If you’ve been putting off starting your email list because you’re not sure what to write, I want to tell you something important:

You don’t have to have it all figured out to begin.

You can start growing your list today—even if you don’t know what you’re going to send tomorrow.

In fact, most handmade business owners (especially those of us who aren’t marketers by trade) feel this way. You're not alone. The good news? You’re in the perfect position to start exactly where you are.

Let’s break it down.

You started your business because you love making things with your hands—not because you love marketing. But if you've ever posted your products online and heard nothing but crickets… you're not alone. The good news? There’s a simple system that can help more people discover your work, connect with your story, and become loyal customers. It’s called a sales funnel, and it’s a total game-changer (even if you're not a tech wizard).

Let’s break it down—no jargon, no overwhelm—just what you need to know to start growing.

You’ve probably heard this a hundred times:

“You need an email list.”

And it’s true—your email list is one of the most valuable parts of your business. Unlike social media, it’s yours. It’s direct. It’s where the real sales happen.

But if you’re starting from zero (or close to it), building that list can feel overwhelming. Where do you find subscribers? What do you send them? How do you even ask people to join?

Let’s break it down. This post is all about how to get your first 100 email subscribers—without paid ads, complicated tech, or cringey tactics.

You’ve probably heard the word “funnel” tossed around a lot in online business advice. And if it made your eyes glaze over or your brain go, “Nope, too complicated,”—you’re not alone.

But here’s the truth:

Funnels are simply the paths you create to guide people from “just found you” to “happy customer.”

You already have a version of a funnel if you have an Instagram account, an email list, or a shop. The magic happens when you start being intentional about it. And no—you don’t need fancy software, aggressive tactics, or a background in marketing.

Let’s break down the 3 easiest and most useful funnels for creative businesses like yours:

You Love What You Make. So Why Does Selling It Feel… Weird?

If you’ve ever cringed at the thought of “putting yourself out there,” you’re not alone. A lot of creative women start their businesses because they’re passionate about their craft—not because they dreamed of becoming a salesperson. But here’s the reality: if you want people to discover and purchase your beautiful handmade work, marketing is part of the deal.

But wait—don’t panic. I get it. Marketing can feel intimidating, especially if you’re not naturally inclined to shout from the rooftops about your creations. But here’s the good news:

Marketing doesn’t have to feel fake, pushy, or gross.

In fact, good marketing feels more like an invitation—not a hard sell. It’s about offering a way for others to experience what you’ve worked so hard to create, and sharing the value behind your products in a way that feels natural, authentic, and genuinely helpful.