Hi Chicks!
I'm so sorry I've been missing in action since September. Lots of personal drama going on the past couple months, but all is well.
I'll be doing some stamping over this long Thanksgiving weekend, so stay tuned!
Thanks for checking in - love you guys!
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Tips Blog for my "Chicks" :-) Not a CCCC? No worries! We like to share! Feel free to browse & if you find something you can use, go for it! I am by no means an expert or a top-selling SU! demo, but if you can use a tip or two from this blog, that makes my day :-)
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Monday, September 3, 2012
Craft/Vendor Shows
Hi Chicks!
This is a subject you can find numerous posts on out on the 'net. I'm here today to give you some tips from my own personal experiences with craft/vendor shows, from the ones I did last season. You'll definitely find a ton of conflicting advice out there, so bear in mind these are just my own humble opinions :)
1. Keep your table simple. Don't overclutter and overwhelm. SU! tells us to use a plain black tablecloth and a logo banner (available on the supply list). I like to have out some catalogs in a plastic brochure holder, plenty of current holiday or spring catalogs, recruit brochures, business cards, flyers on my current classes, and a drawing box & forms. I personally don't give out the big catalogs free at a craft show, because I think a lot of people will just take them home & throw them away - but I do sell them very cheaply - and try to make a note on the drawing form who purchased one. Those are probably more serious leads. I do give out the holiday/spring catalogs to everyone who stops by my table, though. This year, I plan on being a little more aggressive about my classes and attempt to sign people up then & there; as well as offering private classes in their homes - kind of a back-door way to get around the word "workshop", which spooks people sometimes ;)
2. Don't necessarily expect to sell a ton of your creations. If you want to highlight that aspect of your business, you may be disappointed to find that most "browsers", unless they're crafters themselves (and more on that later), won't place the same value on your work that you do. Especially with papercrafts - people tend to dismiss it as "only paper" and seriously de-value our art. If you want to sell cards, be prepared to price them at $3 or less. Most folks aren't going to want to pay more. I personally price mine at $1 - $2 each, depending on how many layers, and I don't sell heavily embellished cards at a craft fair - I try to keep them "mailable". I have a spinning card tree that doesn't take up much space, and gives folks something to stop and browse. Even so, it's rare for me to sell many cards. Same goes for other items like note pad holders and the like - keep it inexpensive (but be sure not to UNDERPRICE your work, either - make sure you're charging enough to cover your supplies used). Unfortunately, people just don't want to spend a lot of money, at least not in my area. They seem to look at craft/vendor shows in the same way they look at a flea market.
3. Be prepared to hear comments like, "Oh, I could make that!" and trust me, some people will just cruise your table for ideas & probably go home & do just that. Perfect opportunity to show them a catalog, talk up your classes, etc. Smile and agree, "Yes, you sure could! Let me tell you about what I offer!" That being said, I'm also going to try packaging up a few card kits for my next show (pre-cut DSP, pre-cut cardstock, a few embellishments & some pre-cut ribbon - along with a card sketch) to whet the "idea-nappers'" interest ;) **Remember, if you offer a kit like this, it can't be made up of anything (like a full, unopened product) that a person can try to return to SU! for a refund, and you CANNOT stamp images on cardstock & sell them as part of a kit (refer to your IDA).
4. You may want to decide ahead of time just what you want to get out of a craft/vendor show. Sales of what you've made yourself? New leads? I've found that it's difficult to do both effectively, primarily due to my own disappointment in poor sales :) Again, there are lots of sources on the internet that have GREAT ideas for what items sell well at these types of shows. I have a friend who goes to a lot of the same crops I do, who's also a demo, and she kicks butt at craft fairs with the most adorable little items she whips up - Post It holders, journals, tea bag holders, and the like. For me, those things just BOMB. I've had better luck concentrating on building new leads, so any more, I don't fret over whether or not I'm earning back my table fee. If I get even ONE good customer lead, who makes a purchase or two, or starts coming to my classes, I've gotten my investment back.
5. Have a drawing & a little form and ask everyone who stops by your table to fill it out completely. Check it before they drop it in your drawing box & confirm the information. (Sadly, some people WILL lie about their email address or phone number just to get you off their back!!) Your prize can be as simple as a catalog and a gift certificate for free product or a free class. If the winner never materializes when you call them to follow up on the order or the class, you haven't lost anything - great tip from my 4th level upline. Keep your form simple - ask a few questions like "Have you ever stamped before?" or "Would you be interested in stamping classes?" (I'm also considering adding "Do you have a Stampin' Up! demonstrator?" to my form this year ;) Don't ask!!!!) Follow up on your leads, but don't be pesky. If you don't hear back from them after a few emails or calls, just send one final friendly message letting them know you're cleaning up your list & will be happy to help them if they wish to contact you in the future.
Craft/vendor shows ARE fun - I hope I haven't discouraged you! As long as you're realistic about your expectations and make good use of your time, you can get some good experience and hopefully some good business leads :)
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
This is a subject you can find numerous posts on out on the 'net. I'm here today to give you some tips from my own personal experiences with craft/vendor shows, from the ones I did last season. You'll definitely find a ton of conflicting advice out there, so bear in mind these are just my own humble opinions :)
1. Keep your table simple. Don't overclutter and overwhelm. SU! tells us to use a plain black tablecloth and a logo banner (available on the supply list). I like to have out some catalogs in a plastic brochure holder, plenty of current holiday or spring catalogs, recruit brochures, business cards, flyers on my current classes, and a drawing box & forms. I personally don't give out the big catalogs free at a craft show, because I think a lot of people will just take them home & throw them away - but I do sell them very cheaply - and try to make a note on the drawing form who purchased one. Those are probably more serious leads. I do give out the holiday/spring catalogs to everyone who stops by my table, though. This year, I plan on being a little more aggressive about my classes and attempt to sign people up then & there; as well as offering private classes in their homes - kind of a back-door way to get around the word "workshop", which spooks people sometimes ;)
2. Don't necessarily expect to sell a ton of your creations. If you want to highlight that aspect of your business, you may be disappointed to find that most "browsers", unless they're crafters themselves (and more on that later), won't place the same value on your work that you do. Especially with papercrafts - people tend to dismiss it as "only paper" and seriously de-value our art. If you want to sell cards, be prepared to price them at $3 or less. Most folks aren't going to want to pay more. I personally price mine at $1 - $2 each, depending on how many layers, and I don't sell heavily embellished cards at a craft fair - I try to keep them "mailable". I have a spinning card tree that doesn't take up much space, and gives folks something to stop and browse. Even so, it's rare for me to sell many cards. Same goes for other items like note pad holders and the like - keep it inexpensive (but be sure not to UNDERPRICE your work, either - make sure you're charging enough to cover your supplies used). Unfortunately, people just don't want to spend a lot of money, at least not in my area. They seem to look at craft/vendor shows in the same way they look at a flea market.
3. Be prepared to hear comments like, "Oh, I could make that!" and trust me, some people will just cruise your table for ideas & probably go home & do just that. Perfect opportunity to show them a catalog, talk up your classes, etc. Smile and agree, "Yes, you sure could! Let me tell you about what I offer!" That being said, I'm also going to try packaging up a few card kits for my next show (pre-cut DSP, pre-cut cardstock, a few embellishments & some pre-cut ribbon - along with a card sketch) to whet the "idea-nappers'" interest ;) **Remember, if you offer a kit like this, it can't be made up of anything (like a full, unopened product) that a person can try to return to SU! for a refund, and you CANNOT stamp images on cardstock & sell them as part of a kit (refer to your IDA).
4. You may want to decide ahead of time just what you want to get out of a craft/vendor show. Sales of what you've made yourself? New leads? I've found that it's difficult to do both effectively, primarily due to my own disappointment in poor sales :) Again, there are lots of sources on the internet that have GREAT ideas for what items sell well at these types of shows. I have a friend who goes to a lot of the same crops I do, who's also a demo, and she kicks butt at craft fairs with the most adorable little items she whips up - Post It holders, journals, tea bag holders, and the like. For me, those things just BOMB. I've had better luck concentrating on building new leads, so any more, I don't fret over whether or not I'm earning back my table fee. If I get even ONE good customer lead, who makes a purchase or two, or starts coming to my classes, I've gotten my investment back.
5. Have a drawing & a little form and ask everyone who stops by your table to fill it out completely. Check it before they drop it in your drawing box & confirm the information. (Sadly, some people WILL lie about their email address or phone number just to get you off their back!!) Your prize can be as simple as a catalog and a gift certificate for free product or a free class. If the winner never materializes when you call them to follow up on the order or the class, you haven't lost anything - great tip from my 4th level upline. Keep your form simple - ask a few questions like "Have you ever stamped before?" or "Would you be interested in stamping classes?" (I'm also considering adding "Do you have a Stampin' Up! demonstrator?" to my form this year ;) Don't ask!!!!) Follow up on your leads, but don't be pesky. If you don't hear back from them after a few emails or calls, just send one final friendly message letting them know you're cleaning up your list & will be happy to help them if they wish to contact you in the future.
Craft/vendor shows ARE fun - I hope I haven't discouraged you! As long as you're realistic about your expectations and make good use of your time, you can get some good experience and hopefully some good business leads :)
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Offer the Opportunity!
Hi Chicks!
I got an email from an infrequent, long-distance customer last week, whom I'd meant to mail a catalog to. I'd added her to my customer mailer for the Holiday catty, but hadn't gotten around to mailing the big catty. She was emailing to ask me how to get one. Red-faced, I immediately told her I'd add her to my customer manager bulk mailing list & get one out to her. The conversation continued as she asked "How much?", I replied "Nothing!" (because I got my catalogs for free this year with Great Rewards!!), and she offered to at least pay for postage - which I also politely declined.
Then I thought, why not ask her if she's ever thought about being a demo?? Apparently there isn't one near her, if she found ME on the demo locator, almost an hour away from her. Her orders, while infrequent, have been for fairly large amounts. I calculated it wouldn't take much more for her to make quarterly minimums, even if it was just for her own supplies. So, I took the plunge & opened the conversation - and guess what?? She's asking questions and thinking about it!!
I know it's kind of a scary thought, asking your customer to become your downline. Your first thought is probably, "But then I'll lose those sales." Yes, you will. But trust me, if you keep getting yourself out there, offering classes, asking for workshops (all they can do is say "No"!), doing craft shows, giving friends & acquaintances your hand-made creations, etc. etc. - you WILL find other customers!
Building a downline is so very rewarding. You make new best friends who love stamping as much as you do, it expands your creative horizons as you challenge yourself to be a mentor, and you get the personal satisfaction of watching your business GROW. We already know WE LOVE being demos - why wouldn't you want to share the stampy happiness with as many folks as you can??
So, will my customer sign up??? Tune in next time, and hopefully soon I'll have a happy answer!!
. . . and if she decides SU! is not for her, it's STILL a happy answer, because I've got a truly educated customer who realizes I'm not just "in it for the money" - I want what will work best for HER & her budget!
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
I got an email from an infrequent, long-distance customer last week, whom I'd meant to mail a catalog to. I'd added her to my customer mailer for the Holiday catty, but hadn't gotten around to mailing the big catty. She was emailing to ask me how to get one. Red-faced, I immediately told her I'd add her to my customer manager bulk mailing list & get one out to her. The conversation continued as she asked "How much?", I replied "Nothing!" (because I got my catalogs for free this year with Great Rewards!!), and she offered to at least pay for postage - which I also politely declined.
Then I thought, why not ask her if she's ever thought about being a demo?? Apparently there isn't one near her, if she found ME on the demo locator, almost an hour away from her. Her orders, while infrequent, have been for fairly large amounts. I calculated it wouldn't take much more for her to make quarterly minimums, even if it was just for her own supplies. So, I took the plunge & opened the conversation - and guess what?? She's asking questions and thinking about it!!
I know it's kind of a scary thought, asking your customer to become your downline. Your first thought is probably, "But then I'll lose those sales." Yes, you will. But trust me, if you keep getting yourself out there, offering classes, asking for workshops (all they can do is say "No"!), doing craft shows, giving friends & acquaintances your hand-made creations, etc. etc. - you WILL find other customers!
Building a downline is so very rewarding. You make new best friends who love stamping as much as you do, it expands your creative horizons as you challenge yourself to be a mentor, and you get the personal satisfaction of watching your business GROW. We already know WE LOVE being demos - why wouldn't you want to share the stampy happiness with as many folks as you can??
So, will my customer sign up??? Tune in next time, and hopefully soon I'll have a happy answer!!
. . . and if she decides SU! is not for her, it's STILL a happy answer, because I've got a truly educated customer who realizes I'm not just "in it for the money" - I want what will work best for HER & her budget!
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Chick Challenge 001!
Hi Chicks!
Now that we talked about challenges, here's one from me to you! Below is a sketch I've come up with. If you're in my downline, create a card based on this sketch & upload your photo to our private FB group by August 5th. Let's see how creative we can be! Not a Chick? I'd love to see your creations too! Email me your photo with the subject line "Chick Challenge 001" & I'll post them here on my downline blog! Be sure to place a watermark on your photo & if you have a blog, send me the link so I can credit you & send some traffic your way! (Sorry, I don't know how to do a linky for free & don't want to pay for one yet til I see if there's much response to my challenges :) - you understand!)
. . . and here's a card I came up with using my sketch.
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Now that we talked about challenges, here's one from me to you! Below is a sketch I've come up with. If you're in my downline, create a card based on this sketch & upload your photo to our private FB group by August 5th. Let's see how creative we can be! Not a Chick? I'd love to see your creations too! Email me your photo with the subject line "Chick Challenge 001" & I'll post them here on my downline blog! Be sure to place a watermark on your photo & if you have a blog, send me the link so I can credit you & send some traffic your way! (Sorry, I don't know how to do a linky for free & don't want to pay for one yet til I see if there's much response to my challenges :) - you understand!)
. . . and here's a card I came up with using my sketch.
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Monday, July 23, 2012
Challenge Yourself!
Hi Chicks!
Today's post is inspired by a thread over on Split Coast Stampers (the private "demo" side) from my online friend, Mindy. Mindy, or "Minders" (as she's known over on SCS) has a great blog and is one of the most creative stampers EVAH!! She's on a couple of blog design teams as well, one of which is Hand Stamped Sentiments. Mindy also was a finalist for the Artisan Design Team contest Stampin' Up! held for Convention. Unfortunately, she didn't win a spot - but her entries were amazing. So as you can imagine, she's pretty darn talented :)
Anyway, Mindy started a thread using the "I Am . . . " theme from Convention 2012 and invited us to share some of our own "I Am . . ." thoughts. It's really fun to see what other demos are thinking of doing, or things they want to accomplish for their hobbies or businesses.
SO - here are MY "I Am . . ." statements from the thread:
I AM going to Convention in 2013 come he** or high water.
I AM going to start doing challenges on a regular basis to push myself to be more creative.
I AM going to enter at least one of the SS monthly contests this year (this one is scary for me - I NEVER think my stuff is good enough to enter in Stampin' Success).
With that in mind, I also wanted to explain what "challenges" are, if you don't already know. Many blogs post design challenges for papercrafters to submit to. They design a sketch and you are invited to create a project based on the sketch and post it online. Sometimes it's not a sketch, but a technique or product to use. Split Coast Stampers also has challenges, both on the demo side and the public side.
Check out these links to find some challenges and play along!
Mojo Monday
Pals Paper Arts (SU! Demo Mary Fish's Blog)
Hand Stamped Sentiments
Challenges are a really great way to stretch yourself and get the creative juices flowing. I haven't done very many myself, but that's a goal for me this year. If you're anything like me, you probably DON'T make time to just stamp for fun a priority. Challenges are an excuse to do that!
Here's a post from my creative blog about a challenge I did on SCS a while back: SCS Monday Challenge Clean and Simple (June 2011) . . . and here's another: SCS Ways to Use It (6/23/11) "No White Cardstock". This next one was a sketch challenge, but I have to say, I really DON'T like this card looking at it a year later: SCS Card Sketch 6/22/11 I was trying to push myself to use different colors - it really wasn't THAT orange-y - but it's pretty butt-ugly, isn't it?? lol
So, all that being said, I'm off to try and design something for this week's Mojo Monday sketch. What are you still doing reading my blog??? Go stamp something!! :)
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Today's post is inspired by a thread over on Split Coast Stampers (the private "demo" side) from my online friend, Mindy. Mindy, or "Minders" (as she's known over on SCS) has a great blog and is one of the most creative stampers EVAH!! She's on a couple of blog design teams as well, one of which is Hand Stamped Sentiments. Mindy also was a finalist for the Artisan Design Team contest Stampin' Up! held for Convention. Unfortunately, she didn't win a spot - but her entries were amazing. So as you can imagine, she's pretty darn talented :)
Anyway, Mindy started a thread using the "I Am . . . " theme from Convention 2012 and invited us to share some of our own "I Am . . ." thoughts. It's really fun to see what other demos are thinking of doing, or things they want to accomplish for their hobbies or businesses.
SO - here are MY "I Am . . ." statements from the thread:
I AM going to Convention in 2013 come he** or high water.
I AM going to start doing challenges on a regular basis to push myself to be more creative.
I AM going to enter at least one of the SS monthly contests this year (this one is scary for me - I NEVER think my stuff is good enough to enter in Stampin' Success).
With that in mind, I also wanted to explain what "challenges" are, if you don't already know. Many blogs post design challenges for papercrafters to submit to. They design a sketch and you are invited to create a project based on the sketch and post it online. Sometimes it's not a sketch, but a technique or product to use. Split Coast Stampers also has challenges, both on the demo side and the public side.
Check out these links to find some challenges and play along!
Mojo Monday
Pals Paper Arts (SU! Demo Mary Fish's Blog)
Hand Stamped Sentiments
Challenges are a really great way to stretch yourself and get the creative juices flowing. I haven't done very many myself, but that's a goal for me this year. If you're anything like me, you probably DON'T make time to just stamp for fun a priority. Challenges are an excuse to do that!
Here's a post from my creative blog about a challenge I did on SCS a while back: SCS Monday Challenge Clean and Simple (June 2011) . . . and here's another: SCS Ways to Use It (6/23/11) "No White Cardstock". This next one was a sketch challenge, but I have to say, I really DON'T like this card looking at it a year later: SCS Card Sketch 6/22/11 I was trying to push myself to use different colors - it really wasn't THAT orange-y - but it's pretty butt-ugly, isn't it?? lol
So, all that being said, I'm off to try and design something for this week's Mojo Monday sketch. What are you still doing reading my blog??? Go stamp something!! :)
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Friday, July 20, 2012
A Nightmare Only a Demo Would Have!!!
I have a class at 7 tonight & again at 6 tomorrow night, and woke up this morning from a horrible nightmare!!
First, I dreamt the class was being held in the dining room of my mom's old house on Madison Avenue (that's not the nightmare part - I liked that house!). I was running around trying to make sure the house was tidied up, when I looked at the clock and it said 7:35 - oh no!! I'm still cleaning, and my guests are also LATE!!
Then they start arriving, and I realize I don't have my cardstock cut!! I settle them into the dining room, and frantically run to the living room - where my supplies are scattered EVERYWHERE! I am trying to find Whisper White and Very Vanilla cardstock to cut in half for the cards, and all I can find is non-Stampin' Up! cheap paper from the dollar store!! Oh no!! Meanwhile, my guests are rooting through my mom's fridge and finding all kinds of crazy things to eat and drink, totally messing up the dining room table!!
Yeesh. No wonder I woke up with palpitations :)
Have you ever had a class scheduled, and found yourself still running around minutes before your customer-friends arrive, trying to finish prepping cardstock or supplies? Yep, I have, too! I've learned that it's MUCH more relaxing and fun to have things ready well before-hand
Tip 1: Don't post a class on your DBWS if you don't have some idea of what you're going to present. It's fun to see alot of classes scheduled on your "Events" calendar, but don't overwhelm yourself just because you want to fill those spaces
Tip 2: I've been trying to plan my classes around a product I love & really enjoy and feel confident working with, or a card I've created that I am really pleased with - one that came together easily and is simple enough for a beginner, yet elegant or pretty enough to impress even a veteran stamper.
Tip 3: I especially like to find new ways to use an old standby product or a stamp set I know one or more of my customer-friends already has, because, while of course we want to up-sell other items, isn't it nice to teach them a new way to use an old favorite? I want MY customer-friends to know and feel that I value their FRIENDSHIP first and foremost, and not "just" the sales they support my business with.
Tip 4: As far as getting things ready, get your cards or projects designed and made well ahead of time. That way, you can tweak what needs tweaked, and make sure you've got enough supplies on hand for each guest in case you need to place an order for supplies. I like to have my projects done a weekend or two before, and get my cardstock cut at least two days ahead of time. That way, I have the day of class to redd up the house (with my DD17's help, of course!).
Tip 5: About two hours before class, I clear off the dining room table and set out the class supplies. This gives me time to check everything over once more and make sure I didn't forget to put anything out (although that HAS happened, which is why "My Way" of doing business means classes in my home, so I don't have to go far to retrieve what I've forgotten :P). Then I sit down, collect my thoughts, and relax before everyone arrives. I also always have some drinks and small snacks for after we're done creating so we can spend some time chit-chatting when the stampin' part of the evening is over - like I said, these are NOT just customers, they're FRIENDS!
Anyway, those are my tips for a successful class! Hope there's something here you can use in YOUR business . . .
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
First, I dreamt the class was being held in the dining room of my mom's old house on Madison Avenue (that's not the nightmare part - I liked that house!). I was running around trying to make sure the house was tidied up, when I looked at the clock and it said 7:35 - oh no!! I'm still cleaning, and my guests are also LATE!!
Then they start arriving, and I realize I don't have my cardstock cut!! I settle them into the dining room, and frantically run to the living room - where my supplies are scattered EVERYWHERE! I am trying to find Whisper White and Very Vanilla cardstock to cut in half for the cards, and all I can find is non-Stampin' Up! cheap paper from the dollar store!! Oh no!! Meanwhile, my guests are rooting through my mom's fridge and finding all kinds of crazy things to eat and drink, totally messing up the dining room table!!
Yeesh. No wonder I woke up with palpitations :)
Have you ever had a class scheduled, and found yourself still running around minutes before your customer-friends arrive, trying to finish prepping cardstock or supplies? Yep, I have, too! I've learned that it's MUCH more relaxing and fun to have things ready well before-hand
Tip 1: Don't post a class on your DBWS if you don't have some idea of what you're going to present. It's fun to see alot of classes scheduled on your "Events" calendar, but don't overwhelm yourself just because you want to fill those spaces
Tip 2: I've been trying to plan my classes around a product I love & really enjoy and feel confident working with, or a card I've created that I am really pleased with - one that came together easily and is simple enough for a beginner, yet elegant or pretty enough to impress even a veteran stamper.
Tip 3: I especially like to find new ways to use an old standby product or a stamp set I know one or more of my customer-friends already has, because, while of course we want to up-sell other items, isn't it nice to teach them a new way to use an old favorite? I want MY customer-friends to know and feel that I value their FRIENDSHIP first and foremost, and not "just" the sales they support my business with.
Tip 4: As far as getting things ready, get your cards or projects designed and made well ahead of time. That way, you can tweak what needs tweaked, and make sure you've got enough supplies on hand for each guest in case you need to place an order for supplies. I like to have my projects done a weekend or two before, and get my cardstock cut at least two days ahead of time. That way, I have the day of class to redd up the house (with my DD17's help, of course!).
Tip 5: About two hours before class, I clear off the dining room table and set out the class supplies. This gives me time to check everything over once more and make sure I didn't forget to put anything out (although that HAS happened, which is why "My Way" of doing business means classes in my home, so I don't have to go far to retrieve what I've forgotten :P). Then I sit down, collect my thoughts, and relax before everyone arrives. I also always have some drinks and small snacks for after we're done creating so we can spend some time chit-chatting when the stampin' part of the evening is over - like I said, these are NOT just customers, they're FRIENDS!
Anyway, those are my tips for a successful class! Hope there's something here you can use in YOUR business . . .
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Quick Class Idea
Hi Chicks!
Here's a quick and easy class idea for you. As I've mentioned, I follow Lyssa Zwolanek's blog regularly. Recently, she posted a technique I really flipped for, which she calls "One Layer +". Here's an example I came up with yesterday (details on my blog):
Here's a quick and easy class idea for you. As I've mentioned, I follow Lyssa Zwolanek's blog regularly. Recently, she posted a technique I really flipped for, which she calls "One Layer +". Here's an example I came up with yesterday (details on my blog):
Since I can only fit six students around my dining room table, and it gets a little crazy trying to have people stand up and "rotate", I've decided to run this card class a little differently than I normally do; which is three cards for $5 and they have to wait sometimes for someone to be done with the supplies before they can move on to the next card. Sometimes I run a product-based class, where they purchase a product that is used on the cards; and sometimes I run a "free" class if they purchase a certain amount.
For this class, which I call "One Layer PLUS", I've designed six different cards using Lyssa's "One Layer +" technique. I've also made sure none of the six cards uses the same ink colors, punches, or stamps.
Each different card design will go into a little organizer, along with the necessary stamps, ink pads, and pre-cut cardstock. As the students finish each card, they will pass around the organizer, rather than getting up out of their seat. Each card should take less than 10 minutes to make, and nobody should have to wait long for their next card (I hope!!!).
For example, this card's organizer will contain: six pieces of Very Vanilla cardstock cut to 8 1/2" x 5 1/2"; Crumb Cake & Chocolate Chip ink pads; two stamps from Papillon Potpourri, one stamp from Elements of Style, and one stamp from Perfectly Penned; six small scrap pieces of VV cs (for the large butterfly punch-out); and the Elegant Butterfly punch.
I'll have Dimensionals and clear stamping blocks in the middle of the table for everyone to use as needed, and will tell them to bring their own Paper Snips. I'll also provide envelopes for their cards.
For this class, I'm charging $10 to make six cards, but if they place a $25 order the day of class, I'll waive the class fee.
If you'd like more details, or have any questions about running a card class, email me!
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Monday, June 25, 2012
Power to the People . . .
. . . the customer people, that is :)
Hi Chicks!
I had a card class tonight with just two ladies. One was an "old" customer, and one was a brand-new customer who found me via my DBWS.
I have to honestly say that last night, I thought about cancelling this class. I was away all weekend at my mom's & was tired. I had my three cards planned out (OK, CASEd :P) but still had to create them, then prep everything for the girls. I knew I had to work 7-3:30 today, and frankly, it seemed like a bit of trouble to go to for only two people; especially since it wasn't a product-based class, and I probably wouldn't get any orders.
Well, I gritted my teeth, forced myself to make my display cards and prep my packets, made sure the house was straightened up, then headed to bed. Didn't sleep well, and when I came home from work, my eyes were so tired they were burning. Made dinner for the hubs, took the dog for a walk, came back & straightened up the kitchen & dining room (AGAIN), and set up for class. That left me with about 30 minutes to sit & relax before my guests arrived. I was grumpy. So I thought, you know what? I have an extra packet made - I'm gonna stamp WITH my ladies! At least if I have to run a class, I might as well get some stamping in myself.
Now, I've heard differing opinions from other demos - some say cancel, some say have class even if only one person is showing up. And I "get" that - both sides. But girls, I never cancel, even if I DO only have one student.
You know why? Because- think about it - how would YOU feel if someone said to you, "Well, you're the only one coming, so I'm gonna reschedule." Kinda makes that person feel like they're not important enough for you to spend the time on them. Not very nice, and not too customer-appreciative either, know what I mean?
Anyway, my two ladies arrived and we had a ball! The new customer was so much fun to meet, an experienced stamper, and the three of us chattered away like old friends. They hadn't used the techniques I showed, so they were delighted to learn something new. Nobody ordered anything, but the new gal bought one of my retired sets, which helps declutter my shelves; and I had fun stamping away & just relaxing! I even forgot how tired I was (although as I type this, I'm remembering!!).
So the moral of the story is, you never know how much fun you're going to have, or how nice of a new person you might meet. And, by letting your customer-friends know how much you value them, both as customers AND friends, you can spread a little "stampin' sunshine" around.
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Hi Chicks!
I had a card class tonight with just two ladies. One was an "old" customer, and one was a brand-new customer who found me via my DBWS.
I have to honestly say that last night, I thought about cancelling this class. I was away all weekend at my mom's & was tired. I had my three cards planned out (OK, CASEd :P) but still had to create them, then prep everything for the girls. I knew I had to work 7-3:30 today, and frankly, it seemed like a bit of trouble to go to for only two people; especially since it wasn't a product-based class, and I probably wouldn't get any orders.
Well, I gritted my teeth, forced myself to make my display cards and prep my packets, made sure the house was straightened up, then headed to bed. Didn't sleep well, and when I came home from work, my eyes were so tired they were burning. Made dinner for the hubs, took the dog for a walk, came back & straightened up the kitchen & dining room (AGAIN), and set up for class. That left me with about 30 minutes to sit & relax before my guests arrived. I was grumpy. So I thought, you know what? I have an extra packet made - I'm gonna stamp WITH my ladies! At least if I have to run a class, I might as well get some stamping in myself.
Now, I've heard differing opinions from other demos - some say cancel, some say have class even if only one person is showing up. And I "get" that - both sides. But girls, I never cancel, even if I DO only have one student.
You know why? Because- think about it - how would YOU feel if someone said to you, "Well, you're the only one coming, so I'm gonna reschedule." Kinda makes that person feel like they're not important enough for you to spend the time on them. Not very nice, and not too customer-appreciative either, know what I mean?
Anyway, my two ladies arrived and we had a ball! The new customer was so much fun to meet, an experienced stamper, and the three of us chattered away like old friends. They hadn't used the techniques I showed, so they were delighted to learn something new. Nobody ordered anything, but the new gal bought one of my retired sets, which helps declutter my shelves; and I had fun stamping away & just relaxing! I even forgot how tired I was (although as I type this, I'm remembering!!).
So the moral of the story is, you never know how much fun you're going to have, or how nice of a new person you might meet. And, by letting your customer-friends know how much you value them, both as customers AND friends, you can spread a little "stampin' sunshine" around.
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Monday, June 18, 2012
Putting Together a Recruit Packet
Hey Chicks!
Some of us are hobby demos, some of us are business, and me - well, I'm sort of in between :) Building a downline has been a happy accident for me. When I signed up in March of 2011, I had no idea that I'd ever have even ONE downline, let alone promote to Sr. Supervisor & name my own group!! Of the three Level One demos that are in my downline now, I knew one by acquaintance who was a random hit off my DBWS, one was a completely random hit off my DBWS (more about the value of having a DBWS another time!), and one is my sister-in-law.
When I first met with Brittny (completely random DBWS hit), who was a stranger to me, I wanted to make a GREAT impression, look professional and business-like, and share my enthusiasm for Stampin' Up! in a way that would give her the information she needed and yet not "hard sell" SU! or overwhelm her. Of course, it was an advantage that she'd been a demo before, but I wanted to make myself irresistible, so to speak ;) I was very nervous about meeting her, and I'm sure she felt the same way! Thanks to the internet, it was easy to find tips from other successful demos on how to put together a professional recruiting packet.
I feel that the basics of your recruiting packet should include hard copies* of the Standard Starter Kit Paperwork, the Starter Kit Flyer, and FAQs About Being a Demonstrator. (You can also include a Recruit Flyer, but keep in mind with the new Starter Kit pricing & the ability to personalize the Kit, it will be a little outdated until we get new ones.) If you have a business card (and you should!), make sure you put one in your packet. If you don't have a business card, be sure to include your contact information. If your recruit doesn't already have one, include a current copy of the Annual Catalog and any current Mini and/or Sale-a-Bration brochure. I also like to have a copy of the Demonstrator Manual handy in case the recruit has a question and I "blank". Put your recruit packet together in a nice 2 pocket folder. I use the recruit folders SU! has on the Supply Items list, but a nice touch could also be to buy plain white 2 pocket folders and stamp on them (if you have time - I never HAVE had time yet!!). Last, but not least, add a hand-stamped thank you card for your potential recruit.
. . . and there you have it! If you take the time to have a couple of recruit packets ready to go, you'll feel well-prepared to meet your potential new downline. I can't help you with the butterflies you're sure to have in your tummy, but at least you'll have a professional packet put together :)
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
*You can find these items on the Demo Website under My Business -->My Business Resources-->Printing Place.
Some of us are hobby demos, some of us are business, and me - well, I'm sort of in between :) Building a downline has been a happy accident for me. When I signed up in March of 2011, I had no idea that I'd ever have even ONE downline, let alone promote to Sr. Supervisor & name my own group!! Of the three Level One demos that are in my downline now, I knew one by acquaintance who was a random hit off my DBWS, one was a completely random hit off my DBWS (more about the value of having a DBWS another time!), and one is my sister-in-law.
When I first met with Brittny (completely random DBWS hit), who was a stranger to me, I wanted to make a GREAT impression, look professional and business-like, and share my enthusiasm for Stampin' Up! in a way that would give her the information she needed and yet not "hard sell" SU! or overwhelm her. Of course, it was an advantage that she'd been a demo before, but I wanted to make myself irresistible, so to speak ;) I was very nervous about meeting her, and I'm sure she felt the same way! Thanks to the internet, it was easy to find tips from other successful demos on how to put together a professional recruiting packet.
I feel that the basics of your recruiting packet should include hard copies* of the Standard Starter Kit Paperwork, the Starter Kit Flyer, and FAQs About Being a Demonstrator. (You can also include a Recruit Flyer, but keep in mind with the new Starter Kit pricing & the ability to personalize the Kit, it will be a little outdated until we get new ones.) If you have a business card (and you should!), make sure you put one in your packet. If you don't have a business card, be sure to include your contact information. If your recruit doesn't already have one, include a current copy of the Annual Catalog and any current Mini and/or Sale-a-Bration brochure. I also like to have a copy of the Demonstrator Manual handy in case the recruit has a question and I "blank". Put your recruit packet together in a nice 2 pocket folder. I use the recruit folders SU! has on the Supply Items list, but a nice touch could also be to buy plain white 2 pocket folders and stamp on them (if you have time - I never HAVE had time yet!!). Last, but not least, add a hand-stamped thank you card for your potential recruit.
. . . and there you have it! If you take the time to have a couple of recruit packets ready to go, you'll feel well-prepared to meet your potential new downline. I can't help you with the butterflies you're sure to have in your tummy, but at least you'll have a professional packet put together :)
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
*You can find these items on the Demo Website under My Business -->My Business Resources-->Printing Place.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Crop Club Tips
Hey Chicks!
I've been running a Crop Club for the last three months & it's been not only working well to help me meet my minimums, but it's FUN!!
Here's how it works:
Five members who each agree to spend $30 a month, with each member taking a turn being Hostess, for five months. You place a $150 order each month, easily making your $300 quarterly +.
Ours started in April, and we did May & June - we're taking a break for July & August, then picking it back up in September & October. If they want to continue, we'll pick it back up in January and go from there.
What I do is make up a scrap map for the evening and they can either copy it as is or use the basic sketch & add their own twist. Here's the scrap map I came up with for last night's Club:
I've been running a Crop Club for the last three months & it's been not only working well to help me meet my minimums, but it's FUN!!
Here's how it works:
Five members who each agree to spend $30 a month, with each member taking a turn being Hostess, for five months. You place a $150 order each month, easily making your $300 quarterly +.
Ours started in April, and we did May & June - we're taking a break for July & August, then picking it back up in September & October. If they want to continue, we'll pick it back up in January and go from there.
What I do is make up a scrap map for the evening and they can either copy it as is or use the basic sketch & add their own twist. Here's the scrap map I came up with for last night's Club:
I actually went back & flipped the middle strip over to match the floral pattern on the facing page after I took the photo. It worked better with the matching paper :)
My ladies did the basic sketch last night but chose their own colors & DSP from my stash, and embellished with the stamps as they wished. We used Floral District DSP with coordinating cardstock and the stamp set Betsy's Blossoms.
The Crop Club concept is (so far) working GREAT for me! I hope to get a Card Club going in the fall, now that I have weekends & Fridays off :)
If you have any questions about forming your own Crop or Card Club, feel free to get in touch.
That's it for now, my peeps!
Jeni
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Welcome!
Welcome to my downline support blog! Here's where I'll be posting FREE business tips to my downline, Cross Country Crafty Chicks. But fear not! Even if you're not in my downline, feel free to browse and pick up a tip or two :) We like to share.
If you're interested in becoming an independent Stampin' Up! demonstrator, I'd be honored and tickled to have you join my team of "Chicks". Head on over to my website right now to join the fun! Feel free to shoot me an email if you have ANY questions at all.
Happy stampin'!
Jeni
If you're interested in becoming an independent Stampin' Up! demonstrator, I'd be honored and tickled to have you join my team of "Chicks". Head on over to my website right now to join the fun! Feel free to shoot me an email if you have ANY questions at all.
Happy stampin'!
Jeni
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