Building Business Credibility: You Don’t Need a Huge Following to Be Trusted—Here’s What You Do Need
- Tori McElwain
- May 30
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
When we got orders to Detroit, MI, (I'm an active duty military spouse), I wasn’t just navigating a new zip code - I was stepping into a business landscape that felt completely unfamiliar.
There was no military base in the area. No built-in military network. No instant credibility from shared experience. And even though I had been growing The Quilt Patch by Tori for years, suddenly, I felt invisible. If you're a quilting or crafting business owner, you know how important trust is. It's what fills your classes, sells your patterns, and keeps students coming back.
But what happens when you move - or shift your audience - and your usual sources of trust don’t translate?
That was my reality. And I had to learn quickly how to build credibility from scratch. Here’s what worked:
I gathered testimonials from past students and clients—ones that showcased real transformation, not just “She’s nice.”
I got featured in industry media - including this recent article in Stars and Stripes
I updated my website to show credibility: press logos, social proof, and student wins.
I reframed my military spouse background as a strength, not something I had to explain away.
I built relationships with local creatives and showed up in new, visible ways.
Now I’m proud to say: I’m not just “Tori from the military community.” I’m Tori - the quilting educator, digital strategist, and marketing coach who knows how to build credibility anywhere.
And if I can do it in a brand-new city with no connections… so can you.
Want to see the exact strategies I used?
I shared them in my new article: “Building Business Credibility Post-Transition” in the Stars and Stripes Military Entrepreneur Guide – Edition 10 Page 12.
If you're a craft business owner or a military spouse (or anyone in transition) and ready to reach more people - and earn trust beyond your current circle - this article was written for you.
Let’s build credibility that travels.
Build Trust That Sells—Even If You’re Starting Small
Download your free Credibility Kit made just for quilting and craft business owners ready to stand out, get noticed, and grow their business with confidence.
What’s Inside:
The Social Proof Placement Checklist – Know exactly where to put testimonials, features, and student wins so they actually build trust.
The Done-for-You Testimonial Request Template – Get rave reviews without the awkward ask.
Bonus: Pro tips from a marketing strategist (and quilter!) to help your business feel as professional as it is personal.
This is for you if:
You’re tired of feeling invisible in a sea of makers
You’ve taught classes, sold products, or served clients—but aren’t sure how to show it
You’re ready to attract more students and buyers by building real trust
Yes! Send Me the Free Kit Enter your email below and get instant access.
"Tori’s credibility tips helped me turn screenshots into real content—and it’s brought in new students!"— Darla, quilt instructor + DMMC member
Enjoy! If you need help with building credibility, let's meet and discuss your goals and next steps with a free Strategy Session.
Links:
See the Military Spouse Entrepreneur Guide (great for all business builders!) Click here!
Want to grab your Credibility Checklist for Quilters and Crafters? Click here!
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