Category: Growing your brand

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Creator success Growing your brand

Why now is the best time to build your brand

What do you think of when you hear the words “influencer marketing”? Images of millions of followers, big brand partnerships, and splashy social media feeds?

Think again. The “influencer” world has evolved to include all sorts of creators who make original content that helps them foster connections with their followers. In truth, it has never been easier to build and monetize a fanbase, which means creators can easily build businesses that go beyond the traditional influencer lanes of social media and brand deals.

And let’s be real: while brand partnerships are still lucrative, they’re not the only way to build up your income streams. If you want to secure the bag long-term, it’s time to build something that’s 100% yours. Think exclusive content, your own merch, and content on multiple platforms (so you don’t have to depend on one site’s algorithms). 

Intrigued? Great. Here’s why NOW is the time to go all in on building your brand:

1. Tap into the potential of exclusive content

Exclusive content is like hidden treasure—people are ready to pay for it, but a lot of creators don’t realize just how valuable it can be. Platforms like Patreon, OnlyFans (for all kinds of creators), and Ko-fi let you monetize your most loyal followers. How? Create behind-the-scenes content, offer early access or premium courses—stuff people actually want. This way, you’re making money directly from your fans, not just from some unpredictable source.

2. Launching your own products is a no-brainer

With the rise of easy-to-use design tools and print-on-demand services, creating your own product line has never been easier. Why do it? Why not! Your fans are looking for unique content, and that includes the products they shop for. 

Whether it’s casual apparel, drinkwear, artwork, or something completely unique, your audience trusts you—so why not sell directly to them by turning your most popular moments into must-have designs? Create limited editions that build up hype, then keep rolling out custom products to match your current content. 

We really could write endless pages on the possibilities of branded products, but for now, consider this: with platforms like Amaze, it’s easy to start, easy to design, easy to promote, and easy to start making money. 

3. Don’t let algorithms play you

One day you’re racking in the comments, the next your engagement tanks. Social media changes constantly, so betting everything on one platform is risky. Building an email list, a personal website, and/or a membership community means you OWN your audience—without any algorithm messing up your reach. Content can easily be repurposed across platforms, so get out there and diversify! 

4. Consumers want more authenticity

Big, polished brand partnerships aren’t necessarily the end-all-be-all. People want creators they trust, not just influencers who do #ad after #ad. When you focus on your own brand, you build a deeper connection with your audience—and they’re way more likely to support something that feels real to them.

That’s not to say you can’t land a brand partnership that really resonates with your brand. The key is to not say yes to everything that comes your way and instead stay true to who you are. Your fans will notice the difference.

5. You’re the boss of your narrative (and your money)

Lastly, why wait around for brands to pay you when you can build something that’s completely yours? When you own your brand, you are the CEO, the CFO and the CMO all in one package. 

You don’t need permission to create, you just do it. You set the schedule, you have full creative control, and you get to decide what to promote and when and then what to do with the money that comes in. You’re not just another influencer—you’re a business. Sure, any business takes lots of hard work, but you get to reap all the rewards.

Final thoughts

We are entering the golden age of content monetization. The creators who turn their influence into a brand will be the ones who truly win. Once you expand beyond social media into exclusive content, new platforms, branded products and promotions, the possibilities to grow your brand (and your revenue) are endless.

So, what are you building next?

Categories
Creator success Growing your brand Spring store tips

Build Your Brand: How to Get Your Spring Store Its Own Domain 

Securing a custom domain for your Spring store can level up your brand’s game and make your Spring store seem more trustworthy to your fans. And Spring makes it easy! You can either buy a domain directly from Spring or connect one you purchased elsewhere. 

But before we get into that, what exactly is a custom domain?

A custom domain is essentially your own unique web address, like “yourbrand.com.” It’s a key piece in distinguishing your digital presence from others. 

Unlike the generic URLs that Spring hands out when you start, a custom domain that echoes your brand vibe not only boosts your visibility but also gives off some major professional vibes. 

People feel safer and more inclined to shop with brands that look polished and committed. When you connect a custom domain to your Spring store, you’re not just opening up shop—you’re building trust and deepening your connection with your audience. This can really set you apart from the crowd, making your brand the top choice in your niche. So, snagging that perfect domain isn’t just a techy detail—it’s a smart move that can drive your brand forward.

So, with that said, let’s get into how to connect an existing domain to your Spring store and how to purchase one if you don’t already have one. 

How to purchase a domain

If you already have a domain, skip to the next step. But if you need to buy one, you’re in luck. Spring allows you to purchase your very own custom domain directly from your Spring account. Read the steps below and then click here to buy one! 

Follow these steps to buy a domain:

1. Log Into Spring:

Hop on your Spring account to get started.

2. Navigate to Your Dashboard:

Click on the “Stores” tab in your dashboard, then select “Purchase a Domain.”

3. Find Your Perfect Domain:

Pop your ideal domain name into the search bar. You’ll see a list of available domains right at the top. Each one comes with the price tag for a yearly subscription, making it easy to compare and choose. If the name you like isn’t available, try switching up the ending—instead of .com, how about .net or .co? 

4. Fill in Your Info:

Drop in your address and choose if you want your domain to auto-renew each year. Then, you’re ready to hit checkout.

5. Complete Your Purchase:

Once you complete your purchase, we’ll automatically handle the DNS records verification. Your domain goes live instantly—no waiting around!

6. Verify to Activate:

Look out for a verification email and follow the prompts to confirm your contact details. 

Once you verify your info, your Spring store URL will automatically change within 24-36 hours!  

How to connect a domain

If you’ve purchased a domain somewhere outside of Spring, you can click here to connect it to your Spring store. 

Heres how to do it:

1. Edit Your DNS Settings:

Head over to your domain registrar’s control panel. You’ll need to add a couple of DNS records to link up your domain with your Spring store:

  • A Record: Add this (also known as the root record) to make sure anyone visiting your domain (like thecreator.com without the www) lands on your Spring store.
  • CNAME Record: This one makes sure that visitors to www.thecreator.com also get directed to your store.

2. Update Settings in Spring:

Once you’ve updated your DNS settings:

  • Go back to the “Stores” tab in your Spring dashboard.
  • Find the domain you’re setting up and click the ‘Setup incomplete, click to resume’ button. This checks if your DNS settings are pointing right.

3. Verify Your Setup:

  • If the initial check doesn’t work, hit the button again. Double-check the DNS records in your registrar’s panel, correct them if needed, and try verifying once more.
  • Verification might take a few minutes. If it’s still not working, just click the ‘Verify’ button again.

4. Success!

  • Once your DNS records are confirmed, you’ll see a success message, and you’re all set—your domain is now connected to your Spring store!

Grab a domain to help your brand stand out and grow!

Investing in a custom domain for your Spring store is more than just a tech upgrade; it’s a game changer for your brand’s vibe and trustworthiness. By stepping away from generic URLs, you’re not just making it easier for your fans to find and remember you—you’re showing the world you’re serious about your business. 

A unique domain means you’re all in, creating a professional, sleek image that attracts customers and makes them feel secure when they shop. Think of it as your brand’s digital home base, where everything you do comes together under one memorable address.

Plus, hooking up a custom or existing domain with your Spring store only takes a few minutes and is super beneficial. It keeps your marketing tight and drives all your social media followers straight to one spot without any detours. This direct line doesn’t just enhance the shopping experience but also boosts your spot on search engine radars. 

Getting set up is simple, quick, and all about letting you focus on your passion while we handle the tech stuff. So, why wait? Grab that custom domain, and let’s take your brand from just buzzing to absolutely booming!Buy or purchase a domain here!