How Dylan Jahraus Turned Etsy Into a Million-Dollar Business

The entrepreneurial journey often begins with a single idea. For Dylan, that idea turned into a million-dollar business and a mission to empower others to do the same. As a seasoned e-commerce expert with over a decade of experience, Dylan transformed her corporate e-commerce background into a thriving business on platforms like Etsy, Amazon, and Shopify. Today, she runs “The Ultimate Etsy Course” and helps thousands of sellers scale their businesses by applying corporate-level strategies to handmade and customized products.

Recently on the Pretty Powerful Podcast, Dylan shared her story, insights, and invaluable advice for aspiring e-commerce entrepreneurs.

Prefer to watch or listen instead? Click here to listen to the podcast or watch on YouTube. 

From Corporate to Creative: Dylan’s Start in E-Commerce

Dylan’s career began in corporate e-commerce with major players like Zappos and Zulily. While there, she learned principles that would shape her entrepreneurial philosophy—from prioritizing the customer’s experience to staying ahead of trends. But her journey took an unexpected turn when she became a military spouse, constantly relocating and struggling to maintain a traditional career.

Faced with uncertainty, Dylan tapped into her creative side and began selling handmade floral letters on Etsy. What started as a small side hustle using leftover wedding supplies soon turned into a six-figure business within the first year.

Lessons from Early Challenges

Starting a business from a one-bedroom apartment posed unique challenges. Dylan and her husband engineered makeshift solutions, like setting up a portable workbench powered by a generator on the side of a road to fulfill orders. Despite these hurdles, they embraced a mindset of grit and determination, reinvesting every dollar of profit to grow their business.

Key E-Commerce Strategies for Success

Dylan’s success didn’t happen by accident. Here are some of her top strategies that she now teaches through her coaching program:

1. Focus on the Customer: As Dylan learned from her time at Zappos, the customer’s needs always come first. Identifying your ideal buyer and crafting a premium experience is key to consistent income.
2. Leverage SEO: On platforms like Etsy, search engine optimization (SEO) can make or break your shop. Dylan emphasizes the importance of using buyer-centric keywords that speak to purpose and utility rather than overly technical product descriptions.
3. Avoid Perfectionism: Many entrepreneurs delay launching due to fear of imperfection. Dylan’s advice? Start now and refine later. Early products might not define your brand forever, but they’ll give you the momentum to grow.
4. Drive Organic Traffic: Whether through Instagram, TikTok, or other social platforms, engaging with your audience and driving them to your shop organically can be a game-changer.

Etsy vs. Amazon vs. Shopify

For those considering different e-commerce platforms, Dylan offers these insights:

• Etsy: Best for organic traffic and handmade products. Etsy’s built-in customer base and lower fees make it ideal for new sellers.
• Amazon: Great for scale but comes with high fees and strict return policies. Custom items sold through Amazon Handmade offer significant opportunities.
• Shopify: Essentially your own website, Shopify requires you to generate your own traffic, often through paid ads.

Balancing Life and Business

With a growing family and a flourishing coaching business that now employs 31 people, Dylan has moved beyond the one-woman operation days. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing in seasons rather than striving for constant balance.

“Balance isn’t always achievable,” Dylan explains. “It’s about knowing your priorities in each season and being willing to adapt.”

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Dylan encourages new e-commerce entrepreneurs to dive in without hesitation. “The idea that gets you started is rarely what you’re known for a year later,” she says. “Don’t let perfectionism delay your start.”

For those looking to scale their side hustle into a sustainable business, Dylan highlights the importance of getting customer feedback early, building a strong brand presence, and understanding the nuances of shipping and logistics.

What Dylan Wishes She Knew at 18

“Marry someone who dreams as big as you do,” Dylan advises. The right partner can be a crucial source of support in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Stepping Into Your Power

Despite facing criticism as her visibility grew, Dylan remained resilient. “I gave my power away to strangers for a week,” she recalls of dealing with online negativity. “But I realized my business would collapse if I let others’ opinions hold me back.”

Final Thoughts

Dylan’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability. Her success is rooted not just in her business acumen but in her ability to inspire and uplift others. For anyone considering starting their own e-commerce venture, Dylan’s story is proof that you’re stronger than you think—and capable of much more than you realize.

Ready to start your own e-commerce journey? Check out Dylan’s free resources on her YouTube channel, podcast or connect with her on Instagram for personalized advice.

Catch the full episode of the Pretty Powerful Podcast for even more insights from Dylan, and don’t forget to subscribe for weekly inspiration from exceptional women breaking barriers and shattering ceilings.