Greatly inspired by her dad Sanjay Bajaj, Shreya Bajaj always believed in the power of entrepreneurship. In conversation with City Express, Shreya tells us about her project and future plans.
Why did you start this venture, ItsHandMade?
ItsHandMade was created to give an opportunity to all creative people around us to share their creations on a common platform. In an artistic country like ours, we felt the need to give sellers an identity of their own without having to invest in websites and marketing tools. The dream was to give people a reason to create art all the time as a means to a livelihood, instead of just a hobby.
What we are hoping for is to connect creators to collectors who have always had an eye for original creations, to do away with the middlemen, to help the sellers and buyers build a relationship and share a magical space where everyone learns to share and fall in love with everything handmade. The urge to be an entrepreneur was very natural. But for me the biggest motivation has always been the impact, reaching as many people as possible with the work you do. And, I felt being an entrepreneur was the only way out.
Is it profitable at the moment?
Not at the moment because we just started off but we’re breaking even soon and there is a huge profitability scope as well.
How many dedicated people you have in your team at the moment?
We have a person who handles the blog and social media, one more looking into marketing, critiquing of stores online as well as day-to-day operations. We have a freelance designer. The website development and maintenance is outsourced to Langoor, headed by Ruchir Punjabi.
Are there enough encouraging buyers in India?
Definitely. We get many fan mails everyday from buyers or potential buyers! They love the work we do and that’s what keeps us going.
Is ItHandMade just a business for you, or more than that?
It’s as important as my identity. Its more than business, for sure! It’s my attempt at redefining things and bringing in more creativity in everyday lives.
Can you give a small brief about your family background?
I’m backed by three generations of entrepreneurs and hence knew that this was something in the genes. We’re into manufacturing of PVC Pipes and Polybags.
My mother is in the family business as well but she’s more on the artistic side - She’s an amazing poet and used to paint earlier. I’ve seen the impact my dad has made in the lives of many. I’ve heard his stories a hundred thousand times.
What does your family think about ItsHandMade?
They are extremely encouraging and supportive! Family and friends’ support is really crucial because when everything is uncertain, having strong support from people who really matter to you really humbles you to a certain extent.
When will you be completing your CA? What are your other plans for future?
I have my last four papers to write this November. Right now, the plan is to make ItsHandMade big.