ShopID: wormtowntees

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

I have been a shopkeeper since January of 2006

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

I do not own a premium shop, I have 22 basic shops I believe. I honestly need to set some time apart at some point and create a premium shop, but I’ve heard being someone with just basic shops might be an asset, to get that POV.

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

Honestly, I saw the email and thought this would be a great opportunity to lend a voice to something I enjoy doing, and possibly be able to help and meet others who enjoy the same.

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

I think it is a place where we can get together and put all our ideas in the proverbial hat and try to make some concrete things come of them.

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?.

I am a graphic designer by trade, a student at night and a photographer in whatever free time is left. I honestly feel that I can bring a couple different aspect to the table in regard to design, setting up shop, marketing and would also enjoy learning from others to see how they do things as well.

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

Honestly, I work during the day and go to school two nights a week, other than that I am home and usually available. I check my email all day long, and my job actually allows me to have different things running in the background without getting me in trouble. I can pretty much be contacted via email at any time, and as long as I am not in class, I can participate in chat sessions.

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

I was part of a committee in Massachusetts that discussed the structure for teaching students graphic design in the classroom to prepare them for a job in this field in the future. I also sat on a few committees in highschool, but I don’t want to say how long ago that was!

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

If elected I am always available via email, fax and instant messenger. I have IM on my phone and computer and its always one on or the other. If home I am available via phone and fax. I am also willing to set up times where I can be available in specific chat rooms to have a live chat with a few shopkeepers at once.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

Shop Management- Make it easier to upload designs, right now a very tedious process. Maybe tweak some of the issues regarding putting images on the back, and be able to select a standard size for images, and have it follow that standard throughout all merchandise.

Merchandise- Additional colors, different types/quantities of products. Possibly different possibilities for tshirt, such as printing that could wrap around from the front to the back of the shirt.

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

Top three things I’d like to see changed at CP:
1) Change the way things are uploaded, make it more user friendly
2) Make more shopkeepers aware of the forums, maybe have a shopkeeper meet/greet online
3) Larger selection of colors and products

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

1) Ease of use, it is very easy to get on here, get a shop going and sell your stuff!
2) Great customer support team, every time I have emailed or had an issue, I’ve spoken with someone and gotten it taken care of
3) Great exposure

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

I haven’t really looked at using a competitor to sell things, so I did some research and came up with this:
1) More products, more business oriented products
2) instead of straight printing/availability to have embroidered
3) smaller quantity to get a bulk discount

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

Build your own wedding invitations/stationary sets complete with matching envelopes.
I was trying to do this a month ago, and realized that other than standard greeting cards, cafepress doesn’t offer this. We shopkeepers could probably make a killing doing Wedding invite packages.
Wedding Invitation, Reception Card, Reply Card, Reply Envelope, Invitation Envelope…all custom designed by you!

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.

I feel like I’ve found my niche in this community and found my niche selling the products that I sell, I would like the opportunity to help others find their place here as well and to succeed in what they want to do!

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

Since May, 2005

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

I own 2 premium shops: http://www.cafepress.com/wackywade (wackywade.com) and http://www.cafepress.com/grilledtees (currently in process)

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

I am dedicated to my shop and to Cafepress. I have had many ideas that I have shared with the CP team….I thought it would be even better to be behind the scenes and contribute so some amazing new projects. I wanted to run last year, but didn’t have the time to give it my 100%. I am now in a great place to make this my top priority. CafePress and this community has been so supportive…

I want to give back and help in any way I can.

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

Listening to the CP community to communicate their wants and needs to the CP team. Being a leader who will not just come up with ideas, but will work hard to implement those ideas while working with others. To make CafePress the best it possibly can be!

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?.

I have been a SK’er for over 3 years and have been though almost ever situation a shopkeeper can go though. I have been a top shopkeeper for almsot all of those 3+ years, I have a backround in Sales and Marketing and I own my own web development firm, so I have many ideas for shop management and merchandise. I am a leader who listens and will work hard to get things done. I am 100% with everything I do in my life and would give this all of myself.

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

I didn’t sign up for this just for the fun of it….I know that it’s a huge dedication of time and I’m willing to put everything I have into it…including my time.

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

I have been on committees my whole life….I was class president and student government president in college and sat on every committee. For my job I am a corporate Sales Manager and sit on a number of committees at my company and well as project manage multiple projects. I also took the lead for a CafePress group of over 30 shopkeepers that were involved in a legal matter.

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

I think the best way of doing that is through the boards and through the chats. I would like to continue to meet more shopkeepers through the message boards and at meet and greats. I will also make myself accessible to everyone by e-mail or even by phone if SK’ers have questions or concerns.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

Shop Management- Image controls and the exploration of CP widgets

Merchandise- Maybe polling users on what they would like to see and better communication to SK’ers on why certain products are on hold or can’t be done.

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

expanded merchandise, more tools for SK’ers (widgets, templates…etc), shop management issues like making images easier

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

Communication, Ease of use with shop management, and promotion of themselves and their SK’ers

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

I have tried them all and CafePress is by far the best! The only thing I constantly hear is the need for expanded merchandise and cheaper base prices.

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

Black sweatshirts

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.

I can go on for pages about why I want this and what I will do….but I will tell you, If I am elected into CPVoice, I will be dedicated, I will listen and I will lead. I thank you all for reading this and considering me to represent you. I will not let you down!

There are some great candidates this year and great, supportive current CPVoice members…thank you for all of your work last year!

No matter who you vote for, please vote and spread the word. Please feel free to e-mail me anytime with any questions: wackywades@aol.com

Be original, get wacky!

Wade Holdraker

WackyWade

WackyWade.com

ShopID: All For His Love

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

I have been a Shop Keeper since March 2007, but I have been a CP member since August 2006 and had only been purchasing my own things!

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

(Premium Shop Listed)

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

I was inspired to run for CafePress Voice because I’d love to chat and meet other SKs as well as make CP a better place. I’d also like to see some new products that I get a lot of requests for and I know how well represented the CPV team is!

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

I feel that the CafePressVoice program is about listening to everyone, taking their requests and opinions into consideration and then acting upon them to make CP a better place.

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?

Some qualifications I feel that I have that would make me an effective CPV member are my Graphic Design background (both self taught and formal classroom teaching) as well as my eye for design and creativity. Also, I am a good listener and team player, but I can be a leader when necessary!

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

I’m willing to devote at least 4 hours per day (28 hours give or take per week) to the CPV responsibilities. I would say that I am addicted to my laptop as well as my cell phone, both of which I can do anything to assist the CPV team.

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

In high school, over my four years, I was secretary, treasure and president of my Student Government.

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

If elected, my ways of communication are limitless. I have many instant messanger programs as well as email directly sent to my phone. Also, I will make a page on my store to keep other SKs informed of things that are allowed to be released to them. If necessary, I can also have phone conversations with other CPV members.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

If elected, the number one thing in the following comittees that I would like to see implemented or changed are:

Shop Management- Possible bulk uploader and better/easier organization of the Media Basket

Merchandise- I’d like to see new, more “updated” products as well as additional colors in existing products.

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

Top three things I’d like to see changed at CP:
1) Bulk uploader of some kind implemented and integrated into the site
2) Larger array of colors and updated merchandise
3) An “intermediate” board and information for the SKs who aren’t newbies or super advanced, those in the middle

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

1) Quality and quality control - customer service and the way it’s represented.
2) The fact that they give us “templates” to use for products, others are guess and test.
3) Explination and ease of navigation and use of shops and products

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

1) Better selection of products
2) Upload method
3) Models used and the oprion to select which ones used to represent products

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

One new product that I would like to see CP introduce is an intimate - BoyShorts!

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.

I feel being as young as I am, I am better able to represent the “younger” demographic! Being in college, I’m able to understand what college, high school and even middle school aged students would like to see!

ShopID: KrisKringlepurr

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

For about a year now but I had stores for about four years before that.

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

I have a basic shop but will be getting a premium shop this fall.

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

I am a small business person and I see a great opportunity for small business people to get advertising items for their business where they need one t-shirt or a dozen.

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

I think it’s a great why for people to learn how to improve their stores, ask and connect with other shop owners and to also let off steam with things they aren’t happy with.

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?.

I have a insight into people and what they want even if they don’t say what they want right out but him and haw about it.

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

I am handicapped and get outside once a month to grocery store and a few other times so being at home a lot I can spend quite a bit of time here.

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

None I’m afraid.

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

Besides the forums I will put an email address out there for shop owners to contact me with their problems.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

Shop Management- The premium shops need new templates and the templates you download to size images can be confusing. I hope to be able to get the powers that be to update both areas.

Merchandise- Boy, do we need new items. Being in a wheelchair I use messenger bags, they fit over my head and sit in my lap well but the one we have. Well the colors a turn off for me. I would like them in a white or khaki. It would go with more of my clothes and look great with my logo on it. More tote bags in more colors and a fanny pack would be great. Watches wouldn’t be bad either.

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

It’s easier to use and order from, it’s truly interested in the shop keepers, the prices are decent

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

They have more products, like different styles of tote bags, that’s all I can think of.

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

Different color messenger bags.

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.

Getting more items to sell and getting them in different colors plus more templates for the premium shops is why I signed up. I hope you’ll think of me on election day.

ShopID: Eastover Graphics And Printing

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

Since June 2006

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

Yes I own a huge premium shop and two basic shops.

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

I think my graphics & marketing experience will make me an asset to an already great team. I want to play a part in making CP better for all of us.

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

I feel that it’s a core group of informed SKers that are helping CP grow into an even greater company. Even though they can’t reveal any particular projects they are currently working on, it’s obvious that they are making progress (i.e. removal of suggested tags list).

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?

I have 25 years of graphic design experience. I’ve been a team leader in many business & social settings. I like to help others & am very supportive. I also don’t mind expressing my opinions and always do so with professionalism and honesty.

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

From what I understand, the time commitment required is not going to be a problem. I multi-task like I breathe.

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

I coordinated a successful United Way campaign at a company I worked for that had 200+ employees. I won “County-Wide Coordinator of the Year” from United Way. I was editor of a monthly newsletter at that same company that had a staff of 20 volunteer reporters. Not too long ago, I was the leader of over 50 team members of a nutritional products company.

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

I’m already very involved in the CP forums and plan to continue that effort. I also will be open for any shopkeeper to PM me as needed with ideas, concerns & suggestions. If allowed, I will create a separate email just for voice communication with shopkeepers.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

Shop Management- I would like to see the committee address the flood of personalized items in the Marketplace. Sales for both personalized and NON-personalized items would go up! This is a HUGE mission to embrace.

Merchandise- I would like to see the merchandise committee work closer with top shopkeepers in certain areas to bring some unique and much needed new products to CP.

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

1) Again, separation of personalized items in the Marketplace.
2) Direct deposit of commission checks.
3) Improved IT so site maintenance alerts wouldn’t make SKers cringe wondering what is going to go wrong. (sorry…had to be honest)

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

1) Ability to customize shop pages via a variety of interfaces (CPShop, etc.)
2) Keeping home page updated with current holidays/promotions
3) Great SEO with major search engines

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

1) Availability of many more color choices in basic short-sleeve t-shirts (adult & children).
2) Ability to move an image around on the shirt (not just limited to full size or pocket size).
3) Some CP competitors offer MANY more children/baby items and pet items.

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

ADULTS: Black/Dark hoodies
KIDS: Long sleeve snap-bottom bodysuits - can’t say “onesie” anymore….
GENERIC: License plates (for front of cars)

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.

I think it’s important to know that I am COMMITTED to CafePress. There might be competitors out there, but overall, CP has got it going on! Nowhere else is there this kind of opportunity. I want to play an integral part in helping take CafePress to the “next level” of success. I will do so by being a professional, honest & forward-thinking team player!

ShopID: 1512blvdbaby

I am 29 yrs. old and a mother of 3. I have been married for almost 5 years. I have been a graphic designer for 10 years. I worked at an auto magazine for 6 years and have done freelance graphic design the last 4 years.

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

I have been a shopkeeper since March 2007, so just over one year.

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

I operate several Premiums and Basics.

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

I have been wanting to be a Voice rep since the first elections, but felt too new to run. My desire has only grown as I have become better at shopkeeping and seeing all the issues we face. I was inspired because of my own need to be a part of the process, rather than sitting in the sidelines.

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

Representing the shopkeepers so that CP is in touch with what we deal with and what we need.

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?.

I have been a graphic designer for 10 years. I have self-taught myself almost all I know by reading and watching tutorials, discussions, etc. I read the forums everyday, more than I post… and I post a lot. I am a hard worker. I am flexible. I listen to others. I often put the needs of others before my own. And another big qualification is my huge desire to be on the team. I think that is important, because I will be committed to it, because I care about it.

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

I plan on devoting as much time as required, plus more. I will make myself very available to listen to concerns other shopkeepers want me to voice to CP. I will be on the forums daily, just as I am now, but with more intention to seek out what issues are arrising, seeing what trends there are in what people would like to see improve.

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

To be honest, this will be my first time in a committee setting.

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

I plan on being in the forums on a daily basis, just like now. I plan on adding info in my signature how other shopkeepers can reach me. I may possibly create a page on my website devoted to CPVoice. I also will honor that CP may not allow me to be open about the specifics of what is happening. But, I will be sure to be open about everything I am allowed to be open about. I think that it is important for the CPVoice team to be secretive, otherwise other PODs could find out about things before CP has a chance to implement them. And that would harm us all.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

Without knowing exactly what the teams are already up to, that is hard to answer. But, I will try my best with what I see each team needs to be.

Shop Management- More communication about what is going to be happening and what changes may be in the works. Of course, the specifics cannot be openly shared with shopkeepers. But, it would be nice to have some updates as to general things that we could look forward to. So, maybe a page that just lists what areas are being worked on.

Merchandise- I would like to see the gaps between clothing sizes filled. Right now, it is not very easy for a customer to know what size to order. It is not consistant across all apparel. And once a child outgrows the 4T, then the children’s small is too big!

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

1. The site being down during S&Ms. We lose sales all around because of this. We lose sales when we cannot get into our accounts to add products or work on SEO. We lose sales when a potential customer cannot get into our site or the MP.
2. Solve the Marketplace tag spam and controlling personilization flooding without hurting the shops that do personlizations.
3. Making apparel more consistant across the board. No more gaps in clothing sizes. More colors in all the apparel options.

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

1. Keeping in contact with the shopkeepers through things like CPVoice, Meet & Greets and CPConnect.
2. Incentives for shoppers like the 30 day return policy and allowing us to use coupons in our stores.
3. Offering help through chats, the learning center, etc.

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

1. Offer trendier clothing
2. Free Premiums stores
3. Product thumbnails. Some PODs have photographed the products in a nicer way and some even offer models you can choose to display your design. And some allow you to add text to your design or move the design around on the shirt.

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

Black hoodies. Second choice long-sleeve infant rompers.

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.

I have gotten some concern over the fact that I am with child. I just want to address that. I would not have nominated myself if I felt I would not be up to the job or that there would be any concerns with me being pregant and having a baby to care for. I am a work at home mom. I am used to working long hours while also taking care of my children. And I do a good job of both. I am at no risk of being on bedrest or having any complications. I am healthy and the pregnancy is progressing smoothly. With all my other children, I was up and in town doing errands 2 days after having the baby. CPVoice will be my commitment just as my job is and just as taking care of my kids is.

ShopID: KippyGo

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

My account start date says August of 2004, but I didn’t become a serious shopkeeper until a year later. I suppose that means I’ve been a shopkeeper for either 3 and a half or two and a half years, depending on which date you choose

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

I listed a premium shop, so does that mean I can say “pass” ?

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

I feel like the time I’ve spent working with Cafepress has given me enough insight to be able to give a little back, and that’s one thing I want to be able to do.

And not to sound too cliché, but I love Cafepress. They do have their downfalls and I’m well aware of that. Not one POD out there is perfect, but I feel like there’s so much potential with CP and I want to see them reach their fullest.

There’s also the fact that I’ve been a full time shopkeeper for long enough to see not just my own perspective, but that of several different types of shopkeeper as well. I won’t pretend to know I understand what would work best for all of these individuals, but I feel like I am experienced enough to at least know we all have many different needs and desires. That said, I believe that in the end it’s not just about what I want done, but what I think would benefit that multitude of different types of SK the most. I feel like I’m capable of setting aside my personal expectations and wants of the company in order to listen to the average SK viewpoint and opposing opinions, and speak for and aid the CP community as a whole.

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

I believe the CPV role involves representing the community, as well as other issues which make them not just a relay between Cafepress and the community, but also a group who aids in decision making and in getting a lot of behind-the scenes tasks accomplished. I do believe they get things done. (I would, however, argue that more information needs to be made available somehow to the Cafepress community in order to show that).

I also think the CPV is about making suggestions and speaking up to offer possible unheard views and concepts. It’s about feedback on all sides, whether from the CPV members themselves about something they’re evaluating or about passing on community concerns.

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?

In terms of what I feel makes me qualified for the job I would say mainly my experience in working with Cafepress and working online over the last few years. I, like many other cafepress shopkeepers, really found a freedom in earning money using my own creativity, and as a result taught myself how to make it work (and am continuing to learn, naturally). That feeling empowered me beyond belief to learn all sorts of things about which I’d have otherwise never sought out information, from SEO tips to new design techniques, and more. I am also an inquisitive, determined, flexible, collaborative, and communicative person. Plus I like to play the devil’s advocate to see all sides evaluated!

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

I am willing to devote the time necessary. I wouldn’t run if I weren’t committed to many hours of time and dedication. Like I’ve mentioned, I’m a full time shopkeeper so I’m always around anyway!

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

I think anyone who does the POD thing and works for themselves online gains an understanding of what it means to work with other people. I have been members of groups with decision making responsibilities in the past, from school groups, to leisure, to work related issues (I formerly worked as a support worker for developmentally disabled young adults so there were always active groups to see improvements brought about in lifestyle and quality). I do feel there are certainly similarities between online and “real life” (for lack of better words) committee situations, but I would also argue that anyone who participates in blog comments, social networking for business, engages effectively on forums, etc… has got some experience in working and communicating with and for a group. Of course the responsibility usually becomes greater when it’s an elected position!

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

The forums are really the first line of contact, but I would really like to see a CPV newsletter started for interested shopkeepers… I would also be happy to receive private messages, personal e-mails, and IMs with questions, concerns, and/or suggestions from shopkeepers and customers.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

Shop Management- Better and easier shop tools, like effective and less time-consuming bulk tools.

Merchandise- Gaps filled in with already exising lines, like black hoodies and long sleeved baby clothes.

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

1.More effective communication between Cafepress and the community. I think it’s pretty clear that’s a big one on my agenda! I feel this would foster a growing, more passionate, and participating community. Things like weekly chats, a yearly conference, etc would help this cause also. Maybe hire twelve more Angelas…

2.Better site stability and reliability before we get all the fancy new stuff. Any online business is expected to have problems and downtime, but there can always be improvements. I want everything in great working order and a way to be able to deal with new merchandise effectively. Pagination, ability to easily add new products, etc all ties into this.

3.More payment options. Come on, direct-debit! I know I’m not the only one who wants to see this!

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

1.Better community, hands down. Improvements are needed, but CP has that infrastructure and the capability is there to make it soooo great.

2.Best marketplace and shop site navigation. Don’t get me wrong because I have issues with the marketplace, but I still think it’s more navigable and usable than any others. Furthermore, although there are some definite improvements needed with shopkeeper tools, I still think Cafepress has the best shopkeeper management functions. To me they are the easiest to work with for long hours and in bulk and have the best end result in terms of appearance and navigation. If I pick a shop from all of the major POD sites, I can most easily and quickly find what I need in a Cafepress shop. Plus CP’s checkout is pretty great. Not too many steps, and not too much distraction for the customer once they’ve started the checkout process (like up-selling other peoples’ products as at least one other POD does!).

3.Easiest to customise. Sure there’s the Cafepress bar across the top on a premium shop, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. And if you’re really into serious customisation without that bar, there are scripts like CPshop available in order to host your Cafepress shop on your own domain (also an awesome affiliate tool) and really make it look just how you want! There’s a whole lot you can do with a Cafepress store in terms of customisation and I love that (but again there is always room for improvement).

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

I work more closely with CP than its competitors because I prefer the CP interface, but there are a few things I’d love to see Cafepress look into…

1.One POD company in particular has been making attempts to be active in independent POD communities and is giving the impression of listening. I would like to see more of this type of behaviour from CP.

2.More payment options. A cheque is okay, but times are moving on. Direct debit and even a paypal-type option would be great. I also hate that I have to use my cafecash to pay for shops when I want to pay by card.

3.More stylish apparel and cool accessories. I love that these things are available elsewhere, but at the same time I want CP to do their research before they introduce anything new. Maybe one POD is better at selling certain types of products than another, so maybe one thing that works elsewhere wouldn’t work as well at CP… Hard to know.

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

Aside from the obvious (POD ponies), it’s between black sweatshirts/hoodies and something new for baby (long sleeved or maybe something for under 6-month-olds). These “pick one” type questions are tricky!

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.

No BS. I’m trying to be as honest as possible about what I think and feel. I believe the CPV takes a lot of time and dedication and isn’t just about adding cool new products and features. Of course we don’t know all of what the CPV gets up to, so it’s hard to make a concrete judgment regarding what my job may or may not entail were I to be elected, but I believe it will take a lot of initiative and work. I’m confident I am well-suited to that role.

I also think this whole process is one of continuous learning, so I’m not trying to claim I know more than anyone else. We all have our weaknesses and strong points. I do, however, think I would make a good addition to the CPV team based on my experience thus far…

ShopID: RosesThatLast

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

I opened my first CP shop in November of 2004.

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

I listed one of my Premium shops.

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

I considered running last year, but held back to see what happens. I now believe that the first Voice was heard and want to be part of the new Voice to continue the ‘feedback loop’.

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

Sharing ShopKeeper Passion with CP and CP staff’s Passion with Shopkeepers in order to keep CP the market leader.

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?

A varied background that includes enough ‘real world business sense’ to understand that side of things, the soul of an artist that must be expressed, and what my friends graciously call ‘tenacity’ to make sure I give it my all.

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

As much time as required- some weeks it will probably be checking a few emails and being available in the CP forums (where I already spend plenty of time). Other weeks might require time for conference calls or some research; wise investments of my time.

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

I have worked in Committees (formal and otherwise) at ‘the dayjob’ as well as with various community organizations. In each instance we were a group without mandates or final authority able to work with people to make positive changes.

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

In addition to any ‘official’ CPV communications, I will continue my regular visits to the CP Forums, off-CP locations such as podforyou and GreatGear, and will publish an email addy where any SK can reach me.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

Shop Management-

Merchandise-

Not knowing what each Group has ‘on the go’ I will wait on this one.

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

Bulk image upload
Amount of site down time
Marketplace search

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

Shop customization
Financial rewards to large ShopKeepers.
Brand recognition (I only heard of other pod’s after setting up shop at CP)

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

Apparel selection
“fine tuning” of image placement
bulk upload of designs

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

For me, it would be full-colour books but I appreciate that a much broader selection of apparel would also be very popular with many ShopKeepers.

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.

ShopID: LittleLizzyLou

My name is Kate, and my shop is Little Lizzy. I turn 30 in June, and during the day, I work as an Executive Assistant in the Business Development department of a finance company, where I’ve been for the past 7 years. I graduate in June with my Bachelors in Business Administration, with a concentration is E-Commerce. I have been married for 5 and a half years, and we have an adorable puppy, but no kids yet! Little Lizzy started as a single design, created for my sister’s birthday. A few designs later, and I upgraded to a Premium Shop. I’ve been a Top Shopkeeper since January 2006. One of my designs has been featured in Redbook Magazine. Now, I have more than 700 designs, and my shop is continuously growing.

How long have you been a shopkeeper?

I joined CafePress in February 2005, so I’ve been a shopkeeper for a little over 3 years.

If you listed a basic shop or did not list a shop in your bio, do you own a premium shop?

Currently, I own 2 premium shops, and no basic shops at this time.

Why were you inspired to run for CafePressVoice?

I was inspired to run for CafePressVoice, because I want to become more involved in the world of CafePress. The company has become such a huge part of my life, and I want to become even more involved to make the experience even better for everyone involved.

What do you feel the CafePressVoice program is all about?

I feel that the CafePressVoice program is all about giving shopkeepers a real way to have their opinions and voices count for something. It would be very difficult for CafePress to reach out to each and every shopkeeper to hear what they each have to say. CafePressVoice is about representing the entire CafePress community, and being that liaison between the other shopkeepers and CafePress. It’s a huge responsibility!

What do you feel are your qualifications that would make you an effective CPV member?

I feel that I have several qualifications that would make me an effective CPV member. I am well-spoken, and have fairly good writing skills. I am organized, and detail-oriented. One of the biggest things though, is that I am not doing this for me. I am doing this for the good of the community overall. I think that the CPV member has to look out for everyone, and not necessarily focus the attention on their own shops.

How much time are you willing to devote to CafePressVoice responsibilities on a weekly basis?

I plan to devote as much time as necessary to my CafePressVoice responsibilities. Depending on what the projects are, I will need to devote more time some weeks, and less time other weeks. I would have the weight of the rest of the community on my shoulders, and will need to make this a priority.

What, if any, previous experience do you have working in a “committee” setting?

I have served on several different committees over the years at my church. I have also served on the Band Parents Association, in connection with my husband’s marching band, for the past 5 years.

If elected, how do you plan to communicate with shopkeepers in order to understand their concerns and keep shopkeepers informed?

In order to understand concerns, and keep shopkeepers informed, I will communicate in whatever method is necessary. I plan to communicate with shopkeepers through the forums, emails, Facebook, MySpace, blogs, and any other way that a shopkeeper might suggest.

If you are elected, what is the number one thing that you would like to see implemented or changed concerning each committee’s mission:

Shop Management- I would like to see shop management get some more advanced tools for the shops that are larger. Making it easier & more efficient for these larger shops will help a lot of shopkeepers.

Merchandise- The number one thing that I would like to see implemented about merchandise is that we need more items. I do think that adding colors and sizes to existing items are important, but I also think that we need to add brand new products.

Name the top three things that you would like to see changed at CafePress.

The top three things that I would like to see changed at CafePress are:
1. Even more communication between CafePress and the shopkeepers regarding events & chats. I would like to see another CP Connect take place, and some training or classes that shopkeepers could take to become more familiar with the different processes.
2. I would like to see more products become available this year.
3. I think that the Marketplace needs to be restructured so that it’s easier for customers to find what they are looking for. It’s difficult to find designs using the current marketplace.

Name three things that you think CafePress does better than its competitors.

CafePress does a variety of things better than its competitors. I have tested out a couple of the other competitors, and I feel that CafePress is much more user friendly to their shopkeepers, with both the shops and the images. The forums, and interaction that the shopkeepers have with each other seems to be much stronger, and I also feel that the CafePress staff is more accessible to shopkeepers than at the competitors. The CafePress employees I have spoken to over the years, seem to genuinely enjoy getting to know the shopkeepers, and helping us out. Last, I think that CafePress does a great job of making sure that products are ready before they are released, and then revising new products when necessary.

Name three things that the competitors do better than CafePress.

There are a few things that competitors do better than CafePress. Personally, I feel that these things are all merchandise related. There seem to be more shirt styles and colors available with some of the competitors. I think that some of the competitors offer a wider variety of bag styles, which is great. Lastly, some of the competitors offer additional home products, such as baby blankets, and keychains, that might be appealing to our customers.

If you could pick one new product, what would it be?

If I could pick one new product right now, it would be a drawstring backpack. These are so popular, and there is such a huge demand for them. They can be made in a variety of colors, and it would provide CafePress with a great alternative to the tote bags and messenger bags.

Knock our socks off- tell us anything else that you think is important about your campaign.