Brit West has curated an online brand that is recognizable on every platform. In trying times, West has found space to inspire her followers as well as her own art.
Editor's Note: As statewide rules and regulations continue to change rapidly, please contact retailers for their latest store hours and delivery capabilities.
As times change, we asked Brit West to explain how she has adapted to the new normal.
How have your surroundings changed since the beginning of quarantine?
I work mainly from home besides running a booth at six trade shows per year. With our summer shows being cancelled, I am planning "parties" here at the studio in Tetonia, Idaho, to hopefully regain some of the lost revenue.
What has been the biggest challenge in adapting to this “new normal”?
All of our manufacturers have been forced to close, which has affected my ability to complete orders for customers who ordered in February at our shows. Also the panic this has instilled directly affects our consumers buying patterns.
How has the brand adapted to producing digital content and converting sales?
I have always worked on our digital marketing. This situation has just made it more apparent how important it is to produce great content for our Instagram, Facebook, and website pages.
Has any content stood out as particularly successful in terms of resonating with your audience?
Our "Freedom" photographs of Rocco the Wonder Horse in Utah and our Photography with a Purpose project has been the content with the most engagement. I think people want to see inspiring and uplifting content.
What is new and noteworthy at Brit West during this time?
We have a New Designs section on our website that I am working on daily. Since we are not going to shows this summer, I'll have more time to make the website better and develop more product from the studio.
Do you have any tips for other Western businesses looking to take their business online right now?
Learn photography, graphic design, and editing for your content. It takes time but a few classes and a high quality camera will always pay off in the end.
This interview is part of an ongoing series that W&E is conducting with retailers. Click here to peruse more stories and interviews from the retail industry.
