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Writer's pictureSadia Vanager

How to place a custom order in 10 easy steps

Updated: Jul 22

So if you’re like me, when it’s time to make a purchase you handle it one of two ways. 


The first way, you can plan ahead to determine what you want, when you need to get it by and depending on the price you may even save up for the purchase.  


Then the second way has you running into Walmart 20 minutes before you need the purchased item. 




Now if we're honest, most of us operate the second way, including me. But for the times that you plan ahead and are looking to make your gift or event more special here are 10 steps to creating a custom order with me. Whether a gift for a loved one or a display stand for your pop-ups or event, let us help you sow into your life or the lives of others. 


1.Find visual inspiration


Have you ever been on Pinterest or at a friend's home and saw something and wished you could have that item for yourself or it would make a great gift for someone you love. 


Or maybe you’ve attended a friend's birthday or baby shower and you saw a prop piece that you would love to have your own event. 


Well no matter where the inspiration comes from it's always good to have something visual to share with me so that I can give a more accurate quote on pricing, time & materials.  


2.Contact Me for custom order


I’ve created an array of custom orders for clients that I’ve met through different avenues.


Whether you’ve found me through Etsy, at a pop-up market or from word of mouth I appreciate you giving me the opportunity to create for you. 


The best ways to contact me for a free consultation is via 

Phone: (704) 266-6153, 

Etsy: Send a message on The Home That Sows Etsy page

Website: Complete Contact form on Website


3.Determine Budget


Now realistically whenever you go shopping, even if you don’t have a strict budget, you have an amount that you hope to not exceed. 


Except for Target, you just pray your card doesn’t burst into flames when you swipe it. 




You always want to do your research and shop around to determine who is going to give you the best all around service for what you are looking for. That includes price, customer service, communication, payment options, materials and labor.


Typically before we even sit down for our consultation phone call I would have given you a base price quote based on our initial conversations.


4.Determine add on’s


There are numerous add-ons that can affect the cost and completion time frame for your order.  You can customize your order with logos, initials, dates, words, paint & Finishings, transportability, handling, shipping, delivery or pick-up. 


Please note taxes are not an add-on, they are required because uncle Sam always gonna want his cut.




5.Determine Time Frame


Already made inventory that you request to have customized typically takes 2 - 4 days for processing. New home decor custom orders can take from 1 - 3 weeks for processing. Larger custom & event prop orders can take anywhere from 5+weeks to be completed.  As with any business, I may be working on more than one order at a time. When you get a tentative completion date from me please know that I have to take that into consideration. 


While rush orders are available, it is not a guarantee and will add to the overall cost of your product. 


Shipping & delivery method also can affect this as most of my larger items need to be shipped via ground and or freight.   


6.Consultation


No matter how we connect, I prefer to always do a phone consultation. 


Once I’ve gotten as many visual and written details about your perspective order it helps to collaborate by talking through everything. Before our call I gather the details and conduct research to so that I can more accurately discuss materials, labor and cost. During our consultation call I will typically reiterate and confirm the items we’ve discussed via text/email or messenger and then I will share my vision for how I will execute your build and explain the types of materials that can be used and the cost differential. 


The consultation is very much a conversation that should leave both parties comfortable and confident in finalizing the order. 




7.Confirm & Acknowledge final Proposal


Once we have completed our phone consultation I will send you an email with all the details of our conversation and request that you acknowledge that you are in agreement with everything before sending out the invoice. 


Also, I create a draft sketch of the project for you to review and approve.


8.Pay deposit


I typically do invoicing via QuickBooks and accept all types of payment methods except check & large cash bills ($50 & $100 bills). It is easier for me to receive and transfer funds if paid via electronic methods on invoice. I also accept Zelle, Venmo, PayPal & cash app. 


Your deposit is typically for the cost of materials or 50% of your order, whichever is greater. Once the materials for your order are purchased the deposit is non-refundable. 


9.Respond to communication 


During the build process I like to communicate via text or phone. This is typically to send photo updates or to confer new ideas that improve the process or change the cost. (Please note that no changes will be made to cost without the consent of customer)


I also post project updates on social media and if you are active I may tag you but if not you may see real time updates if you follow any of my accounts. You do not need to follow me to see updates but know that what I put on socials maybe more detailed so if this is an option if you are the type of person who likes to watch the process. 


10.Shipping/Delivery & Final payment


Shipped and delivered items may incur a handling fee depending on size and weight. 


Pickup: Can be scheduled within a 25 mile radius of Charlotte, NC. 


Shipping: Depending on dimensions, items may be shipped via USPS. Cost is determined by them and price quote is approximate as final weight and dimensions of order may change. 


Delivery: I am located in Charlotte, NC and am willing to within a 100 mile radius for additional cost. Please note that the factors that go into cost are  dimensions & weight of order, whether setup is needed, and whether a rental is needed to transport the item to you. 


Final Payment must be received 24 hours before scheduled delivery/shipping/pickup.


Below are some of my custom orders ranging from home decor to display stands.






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