> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://sitesbyseth.gitbook.io/sitesbyseth-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://sitesbyseth.gitbook.io/sitesbyseth-docs/showcase/getting-started/drop-mode.md).

# Drop mode (password page)

Launching with a locked store? Most themes give you a sad "Opening soon" wall. Showcase turns the password page into a full **early-access teaser**: the same cinematic story deck, with product screens visitors can scroll through — but instead of Add to cart, each screen collects an **email or phone number**. Build hype before the doors open.

## Step 1: Lock the store

1. In your Shopify admin, go to **Online Store → Preferences**.
2. Scroll to **Restrict store access** and turn on **Restrict access to visitors with the password**.
3. Set your password and (optionally) a message — the message shows inside the password entry window.
4. Click **Save**. Visitors now see Showcase's early-access page; anyone with the password can still get in.

## Step 2: Design the early-access page

1. Go to **Online Store → Themes → Customize**.
2. In the page selector at the top, choose **Others → Password**.
3. Click the **Early access** section in the sidebar.

### The header

* **Logo** + **Logo width** (60–300px) — your logo, centered. No logo? Your store name shows as text.
* **Support email** + **Email subject** — adds a "Support" link top-left that opens the visitor's email app with your address and subject pre-filled. Leave the email empty to hide it.
* A **lock icon** sits top-right — that's how insiders unlock the store (Step 4).

### The screens

Each block is one full-screen teaser. Two block types:

* **Product screen** — pulls the name, description, and up to 5 images from a real product in your catalog. Optional **Name override** and **Story override** fields let you tease without revealing everything ("Piece 001" instead of the real name).
* **Custom screen** — fully manual: **Product name**, **Description**, and up to three uploaded **images** for the slideshow. Perfect when the product isn't in your catalog yet.

Both types share:

* **Tagline** (default "EARLY ACCESS") — small text next to the screen number.
* **Background** — image, or color when no image is set, plus **Overlay darkness**, **Text color** (`Auto`/`Light`/`Dark`), and **Info style** (`Transparent`/`Glass panel`) — same system as the homepage.
* **Accordions** — a **Shipping** accordion and a **How to cop** accordion (title + rich text each). Use "How to cop" to explain the drop mechanics: when, where, how fast it sells out.

The screens fade or scroll (your choice, see below), with the auto-numbered side rail — the full homepage experience, just locked.

### Experience settings

* **Collect** — `SMS only`, `Email only`, or `SMS and email` (default). This controls which fields the signup form shows.
* **Signup button text** (default "Get early access"), **Note under the form** (default "Be first when the doors open"), and **Success message** (default "You are on the list").
* **Screen transition** — `Fade (no sliding)` or `Scroll`, **Show scroll hint on first screen**, and **Slideshow navigation** (`Arrows` / `Dots` / `Arrows and dots` / `None (swipe only)`).

## Step 3: Where the signups go

Every signup is saved as a **customer** in your Shopify admin, tagged **`early-access`** and **`prospect`**. To use the list:

1. Go to **Customers** in your Shopify admin.
2. Filter by tag `early-access`.
3. Export, or sync the segment to your email/SMS app (Klaviyo, Postscript, Shopify Email…) and announce the drop.

💡 Collecting SMS? Make sure your messaging app and sign-off comply with local SMS marketing rules — the theme collects the number; consent wording is yours to add via the **Note under the form** field.

## Step 4: How insiders unlock the store

The **lock icon** in the top-right corner opens a small password window (your **Preferences** message appears there too). Enter the password and the store unlocks for that visitor. Share the password with press, VIPs, or your community before the public launch.

## Launch day

When it's time, go back to **Online Store → Preferences** and turn off the password. The early-access page steps aside and your story deck homepage takes over. Your screens stay saved — you can re-lock for the next drop and everything's still there.


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