How to name your consignment shop in 6 easy steps
December 2, 2017
This article was updated from a previous one published in 2014
First impressions matter when you name your consignment shop
There are many factors to consider when you name your consignment shop. Often at Traxia, we can tell very quickly the success a shop will have based on the name the shop owner chooses. Awkward spellings, long names or names that have nothing to do with their actual shop merchandise tend to spell failure. Use the following rules and we’re confident you’ll have a name that’s memorable and marketable for years to come.
1.) Apply the KISS rule (Keep It Simple, Stupid)
When you name your consignment shop, make sure the name you choose is short, easy to remember and easy to pronounce. As I said earlier avoid long names. Two to three words at most, if possible. If you try to be overly clever and tweak a common word by spelling it differently, people might just end up pronouncing it incorrectly. It must be easy to spell in order for people to remember it.
2.) Communicate your message
When you name a consignment shop, your name should tell people who you are and what you do. Common names for consignment shops include words like, “Again,” “Repeat,” “Second” and “Twice.” If you are starting an upscale, trendy consignment boutique, you probably don’t want to name it “Betty’s Recycled Stuff.” Your name must fit the tone for the type of store you are wanting to open. Conversely, don’t use the word “Boutique” in your name if you are not opening a small, intimate and carefully curated shop. Choose a name that fits you, as well as what you are selling.
3.) Is the domain name available?
More than ever before, you need to be able to be found online. A domain name is the name (and subsequent online address) you choose for your website. There are so many websites these days that it is hard to find a good, short domain name that people can remember. However, it’s important to match the domain with the name of your consignment shop. A good place to start is Go Daddy.com. Just type in the name you are considering and see if it’s available. A “.com” domain is the most popular but it can be hard to find one. Be sure to check everything that might be available.
4.) Is the name being used in your state already?
Once again, this is where doing your research is vital. You can find out if the name you are interested in is taken through your Secretary of State office. Search online by going to http://www.secstates.com/ and find your state office listing. Make sure you Google your idea too. The last thing you want is to pick a name that is similar to 10 other businesses in your area or is associated with something disreputable.
5.) Test it
Make a list of the top 3 to 5 names you have in mind. Check each one carefully against the previous criteria. Consider getting feedback from family, friends and even strangers. Does it read well? Is it memorable? You want to know what feelings or thoughts your shop’s name evokes in the minds of others, but be careful not to weigh their thoughts too heavily. You know what you are trying to accomplish with your name.
6.) Think of the future when you name your consignment shop
Make sure this same name will sound good in 2 years, 5 years or even 10 years. Something that’s relevant and edgy today, may not even make sense down the road. Give yourself growing room. In other words, don’t name your shop “Repeat Purses” if you plan on adding clothing at a later date.
Finally, when you name a consignment shop be sure to take Alexandra Watkin’s “7 Deadly Sins to Avoid When Creating a Brand Name” SCRATCH test first.
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