Blog Post – Mid-Year Check-In: 5 Lessons from My First 5 Months of Reselling from Podcast Episode 6

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It’s hard to believe we’re already over halfway through the year! As I look back over the first five months of reselling vintage photographs, I’m amazed at how much I’ve learned—not just about running an eBay shop, but about myself.

In this post, I want to share six key lessons that have come from my journey so far. Whether you’re a fellow reseller or seller, a creative looking for a side hustle, or someone considering a big career shift, I hope this encourages you.

1. Getting Started Was the Biggest Leap

For me, the inspiration to start selling vintage photos came during my prayer time. I’ve always loved old, rustic things—especially vintage photography. My husband is a retired pro photographer and together we did some research to see what kinds of vintage photos sell well.

Was I nervous? Absolutely. Starting any new venture brings fear. But I also knew this calling came from the Lord and I wanted to honor that. So I took the leap. And once I got going—listing, selling, shipping—it started to feel natural and it got easier.

2. It Takes Time to Find Your Niche

Before reselling, I was deep into handmade crafts—crocheting, knitting, cardmaking and creating digital products. But after retiring, I wanted and needed to simplify my life. That’s when I turned my love of vintage into a business.

Not everyone has to stick to one category, but for me, choosing a niche that brings me joy makes the work feel less like “work.” I’ve spent years doing what I had to do. Now, I finally get to do what I want to do.

3. The Power of Repeat Buyers

Repeat buyers have been such a blessing! I make it a point to offer weekly sales, great communication and fast shipping—because I know how much that matters when I’m the one shopping.

A good experience leads to repeat business and repeat business leads to word-of-mouth marketing. When you treat your buyers well, they remember—and they often bring others with them!

4. Inventory Management Is a Skill

After living in apartments for most of our lives, my husband and I bought our first home in our 60s (yes, it’s never too late!). We converted the master bedroom into our shared office space—and our walk-in closet became our eBay warehouse that we affectionally call “The eBay Shop”! We get to shop our stash! 😀

We use clear bins and SKU numbers to organize everything, which helps us ship quickly and accurately. Managing inventory well means fewer mistakes and happier customers.

5. Mindset Matters More Than Metrics

In five months, I made 54 sales with a gross of $421.69 and a net profit of $249.89. My repeat buyer rate is about 24% and my shop shows up regularly in eBay searches.

But I don’t obsess over the numbers. I’m in this for the long haul, not a sprint. What matters more to me is doing something I love, giving my best and trusting that growth will come in time. This is a journey, not a race!

6. Keep Working Even When Sales Are Slow

Every seller experiences slow seasons. I remind myself to stay consistent. Years ago, a vendor near us at a flea market in Florida where we had a brick and mortar store gave up after a dry spell. The very next day, a customer came looking for them—but it was too late.

That story reminds me to take things one day at a time. You never know what tomorrow will bring! Today, may be lemons, tomorrow it’s lemonade!

💡 Final Thoughts

If you’re a creative or a seller, I hope my story reminds you that it’s never too late to start something new. The Lord Jesus has been so faithful to guide me, and I believe He can do the same for you if you trust in Him.

Thanks for reading—and if you’d rather listen to this story, check out Episode 6 of my podcast! You’ll also find links to the shipping products I use.

And if you’re looking for unique vintage photos, visit my shop at bellaartcreatives.com—you’ll be redirected to my eBay store!

📦 Links to Shipping Products I Use (some are affiliate links)

Some of the links to the products I used are affiliate links which means that when you shop with them, I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me run my small crafty business. Thank you so much!