We're all sitting around waiting for the election, anxiously anticipating who our next leader will be. While the election has been fascinating, I'm not sure why small businesses are waiting to do any new marketing or purchasing pending who will be our next President.
The truth is the decision won't make the economic woes and concerns magically disappear. So while we watch the elections we cannot wait for their results to make our plans. We need to move forward now.
Assume some things won't change... our concern about the economy our jobs, the price of our homes, rising food and gas costs...you know the list. So now is the time to bring out the one tool we have in our marketing tool kit that many other businesses don't have.
The economy of crafting.
Crafting may not save money on certain finished items but we do know that lots of time can be spent enjoying crafts for very little cash outlay. CHA research shows that gifting is a big crafting motivation so now is the time to really cash in. Consider some of these ideas as we move into the holiday season...
Cardmaking allows you to have very special cards at a fraction of equivalent store bought ones. Plus cards make a great gift. Consider inviting folks to a swap- each person makes 25 cards and shares with others to get 25 different cards that can then be packaged up into gifts.
Check out the
adhesive albums at Maude Asbury- they can be customized with high school and college tee shirts or remnants of expensive decorator fabrics. Return the album to the white box it comes in and it is ready for gifting. I really like this product and think it offers retailers a great opportunity to offer one of a kind items.
Look into options for
photo jewelry. Nunn Designs has great things.
Gioielli also has a new program that uses stamps to ensure the photos are exactly the right size. If you can create a class around a foolproof project that is giftable for the holidays- you have a home run.
Promote multiples that are easy to make and look really amazing. Shaking up Twinkling H20s or other paints in a glass ornament can create amazing one of a kind ornaments. I do this at the holidays with the gaggle of nieces and nephews then we package them up in clear cellophane bags with a bit of shred and a velvet ribbon. Nobody ever believes the kids made them.
As you look ahead think "economy" in every marketing strategy. Economy in terms of saving money but also economy in terms of saving time. Crafting can bring families together and can be a fun alternative to an afternoon at the movies or the mall. You can help your customers maintain or simulate a luxury lifestyle for pennies on the dollar. They'll love you for it.--Beth