11Jun 2013 by Cindy Berrier 1 Comment

Planning the Perfect Patriotic Party

2nd Tuesday Tune-Up Your Life, Everything Else, Life Insight
Are you throwing a 4th of July party this summer? Party planning can be fun for sure, but it can also take a lot of work to get it all organized. Your all-American soiree planning can be more turnkey by keeping it simple, but with thoughtful touches. We have pulled together ideas for the essentials and the beyond that you need for patriotic-party success. Now let your patriotic flag fly! (more…)
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10Jun 2013 by Cindy Berrier 6 Comments

5 Unique Uses for Postcards

Monday Marketing Minutes, Small Business, Small Business Info
Postcards have come a long way since their inception. While they are, of course, still used for sending that gorgeous photo of a place you are traveling to with a “thinking of you” note to friends and family — these days, the handy-sized cards aren’t limited to vacation correspondence. From an envelope-less way to send an invitation to your small business’ special event to a unique thank you gift for employees, postcards are incredibly multipurpose and budget-friendly internal and external marketing tools for your business. They are also a great, cost-efficient alternative to the standard card and envelope for personal mailings, such as announcing the birth of a child or asking guests to save the date for your wedding. Postcards have a fun and visual approach, with virtually endless design…
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05Jun 2013 by Cindy Berrier No Comments

5 Unique Summer Marketing Ideas

Small Business Info
With summer right around the corner (don’t let these 90 degree days fool you … it’s still Spring) it’s time to start thinking of unique, summer-themed marketing ideas to promote your business this season.  Look no further, as we have 5 sure-fire ways to blast your business into success! 1. Partner with another company — When customers buy summer-related products from you, give them a little gift in return! Providing them with coupons for a free ice cream from the corner gelato shop, or half-price admission passes to the local water park, will not only give you business, but will also give business to another as well.  This benefits everyone involved and customers will spread the word about your company’s incentives. (more…)
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03Jun 2013 by Cindy Berrier 8 Comments

Does Outdoor Advertising Still Work? [INFOGRAPHIC]

123Print Infographics, Small Business Info
Does outdoor advertising still work? Yes, it does. According to the Arbitron National In-Car Study, in-car media such as outdoor advertising reaches 98% of U.S. residents aged 18 or older. Speaking of in-car, did you know that the average Americans spends nearly 20 hours in their car per week and travels more than 200 miles? Crazy. If your business hasn't taken advantage of these travelers already, there's no time like the present. Outdoor advertising is one of the last messages a consumer receives before making a purchase design. Discover how outdoor advertising such as banners, yard signs, car magnets and billboards can help your business shine this summer in this Tom Cochrane-inspired infographic entitled, "Life is a highway ... and they want to read it all night long!" (more…)
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01Jun 2013 by Cindy Berrier No Comments

To Paint or Not to Paint Your Office, That is the Question

1st Saturday Style, Small Business, Small Business Info, Small Business Lounge
Just because your office is a professional place where business happens doesn’t mean that it has to be left looking drab and boring. Many studies have found that there is a direct correlation between color and emotion — for example, while a vibrant hue like yellow can enhance the energy you feel in a space; a mellow shade, like light blue, can bring a calming atmosphere. Painting your office sets the tone — the foundation, if you will — for how your clients and employees alike feel in your workspace. The colors can even invite creativity and productivity! Here are some helpful hints on choosing the right paint colors for your office. (more…)
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30May 2013 by Cindy Berrier 2 Comments

The Biggest Hidden Costs of a Small Business

Small Business Info
[caption id="attachment_4301" align="aligncenter" width="960"] credit: http://espprintmgt.com.au/[/caption] Maintaining a small business is a complicated task. It requires you to look at finances closely to make sure that the company will continue to profit. But there are aspects often overlooked that usually hurt the company. Here's a run down of the biggest hidden costs of a small business: Lease When starting a business, it is difficult to put up your own establishment, thus entrepreneurs often result to leasing. This technique may look beneficial since you don't spend a lot compared to constructing a new space. But if the leasing terms and conditions are not carefully examined, it may hurt your business in the long run. Solution: Consult an expert like a lawyer or an accountant. They will have the necessary knowledge to…
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