I started converting crystalmood website from OScommerce to Magento in 2010. It was started at Magento version 1.4.2, then upgraded to 1.5, 1.5.1, then directly to 1.9.1.

There were certainly some learning curves. Although Magento itself was more powerful than other free e-commerce platforms out there at the time, it still lacks many features and requires many modification, even with 3rd party extensions.

Also, the compatibility between versions was not friendly, which means a lot of work on updating theme and extensions. Many alternatives of extensions were tested and went through quite a few hosting companies as well. On 1.9.1, the site switched to buyshop theme with some modification, and only a few selected extensions left on the system. I only need to create email newsletters and promotional banners from that point.

Current online store features:

• Responsive design
• One-page checkout
• Rewards points
• Customer reviews, questions and media uploads
• Embedded Wordpress blog (that shares customer database with main store)
• Coupon and promotion
• eGift cards that can be customized
• Free gifts based on purchase
• Manage listings and orders in Amazon and ebay
• Help desk and FAQ
• Much improved search and layered navigation

New email newsletter:

New embedded Wordpress Blog :

Version 1.4-1.5:

Crystalmood wholesale site (Magento 1.6):