tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28626025673601122492024-03-13T08:08:55.622-07:00IndieEntrepreneurBusiness SimplifiedIndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.comBlogger154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-58481208518176472102007-11-14T08:45:00.000-08:002007-11-14T08:52:28.953-08:00Entrepreneur Women In Charge EventIt's never too early to plan to attend this event! This conference, sponsored by Entrepreneur Magazine, presents focused sessions on topics such as online marketing, networking, and others. In addition, you will get a unique opportunity to pitch to the editors of Entrepreneur magazine and Entrepreneur.com on why you and your company should be featured in their website or magazine. A definite must-go! Located in Miami, FL. January 29, 2008.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-85709292923445885742007-11-05T10:57:00.000-08:002007-11-05T11:00:14.269-08:00Blogging Expo, Entrepreneurship Conference<a href="http://www.blogworldexpo.com/">BlogWorld & New Media Expo</a>: This is the world's largest blogging conference, tradeshow and media event dedicated to the promotion of new media and blogging. Located in Las Vegas, NV. November 8-9, 2007<br /><br /><a href="http://www.azentrepreneurship.com/">Second Annual Arizona Entrepreneurship Conference</a>: For those in Arizona, this conference has all sorts of events for entrepreneurs, from networking opportunities, information about funding, and connection to other helpful entrepreneur resources. Speakers include Michael Gerber, author of "The E-Myth." Located in Phoenix, AZ. November 8, 2007.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-79645876986261329852007-10-29T13:52:00.000-07:002007-10-29T13:54:11.314-07:00Expos and Teleseminars<a id="t.n-" title="Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights for Online Businesses" href="http://www.blogsquadteleseminars.com/JH/">Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights for Online Businesses</a>: This is a valuable teleseminar which talks about protecting intellectual property rights for online businesses. Topics include selecting and protecting a trademark, using copyright law, protecting your company's trade secret, and how to protect yourself from IP lawsuits. OCtober 30, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="sf8l" title="Women with a Purpose Business Expo" href="http://www.awibexpo.com/index.html">Women with a Purpose Business Expo</a>: Support women owned businesses or learn about starting your own woman-owned business. Speakers will address issues such as networking, financing, marketing, time management, and much more. Located in Greenbelt, MD. November 3, 2007.<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-53565937743782748752007-10-26T09:02:00.000-07:002007-11-05T14:59:30.903-08:00Elements by Dawn<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ83NgLYFiHAps_plQtAILNkJ16CILguM5T2PDsQqJ7P_CtgI6Aa9QadI2y4cj1HdpHVLX8vW4ZGYV4tHJqVZAKUF4GeGwAfsw1WDRBH7n9hCVzsHiIrySiqr9nBJ3m1ZxaAAtPrzIuME/s1600-h/dawn1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125679450513636802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ83NgLYFiHAps_plQtAILNkJ16CILguM5T2PDsQqJ7P_CtgI6Aa9QadI2y4cj1HdpHVLX8vW4ZGYV4tHJqVZAKUF4GeGwAfsw1WDRBH7n9hCVzsHiIrySiqr9nBJ3m1ZxaAAtPrzIuME/s320/dawn1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong>Dawn Brandt</strong> is the creative force behind <a href="http://www.elementsbydawn.com/">Elements By Dawn</a>, a jewelry company which officially began in June 2006. Dawn creates stylish jewelry, heavily textured with bold colors and daring lines, suggesting passion and excitement. Through pattern and texture, her pieces deliver movement, visual and tactile interest. Dawn uses color and form to invoke emotion and energy out of each design. Her designs are available at <a href="http://elementsbydawn.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> and <a href="http://www.circlecircledotdot.com/">CircleCircleDotDot</a> online boutique.<br /><br /><strong><em>Background</em></strong><br />“I’ve managed restaurants, worked the sales counter, and even worked as a customer service instructor in the airline industry. I guess you could say I know how customers want to be treated and what they generally expect from a business. I think this experience helps me everyday! I also recently graduated Magna Cum Laude with my Bachelors of Business Administration. I feel this aspect of my education will help my business as well. I think it is a real shame when a talented artist cannot continue because of poor business decisions.”<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJUk_lfFh_qgK1DsbcOl3P0SeKXEn4BTfqoxUWmQZaYK9WwRAYrZq_9oPdIqbuFqIaIViiQAiaCV7fxEGy2kIJ4pfoowShUyMbbwC5T0q3M6xd06MEgA-atOCEN6JO3bAZWTGNSgurtI/s1600-h/dawn2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125678037469396402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiJUk_lfFh_qgK1DsbcOl3P0SeKXEn4BTfqoxUWmQZaYK9WwRAYrZq_9oPdIqbuFqIaIViiQAiaCV7fxEGy2kIJ4pfoowShUyMbbwC5T0q3M6xd06MEgA-atOCEN6JO3bAZWTGNSgurtI/s320/dawn2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>Business Challenges</em></strong><br />“Like most new ventures, just knowing where to find reliable information can be difficult. In the beginning, simply gathering and filing all the proper paperwork was a little daunting. But the biggest challenge was finding space for my business. There was a time when the business literally took over the entire house! I quickly learned how inefficient it was to have supplies and equipment in practically every room of the house. One weekend my husband and I moved my workbench into its own space and dedicated a walk-in closet for all of my supplies, packaging materials, and photography equipment. Everything finally has its own space. Now I can focus more energy into creating than searching for my hammer!”<br /><br /><strong><em>Pricing Items</em></strong><br />“For some reason this always seems to be a difficult decision for many artists. It is difficult because separating yourself from the product is not an easy task. Unfortunately, many artists who may not be comfortable with their talents may undervalue their work; and on the flip-side, artists who are inexperienced may overvalue their work and find themselves not selling anything! I personally research a number of suppliers and purchase the highest quality materials at the lowest prices, thus being able to offer affordable prices to my customers. In a nutshell: I use a traditional mark-up formula.”<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjrSe7nvnIzsLIIdKZLodwnWz3GVJk6O93DTrCfs5akyyChqu-fzZkErZLvYOZWBIorwEUHEDsvzvn-a1kViLjpvN0YDpSkiB9vrRzRBok1yqb3h86bs03ugEUBf1HZ-hiP4bNnlparg/s1600-h/dawn3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125677526368288162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjrSe7nvnIzsLIIdKZLodwnWz3GVJk6O93DTrCfs5akyyChqu-fzZkErZLvYOZWBIorwEUHEDsvzvn-a1kViLjpvN0YDpSkiB9vrRzRBok1yqb3h86bs03ugEUBf1HZ-hiP4bNnlparg/s320/dawn3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><strong><em>Marketing Products</em></strong><br />“Marketing is a combination of 4 key elements: <em>Product, Placement, Promotion, </em>and<em> Price</em>. I have a product that is superior to most of the traditional sterling silver jewelry on the market today. I researched my materials, developed prototypes, and have tested the tarnish-resistant properties of the Argentium™ sterling silver in real world scenarios. I have also researched my pricing methods and they are also sound. The final two elements, promotion and placement, are still in the works. I am just beginning to promote my jewelry more intensely since finishing school, and I have added a few additional outlets (consignment) for my jewelry as well.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Targeting Customer Needs</em></strong><br />“I subscribe to various trade magazines which keeps me up-to-date on fashion trends. I also listen to my customers to get an overall idea of their wants and needs. It is because of my customers that I almost exclusively use Argentium™ tarnish resistant sterling silver in my jewelry designs. Many customers shy away from traditional sterling silver because it tarnishes easily and requires special care to keep it looking like new. The Argentium™ alloy virtually eliminates the need for polishing.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Engaging in Low-Cost Advertising</em></strong><br />“I <a href="http://www.elementsbydawn.blogspot.com/">blog</a> and have started advertising on a few high-traffic websites who cater to the indie business and to consumers looking to replace or avoid big-box merchandise in favor of handmade products.”<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfTR9sGNj8IHpELpd3SIn36cz3xc9zunByKMf4iitk1JLBPjIxpddqvoHTAhXDpg2cu9qZtWzunRQfZ3bhqrI2chTlszAN7gGiGLSkgOl0GJTqoJcVGB0Ny5mrTkmTGAGLXd_0VaZKNk/s1600-h/dawn4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125677187065871762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQfTR9sGNj8IHpELpd3SIn36cz3xc9zunByKMf4iitk1JLBPjIxpddqvoHTAhXDpg2cu9qZtWzunRQfZ3bhqrI2chTlszAN7gGiGLSkgOl0GJTqoJcVGB0Ny5mrTkmTGAGLXd_0VaZKNk/s320/dawn4.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><div><strong><em>Motivations</em></strong><br />“Many things motivate me. I want my children to grow-up having a mother for a role model. I want to inspire them to pursue their dreams, as I have. I want to know that I have done “the best that I can” when the day is finished. I want to support my family emotionally and financially, and crafting jewelry helps me accomplish this goal.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Recommended Business Resources</em></strong><br />“There are so many resources available! I would recommend starting at the library, Chamber of Commerce, or local college. You can find any number of books, videos and CDs at the library that not only cover the craft you are interested in, but can also assist in the business aspect of crafting. The chamber of commerce can give a list of programs for start-up businesses and offer support for established businesses too. Many colleges offer helpful programs for business owners as well.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Design Inpired by…</em></strong><br />"Objects from the Art Deco period. The bold lines and symmetry really speak to me."<br /><br /><em><strong>Words of Advice-Research</strong></em><br />"Never underestimate the power of research!"<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><br /><strong>Contact:</strong><br /><br /><em>Dawn Brandt<br /></em><a href="http://www.elementsbydawn.com/">Elements by Dawn</a><br /></div><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">This this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-25849608586213581032007-10-24T11:11:00.001-07:002007-10-24T11:12:38.774-07:00IE Tip 55: Google Analytics: Where are your visitors coming from?Do you know where your website visitors are coming from? If not, then try <a id="tnu7" title="Google Analytics" href="http://fast%20implementation/">Google Analytics</a>,which offeres features that allows marketers and business owners to place tracking codes in website pages to determine how visitors are getting to your site. You can track specific time periods and compare them to other date ranges to determine certain visitor trends. You can also use this in conjunction with <a id="oohl" title="Google AdWords" href="http://adwords.google.com/">Google AdWords</a> to learn which keywords are most profitable to your business.<br /><br />----------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? 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October 26-27, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="jnu:" title="Ladies Who Launch LIVE" href="http://www.ladieswholaunch.com/events.cfm">Ladies Who Launch LIVE</a>: Listen to aspiring speakers, attend educational workshops-all for jumpstarting your business now! Located in various places. October 25, 26, Nov. 1 and 8.<br /><br />----------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"></span>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-28483982658089090412007-10-19T10:43:00.000-07:002007-10-19T16:40:10.046-07:00Phantom Limb and Handmade Detroit<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxwm2UT8XIV-P-J9hcKT6ltXNF0rqB36B6lFr7tNlxkFFNeRvsqLBVcVDxLLc8p1l55wFEpE7c6Dhf7I087RVHobBq0J5E5s0u0Q8bZSTnY2AcaJjsqxntUVrmb8GvOtYmjQsekT_bdI/s1600-h/HD5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5123105727786354194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCxwm2UT8XIV-P-J9hcKT6ltXNF0rqB36B6lFr7tNlxkFFNeRvsqLBVcVDxLLc8p1l55wFEpE7c6Dhf7I087RVHobBq0J5E5s0u0Q8bZSTnY2AcaJjsqxntUVrmb8GvOtYmjQsekT_bdI/s320/HD5.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Stephanie Tardy</strong> of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=4484">Phantom Limb</a> (“The Stuff You’re Missing”) sells adorable cards, books and paper assemblage art wholesale and online. She also creates one-of-a-kind items from re-fabed skirts, roomy bags and crocheted scarves, all with the idea of re-using great materials and playing with a clean, assemblage aesthetic.<br /><br />Stephanie started <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=4484">Phantom Limb</a> in the fall of 2005 under the encouragement of her friend Carey Gustafson of <a href="http://www.myspace.com/glassaction">Glass Action</a>. Shortly after, Carey and Stephanie joined forces with Alicia Dorset of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=12529">Lish Magic</a> to form <a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a>, an urban craft collective that produces many events including the <a href="http://www.detroiturbancraftfair.com/">Detroit Urban Craft Fair</a>. Since then, <a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a> added a few core members to the group, and but their mission to spread the word and provide opportunity for handmade artists in Michigan hasn’t changed!<br /><br /><em><strong>Customers of All Ages and Genders</strong></em><br />“I’m not sure I have a typical customer. Children are drawn to my love of color, men love my use of maps, and women tend to love anything writing-based, like my journals and stationery.”<br /><br /><em><strong>Juggling Act</strong></em><br />“I have a part-time position as a designer with a newspaper and spend the rest of my time on <a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=4484">Phantom Limb</a>. I’d say it’s more like crafting is my full-time job as far as time spent, but both are creative outlets.”<br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWFVVy3reju7kAwuqyQntlfVNYyBGY0GITTZlqOly93ARl548ro_abjjsZZwtXfWbWcZirdUBbZ2iGpqUeNrzU02Tm5qVoxk8FQVT57X_XnhEh69y-bz1eWvNq1YWolLQL_zxZV6SgFY/s1600-h/HD6.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5123105586052433410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWFVVy3reju7kAwuqyQntlfVNYyBGY0GITTZlqOly93ARl548ro_abjjsZZwtXfWbWcZirdUBbZ2iGpqUeNrzU02Tm5qVoxk8FQVT57X_XnhEh69y-bz1eWvNq1YWolLQL_zxZV6SgFY/s320/HD6.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p><strong><em>Financing a Business</em></strong></p><p>“At first I was doing [my business] all for the love … every dime I made I put right back into supplies. I don’t think it takes a lot of startup cash to be a crafter these days, at least for me it didn’t. Setting myself up on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> and <a href="http://www.myspace.com/">MySpace</a>, talking to the handmade store owner a mile away, using thrift and cast-off materials, these were all the low-cost beginnings of my business.”</p><p></p><p>“We still run <a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a> this way: All the money collected through merchandise and vendor fees goes into craft show venue rental, flyer printing, web hosting, all the stuff that makes our group grow and able to provide more outlets around the city.” </p><p><br /></p><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIMzY5_IsvayW8V4umKfAusTjBJrUB22sapFwDrcoFLe8nDGWsMhNsGiAaDHkQn0Ix_QBD4PLWw6FOXvuvpv2J0AsuAF81zuUM7DfORQwd8lFBUKnBmSwvxFsy4tel9KdmJjBkHPPFPY/s1600-h/HD4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5123105414253741554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIMzY5_IsvayW8V4umKfAusTjBJrUB22sapFwDrcoFLe8nDGWsMhNsGiAaDHkQn0Ix_QBD4PLWw6FOXvuvpv2J0AsuAF81zuUM7DfORQwd8lFBUKnBmSwvxFsy4tel9KdmJjBkHPPFPY/s320/HD4.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><strong><em>Consigning Challenges<br /></em></strong>“Get everything in writing for consigning! Turn a notebook into a ledger or make a little consignment sheet to keep track of everything you agree on like what you will be paid and when, how much you sent, etc. Realize that consigning with distros is a whole different ballgame than consigning to brick and morter stores, which tend to be more professional and prompt but harder to get in with.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Finding Retailers</em></strong><br />“Research! Of course you can look at other crafter’s web sites and see where they sell. But I’ve had a lot of success by asking crafty friends in other cities to recommend their favorite shops or ones I would fit in with. Friends know you and your goods and if they know the shop owner, it’s an instant connection to talk to them.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Indie Marketing</em></strong><br />“<a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a> is in a unique position to build up the DIY movement in Detroit and we have been interested in long-term recognition and creating a market for handmade items more than straight-out marketing.”<br /><br />“That being said, I approach promotion for both <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=4484">Phantom Limb</a> and <a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a> like they are indie bands. In other words, a lot of low-cost and word-of-mouth marketing. Since Detroit also has a thriving music community (and all of the <a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a> ladies are music geektresses), we also have naturally attached ourselves to the indie rock scene here. Like bands, the group and I use flyers and posters to get the word out about upcoming shows, giving them to other businesses, art venues and coffee shops. We have a long list of forums, profiles and other online outlets that we post on regularly.”<br /><br />“In terms of some tie-in ideas: We’ve put our logo mitten pins on too many guitar straps to mention! We’ve given t-shirts to bands to wear on stage in exchange for an on-stage mention, and we’ve done handmade merchandise for other bands. We work with like-minded groups to tie in handmade products, too. For example, we’re working with a local online pop culture magazine to cross-promote and reach each other’s audiences. It’s important to always be reaching out to a new market and potential customer with like-minded ventures, so we do a lot of that.”<br /></div><div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3B3szhPctBawOVOqIqHA9dXMLANbhOtzcpNriovw9etX1-Rn68sDZRpq9ZvyaVsokLUrCE2hFU8qceew9EFUR0J9xsFIc9yJE3SKZaAYrr_nu4bB0taxL2epLnc0d5PwKNmr0Gyjzr8E/s1600-h/HD3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5123105315469493730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3B3szhPctBawOVOqIqHA9dXMLANbhOtzcpNriovw9etX1-Rn68sDZRpq9ZvyaVsokLUrCE2hFU8qceew9EFUR0J9xsFIc9yJE3SKZaAYrr_nu4bB0taxL2epLnc0d5PwKNmr0Gyjzr8E/s320/HD3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>Generating Press</em></strong><br />“Journalists and bloggers are always looking for new things to write about and so I try to get at least one piece of press for both each month. It’s always a combination of networking, e-mailing and media releases to secure press. Blind press releases are never as good as knowing the writer at your intended target, but e-mailing a personal note to a specific reporter can be just as good. It’s also important to keep in touch with your press contacts. While they can’t write about you all the time, they do know other media people and may even turn into a customer!”<br /><br />“Keeping a list of updated contacts is also crucial. Spend a little time identifying good fits for your business. Think about angles of your goods, and don’t be afraid to pitch story ideas to the media, especially at smaller outlets like community newspapers. Don’t forget business press, who are always looking for small businesses to feature. Telling the story of your business is better than product mentions because it gains a true following.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Keeping Up with Customers</em></strong><br />“Because I do so many craft fairs, I am able to talk to my customers. They can tell you a lot, and sometimes unabashedly, about your goods and what they like and want.”<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfh3C0_oxj88dLY0ff43XuskfpCiihKJVUMZH_Xa1xuz4DVbUyXMv0csD6-us72f_HhsFHtyFJWhE_8PrbVw1rAUNMpnXMT1D33_YQaMMUPOtORV3TO-EI5EHk6yj0HDcvY-F3RxelWHI/s1600-h/HD2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5123105190915442130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfh3C0_oxj88dLY0ff43XuskfpCiihKJVUMZH_Xa1xuz4DVbUyXMv0csD6-us72f_HhsFHtyFJWhE_8PrbVw1rAUNMpnXMT1D33_YQaMMUPOtORV3TO-EI5EHk6yj0HDcvY-F3RxelWHI/s320/HD2.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em><br />The DIY Community</em></strong></div><div>“Being part of a community of makers motivates me constantly. The support in DIY community is just unreal. From the small things like if you’re having a bad day, to the big things like idea sharing and collaboration. This inspires me daily to get up and do more.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Recommended Business Resources</em></strong><br />“<a href="http://score.org/">SCORE</a> is a biggie. Also, check out community calendars for free and cheap business classes. Many banks, <a href="http://sba.org/">SBA</a>s and local Chamber of Commerces offer interesting and low-cost options for upping your business smarts. They also provide great connections with non-crafters: Printers, bankers, lawyers, etc.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Inspirations</em></strong><br />“<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=4484">Phantom Limb</a> was inspired by grade school libraries and children’s books. I miss the smell of the library in 3rd grade and most of my creations have a bit of that memory in them! Clean design, sans serif fonts, Wes Anderson’s design aesthetic, Richard Scarry’s use of color, Pippi Longstocking movies, and the unique musical beat, the decay and beauty of the city of Detroit also inspire me.”<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZbM649uXOjZdbqbTNYLC8fRGPP5yoBbnn01sIB27_SUwRwbAbjwaOiuol3oO1zc9lh-PPYySHKtcxNDBiBpv_me7wUNxYCY4i7u_IJG5FFOwKyPaWpXO97rQ9VpiBgTHa8gLKxQAaWlI/s1600-h/HD1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5123105074951325122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZbM649uXOjZdbqbTNYLC8fRGPP5yoBbnn01sIB27_SUwRwbAbjwaOiuol3oO1zc9lh-PPYySHKtcxNDBiBpv_me7wUNxYCY4i7u_IJG5FFOwKyPaWpXO97rQ9VpiBgTHa8gLKxQAaWlI/s320/HD1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>Amazing Mentors</em></strong><br />“The other ladies in <a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a>, craft fair leaders and the folks doing good and important DIY work are basically my mentors; or at least, I admire their work immensely. Kelly Pettibone of <a href="http://nakastore.com/store/index.php?main_page=page&id=3&chapter=0">Naka</a>, Faythe Levine of <a href="http://handmadenationmovie.com/">Handmade Nation</a>, the folks at <a href="http://handmadenationmovie.com/">Craft</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> and <a href="http://www.venuszine.com/">Venus</a>, Autumn from <a href="http://www.strangefolkfestival.com/wordpress">Strange Folk</a>, all the people who put on <a href="http://groups.yahoo.com/group/craftcongress2007/">Craft Congress</a>, and so many more. I admire the strength of their ideas and it motives me to bring more good things to Detroit.”<br /></div><br /><div>-----------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><strong>Contact:</strong><br /><br /><em>Stephanie Tardy</em><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=4484">Phantom Limb</a><br /><a href="http://www.handmadedetroit.com/">Handmade Detroit</a><br /><br />-----------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><div></div></div></div></div></div>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-4069439205339065272007-10-17T08:53:00.000-07:002007-10-17T09:01:34.644-07:00IE Tip 54: American Marketing Association: Discover Your Marketing PowerThe <a id="yfw_" title="American Marketing Association" href="http://www.marketingpower.com/">American Marketing Association</a> (AMA) is one of the largest professional associations for marketers, with 38,000 members worldwide. As an indie entrepreneur, the AMA is a wonderful resource since you are most likely the sole or primary PR/marketing person for your company. The AMA website contains a lot of articles and resources on marketing topics, and although some of them are more academic than practical, the articles contain industry-specific statistics that may be useful for those of you writing business plans and need to find industry data for your specific business line. Some articles worth a quick read include those on <a id="xhqm" title="branding" href="http://www.marketingpower.com/content890040.php">branding</a> and <a id="u_k4" title="multi-cultural marketing" href="http://www.marketingpower.com/content24340.php">multi-cultural marketing</a>.<br /><br />-----------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save This Page!</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"></span>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-19191104032992051822007-10-15T09:58:00.000-07:002007-10-17T09:02:02.481-07:00Marketing, Preparing Business Plans, Networking<a id="u4x." title="Tips for Marketers Coping With a World Where Messages Don't Matter" href="http://www.finervista.com/WebEx_TipsforMarketers_Featured/">Tips for Marketers Coping With a World Where Messages Don't Matter</a>: Online Web seminar on how personal publishing, digital video, podcasting and social networks are changing the media world. Sponsored by the American Marketing Association. October 16, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="zwr0" title="Preparing and Presenting a Business Plan" href="http://upcoming.yahoo.com/event/269422/">Preparing and Presenting a Business Plan</a>: This workshop provides a step by step process of developing and writing a business plan directed towards getting equity financing. Located in Pleasanton, CA. FREE. October 17, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="av7i" title="eWomenNetwork Accelerated Networking Event" href="https://events.ewomennetwork.com/event/calendar.php?lid=74">eWomenNetwork Accelerated Networking Event</a>: Fun networking event for women entrepeneurs. Located in San Jose, CA. FREE. October 18, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="l-t7" title="How to Navigate the Marketing Industry" href="http://www.robinettandcompany.com/Classes.aspx">How to Navigate the Marketing Industry</a>: Class designed for owners of small and medium-size businesses interested in learning about marketing basics such as branding, designing a marketing campaign, and more. Located in Phoenix, AZ. October 19, 2007.<br /><br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save This Page!</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-6688894072972457622007-10-10T08:55:00.000-07:002007-10-17T09:02:16.548-07:00IE Tip 53: Indie PublicA Myspace for indies? Yes, <a id="gnfy" title="Indie Public" href="http://www.indiepublic.com/">Indie Public</a> is a cool social networking site for the independent art and design community. Meet fellow indie creatives or supporters, visit forums, or join a group! It has almost 3,000 members so far, but it keeps on growing every day. Spread the word!<br /><br /><embed pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" src="http://static.ning.com/indiepublic/widgets/index/swf/badge.swf?v=" width="207" height="104" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="lt" wmode="transparent" bgcolor="#ffffff" flashvars="networkUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.indiepublic.com%2F&panel=network_small&configXmlUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.ning.com%2Findiepublic%2Finstances%2Fmain%2Fembeddable%2Fbadge-config.xml%3Ft%3D1192004693"></embed><br /><small><a href="http://www.indiepublic.com/">Visit <em>Indiepublic</em></a></small><br /><br />-----------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-44786169252262425362007-10-09T08:54:00.000-07:002007-10-09T09:04:00.510-07:00Help Out A Fellow Indie!Alicia Freile of <a href="http://www.gauchita.com/">Gauchita</a> is a fellow indie entrepreneur who is currently studying for her masters in design management in Australia. She's currently writing her thesis on the challenges of running an indie business and would like your help in filling out some surveys for her research.<br /><br />Here's her description of her thesis:<br /><br /><em>"A part of my study here I am required to write a thesis. My thesis is on the difficulties that indie business owners encounter when they find success quickly and their business grows faster than they can handle, causing much stress and strain on other areas of their lives...A big part of this thesis will have to do with how the indies get their work produced; if they continue to make it all by hand, if they outsource to other crafters, do they get it manufactured, or do they alter the way it is made to make their business lives easier...My aim for this paper (since it is an academic one) is to either have it published or present it at next year's CraftCongress in Pittsburgh (if I'm in the US then...) so I'd really like to try and help others with this, which I think is a fundamental part of the indie business community."</em><br /><br />Help her out! Seems like she's out there trying to do some good for the indie community. If you're interested in filling out the survey, please contact her at <a href="mailto:gauchita_handbags@yahoo.com">gauchita_handbags@yahoo.com</a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-15459811317787336682007-10-05T08:23:00.000-07:002007-10-05T08:42:16.789-07:00Tiny Tales<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9hcHKm5_qLr70x4m7JKu0SgG7TccE0wOFlFt2jheRH-O96Lr96oudwuKgzZd7azJhijfI5K7c3C-ft6A-SLyL4D9rxw8SmcerqHZr_5SOdQcaQPoIJkHEdg0CGqtOPNh4A5jFIQAn90/s1600-h/tiny+tales1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5117874075367736754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9hcHKm5_qLr70x4m7JKu0SgG7TccE0wOFlFt2jheRH-O96Lr96oudwuKgzZd7azJhijfI5K7c3C-ft6A-SLyL4D9rxw8SmcerqHZr_5SOdQcaQPoIJkHEdg0CGqtOPNh4A5jFIQAn90/s320/tiny+tales1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong>Lara Frankovitch's</strong> quest to find the perfect way to capture her baby's "firsts" led her to create <a href="http://www.tiny-tales.com/">Tiny Tales</a> products, which are clever kits that makes capturing poignant baby memories easy! Each kits contains notepads to document baby firsts, themed dividers to easily organize memorable milestones, and an acrylic box to safeguard these memories. Definitely perfect gifts for expecting moms and new parents! Here she shares her inspiration behind <a href="http://www.tiny-tales.com/">Tiny Tales</a>, experiences, and business challenges:<br /><br /><strong><em>The Birth of Tiny Tales</em></strong><br />"I had the idea for a Tiny Tales-like product before my son was born. I have this problem called <em>perfectionismitis</em>, which results in many started but not finished projects....I knew it was unrealistic to create the perfect baby book with all the demands of a young baby and being a first-time mom, [so] I created a system to buy time until I was ready to create the most amazing baby book known to man. I designed some cute notepads, got them printed and padded, wrapped a shoe box with baby paper, and cut a hole cut in the top. Every time my son did something newsworthy I wrote it down on the paper and put it in the shoe box. Guess what? My son is 20 months old and the box from his first year is under the bed. But I’m not stressed about it because I know all the stories and dates are there, safe, and waiting for my creativity to arrive."<br /><br />"Around the end of his 1st year, I started to think I might have an idea that would appeal to other moms. I researched starting a company, and decided it was low risk and low overhead, and something I could build while keeping my day job. I officially registered <a href="http://www.tiny-tales.com/">Tiny Tales</a> as a business in November 2006."<br /><br />"The product has come a long way from the wrapping paper shoebox prototype, and I consider June 2007 as my official re-launch with the design and website as it is now."<br /><br /><em><strong>Typical Customer<br /></strong></em>“The vast majority are women. I thought <a href="http://www.tiny-tales.com/">Tiny Tales</a> would appeal mainly to baby shower goers, but I sell almost as many Toddler Tales as I do Baby Tales. The customers who buy Baby Tales are typically buying for someone else as a gift, and the majority of Toddler Tales customers seem to be buying for themselves. In fact, I have quite a few orders where Baby Tales is a gift, and the giver also orders a Toddler Tales for herself!”<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1LCMo4v8yJH9TBgAv3p7l8NyYNI11-mccIsHiZ7RkI0LyU1QKvvTsBDshXhUSj9aW_FIAhurGhha3kucz8qQ9zGrtaMqHqD45ycL4rjNDU4AxMuKqaLav1YruOcp-qwPlBMFLRHmJRU/s1600-h/tiny+tales2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5117873916453946786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1LCMo4v8yJH9TBgAv3p7l8NyYNI11-mccIsHiZ7RkI0LyU1QKvvTsBDshXhUSj9aW_FIAhurGhha3kucz8qQ9zGrtaMqHqD45ycL4rjNDU4AxMuKqaLav1YruOcp-qwPlBMFLRHmJRU/s320/tiny+tales2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em><strong>Getting the Confidence<br /></strong></em>“Since I have been out of college, I have been a technology project manager, mostly working as a consultant. Working with so many different companies has given me the confidence to walk to a new client and establish myself as an expert. I can apply that confidence to my business and push for what I think is best for <a href="http://www.tiny-tales.com/">Tiny Tales</a>. It is my company, and if I don’t stand up for it, then no one else will. Not that I always know what is right!”<br /><br /><strong><em>Financing the Business<br /></em></strong>“Luckily I haven’t had to put up too much capital to get the business off the ground. I ordered a small quantity at first, and my sales kept pace to pay for the materials. I wasn’t making any money, but at least I didn’t have a ton of upfront expenses. Getting the website design up was the largest expense in the beginning. Now all the materials are the biggest expense because I order in larger quantities to get better discounts.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Marketing<br /></em></strong>“Sending samples to mommy shopping blogs has been worth it for the majority of the blogs I have submitted to. The best was <a href="http://www.urbanbaby.com/">UrbanBaby</a> – a total surprise and it hadn’t even contacted me... I didn’t even receive a notice <a href="http://www.tiny-tales.com/">Tiny Tales</a> would be featured – I just opened my email and there was the newsletter. Then the orders started flooding in! Luckily it was a Friday so I had all weekend to fill orders. I have also been in the local newspaper. I sent a press release announcing the company, and they came out to interview me for the business section. I have placed ads in a few MOMS Club newsletters, but with limited success. The ads are so cheap though that I might try again with a different ad design.”<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NlJb1NifyC1vKUXo-VM3dZ2CNPe5qqJmxBkG6U0iYQZ1F_t6alljmn3zUPr6Ijvxgp8mUZBPnItUfgMhj6UmTxnv4PTweA-VxHnzQdRgLy7pDOv62UEXLFDzp2DU2B0D4JHrqJe-uoQ/s1600-h/tiny+tales3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5117873821964666258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NlJb1NifyC1vKUXo-VM3dZ2CNPe5qqJmxBkG6U0iYQZ1F_t6alljmn3zUPr6Ijvxgp8mUZBPnItUfgMhj6UmTxnv4PTweA-VxHnzQdRgLy7pDOv62UEXLFDzp2DU2B0D4JHrqJe-uoQ/s320/tiny+tales3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><strong><em>Motivation<br /></em></strong>“I have figured out the number of kits I need to sell each day to make this my full time job. It is a high number and seems out of reach, but that is what I am working towards. I dream about what my day will be like not having to put on “work” clothes and drop my son off at daycare. Being able to go for a jog in the middle of the day. Being able to work outside on my laptop. That is what motivates me, even when it seems like too much work.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Words of Advice-Avoiding “Analysis Paralysis”</em><br /></strong>“I’ve been very lucky that I can go as fast or as slow as I want in building the business. It took a while to get the product design just right, and I’m glad I didn’t feel a rush to force it. My advice to someone just starting out is to do a lot of research, but don’t let yourself get into “analysis paralysis.” Find people you can bounce ideas off of that will give you honest feedback. So much is uncertain in running your own business, and it can make you feel like you are alone in making all of the decisions (which you basically are), so having someone who will listen while you think out loud can be invaluable.”<br /><div></div><div>--------------------------------------------------------------------</div><div><strong>Contact:</strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div></div><div><em>Lara Frankovitch</em></div><div><a href="http://www.tiny-tales.com/">Tiny Tales</a></div><div><em></em></div></div></div><br />--------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-84165070645899773052007-10-03T09:02:00.000-07:002007-10-17T09:02:34.684-07:00IE Tip 52: Trade Show Exhibitor AssociationNew to exhibiting in trade shows? The <a id="r7:v" title="Trade Show Exhibitor Association" href="http://www.tsea.org/" goog_ds_charindex="23440">Trade Show Exhibitor Association</a> (TSEA) is a great initial resource for trade show novices. As the industry voice for exhibitors and event marketers for the past 30+ years, the <a id="khia" title="TSEA" href="http://www.tsea.org/" goog_ds_charindex="23620">TSEA</a> provides knowledge on effectively promoting and selling products. Check out their tips on <a id="hu:m" title="exhibitor etiquette" href="http://www.tsea.org/page_480.php" goog_ds_charindex="23718">exhibitor etiquette</a>, <a id="vx:p" title="creating a winning booth" href="http://www.tsea.org/page_484.php" goog_ds_charindex="23741">creating a winning booth</a>, <a id="jj04" title="preshow promotion" href="http://www.tsea.org/page_481.php" goog_ds_charindex="23769">preshow promotion</a>, and more!<br /><br />--------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save this page!</span></a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-73845042811119209352007-10-02T09:11:00.000-07:002007-10-17T09:01:01.411-07:00IE Tip 51: Trade Show News Network: Online Resource for Trade ShowsNeed to know what tradeshows are in your industry? The <a id="vrj0" title="Trade Show Nets Network" href="http://www.tsnn.com/" goog_ds_charindex="23069">Trade Show Nets Network</a> (TSNN) is a leading online resource for trade show, exhibition, and event information. It currently contains information on 15, 000 trade shows, public events, conferences, and exhibits, and offers listings of industry suppliers and trade show venues.<br /><br />------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save This Page!</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-89575207614167737692007-10-01T08:42:00.000-07:002007-10-01T12:41:14.774-07:00Blogging and Book Publishing<a id="m2rg" title="Business Blog Basics" href="https://tchweb.communityhouse.com/wconnect/Coursestatus.awp?~~7FBT34" goog_ds_charindex="11521">Business Blog Basics</a>: Learn about the basics of blogs and how they can be a powerful marketing tool for your small business. Located in Birmingham, MI. Oct. 1, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="yv:3" title="The Secrets Behind Book Publishing" href="http://mediabistro.com/courses/cache/crs2778.asp" goog_ds_charindex="11691">The Secrets Behind Book Publishing</a>: A must for aspiring published writers! This panel of distinguished book agents and editos will cover issues such as approaching an agent, recognizing common mistakes that new authors make, and marketing and publicizing your book. Located in New York, NY. October 2, 2007.<br /><br />----------------------------------------------------------------<br /><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=400'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:85%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save This Page! </span></a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-78840772449058480302007-09-28T10:01:00.000-07:002007-09-28T14:03:30.814-07:00Cartolina Cards and Dominion Post and Salvage<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1m2o6F299Zrz2972roBQDnBSgTHbWx9KpZICyKuKI8ALIF20A0hgAzMbHgp6mIJ7hSk6UbMHcn0Aw8pzmmPnTF-sWTWxxpeRUJELoM5Rp1FUUB_GuHJzIRaBAy0De0pjIhkbN8IzvTyM/s1600-h/fiona.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115303335577617794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1m2o6F299Zrz2972roBQDnBSgTHbWx9KpZICyKuKI8ALIF20A0hgAzMbHgp6mIJ7hSk6UbMHcn0Aw8pzmmPnTF-sWTWxxpeRUJELoM5Rp1FUUB_GuHJzIRaBAy0De0pjIhkbN8IzvTyM/s320/fiona.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />It's obvious that <strong><a href="http://www.fionarichards.com/">Fiona Richards</a></strong> loves paper. As the owner of not one, but <em>two</em> separate stationery companies, Fiona is surrounded by unique designs, intriguing images, and colorful patterns all day. <a href="http://www.dominionpostandsalvage.com/">Dominion Post and Salvage</a> (DPS), her first card company, features labor intensive, handmade cards for the sophisticated buyer. This line combines the beauty of vintage ephemera with the sophistication of modern design to create a visually and emotionally compelling style. To address the younger market, Fiona formed <a href="http://www.cartolinacards.com/">Cartolina</a>, which features equally chic and unique stationary at a lower price point. <a href="http://www.cartolinacards.com/">Cartolina</a> combines old block prints and antique cartouches with twentieth century lead type and contemporary colors, resulting in a fresh modern twist to stationery design.<br /><br /><strong><em>Background</em></strong><br />"[I was] educated in Scotland. I have a fine art background - painted pictures for a living for a long time and then worked as a graphic designer for 15 years - I "apprenticed" under 2 very talented designers . I have an "old school" knowledge of graphic design which I think really helps because I have a good knowledge of traditional typography and lithography. I understand the techniques that traditional offset printers use and this really helps me get good service, good deals and a great product from the printer. I have a serious aversion to digital printing and very low tolerance for bad typography!"<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXxRoN5qD6IFE8biCSm-bR9LtIpTcGfsmrN8fNeMk6zkejH67EtmTqsbyt5y-8w4mz7P5OR0p2_fQyLyBh5ufLSgiyEc2VfmOUkfoxk6ZJbf0BHUva30AjnebFBV-bInsBDcdqQB1h8rU/s1600-h/cartolina5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115303249678271858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXxRoN5qD6IFE8biCSm-bR9LtIpTcGfsmrN8fNeMk6zkejH67EtmTqsbyt5y-8w4mz7P5OR0p2_fQyLyBh5ufLSgiyEc2VfmOUkfoxk6ZJbf0BHUva30AjnebFBV-bInsBDcdqQB1h8rU/s320/cartolina5.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><em> Accepting Success<br /></em></strong>"[The most challenging part about having a business is] getting over the fear of success. I have had many sleepless nights wondering how I was going to deal with large orders, inventory control, etc. Nowadays I am past that stage and when i start freaking out about the amount of work that has to be done I just take a deep breath and remind myself how fantastic it has been to have had such good success so far, and that I should celebrate if I run out of cards because it means that we are doing WELL !"<br /><br /><strong><em>Conquering U.S. and Canada<br /></em></strong>"We sell to stores all over Canada and the US. We sell to about 200 stores. Some stores are national stationery chains like <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/">Paper Source</a>, national gourmet stores like <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/">Wholefoods</a> and others are home decor stores and gift stores. We sell to lots of florists and also garden centres."<br /><br /><strong><em>Landing the First Wholesale Account</em></strong><br />"We live in the country - an 8 hour drive to a city. So I was going to Vancouver for the weekend (8hrs) and I took a small box of cards to one of my favourite shops to see if they liked them (at this time I was still a graphic designer). They bought them all. Two weeks later Lisa called me, after seeing my cards in this shop, to see if i would like to work with her and she would take care of all the sales. So I never did another sales call after that first one! I am a terrible sales person!"<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8HbdT5NmNxsPmgYh4Rb7-zCfXAskuJ7j_k4B7A5RqFMhSRwRZGDQk2uKrhThxL493K-jXY5TdnYD_vjlantUhIF9_yGufJ9j_cNjZKiWLfHqB9Phhq9cnmNWgQHOS7tbpGSm0Qq5EWo/s1600-h/cartolina4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115303172368860514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl8HbdT5NmNxsPmgYh4Rb7-zCfXAskuJ7j_k4B7A5RqFMhSRwRZGDQk2uKrhThxL493K-jXY5TdnYD_vjlantUhIF9_yGufJ9j_cNjZKiWLfHqB9Phhq9cnmNWgQHOS7tbpGSm0Qq5EWo/s320/cartolina4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><strong><em>Making Contacts at Gift Shows</em></strong><br />"We have our products every year at the New York International Gift Fair(twice a year), as well as the San Fransisco Gift Fair(twice a year). We also have our products at the National Stationery Show in New York every spring. These shows are the best way to sign up new accounts. We also make sure that we have new products to launch at the New York show twice a year."</div><div><br /><strong><em>Generating Press</em></strong><br />"We have had good luck with the magazines - we just write a nice letter to them and send a box of samples - nothing fancy - just friendly. We have never spent any money on press releases or media packs. We have had wonderful 3 page spreads on our company - we have had loads of seasonal features and lots of general good press."</div><div><br />"I think that press releases and media kits are a huge waste of money and it kills me when i read about new indie designers spending a fortune on expensive PR stuff."<br /><br /><strong><em>The Power of Blogs<br /></em></strong>"We always send product updates to the main design blogs - <a href="http://www.designsponge.blogspot.com/">design*sponge</a> and <a href="http://www.poppytalk.blogspot.com/">poppytalk</a>-three times a year before the shows. We have very good response from the blogs. We often get new retailers directly from being blogged...and it's free. I do believe that you have to be quite active on the blogs - make frequent comments etc. so that the blogger gets to know you. I think that blogs are an amazing phenomena for small business - such a generous group of people." </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QarW2EwjTuQwiByjPNmWnSdr5UbRs0czlPXvMkVq8uzHkgezchDybqZ7FVlPUr6IKcg37l-SFfZIh5jGIEJvH-DuhYDuXvz8NLKLx5BekPNisCoBwLYIxyP9EIh0AMWq3rb1eDbCNjA/s1600-h/cartolina3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115303086469514578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5QarW2EwjTuQwiByjPNmWnSdr5UbRs0czlPXvMkVq8uzHkgezchDybqZ7FVlPUr6IKcg37l-SFfZIh5jGIEJvH-DuhYDuXvz8NLKLx5BekPNisCoBwLYIxyP9EIh0AMWq3rb1eDbCNjA/s320/cartolina3.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>Business Challenges<br /></em></strong>"At the moment the problem for us is the fall in the US dollar. We do so much business State side ( We are in Canada). But the US economy is making a bit of a dent in the exchange rate so we may have to raise our prices - OR buy more supplies in the States to bring our costs down. If the US economy continues to slide we will definitely look at doing more international business in Japan, Australia and Europe."<br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NDcYc6-UAohiqymYYToEmCNdZ7gCLOt4Hve0mdA9C5loZ1mKwIvSgjvgtJrBVxn8qDvdzW0sTYVqaN8enLJ9kdw6z6oF2wifwBp9GAc5jw5X-SorbZyKjSk_CXvYdYCpVpjWq-UCbVI/s1600-h/cartolina2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115302996275201346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NDcYc6-UAohiqymYYToEmCNdZ7gCLOt4Hve0mdA9C5loZ1mKwIvSgjvgtJrBVxn8qDvdzW0sTYVqaN8enLJ9kdw6z6oF2wifwBp9GAc5jw5X-SorbZyKjSk_CXvYdYCpVpjWq-UCbVI/s320/cartolina2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>Motivation</em></strong></div><div>"I love to see business happening. We live in an extremely remote area and I love that fact that I can do business successfully with beautiful shops in Manhattan from my cottage at the lakeside. I am excited by the fact that I can hear that fax machine spitting out orders every day.......though the fact is that I am deeply involved in this business now - there really is no choice at to whether I am feeling 'motivated' or not - the business chugs along and if i don't get into the studio everyday and take care of orders it will implode!"</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk6OU3F75tcGZjz9qcKb83Yjf8TlDHnYvsX0Sk8TeMqbgawt7xyzGaytkuiS2QpK0QrTGd8tpOmT3IoJsLEXsS2tePzxDHDyLSlXlirpobymr4DihZJM6-R9XHroh64_otNMAGfqS0Gkw/s1600-h/cartolina1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5115302893195986226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk6OU3F75tcGZjz9qcKb83Yjf8TlDHnYvsX0Sk8TeMqbgawt7xyzGaytkuiS2QpK0QrTGd8tpOmT3IoJsLEXsS2tePzxDHDyLSlXlirpobymr4DihZJM6-R9XHroh64_otNMAGfqS0Gkw/s320/cartolina1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong><em>Inspired by...</em></strong> </div><div>"Vintage design from every era - no matter how you look at it, in the quest for REAL inspiration you will always end up back at the old-stuff - you don't find inspiration at Walmart." </div><div><br /><strong><em>Mentor</em></strong><br />"My husband - he is a briliant designer and illustrator and has taught me a lot over the years."</div><div><br /><strong><em>Words of Advice: Focus, Learn, and Follow Through<br /></em></strong>"Focus on an industry you love, don't just jump on a current bandwagon. Learn to do everything yourself. It will save you a lot of time and money if you understand every aspect of your industry - including the boring stuff like web development, marketing, PR, accounting etc. After you have done masses of research and you are prepared to commit yourself to your business - work hard and take pride in what you do. Don't spread yourself too thin - focus on a niche and grow slowly."<br /><br />"All new businesses cost money - being self employed is not CHEAP - as soon as you recognize that you have a position in the market, invest as much money as you can. I hear so many people always trying to get the best price and the cheapest deals when they are starting out, I think this is the wrong time to save money. Most people will barely break even in their first few years of ANY new business. Being a self employed craft person is not a get-rich-quick plan! Work hard, grow your business and the money will start to increase - and as your volumes go up, your costs will come down and you will make more money - it's a basic business plan."<br /><br />-------------------------------------------------------------</div><div><strong>Contact:</strong></div><strong></strong></div><div><strong></strong><strong></strong></div><div><em>Fiona Richards</em></div><div><a href="http://www.dominionpostandsalvage.com/">Dominion Post and Salvage</a></div><div><a href="http://www.cartolinacards.com/">Cartolina</a></div><div><a href="mailto:fiona@fionarichards.com">fiona@fionarichards.com</a><br /></div><div> </div><div>-------------------------------------------------------------</div><div><a onclick="window.open('http://del.icio.us/post?v=4&noui&jump=close&url='+encodeURIComponent(location.href)+'&title='+encodeURIComponent(document.title), 'delicious','toolbar=no,width=700,height=200'); return false;" href="http://del.icio.us/post"><span style="font-size:78%;">Think this post is de.li.cious? Save This Page!</span></a><br /></div><div></div></div>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-28611438300596681222007-09-27T08:47:00.000-07:002007-09-27T08:50:29.915-07:00IE Tip 50: Prosper.comNeed some cash or have some to spare? <a id="u:wj" title="Prosper" href="http://www.prosper.com/" goog_ds_charindex="22292">Prosper</a> is the first people-to-people lending marketplace for consumers. <a id="de9f" title="Prosper" href="http://www.prosper.com/" goog_ds_charindex="22374">Prosper</a> bases its lending principle in a time when people formed personal credit communities and people acted more responsibly towards each other-resulting in better interest rates to borrow or lend. Borrowers can request loans of up to $25,000. They also have to indicate the maximum interest rate they would be willing to pay. Lenders can bid on listings by indicating the minimum rate they would like to accept. When a borrower and lender are matched for a loan, <a id="giqx" title="Prosper" href="http://www.prosper.com/" goog_ds_charindex="22885">Prosper</a> handles the tasks for payment and collection of the loan.IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-30386994383837322452007-09-26T09:21:00.000-07:002007-09-26T09:22:21.555-07:00IE Tip 49: Woman Owned: Business Networks For WomenA wonderful resource for women entrepreneurs, <a href="http://www.womanowned.com/">WomanOwned.com</a> started in 1997, and through word of mouth has grown to serve over 1.5 million women business owners all over the world. Offering "no nonsense" business advice, the site provides straightforward business information, as well as networking opportunities and resources for women.IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-58585616944948604552007-09-24T09:11:00.000-07:002007-09-24T09:13:10.131-07:00Entrepreneurship Panel, Podcast Expo<a id="l4:t" title="Step Up Women in Entrepreneurship Panel" href="http://www.suwn.org/eventDetails.aspx?d=175852c8-d88f-6f65-0d72-98e6312434fc">Step Up Women in Entrepreneurship Panel</a>: Listen to leading women entrepreneurs in fashion, finance, legal services, and marketing candidly speak about their successes and challenges in starting a business. Located in New York, NY. Sept. 26, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="n6d7" title="Podcast and New Media Expo" href="http://www.newmediaexpo.com/">Podcast and New Media Expo</a>: We know how podcasts are gaining popularity as marketing tools. This annual convention educates individuals and companies about how to produce high-quality audio and video digital content (for podcasting), grow a loyal audience, and market your content creatively. Located in Ontario, CA. Sept. 28-30, 2007.IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-48294059040220965002007-09-21T09:58:00.003-07:002007-09-21T10:11:46.045-07:00Computer Bags<div class="tn_post"><map id="ThisNext_map_FC7E2A2A" name="ThisNext_map_FC7E2A2A"><area title="'Designer" shape="RECT" coords="11,11,193,193" href="http://www.thisnext.com/item/62143538/D1BF303D/Designer-Laptop-Bags-Cases?u=IndieEntrepreneur&p=/list/D4BEE2FF/Computer-Bags&t=blog"><area title="LAPTOP BRIEFCASE with zipper pkt for accessories by JANINE KING - custom fit for your model - Asian Cherry Blossom" shape="RECT" coords="195,11,377,193" href="http://www.thisnext.com/item/17157C7D/0EF7A3BA/LAPTOP-BRIEFCASE-with-zipper?u=IndieEntrepreneur&p=/list/D4BEE2FF/Computer-Bags&t=blog"><area title="SPECIAL OFF3R - laptopwallet 04" shape="RECT" coords="11,195,193,377" href="http://www.thisnext.com/item/4DC094CB/4BA17EE1/SPECIAL-OFF3R-laptopwallet-04?u=IndieEntrepreneur&p=/list/D4BEE2FF/Computer-Bags&t=blog"><area title="Laptop Sleeve - Multi Color Stripes - Will Cutomize to fit Your Laptop Model" shape="RECT" coords="195,195,377,377" href="http://www.thisnext.com/item/283A0F03/CAB895F1/Laptop-Sleeve-Multi-Color?u=IndieEntrepreneur&p=/list/D4BEE2FF/Computer-Bags&t=blog"></map><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px"><a title="Computer Bags" href="http://www.thisnext.com/list/D4BEE2FF/Computer-Bags?u=IndieEntrepreneur&p=/list/D4BEE2FF/Computer-Bags&t=blog"><img style="BORDER-RIGHT: #bbbbbb 1px solid; PADDING-RIGHT: 0px; BORDER-TOP: #dddddd 1px solid; PADDING-LEFT: 0px; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0px; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-LEFT: #dddddd 1px solid; PADDING-TOP: 0px; BORDER-BOTTOM: #bbbbbb 1px solid" height="399" alt="Computer Bags" src="http://www.thisnext.com/media/blogit/FC7E2A2A.jpg" width="390" usemap="#ThisNext_map_FC7E2A2A" /></a></div><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px"> </div><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px"> </div><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px">Computers are so utilitarian and boring, why not spice them up with one of these vibrant laptop cases and sleeves? <em>(Wouldn't that make work less like...work? Probably not.)</em></div><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px"> </div><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px">1. <strong>Angie Green Sequined Laptop Bag</strong> by <a href="http://www.abbinewyork.com/">Abbi New York</a>. </div><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px">2. <strong>Cherry Blossom Laptop Bag</strong> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=78675">Janine King Designs</a>.</div><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px">3. <strong>Gray Felt Laptop Sleeve</strong> by <a href="http://www.workingclassheroes.eu/">Working Class Heroes</a>. </div><div style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 10px">4. <strong>Multi-striped Laptop Bag</strong> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5005892">Dory Designs</a>.<br /></div></div>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-52223126524493812352007-09-18T09:43:00.000-07:002007-09-18T09:44:22.429-07:00IE Tip 48: Boss Lady: Because Women Run Businesses<p>Run by Lauren Bacon and Emira Mears, a pair of business partners and best friends, <a id="wmbv" title="Boss Lady" href="http://www.bosslady.ca/">Boss Lady</a> contains a chockfull of entrepreneurial tips and information from their own experiences in running their own business. Lauren and Emira are currently co-authoring a book on starting a business, but until their book is published, please check out their site <a id="az2e" title="here" href="http://www.bosslady.ca/">here</a>. </p>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-29097327430640446002007-09-17T09:08:00.000-07:002007-09-17T09:09:02.189-07:00Marketing Classes, Transitioning to Self-Employed<a id="t3c." title="How to Successfully Transition from Employee to Self-Employed" href="https://tchweb.communityhouse.com/wconnect/Coursestatus.awp?~~7FBT23">How to Successfully Transition from Employee to Self-Employed</a>: Class will discuss basic strategies to making the transition from employee to self employee. It will also provide key approaches to accelerate your transition, and give resources to help put your plan into action. Located in Birmingham, MI. Sept. 17, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="hu55" title="Marketing Magic Workshop" href="https://www.c4women.org/Forms/marketing_magic_registration.htm">Marketing Magic Workshop</a>: Learn smart marketing strategies such as branding, networking, internet marketing, and public relations. Sponsored by <a id="b:76" title="Center for Women" href="https://www.c4women.org/">Center for Women</a>. Located in Charleston, SC. Sept. 18, 2007.<br /><br /><a id="gqdc" title="Lunch and Learn: Business from the Heart" href="http://www.cubespacepdx.com/node/1123">Lunch and Learn: Business from the Heart</a>: Series which covers essentials of "marketing with heart" by going to the core of who you are and how you relate to people. Located in Portland, OR. Sept. 20, 2007.IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-66177166357109850742007-09-14T22:27:00.000-07:002007-09-15T10:42:53.828-07:00Women For Hope<em></em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHrSkd1w0uqzw19T-9D6Cs1GFOdHC42PgM0dS4wVVpCk_U9B4x8UekmOCsAwaf6ShIv8w6GEJiugq5GpZ4zbSJno5zbspb-cUlDqewPFdfE7lz45aoEPX1STVGuczU5ex66vxZT6I5uU/s1600-h/WFHlogo.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5110484292198717586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHrSkd1w0uqzw19T-9D6Cs1GFOdHC42PgM0dS4wVVpCk_U9B4x8UekmOCsAwaf6ShIv8w6GEJiugq5GpZ4zbSJno5zbspb-cUlDqewPFdfE7lz45aoEPX1STVGuczU5ex66vxZT6I5uU/s320/WFHlogo.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><strong>Pam and Tom Swider</strong> run <a href="http://womenforhope.com/">Women For Hope</a>, a web-based business which provides information and resources about various women-related issues such as sexual assault, domestic violence, heart disease, and ovarian cancer.<br /><br />At the heart of <a href="http://womenforhope.com/">Women For Hope</a> is a shopping boutique that features fun and unique products for women. All the products featured are made by companies that are women owned or run. Pam and Tom also have their own awareness jewelry line in which 10% of the proceeds is donated to the charity connected with that specific cause.<br /><br />In its quest to combat women-related causes, <a href="http://womenforhope.com/">Women for Hope</a> has partnered with national and local charities that deal with cancer, sexual assault, domestic violence, eating disorders, and AIDS.<br /><br />Here Pam shares her stories and thoughts on starting <a href="http://womenforhope.com/">Women For Hope</a>:<br /><br /><strong><em>Pam’s Story<br /></em></strong>“I am a rape survivor. It was a long road to recovery and the thing that really kept me going was hope. I found that hope in lots of ways, especially from the crisis center I went to and knowing that I wasn’t alone. I also wanted a way to give back to those that helped me and help others every day. My husband, Tom, has a background in counseling, so he really understands where I am coming from. He also taught self-defense classes and knows how important information can be when you are dealing with a trauma. He was right on board with my idea of a company that brought women together to help each other. We work together to make <a href="http://womenforhope.com/">Women For Hope</a> a reality.”<br /><br /><strong><em>A Balancing Act<br /></em></strong>“Tom and I both work full time jobs. We have the benefit of working together and both wear a lot of hats. Weekends are pretty packed with working on the site, making jewelry and doing art shows (which we just started) We also work in the evenings, but try to have at least one night during the week when we take a breather.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Background</em></strong><br />“We both have our bachelor’s degrees. I have worked in sales and marketing. Tom has done sales and also [experience in] training and presenting. We also both have started businesses, which didn’t work out, but taught us a lot. Because of our backgrounds, we take things one step at a time. With us both having marketing experience, which has helped us think out of the box and look at things from that point of view, rather than from an artist’s point of view as far as promoting the company.”<br /><br /><br /><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Nj_uG_X5qfhnGBDuJSabKBGovlQ3qmvlJdmZkme40YeoipYwa6gkxh_vnKYRkW43IIrnPS_MhjIJnSfwIHzLnjsnzT6IDlEEHbAGsHz1Vfak3SUICEFfF-g-tAwSZesnWBGo7A5hAcA/s1600-h/wfh3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5110484219184273538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Nj_uG_X5qfhnGBDuJSabKBGovlQ3qmvlJdmZkme40YeoipYwa6gkxh_vnKYRkW43IIrnPS_MhjIJnSfwIHzLnjsnzT6IDlEEHbAGsHz1Vfak3SUICEFfF-g-tAwSZesnWBGo7A5hAcA/s320/wfh3.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><strong><em></em></strong></div><div><strong><em>Business Challenges</em></strong><br />“Finding money to invest into the business is always a hurdle, as well as getting the word out about us to the general public. Time management is always a challenge-reminding ourselves that we need a break every once in a while.” “The most challenging part has been to keep up the slow and steady pace we are on. I think when you start a business, patience is extremely important. It is tempting to try to find that one thing that is going to make you “hit it big” and unfortunately, that just doesn’t happen. The worst thing to do is have big expectations when you are trying to get things off the ground and then getting disappointed. We both learned that from our previous business ventures. We keep each other in check and remind ourselves on a regular basis what our focus is and how we need to take small steps to reach our goals.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Best of Show</em></strong><br />“Our best experience so far was last weekend, we just revamped our display and changing it from kind of basic to a new look. We are using a “woman’s dresser top” as our model. We added big wooden boxes that are like jewelry boxes to display the jewelry. We also added lots of Gerber daisies (our logo and theme of the website) to accent the display. It got lots of ooohs and ahhs and we had a lot of people stop by.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Marketing Avenues</em></strong><br />We market our items mainly through the web. Because of the agreements we have with the non-profits, some of them have put links on their sites to our sites. This has helped both with customers finding us from them and also raising our search engine appearances.” “We also use word of mouth and carry cards with us always. I wear the jewelry as often as I can. I say I am a walking billboard!” </div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoXgRit5Rzz1nFgVvykmhM0bxKmihW_vhBa5OEK1M2OKaKo_SVPqMKsW0Aw5KloKMeFIUyO3GbLQtVMPMcVCkC5AGu0bsYt9N2_LnTTt2CE7Dr0L1KdVB0l77jk_d_EAdjRutPKP_Q9Z4/s1600-h/wfh2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5110484159054731378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoXgRit5Rzz1nFgVvykmhM0bxKmihW_vhBa5OEK1M2OKaKo_SVPqMKsW0Aw5KloKMeFIUyO3GbLQtVMPMcVCkC5AGu0bsYt9N2_LnTTt2CE7Dr0L1KdVB0l77jk_d_EAdjRutPKP_Q9Z4/s320/wfh2.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><div></div><div></div><div><strong><em>Generating Press</em></strong><br />“We have done press releases ourselves, but the biggest press opportunities have come from the cancer charity we work with doing press pushes and including us in this.”<br /><br /><strong><em>Motivated by…<br /></em></strong>“The fact our business helps others is a big motivator. It is amazing when we hear from someone how wearing one of our bracelets helps them get through the day. Or getting an email from someone who has been assaulted thanking me for telling my story. It is when I get those that I know I am doing what I am supposed to be doing.”<br /><br />“We are also motivated about the usual…being our own boss, working for ourselves, financial security, and the pride of owning a business.”<br /></div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLHggFyUdJs8_JTvghZW1aFdpiIqTkqYZYU-I8Bsv47Be4W5m9fVbiF2haB-6B-WhAlgD6swpQwJWSvkH8oGzD5s_-J3XX-9NoW6EKm0JW9NDd_xFZmDcMLzFOvGG9xE4llHSb_WTwiM/s1600-h/wfh1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5110484094630221922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSLHggFyUdJs8_JTvghZW1aFdpiIqTkqYZYU-I8Bsv47Be4W5m9fVbiF2haB-6B-WhAlgD6swpQwJWSvkH8oGzD5s_-J3XX-9NoW6EKm0JW9NDd_xFZmDcMLzFOvGG9xE4llHSb_WTwiM/s320/wfh1.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><div><br /><strong><em>Inspirations</em></strong><br />“We are inspired by strong women and men who make a difference. For example, we recently had the opportunity to meet Angela Shelton. She was an actress/writer in Hollywood who decided to do a documentary about women in America. Her hook was to interview all the other Angela Sheltons across the US. Once she started talking to them, she discovered that, like herself, the majority of them had been raped, abused or sexually abused by family members. Her journey leads her to confront her abusive father and in the process find herself. The movie is called “Searching for Angela Shelton.” It was amazing to watch and she was amazing to meet. She has made it her life mission to help those who are survivors of abuse and though she is constantly confronted with stories of trauma, she is uplifting and positive. I hope to be able to touch just a small part of the people she has with her mission.”<br /><br /><em><strong>Words of Advice-Follow Your Dreams</strong><br /></em>“ Do what you believe in. Be patient and take each day one day at time. If you have a dream, don’t be afraid to follow it and don’t let someone talk you out of doing what you know is right.”</div><div>-------------------------------------------------------------</div><div><strong>Contact:</strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><strong><em></em></strong><br /><em>Pam and Tom Swider</em><br /><strong><a href="http://womenforhope.com/">Women for Hope </a></strong><br /><a href="mailto:info@womenforhope.com">info@womenforhope.com</a>IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-29450039961788864322007-09-13T10:30:00.000-07:002007-09-13T10:31:29.860-07:00IE Tip 47: Craft Revolution: Helping Creative Business Owners Navigate the Waters that Lead to SuccessRun by a group of talented crafters, designers, and entrepreneurs, <a id="bjf0" title="Craft Revolution" href="http://craftrevolution.com/">Craft Revolution</a> provides business tips, craft news, and other helpful musings targeted to the indie craft community. They also started podcasting this past August-check out their initial episode <a id="ba9q" title="here" href="http://craftrevolution.com/2007/09/13/craft-revolution-cast-episode-one-welcome-to-the-revolution/">here</a>.IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862602567360112249.post-35039512853138387222007-09-11T10:39:00.000-07:002007-09-11T10:40:07.110-07:00IE Tip 46: SBA Office of Women's Business Ownership: Resource for Women EntrepreneursThe <a id="apqv" title="Small Business Administration's Office of Women's Business Ownership" href="http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/onlinewbc/index.html">Small Business Administration's Office of Women's Business Ownership</a> (OWBO) assists women achieve their dreams and improve their communities by helping them start and run successful businesses. Check out their website for a great list of <a id="b970" title="women's business centers" href="http://www.sba.gov/idc/groups/public/documents/sba_program_office/sba_pr_wbc_ed.pdf">women's business centers</a> (organized by state), as well as inspiring <a id="gduf" title="success stories" href="http://www.sba.gov/aboutsba/sbaprograms/onlinewbc/success/WBC_SUCCESS_STORIES.html">success stories</a> of women entrepreneurs who have fulfilled their business dreams.IndieEntrepreneurhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11261597205303341497noreply@blogger.com1