In August of last year, the two of us decided to take a huge leap of faith and start our own business. The first few months were equal parts exciting and terrifying, and when it was finally time for us to launch Dual Wield Studio in May 6th, 2018, we didn't know what to expect. Here is a recap of what we have been able to accomplish so far, with your help!
BY THE NUMBERS
As of December 31st, 2018:
- 239 days since launch
- 43,389 visitors
- 1,060 orders placed
- 1,829 Twitter followers
- 359 Facebook followers
- 372 Instagram followers
- 20 artists worked with
- $0 spent on marketing
PRODUCTS LAUNCHED
Dual Wield Studio Brand
- Coffin Ita Bag
- Tiger Skull Shirt
- Golden Tiger Skull Tank
- Glitter Planet Charm Keychain
- Glitter Planet Charm Pin
- Logo Keychain
- Logo Lapel Pin
- Lapel Pin Clasps
- Moon and Stars Charm Pin
- Silver Star Charm Pin
- Die Mad About It Patch
- Die Mad About It Pin
- Celestial Wolves Bullet Journal
- Celestial Wolves Washi Tape
- Golden Constellations Washi Tape
- Moon Ita Bag with Removable Window Insert
- Sun Ita Bag with Removable Window Insert
- Ita Bag Window Inserts
- Snaek Attack Pin
Client Commissions
Tamora Pierce Collection
- Alanna Sword & Shield Pins
- Darking Pin Set
- Ember Glass Necklace
- Keladry Shield Scoopneck Tank
- Keladry Shield T-Shirt
- SIlver Badger Claw Necklace
Artist Collaborations
- Crystal Hair Clips
- Headphone Keepers
- Holographic Keystrap
- Dark Planets Washi Tape
- Shibari Hands Pin: Volume 2
A total of 32 items launched since May is very exciting for us, but we hope to exceed this next year and are already working hard on developing new products for 2019!
LOOKING AHEAD
Speaking of 2019, here's a brief overview of what you can expect in the new year!
Tamora Pierce Collection
As Tamora is a partner near and dear to our hearts, we're so excited to be launching new apparel at the start of the new year! We listened to what you guys wanted so you can expect variations on Kel's shield and extended sizing through 4XL. We are also bringing back the Silver Badger Claw Necklace and Ember Glass Necklace, with pre-orders opening in the next few weeks. Keep an eye out for these to launch soon!
Artist Collaborations
This past year, we have already been lucky enough to work with extraordinarily talented artists to bring you new pins, designs, and other accessories. We are especially looking forward to announcing a massive project that we've been working on for many months. We are just waiting for the stars to align...
Giving Back
Thanks to your support this year, we were able to donate to Gay City Seattle and our local chapter of the IRC even as we were just starting out as a company. Next year, we plan to partner with a charity for the release of a product, with all of its proceeds going towards that charity.
Conventions and Events
We would love to attend more conventions next year, and perhaps even exhibit and/or sell our merchandise! As we are still growing our company and want to be careful with our expenses, this is probably our loftiest goal. That being said, we are currently planning to attend the following conventions, and hope to see you there!
- PAX East (Boston, MA)
- Emerald City Comic Con (Seattle, WA)
- SDCC (San Diego, CA)
- PAX West (Seattle, WA)
- RCCC (Portland, OR)
LOOKING BACK
When we launched Dual Wield Studio, we truly didn't know what to expect. This year, all of you helped exceed our most far fetched hopes with your overwhelming support. We truly could not have done any of this without you! Every purchase you make goes towards funding the creation of future products and helps us work with new artists, in addition to helping us keep the lights on. We can't wait to make 2019 even better and partner with new artists, charities, and licenses to create exciting new products we hope you love.
Thank you so much, and see you in the new year!
♥
Rowan & Adrienne
1 comment
I just want to say this has been the most exciting aspect of my books since I began to publish, as Julie can vouch! The items are downright magical; I don’t have to do all the work, and whenever I mention the pins and shirts I can hear my fans (and friends!) squee wherever they are. We both love the craft, and the cooperation, and the aspect of service to the community. Here’s to many New Years of happy achievement for us all.
Tammy