Question by karla_schi: Marketing tools ideas and statistics?
Hi there
I need new ideas to promote my business (floral design) and reach more customers. I have to be very carefull investing my money so I would like to ask you :
- What kind of promotion you think is more efficient?
- What are the return rates for post cards campaings? Any other tactics would respond better (email blast, etc)? I mean guerilla marketing BUT do you think advertising in a newspaper for a month would work?
- Cold calls?? Would you use that?
I really appreciate your help! Thanks
Best answer:
Answer by Julie R
Here’s some thoughts (not in any particular order).
Whatever marketing materials you decide on, go to http://www.vistaprint.com/specialfree and you can get free (small quantities 25-250 depending on product) magnet calendars, postcards, flyers, brochures, business cards, etc. That way you can try them out and see if you like them once you receive. They have lots of templates for floral designers and look v. professional. I’m a writer/marketing communications person and have used VistaPrint for over 5 years. I just can’t say enough nice things about them.
Giving something away for free is always a better draw than a percentage off. Maybe buy an arrangement and get the vase for free – you get the idea.
Postcard mailings will maybe get you 1-2% response so you would have to send a lot out to make it worth your while. Postcards to hand out might work better than doing a huge mailing.
So many people use email blasts that I don’t really know how efficient they are. And since you’re a new business, it may just go right to the SPAM folder.
I think the best thing to do would be to talk to people whose customers would be buying flowers. Wedding planners, event planners, hotels, card/Hallmark stores, photographers – you name it. If you advertise, advertise in a publication where people will likely be buying flowers – such as a Bride Guide for your area.
Go to one of those trade shows just for brides and rent a table/booth (or share a booth with someone).
Maybe do an ad in your local Entertainment Book – I believe the ad is no cost to you.
Hope this helps and good luck!
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