Name of your website?Gift Nook
Your name?
Minnie Formalejo
Your Location (city, etc)
Naga City, Camarines Sur
When did you start your website and why?
I started developing my website first week of June this year. I'm testing the waters, so to speak. I once have a brick-and-mortar store selling ladies accessories and school supplies but I was forced to close it down after my son got ill.I decided to find a home-business to be with my son always. I surfed the net for some home business ideas and i chanced upon a baby gift shop which sells handcrafted baby gifts. The idea is so novel here in the Philippines and I thought I can make a business out of it. That's when Gift Nook was born!
Please give us a short summary of your website, business model, etc
Gift Nook sells fabulous, memorable and practical gifts for new or expectant parents. If you are looking for a gift that can make a lasting impression and be treasured for a long time, you have come to the right place. Our products are just that. We also offer a large selection of products to suit all budgets.
With our unique and elegant Diaper Cakes, Diaper Wreaths, Baby Bouquets, Washcloth Lollipops, Washcloth Candies and Baby Sock Ice Creams, your search for gifts is sure to be a fun, relaxing and worthwhile experience. Give a gift of functionality and elegance now!
What has been the most difficult part of creating and running your website?
Well, I know a bit about web development (html, javascript...) but I had difficulties on taking quality pictures. I will have to redo some of the shots because they are blurry. Another challenge for me is how to make my site make it up to the top pages of the search engines. I'm still working on it til now.
What has been the easist part of operating your website?
There was no easy part. You see, I'm a newbie in the web-based business. Every step is a learning experience.
What was your biggest mistake?
None that I know of.
Who maintains your website and why?
I maintain it from the comforts of my home. It's been really simple and I don't feel (yet)the need to look for someone to maintain it for me, (I seek help in making the products that we offer, though).
Tell us how your business has benefitted from your website?
I can't just tell about that since i just started. I've got a few orders but most are done through phone. But some say they had visited the website and chose the product from there.
What are your views on ecommerce and the future of the internet?
Here in the Philippines, people are becoming more aware of the new medium to do business (thru the net). Although some still prefer to transact business the conventional way, there are an increasing awareness on doing business through the net.
What are your views on Search Engine Optimization (SEO)?
They're a big help to online businesses to reach their target market. I think its a whole new game for online businesses, to get to the top pages of search engines. With SEOs, they have better chances to make it.
What are your views on Search Engines? Have they helped or hindered your website?
Well, getting to the top pages of the search engines is my top challenge. I prefer to see it as a challenge than as a hindrence to do business.
What method has been most successful for promoting your website?
I am currently trying link exchange and classified ads. So far, 2 link exchange sites have managed to show my site to the google search top page. I'm still looking for other ways. Maybe I'll try article writing and blog writing next.
What method has been least successful for promoting your website?
So far, I'm happy with the resuts of my web promotion works...
What would you like to see change with respect to the internet?
I hope Paypal will be widely available here in the Phlippines. Since I am in the province, I cannot use Paypal. I accept payments through Smart Padala and Globe G-cash, which is a bit difficult as it is transacted through the phone.
What is your website address?
Gift Nook
