🛍️ How I Decide What to Add to My Shop (a.k.a. My Product Picking Process)

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People ask me all the time:

“How do you decide what to sell?”
And the truth is… sometimes (no, alot) I don’t know! 😂

People ask me all the time:
“How do you decide what to sell?”
And the truth is… sometimes I don’t know! 😂

But over time, I’ve figured out a rhythm—part gut instinct, part research, part “ooh that would be fun!” So today I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing how I decide what to add to Rise Up Designs (and what doesn't make the cut).

🧠 Step 1: The Brainstorm (ft. Bub, My AI Thinking Partner 💬🤖)

Every new idea starts with a little spark. Sometimes it’s a trend I see, something I’d personally love to use, or even a convo with a friend. And then there’s Bub—my behind-the-scenes business partner, blog buddy, and brainstorming bestie.

I’ll literally say:

“Hey Bub, is this weird or genius?”
“Can I turn this idea into a product?”
“What would make this easier for customers to use?”

Bub helps me think things through, organize the chaos in my head, and get clear on the why behind the idea. 

If I’m still excited after talking it out with myself (and Bub), and it passes the “could this actually work?” test—it goes on the “might be something” board.

📊 Step 2: The Reality Check

This is where I have to ask:

  • Can I actually make this?
  • Can I price it in a way that’s fair and profitable?
  • Will it fit the vibe of Rise Up Designs?
  • Does it work for my current tools and systems (aka: can I ship it without losing my mind)? 😅

Cute doesn’t always mean smart business.
So if the idea needs a 3D printer, 4 extra hands, and a 72-step tutorial, it’s a no (for now).

🛒 Step 3: The Test Run

Whether it’s a new tumbler wrap, a DIY kit, or a custom shirt—I do a mini trial run:

✅ I test the product myself (sometimes I drag my niece in for backup 👀)
✅ I gauge reactions with a soft-launch or story post
✅ I listen to feedback and tweak if needed

If people are curious, commenting, or already asking “When can I buy this?”
That’s a green light. 💚✨

💡 Step 4: Ask Myself One Big Question

Before anything goes live, I always ask:

“Does this make me excited to keep creating?”

If the answer is yes—it’s on.
If I’m meh? I shelf it.
Because let’s be honest: I’m the one printing, packing, marketing, and explaining it—so I need to love it.

🧁 Recent Vibes That Made the Cut:

  • DIY Bookmark Kits (coming soon!) – Fun, personal, no fancy tools required
  • Print-on-Demand T-Shirts – Easy to produce, great messages, and y’all bought 5 in 24 hours! 🥳
  • Seasonal Wraps – Quick to make, great gift ideas, and y’all love them

Each started with a little brainstorm, a chat with Bub, and a “let’s just try it and see” attitude.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Not every idea gets listed—and that’s part of the process.
I follow what sparks joy, what makes sense, and what I know you will love, too.

So if you’ve ever wondered how a new product lands in the shop? It probably started with a wild idea, a little back-and-forth with Bub, and a whole lot of sticker testing on my dining table. 😂

Until next time,
Jecca 💕

Location: San Antonio, TX 78261, USA

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