Vendor Onboarding Guide

Welcome to Virtually Hebden — your digital high street.

Let’s get you up and running in no time.

Step 1: Say “I’m In!”

✔️ Just reply to our welcome message (or fill in the Vendor Agreement Form)

✔️ We’ll activate your profile and guide you through setup

Contact: virtuallyhebden@gmail.com

Step 2: What You’ll Need to Start

Here’s what we recommend having to hand:

Photos of your products (ideally 3–5 per item, clean background)

Short descriptions (What is it? Who’s it for? Why it’s great?)

Prices and delivery options

Your logo (optional, but nice!)

Your returns policy

Step 3: We’ll Help You Get Set Up

We’ll work with you to:

  • Create your vendor account
  • Add your first products
  • Match your shop colours + personality
  • Set up your Sustainability Tags (if applicable)
  • Connect you to Stripe so you get paid directly

Don’t worry — we’ll guide you at every step. No tech jargon, just plain English.

Step 4: Decide How You’ll Deliver

You control:

  • Shipping fees (flat rate, weight-based, or free)
  • Local delivery (bike/foot encouraged!)
  • Click-and-collect (perfect for in-town customers)

Make this clear in your listing — we’ll help display your options.

Step 5: Listing Your Products

Each product should include:

  • Name
  • Description
  • Images
  • Price
  • Stock level (optional)
  • Sustainability tags (if applicable)
  • Sizes/variants (if relevant)

Want help writing your descriptions? We’ll happily assist!

Step 6: Payments via Stripe

You’ll receive customer payments directly through Stripe.

We’ll send you a secure link to connect your bank account. Stripe is trusted, fast, and easy — used by businesses across the UK.

We don’t take any cut from your profits without your knowledge. Fees are transparent.

Step 7: Orders, Refunds & Support

You’ll be notified by email (and dashboard) when an order comes in.

You're responsible for:

  • Packing the order
  • Dispatching or arranging pickup
  • Responding to customer messages

If something goes wrong, our Dispute Resolution Guide helps keep things fair and calm.

Step 8: Going Green (Optional but Encouraged)

Virtually Hebden is eco-conscious. We encourage:

  • 🌱 Recyclable or compostable packaging
  • 🚴♀️ Local deliveries
  • 🔁 Reuse when possible (just let customers know!)

We offer eco badges on your shop if you follow our Sustainability Guide.

Step 9: Be Seen, Be Heard

We promote founding vendors through:

  • Social media takeovers & reels
  • Shop features on our homepage
  • Shoutouts across Instagram & Facebook

Let us know if you’re open to video intros, behind-the-scenes photos, or local collabs!

Step 10: Join the Vendor Community

You’ll get:

  • Access to our Vendor Hub
  • Invites to drop-ins & community calls
  • Optional workshops (product photography, packaging tips, etc.)
  • Priority placement on the platform during launch

🎉 You’re In!

You’re not just joining an online shop — you’re part of a movement to keep Hebden thriving. We're here to make your online presence easy, authentic, and local-first.

Need help? Always.

virtuallyhebden@gmail.com

In-person support sessions available

Quick Checklist

  • Filled in vendor agreement
  • Sent product photos + descriptions
  • Chosen delivery method
  • Connected Stripe
  • Reviewed your listings
  • Asked for help if stuck!