by Gail Oliver, Small Business Marketing Consultant

I recently came across a few independent online shops and was really impressed by not only their e-commerce store but the creativity of their products.

Online Store: Bob’s Your Uncle 

The online store, Bob’s Your Uncle, actually features three other vendors as well, but I love Bob’s whimsical take on everyday items from dish towels to place mats to playing cards and the pure simplicity of the shop.

Insider Tip: One other thing Bob is doing that is very smart, is not only offering custom services, but also willing to design products for a company as a private label.

cool online shops

Online Store: Growler Goods 

Growler Goods focuses on dog products with a little boho flare. From dog tipis (seriously, doesn’t that tipi look comfortable?) to leashes to bandanas, these are products for the cool dog.

Insider Tip: I love how Growler Goods has an oversized, recognizable label all of their products, and displaying the “Martha Stewart American Made” seal of approval on their home page doesn’t hurt either.

cool online stores

Online Store: Yellow Leaf Hammocks

Sometimes specializing in just one type of product is ideal because you get found more easily in searches and you can quickly become the go-to standard. Yellow Leaf Hammocks look pretty amazing, come in a variety of styles, styles, and yes, you can customize your own as well.

Insider Tip: The product photography is so well done (I never thought to hang a hammock on a sailboat or dock), and they actively promote all of the press they have gotten from major publications as well as their philanthropy efforts, as the hammocks are made by artisans in rural Thailand.

unique online stores

If you really want to understand how to offer great products, appeal to your target market and establish a recognizable brand, check out these three shops.


quick consult 3

You too can have a successful online business and I can help. I offer a variety of very affordable marketing services including my very popular but limited time offer, My Quick Consult ($30) for those on a budget or just starting out. Find out more on my marketing services page.


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