarily because I learned from my previous mistakes and implemented several strategic moves.

Here's how I made it happen:

1. Acknowledging Mistakes: I recognized that in my first venture, I had made mistakes that impacted customer satisfaction and trust. In the second launch, I was upfront and transparent about these errors. I didn't hide or gloss over them but instead acknowledged them. This transparency was appreciated by my customers and built a foundation of trust.

2. Proactive Customer Follow-Up: I realized the importance of staying in touch with my customers after their initial purchase. So, after the second product launch, I actively followed up with them. I sought their feedback, addressed any concerns, and made sure they felt heard. This not only improved their experience but also showed my commitment to providing a high-quality product.


3. Reinvesting Profits: Early on, my first initial customers thought they were getting the standard leather instead of the patent leather. One of the pivotal decisions I made was to reinvest the profits I gained from the first product launch into the second one. I did this by offering customers a gift card, which not only encouraged repeat business but also showcased my dedication to their satisfaction. I apologized to customers and gave the ones who thought they were getting the standard leather a gift card. By taking this small loss, it helped me to ensure customer loyalty. This gesture enhanced their loyalty and trust in my brand.


4. Strengthening Customer Loyalty: By offering gift cards, I not only encouraged customers to return and make additional purchases, but I also strengthened their loyalty to my brand. The gift card served as a token of appreciation, making customers feel valued and appreciated. This not only benefited my second product but also set the stage for long-term customer relationships.


5. Learning and Adapting: Throughout this process, I continuously learned from customer feedback and adapted my business practices accordingly. This iterative approach allowed me to refine my products, customer service, and overall business strategy, ensuring that each new launch was an improvement over the previous one.


In sum, the success of my second product launch was a result of acknowledging past mistakes, actively engaging with customers, and reinvesting profits into the business. By focusing on building trust and strengthening customer loyalty, I not only rectified my initial missteps but also set the stage for a more prosperous and sustainable business in the future.

March - The Comback!

       March of 2020 was one of the most shocking times of my life throughout my entrepreneurial journey due to the Corona Virus known as COVID-19. I was in complete disbelief and baffled at what I witnessed. I witnessed a lot of greed. Many large billion dollar corporations were over borrowing money and trying to send their workers home on unpaid leaves. To actually witness billion dollar companies on the news and through social media like YouTube try to get away with unethical business practices was mind blowing. In other words, they were not practicing good money habits. But guess whose pay check will still come? The CEO, the CFO, etc.… I know I might sound crazy and naïve. Some of these companies don’t even have to because when they get in trouble or situations like quarantine, the government will bail them out and the tax payers will pay for it. These billionaires have the same 24 hours that we do. Don’t let their greed and bad decisions dictate the direction of our lives. Your power doesn’t reside in controlling everything around you. Your power is in controlling the way to respond to everything around you. 


Delayed Shipping Times

     The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted every facet of our lives, from the way we work and socialize to the way we shop. Small businesses, especially those involved in dropshipping, found themselves navigating a stormy sea of challenges. Among these challenges, one of the most significant was the delayed shipping times. In this blog post, we'll explore how COVID-19 caused shipping delays for small businesses in the dropshipping industry.

1. Supply Chain Disruptions: When the pandemic hit, it brought a cascade of disruptions to global supply chains. Factory closures, reduced workforce, and lockdown measures in various countries all impacted the production and distribution of products. Small businesses that rely on suppliers in affected regions suddenly found themselves dealing with delays as factories struggled to operate at full capacity or had to temporarily shut down.

2. Shipping Restrictions and Regulations: Governments worldwide implemented strict regulations to curb the spread of the virus. These restrictions affected not only international but also domestic shipping. Limitations on cargo flights, shipping personnel shortages, and safety measures at distribution centers led to delays in the processing and delivery of packages.

3. Increased Online Shopping:

With many physical stores closed and consumers practicing social distancing, online shopping saw a significant surge. This surge in e-commerce put immense pressure on shipping companies that were already grappling with the challenges brought on by the pandemic. As a result, they struggled to cope with the increased demand, leading to longer delivery times.

4. Safety Precautions: Shipping companies and carriers had to implement strict safety measures to protect their workers and customers. This included sanitizing packages, contactless delivery, and maintaining social distancing. While these precautions were necessary, they contributed to longer shipping times.

5. Fluctuating Inventory: The uncertainty caused by the pandemic led to fluctuating inventory levels for many small businesses. Some experienced difficulty in securing products as suppliers faced delays in production or shipping. This inconsistency affected the availability of items and added to shipping delays when customers placed orders for products that were temporarily out of stock.

6. Overwhelmed Customer Service: Small businesses often faced an influx of customer inquiries related to shipping delays, causing strain on their customer service departments. Responding to these inquiries required additional time and resources.

7. Evolving Consumer Expectations: As the pandemic persisted, consumers' expectations regarding shipping times changed. They became more understanding of delays due to the extraordinary circumstances but continued to value transparent communication from businesses about shipping timelines.

     In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic unleashed a wave of challenges for small businesses in the drop-shipping industry, resulting in delayed shipping times. However, these challenges also prompted resilience, adaptability, and innovation. Small businesses had to find creative solutions to address shipping delays, such as optimizing communication with customers and seeking alternative suppliers. As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, it's clear that small businesses have learned valuable lessons in navigating adversity and continue to provide outstanding service to their customers.

With Success Comes Hate, Jealousy & Envy

1. My Shoes Featured in WIRED Magazine 

Quarantine 2020

Essential Workers   

The Internet

       Anything is possible! The internet has opened the flood gates to making money. It smashed the bar to entry, you can launch a business, product or service and make more money in a day, week, month or year than you can make at your job. You can also do it while keeping you job! If you’re going to be on your phone all day every day, you might as well make money. Business is the fastest way to grow your income. Leverage the money you earn from your 9-5 to create something to sell. It could be a home cleaning service, resume writing, a tax filing service, a baby monitor or a skateboard.

“Technology has empowered everybody.” – Nipsey Hussle

       The biggest drawback to the internet this day in age are scams and knowing who to trust? It’s difficult when internet marketing gurus are like the black plague of the online world; bombarding you with advertisements selling you dreams and delusions of grandeur. That is why I have partnered with real actual practitioners in their field to help educate others and acquire valuable skills. Feel free to explore more Courses Page to learn more. The beauty of the internet however, is that you can move from one social economic class to the next in a matter of months. The faster you change your mindset, the quicker you can climb. You can go from making $30,000 per year to $300,000 the next year. There is no limit or cap. There are two way to make money: 

1.) Sell something 

2.) Work for someone who sells something 

       Think about it, you work for T Mobile. What do they sell? Phones and Service. What do you sell? You sell your time to them. Moving from number 2 to number 1 is how you will go from rags to riches. 

Where are you going to find products to sell? 

alibaba.com 

tradeindia.com  

dhgate.com 

       Go here to connect with manufacturers that can produce and or customize the products you want to sell. You can sell clothes, travel bags, sunglasses, vanity mirrors… anything! 

       If you are worried about the supply chain or don’t have much money for inventory, then you can also dropship and sell digital products. Examples of digital products can be How To’s, eBooks, Cook books, workout plans, personalized budgets or credit repair courses. The great thing about digital products is that there are no upfront costs. For the most part, these examples of digital products costs $0 to make. Then you can use a platform like gumroad.com to sell them.  

       Are you a teacher or simply want to learn how to make a course to sell online, but don’t know where to begin? Then I highly recommend checking out the Digital Empire. In it, you will learn how to not only make a course, but grow it on your social media. 

Bank on yourself. 

May & June Protests

DISCLAIMER: Links included in this website might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! I won't put anything here that I haven't verified and/or personally used myself. Thank you for supporting my business so I can continue to provide you with free valuable content!

5. My Shoe Design Journey Part 2 with AliveShoes

Posted by Steel Cyclone Studios at 11:13 PM

What is AliveShoes? 

       I first came across AliveShoes through a Facebook Ad back in July of 2019. My first thought was, “Is Facebook stalking me or something?” I was researching platforms to design shoes on Google and the next thing I see is this ad from AliveShoes. Was it just a coincidence? Was it algorithms that connected my searches to this ad? I don’t fully know, but I do know one thing. The first thing that struck me and caught my attention from the ad was the level of quality of their shoe products. AliveShoes essentially gives anyone, whether you are an artist, entrepreneur or someone just starting out a medium to bring their stories and ideas to life through shoes as your canvas. In the ad, AliveShoes claimed they can allow you to design your own custom shoe line from scratch and and launch it. When I was younger, I was not interested in fashion because I saw how it lead others to materialism. In school and sadly throughout my first couple years of college, if you weren’t wearing Gucci or weren’t following a certain trend, people would look down on you and belittle you. That is not was fashion is truly about. Fashion was never about bragging rights or to make others feel inferior. As I got older, I realized fashion is an amazing medium of expression, allowing artist like myself to bring our creativity to life in new and interesting ways. I don’t often go along with what’s trending. I am more curious about what makes other creators different and stand out from the rest of the pack. What make them unique and stand out?

 

Is AliveShoes a legitimate company? 
       After I did my research, concluded that AliveShoes was first a legitimate company that actually wanted me to design shoes and consider them as a supplier; I probably took way longer than most people before submitting my application to AliveShoes. Why? To be completely honest, I was hesitant. I was scared. I am kind of embarrassed to admit it, but I was afraid because I was thinking about everything that could go possibly go wrong instead of focusing on that 1% that could go right. To help myself and my own insecurities, I literally wrote down all of my fears. I made two columns. The left side was my fears and the right side was possible solutions. Even with my clothing line; Steel Wear and now as I continue working on my games, I take on the challenging and ambitious ones knowing that it scares me and makes me uncomfortable. Why? When you take on something challenging that’s seems scary; that’s how you grow. This is more than just making shoes for me. It’s a journey of growth, an ambitious journey of courage and finding strength in myself to researched. I weighed the pros and cons and wanted to digest as much information as possible before diving in. 

Shoe Assembly 

Where are they located? 

       The AliveShoes design and production team is located at their headquarters in The Shoe Valley district of Le Marche, Italy. They also run international operations in three flexible offices in Milan, San Francisco, and Amsterdam. 

1.) Terms & Conditions 
       Always thoroughly read their terms and conditions before applying for AliveShoes or any online business platform of such nature. Do this before submitting your application!

The Catch
       You have to reach a minimum of 7 pre-orders to send your shoes into production. Getting past the pre-order phase was the most difficult for me as well as many others. People have to understand that what they are paying for is quality that you just won't get with large retailers. If I have to choose, I would rather support a fellow designer as opposed to grabbing the latest Jordan's. 

Why 10 sales?
       When you acquire 10 sales, you unlock the free PR Boos Service and increase your visibility. 


Why 50 sales? 

       The Brand Boost service allows you access to AliveShoes' elite shoe development network and team in Italy to create a professional e-commerce presence and a custom capsule collection based on your sketches or ideas, and showcase your products to our international partners. You’ll be better able to grow your professional shoe business thanks to better branding, design, online presence, and marketing.

Why 100 sales? 

       When your reach 100 sales, sketch a design idea, send it over. AliveShoes will convert it to a prototype in just a few days so that you can add it to your collection. This is a major step into your fashion career. See the example video below. 

Learn More: https://www.aliveshoes.com/how

       You can submit and launch one shoe as standard. You can extend to 10 as part of the pro upgrade and can also extend to 30 or more with a launch extension upgrade. If you want, you can showcase all of your shoes in one place setting up your brand page. The brand page is part of the pro upgrade package. For each pair of shoes sold, you will received a $30 profit. You can receive your profits through PayPal or transform the money into discount coupons. You can learn more about profits on your Dashboard. If you don't reach the 7 pre-order sales goal, the people who purchased your shoes will be immediately refunded. The good news is that you can always re-launch your campaign and try to reach the goal again. However, the bad news is that AliveShoes originally charged a fee if you decided to start a pre-order campaign over. Your dashboard helps you the check information about the custom shoes you are selling, your profits and your current progress along with statistics. You still get profit from shoes that you purchase. So shoes purchased by you, you will still receive the $30 profits. You can buy your design in bulk and get discounted rates up to 15% off. Check the bulk promos directly at checkout clicking on the button "see bulk promos"  just under the quantity tab. You can also find designer discount coupons and other coupons to offer your clients in the option menu. 

What's the price range of the shoes? 
       This is where vast majority of people didn't do their homework and check prior to signing up through AliveShoes. AliveShoes clearly stated on their website that your custom shoes are price between $149 and $279. 

Submitting My Application 

       Within days, they had notified me that my application was approved and I can start using their platform to create a pair of shoes. 

The AliveShoes Platform 

       AliveShoes has a unique fashion-tech platform, allowing individuals and small companies to easily start shoe lines for free, online and in little time. However, I won’t lie, the platform is limited starting out to make it easier on everyone to use. Limitations like this makes it hard for artists out there to truly express themselves. That’s why my current long-term goal is to reach 50 sales. They did this to make it less complicating. To explain it better, what I mean by less complicating is that this platform eliminates the need for understanding supply chain, e-commerce, working with a network of producers, and spending six-figure start-up amounts. I know someone is probably reading this going, “What! Six-figure start-up amounts?” Many popular fashion companies utilize third-party business to handle things like infrastructure, hiring & employees, manufacturing and shipping for example. These things cost money! To get their business off the ground fast and to handle to cost of production which means hiring people to create the product while also compensating them, they are looking at these types of price ranges. Now back to the AliveShoes platform. This platform allows you to design and sell your own shoes with little risk but plenty of profits and rewards. 

Pros of AliveShoes 

1.) Low Barrier to Entry 
       How much does it cost to start a shoe company? A shoe store's startup costs can be hefty! Expect to pay about $10,000 in initial franchising fees. Grand opening marketing can cost about $5,000 and initial inventory can cost as much as $50,000 for a smaller shop. When starting any business, you always have to consider the startup costs. The first question I ask myself before joining any platform is, “What sort of barriers will I encounter?” As an entrepreneur, I was shocked to discover that there was no startup cost when joining AliveShoes. This company essentially removes a great deal of barriers and gives the key to everyday people to unlock the gates into the footwear industry. We live in such an incredible time. For too long, the footwear industry has been filled with barriers, making it difficult, if not impossible for creatives, marketers, entrepreneurs, and influencers to launch a small fashion and lifestyle shoe brand. AliveShoes creates a new path for really anyone to design and produce great quality footwear. 

2.) Freedom to Customize Your Shoebox 

       I did like how this platforms allowed you to create your own shoe box design by uploading your own artwork and logos. 


3.) Simple & Fast

       The production process through AliveShoes is simple and fast. 

Cons of AliveShoes 

       Nearly every platform is going to have its pros and cons. I am not criticizing AliveShoes however these are for the most part my opinions of cons I encountered and have with the AliveShoes platform. 

1.) A Fixed Profit 

       The $30 you make for each shoes you design is a fixed profit regardless of that shoe’s price. Personally, I feel the more your shoes cost, the more commission you should get back in return. For example, if my shoes cost $170 and yours costs $260 because you utilized more materials, and we both make a sale, you earn the same amount of money as me. You also have to factor in the time people invest into selling these shoes and money spend marketing their shoes. Time is money. AliveShoes has a very rigid business model. 

2.) Profit Deductions

       This is why it is so critical to read the terms and agreements. There are profit deductions if you use the coupon codes offered by AliveShoes. I am not trying to scare anyone away or cause you to lost hope. I don’t make the rules. 

 

3.) No Say in the Dictation of the Launch Price 

       As a designer through AliveShoes, we don’t have a say in the dictation of the price of our shoes. It is very difficult to mange this business model with such a poor margin. For this reason, I treated AliveShoes more as a side-hustle to create a small higher-end clientele base. The cost of acquisition is high and the possibilities to upsell do not exist. 

4.) Platform Limitations 

       I was upset because I wanted to do more than just drag and drop colors and select materials. I had no creative control besides picking colors and selecting materials. The platform didn’t allow me to resize or scale my logo to be placed on the sides of the shoes. I knew with my next pair, I would have to upload my own so that it didn’t feel like wasted space. However I don’t feel AliveShoes is somehow a scam because of these limitations. While I don’t like these limitations, they have them in place to make it easier for everyone; especially beginning designers who want a low barrier to entry into the shoe design industry. Some of you reading are probably surprised I was upset for the same reasons you were. No platform is perfect and each has its pros and cons. 

5.) No Copyright Filter 

       When I first utilized the platform, I noticed many people were getting away with copyrighted logos. This is not allowed, however there was no filter system in place to catch this sort of thing. Do not use trademarks owned by someone else or materials protected by copyright that are not free to use, unless you have explicit, written permission. AliveShoes will suspend your account and you will be held responsible for any related violations.

6.) The Brand Dilemma 

       The AliveShoes platform allows you to select from various shoe templates instead of creating your own. This ultimately created a brand dilemma because someone else can pick the exact same shoe template as you. The only difference is that they might have selected different colors and materials than you with their logo and design on the shoes and shoebox. I didn't discover this dilemma until much later. So people essentially have the same shoes but are calling them different brands which is a problem. AliveShoes' ads were misleading in a sense. They were not actually advertising a proposal to build a brand, but instead a marketing affiliation proposal with a low profit margin. 

       In my opinion, you work more as an affiliate for AliveShoes starting out rather than becoming an entry level designer. It would be better if AliveShoes stated you initially sign up for them as an affiliate starting out. Once you reach 100 sales of as an affiliate of their shoes, you have the opportunity move to an entry designer level position. From there, you sketch a design idea, send it over and have a prototype of your own shoes made to jumpstart your brand and truly standout from the rest of the pack. 

7.) The Design Protection Fee
       Instead of addressing the brand dilemma and fixing the issues of having identical shoes as others who signed-up through their platform, AliveShoes offers what they call Design Protection.  With Design Protection, you essentially have to pay extra money just to have your color code and materials locked in so others could not use it or duplicate it. 

8.) Can't Try Before You Buy
     Finally, since AliveShoes is an online platform, customers cannot try on the shoes before they buy them, and they must rely on the sizing charts provided.

Tips That Helped Me Reach My Pre-Order Goal 

1.) Live Below Your Means

       The reason I am so vocal about keeping your cost of living low is because it allows you to invest in your business. It allows you to take advantage of investments and opportunities. If you tie your money up with unnecessary bill you won’t be ready to attack. Especially if you don’t have children. Living below your means allows you to take calculated risk often. People ask me all the time, why do you live in Richmond? Cost of housing whether it be rent or mortgage eats up majority of people’s income. The cost of living in Richmond was less. So I needed to keep my living expenses as low as possible so that I could invest in my studio. People will make the false assumption you are rich when in reality I’ve been making sacrifices and depriving myself. 

Why live below your means? 

1. If you fail at something and it costed you money, you will be able to recover faster from that loss. 

2. You can retire faster by living below your means. 

2.) Don't Start Out with More Than 1 Shoe 
          I made the mistake of designing more than one shoe starting out instead of just focusing on simply one. Luckily I didn’t submit my first draft. Instead, I took screenshots because had I submitted them, I would have a lesser amount of shoes to design. So if you are reading this and starting out, focus on just one shoe and one design. The vast majority of people will immediately jump ship if you try to sell them 4 pairs of shoes that are close to $200. If you start out with several pairs, your designs can only stay in the draft stages for so long before going into pre-order. Starting out with more than one shoes also means you have less shoes to design long-term if you don't hit your pre-order goals. Again there were fees to relaunch a pre-order campaign if you don't reach 7 sales within 30 days. For this reason, I don’t recommend launching several expensive shoes at once. So I’ll be honest, I got lucky there. 

  

3.) Provide Offers & Fun Incentives 
       Before all of this COVID-19 crap, starting out I and a few friends went door-to-door and on the college campus near us handing out flyers. It went horrible at first! Right out the gate all we heard was, “Those are so overpriced! I’m on a fixed income! I’m just a college student! Is this a scam?” You have to be prepared for this so that when you provide a counter-response along with an incentive, they now get excited and feel they can afford your shoes. People who don't normally buy leather shoes are going to immediately think your shoes are too expensive or out of their budget. By providing incentives, this not only makes your shoes affordable for them, but reasonable and earns you customer loyalty.

Customer Experience

       You can host a fun event that people can participate in to earn a gift card towards your shoes. This is a safe way to invest in yourself and help make your shoes somewhat affordable. If you are making a basketball shoe, offer them an opportunity to win a gift card by playing a game of HORSE with you. I'm into video games, so because of COVID-19, I noticed everyone stayed inside for the most part. I had an idea while working on my game project.

My Grand Idea: I asked myself, "What if people could play free games from my website, earn points and use those points to redeem discounts towards my luxury shoes?"  

       I needed to find a way to test my idea. My game project was nowhere near complete so I thought why not test my idea with games already out. I hosted a video game tournaments for players to win a gift card towards my shoes. I charged a small fee to players who wanted to enter into the tournament. I provided a gift card to first, second and third place and priced them accordingly. Just for participating, I surprised those who entered the tournament by giving away the coupon codes provided by AliveShoes and t-shirts with my shoe design on them to further help advertise and promote my shoes. 

My friend Natasha from work said, "You could host a raffle drawing!" This is where I got creative and it made me standout. 

Receiving My Shoes Late 

             With my first pair, I originally was trying to design basketball shoes. Instead, they turned out not to be basketball shoes for athletic footwear, but basketball inspired shoes for casual wear. This was a huge mistake on my part due to the materials I chose based on feedback I gathered trying to please people. I was upset because the vast majority of my customers and ambassadors received their shoes a week before I did. A few customers including a couple ambassadors called me and said they thought they were getting regular leather instead of the patent leather. 

5P’s Final Customer Feedback 

- Shoe strings need to be a little thicker 

- Regular Italian leather over patent leather 

- Give customers more options: a leather selection and color selection on the website. 

- The 5Ps logo on the sides of the shoes were too small and didn't take up enough space

- 5Ps logo on the outside tongue of the shoes 

Nothing Sells Like Proof 

       Proof is the best negotiating power. An alternative to the 30 day time limit is the prototype option. You can purchase a prototype which will then start the production process for your prototype shoe and the customer's shoe. That way you can physically show people your shoes so they fully understand the quality, process and price of your shoes. It's much harder trying to sell a shoe no one can see in person especially with the higher price tag. The prototype option is found through your dashboard when you sign-in. 

 4.) Prototype Option 

       By going with the prototype, it releases the pre-order timer/ lock on that pair of shoes and your customers can now order shoes without having to wait for the 7 pre-orders. Because the platform is limited starting out, design protection simply ensures that other users don't try to reproduce your design. It's not uncommon to see users pick the same colors and materials as you especially if they are using the same shoes template as you. However users have tried to steal specific names from others for their shoes. This is where design protection comes in. If you plan to use the AliveShoes platform long-term, I recommend the pro account. Otherwise, don't worry about the upgrade. The pro account simply gives you more customization options, but be careful because additional materials will raise the price of your shoes.

5.) Promote Your Shoes through Selling, Giving & Wearing T-Shirts 

       I utilized Steel Wear, my online t-shirt and merchandise shop to help promote my shoes. For completing a survey or participating in my event, I would offer a discount on T-shirts. With T-shirts, in my mind they are a walking advertisement. I bought so many shirts in various sizes from the SPOD platform through Shopify instead of my Spreadshop because I discovered I could acquire them at a far cheaper base price. I placed my my shoes on the shirts along with the website link. So anytime someone completed a survey, but didn't make a purchase or participate in my event, I would offer a T-shirt as a more affordable alternative to support my brand. I sold the shirts at the full price they went for on my Spreadshop so I could reinvest the profit back into gift cards to put towards my shoes. Then I would ask them what size shirt they wear. However, I only gave away free T-shirts to the first 7 people who actually pre-ordered and purchased my shoes as an added bonus. This also helped to further advertise my brand. 

6.) Develop a Marketing/ Business Plan 

     There is no one size fits all so I am not saying the things I suggest will help everybody or give you immediate results. What I am saying is that this takes planning, time, investing and an incredible amount of work. While many people were laughing, they were completely unaware that 5P’s was more than just a brand; it was my marketing plan. 

1. Product

2. Price

3. Place

4. Promotion

5. People

Social Media Marketing 
       Marketing on social media is where I am struggling the most even with the incentives I've offered. It all comes back to earning people's trust. Putting yourself out there especially on the internet can seem scary. Contrary to the internet marketing gurus, in my own experience especially when I was just starting out, all I have to say is that it’s whack! People will constantly troll in an attempt to tear you down when marketing online. 

       I'd like to clarify a few points. First and foremost, I want to emphasize that I am not a liar. In my previous response, I was not sharing a sob story; rather, I was attempting to offer constructive advice in response to someone who was facing challenges with sales in comments. I believe that in sales, one doesn't necessarily need to resort to emotional manipulation or "selling emotion." It's about providing valuable information and building genuine connections with customers.

       Regarding the shoe soles, I should clarify that they are not made of hard plastic, as I initially thought. Instead, they are constructed from a durable and robust rubber material, which is further coated with a silver finish. My previous misconception about the soles being painted only on the sides was corrected when I realized that the entire bottom surface is painted. This could indeed make them less suitable for basketball surfaces, as they might become slippery.

       It's essential to understand that AliveShoes is merely the supplier, and the ultimate success of this venture depends on the effort and dedication you put into your business. These shoes draw inspiration from iconic brands like Converse and Chuck Taylors, paying them the respect they deserve. However, what sets these shoes apart is the exceptional quality and design of their interiors. In the end, I believe that constructive criticism and open discussion can help us all learn and grow.

       Marketing on social media can indeed be challenging, especially when people readily accept false information without seeking all the facts. Over time, I've come to realize the importance of not constantly feeling the need to explain myself. In situations with hundreds or even thousands of comments, expending energy on clarifications can be counterproductive.

     It's worth noting that while some individuals may be busy complaining in the comments section, they may not realize that this time could be better spent on their own business endeavors, whether through AliveShoes or any other supplier. So, when we weigh the value of our time and efforts, it's essential to consider where our priorities lie and what truly constitutes a waste of time in the grand scheme of things.

       I remember competing and my competitors felt like they had to disrespect me by televising it or making it in a way. People compete for jobs all the time. You shouldn’t have to compete to acquire skills but its okay to compete for a job. Sure there are things I didn’t agree with when signing with AliveShoes. However, it reflects badly on you in the end when you feel like you have to tear someone down on social media for personal gain.

       Colleges are struggling to keep up with the pace and speed of the internet because the Internet can provide those same skills they are teaching at a fraction of the cost, if not for free. Colleges when I was enrolled at the time back in 2009 to 2012 did not teach social media marketing. That’s one of the many reasons why I left because I wanted to find people who are practitioners. 


Target Audience

       For the longest time, I thought that my ad copy, images, videos and landing pages were the most important part of my ads. Well... I was wrong. I learned targeting is where it's at. It doesn't matter how good your ad is. They won't work especially if you are targeting the wrong people. It's like trying to sell dog toys to someone who doesn't own a dog... its hard! I was making a big mistake with my ad's targeting. Narrow your target audience and their interests that relate to your shoes.

Don't Try to Pleas Everyone! 

       To explain this more in depth, this helps you to narrow your target audience. If you try to please everyone, it you make you if not your brand go astray. People are going to have different likes and opinions so its only natural for some to lave, some to love your product and sometimes others might hate it. This was a good because it allowed me to narrow down those who liked the shoes and discover what interests they had in common. 

Compare Results & Not Other People

       Don't compare yourself to other people. Instead, compare only results. You are different from that person and will have different views and ideas from them. However, results are key. Let the numbers speak for themselves. You can't please everyone. The best thing you can do is just believe in yourself and do what you think is right for you. If you buy the red car, people will say you should have got blue. If you get married, people will say you picked the wrong partner. If you learn a trade, people will say you should have went to college. Everyone has an opinion about everything. You will go crazy trying to please everyone, so its best to not even try. One certain way to end up miserable is trying to please people. My friend Benjamin Dunn posted, "Don't let someone else's opinion silence your passion or dreams. Keep your flame lit." 

7.) Join a Facbook Group for Help & Support 

       Some people use the internet for the sole purpose to crake jokes, troll, share memes, stalk celebrities, and plain gossip. I prefer to use the internet to hustle. I was upset with how toxic the AliveShoes community was. Nobody was willing to actually help one another. Can you imagine what we could accomplish if we shared more than simply just our pictures of our designs? What if we share not only our successes but our failures so we can learn from one another? This would prevent us from repeating the same mistakes two or three times. That is why I joined the Alive Shoes Group – to not only share pictures but my experiences and ideas moving forward. So ask yourself, how are you utilizing the internet? How are you utilizing your cell phone? 

Hire a Professional Photographer
       When I started spending more money on self development than clothes, shoes and partying, my life changed. Some people will buy a $200 pair of shoes but won't spend $200 to hire a photographer for their brand or spend $200 to learn copywriting from an expert. Money is just a tool that gives you options, so use it and treat it wisely. Nothing changes if nothing changes. 

Remove Your Excuses & Ego 

       Opportunity does not give a damn about your excuses. Excuses are lies people tell themselves to avoid dealing with the unpleasant truths. As long as people buy into these excuses, they won’t grow. Instead of addressing the real underlying problems, they hide the symptoms. 

Accused of Being a Scam

     Last year in 2019, my Limited Edition shoes 5Ps were featured online in Esquire and 2020 of this year in Wired magazine! Sounds amazing right? However, during these uncertain times, I've been falsely accused of being a scam and pyramid scheme throughout this entire year on my journey as an entrepreneur. I just shake my head in disbelief sometimes because I'm just starting out. I am simply just one person. There is an acronym for so many words. People laughed initially when they heard 5P’s but once they saw AliveShoes showcase my shoes along with myself advertised in a luxury magazine, their laughter turned into complete silence. If you feel like Alive Shoes is a scam, reach out to them to address any questions or concerns you have. Don’t comment it’s a scam. That makes you look unprofessional and contradictory. It’s a contradiction because they are the supplier. It’s your business at the end of the day so it sounds like you are calling yourself a scam.

A Pyramid Scheme?

     Let me clarify why comparing this venture to a pyramid scheme is inaccurate. I've heard comments like the one above numerous times, where people mistakenly label my project as such. Firstly, let's establish that AliveShoes is far from being a multi-level marketing platform, and I'm not relying on others to generate volume for my business. There's no system in place where individuals run their businesses under mine to resell my shoes and earn commissions in the process.

     Secondly, the concept of a pyramid scheme doesn't apply here because the shoe market is diverse. People come in various shapes and sizes, including their feet. A significant challenge I encountered was potential customers who expressed interest in my shoes but couldn't buy them due to their need for wider-fitting options. Unfortunately, at that time, my product range didn't cater to these needs.

     It's worth noting that many individuals entering the business world often seek shortcuts, instant gratification, or get-rich-quick schemes. However, the internet is saturated with self-proclaimed gurus and scams that prey on people's aspirations, selling them the illusion of grandeur and a lifestyle built on financial gain alone. This isn't the true essence of starting a business. The primary purpose of embarking on an entrepreneurial journey is to make a positive impact and help others. I firmly believed that by helping myself first, I could pave the way to assist others in the process.

Stay In Your Lane

       When your are just starting out and being called a scam, even if it’s not true, it can potentially destroy the credibility of your business. It doesn’t look good when people are calling my business a scam on ads I paid for with no actual evidence and yet somehow the majority are so quick to believe the masses. Don’t be so quick to believe the masses because sometimes the ‘m’ is silent. I'm slowly learning that even if I react, it won't change anything. It won't make people suddenly love and respect me or magically change their minds. Sometimes it's better to just let things be, let people go, don't fight for closure, don't ask for explanations, don't chase answers and don't expect people to understand where you are coming from. Life is better lived when you don't center it on what's happening around you and center it on what's happening inside you instead. Work on yourself and your inner peace. 

Success Happens Overtime - Not Overnight 

       Treat AliveShoes like a side-hustle. Side-hustles reduce if not eliminate expenses. Find a side-hustle than can eliminate your smallest bills first. If your water bill is $50, find a hustle that can pay for that and move on to the next bill. Let's say your phone bill is $70. Start small and gradually work all the way up to your rent. Now you can save your entire salary and live off money earned through your side-hustles. Imagine reaching into your PayPal or your Cass App and you have enough money to cover your cost of living. It's more possible than you think but nothing works if you don't. The mindset is messed up. When you tell people you are an entrepreneur, they assume today this day in age you are trying to get rich vs helping people. I was simply looking for a trusted leather shoe supplier to give my customers more options and to build a small higher clientele base. 

This is Not Get Rich Quick

       Get Rich quick is like a disease this day in age because it teaches you that in business, you can get instant results in 30 minutes, 2 days or 3 months. Prior to joining AliveShoes, I asked various people complaining about their experience with them how long have they been doing marketing. To my surprise, most at the time haven’t tried. They haven’t even tried or made any effort to market on social media for their own business. I was mind blown. People spent more time complaining in comment sections, writing negative reviews without doing any research prior. I realized the vast majority didn't even try when I was just starting out and because of this, I saw this as an opportunity. In short, my advice is to throw away all of your expectations of getting rich quick. People will put in 2 days because they want results. 3 months. Throw away all your expectations of getting rich. 

       People looking to get rich in a short span of time put in little time, look for shortcuts and end up failing themselves. I was shocked to find people calling me a scam but invested little to no time into developing an advertising campaign, a business plan or learning about marketing. They want the results but at little effort as possible. The goal is not to get rich quick but to improve your skills from a 1 to a 10, so that you can start earning more. Earn like a 10, but if you only have one skillset or solely rely on one stream of income, then you deserve the results that you are complaining about right now. That’s okay. In regards to my business, I am nowhere near where I want to be because there is far too much to learn. Even the millionaires I spoke to never stop improving current skills and learning new ones. People trying to get rich quick don’t give two cents about their customers. They are solely in it for the money. 

Skills Pays the Bills

       Name the highest earning careers you can think of: Doctor, Lawyer... or Pro Athlete? How many years to get to the NFL did you put in? 12 years. During those 12 years he was essentially working for free because he wasn’t making money. It takes 8 to 10 years to become a doctor. Lawyers might take 6 years. You spend years working for free to get great at what you will do. It takes years to get great at something that you do, not overnight. Don’t rely on 1 skillset. Learn more skills so you can start earning like a 10. Exercise: Make a list of skills and number them 1-10. If you only have 1 skillset, you deserve to make what you are making. There is too much to learn and I am no way there yet. However I am on my way. Remember, SKILLS pays the BILLS. Focusing on getting great at skills. Colleges do not teach this. They teach you to rely on 1 source of income, work your way up the ladder vs having several sources of income, I needed to find people who are practitioners because I wasn’t getting that in college. Be patient, learn this skillset and commit to mastery.

Why did you Join AliveShoes then if not solely for the money?

Create a business to solve a problem

          Every person I’ve met who started a business for the sole purpose of money ended up miserable. You have to enjoy the work that you are doing. You won’t get wealthy relying on one source of income. I needed to create several streams of income. A great business solves and provides solutions to people’s everyday problems. They are customer centric, attentive to their customers’ needs. I’m not out here looking for that "winning product". You are designing it. Get great at this. So if someone has a problem and you find a solution to that problem, you can make money. Stop overcomplicating it. It’s all about communicating with people and doing it in a way that grabs their attention, getting them interested and wanting to buy your product or service. This is not a pyramid scheme. There is nothing magical or some sort of hidden secret about what I am doing. It’s a sales process. The strategy is for the most part the same. I built Steel Cyclone Studios to help with the problems in my life I was facing. It all started from a need, not for the sole desire of money and that’s the problem with many business startups this day in age. They want fast money and immediate results. I didn't want to sit around and complain about the problems in life. Instead I want to create solutions and actually do something and fix the problems in my life that I am upset about. 

     For example, ever since attending GDC Next 2013; I was upset with the gaming industry selling video games at full price for $60 while also placing harmful micro-transactions, pay-2-win mechanics and hidden fees in their games at launch. It's unethical business practices like these which further motivated me to start my own game company and fueled me to provide new alternatives that benefits players. I was unhappy with the direction the industry was taking due to corporate greed and unhappy at my job as a play-tester. So I left the corporate world to pursue my own dreams. At first everyone laughed and told me I was crazy but I didn't care because I wasn't happy at that job. I instead took a 9-5 job knowing I would make less money while I developed my business on the side. I'm on a mission!

       Waiting for the "Perfect Time" Will Never Come when starting your own business. The hardest part is always just taking the first step. You have no idea how you would be today if you started a year ago. A lot can change in a year. You can start working out now and love your body. You launch that podcast and people will tune in. You started a business and now you are earning the same if not more than your 9-5. You asked that special person out and now your are in love. Don't be afraid to take that first step.  So what was the problem or problems I was facing prior to joining AliveShoes? I was full of anxiety at the time because I was facing several problems all at once. My mind was all over the place, filled with questions like, "How am I going to find solutions to make luxury shoes and apparel more affordable? Also, to help with my anxiety, I wrote them down and this is a great exercise for you to write down yours as well and brainstorm solutions. Tackle the first problem go one at a time. 

1st Problem: How can I make luxury shoes and clothing more affordable? 

Why are the shoes and products sold through AliveShoes so Expensive?

       I would constantly hear questions like...

--"Why are they so expensive? They cost more than Jordan's!"
--"What makes these dhows so special?"

I was constantly belittled, cussed out and getting responses like... 

--"Nobody is going to buy those!" 
--"You aren't going to make sales through this platform!"
--"What makes your shoes so special?"
--"Those are so overpriced!" 
--"You are trying to make shoes? Ha, its Jordan vs. Jordon!"

       Below are just some reasons as well as selling points that helped me to fully answer the question as to why are these products so expensive. It is my hope that the following key reasons numbered below can help you as well as others.


1.) Longevity & Italian Leather is not Mass Produced
     Italian shoes have a reputation for being regarded as the best shoes in the world! From Italy's extensive history in leather tanning to its passion for shoe craftsmanship, Italian shoes are well-known for their handcrafted leather. Italian leather actually lasts 50% longer than regular leather. This specific leather is so highly regarded because of its quality. Only all natural vegetable and plant based extracts are used by craftsman to manufacture Italian leather. Because Italian leather is not massed produced, it takes much longer to make than traditional cheaper factory made alternatives.

 

2.) Saves Money
       This is a shocker! Contrary to the vast majority of people on the internet saying these shoes are overpriced, you are actually saving your customers money through AliveShoes. I researched some of AliveShoes' competitors in Italy. Majority of their competition from Italy are selling their handcrafted Italian leather shoes for $400 or more! With that being said, many of them are dress shoes. You really have to do your homework with AliveShoes and see their competition. To name a few, google search Giuseppe Zanotti, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bontoni, and Enzo Bonafe. Initally, I was shocked by their prices but I learned you have to understand their customer base. Who are their clientele? A popular company called Koio, created by two people, visited 34 factories in Italy and found one to help them sell their shoes at a similar prices as AliveShoes. Their shoes are crafted with the finest calfskin leathers, hand-finished with incredible attention to detail. Because calfskin comes from a calf it has a tighter grain and fiber, and is both thinner and lighter than cow hide. The problem is, people didn't do their research and compared AliveShoes to most US shoe brands.


Don't Lower Your Price! Change Your Clientele!

       With all due respect, I don’t recommend lowering the price. Yes, many have suggested lowering the price however they didn’t do their homework. When you lower the price, you devalue your product. When I encountered people who typically purchase designer Italian leather shoes; I was surprised by their questions. It was the complete opposite end of the spectrum from people I spoke to prior. They asked me questions and made statements like... 

--"Why are they so cheap?"
--"Are you sure this is actually Real Italian leather?"

--"That's not real genuine Italian leather!"

     I learned I have to further narrow my target audience, I have to factor in things like age range, income, gender, location and time. Do the market research, compare your styles, and pound the pavement. Treat your clients as individuals. If you want your business to be successful, you should treat the customers as individuals and offer them what they want. The marketing campaigns should be able to cater to the needs of the individuals and also deal with all their concerns regarding any products or services your business offers. Customers buy good feelings and again, solutions to problems. So make them feel important and appreciated. Always use their name and find ways to compliment them, but be sincere. This brings me to the next following selling points. $200 was a lot to some, but not a lot to someone. 

     When your prices are set too low, it creates a situation where you must exert significantly more effort to achieve the same level of sales that someone else might accomplish in just one sale. This not only places a heavier burden on your business but also has several other noteworthy implications.

1. Increased Workload: Low prices mean you need to sell a higher volume of products or services to reach your revenue targets. Consequently, you'll find yourself working tirelessly to manage larger inventories, handle more customers, and fulfill additional orders. This can lead to burnout and increased stress.

2. Margin Compression: Lower prices often result in thinner profit margins. As a result, you might find it challenging to reinvest in your business, innovate, or maintain quality standards. In the long run, this can harm your business's sustainability.

3. Perceived Value: Customers may associate lower prices with lower quality, potentially damaging your brand's image. It can be challenging to convince potential customers that your offerings are of equal or superior quality when priced significantly lower than the competition.

4. Customer Expectations: Low prices can set the expectation of continuous discounts or deals. This can make it difficult to maintain a stable pricing strategy and may even lead to customers waiting for discounts before making a purchase.

5. Competitive Disadvantage: Competitors with higher prices might offer better service, quality, or features, making it challenging to compete on value. You might also be inadvertently signaling to potential customers that you lack confidence in your product or service.

6. Profitability and Sustainability: Long-term profitability and business sustainability can be jeopardized by a strategy of continuously undercutting prices. It may be difficult to cover operating costs, invest in growth, or weather economic downturns.

7. Customer Support Challenges: Handling a larger customer base can strain your customer support resources. Inadequate support can lead to customer dissatisfaction and harm your reputation.

     It's crucial to find a pricing strategy that aligns with your business goals, considers the value you provide, and sustains your profitability. While competitive pricing can be an effective strategy, it should be balanced with maintaining the value of your products or services and ensuring your business remains viable in the long term.

 

3.) Quality & Materials

       Leather is flexible yet durable. Shoemakers particularly use leather for men's dress shoes because its a breathable and insulates heat. While this sounds great the drawbacks to leather shoes as already mentioned is that leather is expensive compared to other most commonly used shoe materials. Most shoes are made with textiles, synthetics, rubber and foam which can be mass produced unlike Italian leather. Nikes for the most part are made of polyester, rubber, eva foam, cotton and synthetic leather. I am not criticizing Nike in any way. I am simply trying to explain the differences. One thing I do like about Nike is that they continue to create many of their shoes out of recycled materials such as water bottles to make polyester out of. 

       Cheap shoes for the most part are glued together in a way that won't stand up time and use. Sometimes they are made this way deliberately to keep people going back to buying more only because they are affordable but they don't last long. Ironically you could easily end up spending more long-term. Instead, most handcrafted Italian shoes are either blake-stiched or blake rapid stitched, using a sing or double stitch on the inside. This provides a clean silhouette and it also makes the shoes easy to resole, and thus more durable. Moreover, these shoes can have a much thinner and more flexible sole, providing great lightness and comfort. Being part of AliveShoes as a designer gives you access to the magic of Italian crafting. 

4.) Odor Resistant 

       If you have smelly feet and feel insecure, they help to prevent foot odor. Leather is extremely beneficial to your feet as it ensures they won’t smell and helps prevent nasty odors. It has been proven that leather breathes much more than “fake” leather.

5.) No Creasing at the toes (this depends on your type of shoe) 

6.) A Custom Shoebox - AliveShoes allows us to provide our customers a unique custom shoe box with a magnetic clip to help customers' shoes last even longer.

7.) FREE SHIPPING!

8.) Exclusive! 
        If you really want to make your customer's shoes exclusive, offer to sign their shoe box or the inside tongue of their shoes.

2nd Problem: How am I going to acquire more money to 

put towards helping my roommates move out?

 

       I joined AliveShoes fore unselfish reasons. I asked myself, "How am I going to acquire more money to put towards helping my roommates move out?" You see, at the time I was living in a one bedroom apartment. I gave my friends my room to help them get on their feet while I slept in the living room on a bunkbed. This created a problem because you can't sleep or have people sleeping in the same space as you work when operating a business due to zoning restrictions. 


Zoning Restrictions

       Most people who start a home-based business are not trying to break the law. When researching the legalities of operating a business out of my home, I reasearched the obvious: start-up costs, taxes and incentives for my small business. However, I didn't research zoning laws and wasn't aware of it until my friend and co-worker at the time Daron brought it to my attention. Zoning is a major consideration for anyone who aims to being a home-based business and I am telling you this so that you can avoid the same mistakes as I've made. Certain neighborhoods make it explicitly illegal to operate businesses within their confines. In some cases, if you violate the zoning rules, your business can potentially get shutdown. Unfortunately, many home business owners aren't aware of their neighborhood zoning laws until it's too late. 

Create Several Sources of Income Streams 
       Don’t Rely on One Source of Income. Now, it takes two or more incomes to do what 1 income did 30 years ago. We are literally living off old information. The beauty of entrepreneurship is the more you work at it, the more it grows. AliveShoes is just one source of income. You might be frustrated because your job refuses to give you a pay raise. So it's critical to invest in yourself. No one is coming to save you. No one is coming to give you a pay raise. I don't know who needs to hear this but the chances of you getting wealthy with one source of income is slim to none. You slim chances get even slimmer if you don't own the machine that pays you that income. If your single source of income is a business you own, you are in a better position than if your single source of income is a job you have. Own the machine! 

Easy Doesn't Pay Well 
       Let's be honest, we all like what comes easy. Everything I've done with my business and my affiliation with AliveShoes has never been easy. What comes easy doesn't always gets us any closer to the happiness we are looing to find. Watching Netflix everyday after work is easy. Skipping the gym and eating comfort food is easy. Not working on your business and partying is easy. Spending all you money at the mall is easy. Gossiping about politics, sports and your old friends is easy. Easy doesn't pay well. 

       Even after reaching my goal marketing is still a major struggle. I've made a tremendous amount of mistakes and learned along my journey as I went. I could write a book at this point. I wanted to find a way to save people money on luxurious shoes. I was fortunate to find AliveShoes; a supplier from Italy with the finest artisans that allows me to save you money on handcrafted Italian leather shoes. I have made many mistakes along my journey and don't proclaim to be an expert by any means. My shoes are durable, odor resistant, have no creasing at the toes and made with unmatched quality that's built to last. It gets better! I offer free shipping on all limited edition shoes that comes packaged in a custom shoe-box with a magnetic clip. This brand is limited and will only remain in production for the next couple years. See more by visiting my brand page at https://www.aliveshoes.com/brand/5ps.

Pay it Forward 
       I started to see how my business slowly and maturely made a positive impact on the lives of my family, friends and those around me. I was able to help my friends living with me at the time acquire a place to live; a place they can call home had I never started Steel Cyclone Studios. 

     Too expensive you say? Still out of your budget? No worries! Click on the Shoes page at the top to explore my high-top canvas shoes with great quality; all for a great price! Don't go broke trying to "look" rich. Wealth has no image! True wealth is not of the pocket; but good health of the heart, mind, body and soul. Our true wealth is the good we do in this world. So don't accept people's limiting beliefs of what you can or can't do! Others will try and tear you down when you are on the other side of the cash register. Be yourself because everyone is already taken. This is your life! 

AliveShoes Testimonials 

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: there may be a few links in this description that, at no cost to you, will earn me a commission if you choose to click them and make a purchase 🙂

Don’t worry – I only ever promote things that have genuinely helped me.