How to Launch a Merchandise Store Without a Huge Following

How to Launch a Merchandise Store Without a Huge Following

By Sarah from Brave Bird Lab (pictured above, running a sell out Merchandise PopUp for her client Samantha Hearne at her Bullet Proof Woman Event 2025)

If you’ve been sitting on merch ideas but telling yourself, “I don’t have enough followers to make it work” let me stop you right there.

You don’t need 100,000 followers, a viral moment, or even a “perfect” logo to start selling merch that means something.

In fact, some of the most successful merchandise collections I’ve helped launch have come from people with small but loyal communities - coaches, creatives, business owners, and brave individuals with a story to tell.

Why Merch Isn’t Just for the Famous

There’s a myth out there that merch is only for influencers with massive audiences. Not true.

Merch is for:

• Creators with engaged micro-communities

• Coaches who want to give their clients something meaningful

• Podcasters, yoga teachers, stylists, authors, activists or anyone with a message

• People building a brand that’s bigger than them

So, How Do You Actually Start?

Here’s what I recommend if you’re starting from scratch:

1. Start with meaning, not mass production

Your merch should say something. It’s not about slapping a logo on a T-shirt, it’s about creating something people want to wear because it reflects their identity.

2. Use print-on-demand

No stock, no risk, no clutter in your hallway. Print-on-demand lets you create and sell products only when someone places an order. I help people set up custom Shopify stores that are ready to go from day one, no tech headaches.

3. Don’t overthink your following

100 deeply connected followers will always beat 10,000 disengaged ones. The key is designing merch they actually want, and launching it well.

What I Do at Brave Bird Lab

I help brave creators launch merch that connects.

• ✅ I build full Shopify stores (or integrate with your existing site)

• ✅ I help you design meaningful products (not junk)

• ✅ I offer DIY options or done-for-you setups

• ✅ I make sure it’s not just cute — it sells

If you’ve got an idea (or even a scribble), I can help you bring it to life.

Want Help Building Yours?

I’ve helped influencers, therapists, musicians, mums in business, you name it,  turn ideas into income.

Join my mailing list and get a FREE Merch Starter Checklist www.bravebird.lab

Or set up a discovery call with me to discuss your future store