LunchBoxBrigade

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

FEATURED VENDOR


CONTACT OUR VENDOR Jeanne Aleksiewicz



No More Winter Blues


~Courtesy of Votre Vu~

Dry, cold and windy weather outdoors and dry, static-inducing central heating inside not only pull moisture from the air, but also from your skin. The winter elements leave many people’s skin feeling tight, itchy, and sometimes even flaky and cracked - complexions lose their radiance and fine lines look deeper. Fight back! Regain that beautiful, moisture-filled skin with Votre Vu ease…

 Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Moisturize your body immediately after showering, apply lotion to hands every time after washing, and re-apply throughout the day to those areas which dry most easily – like hands, elbows, and feet. Avoid waxy moisturizers that can clog pores. And by all means, don’t forget to hook up that home humidifier!

Amour D’Ore



Use an all-around treatment for sensitive skin like Votre Vu’s dry-oil, vitamin-rich Amour D’Ore spray, which is especially invaluable for those hard-to-reach areas -like the back. Apply as you step out of the shower for deep absorption. Use alone but for an extra protective moisture layer, apply Amour D’Ore’s essential oils underneath Tarte D'Amande Soufflé daily body crème. (One more tip…rub a small amount in your hair to shield and protect your locks from the winter elements and take away that frizz and static for a smooth healthy look.)

Tarte D'Amande Soufflé

Use day and night for luxurious moisture protection that's never heavy or greasy. With a decadent almond pie aroma, fatty acids, vitamins and tropical nut oils in this body soufflé provide the ultimate in hydrated and sensuously silky skin.

Hydrate from the inside out

Do not limit your skin’s hydration just to the exterior. Replenishing your body’s fluids gives you more energy, benefits your overall health, and will also help keep your skin from becoming dehydrated. Nourish your skin from the inside out, by eating fresh, healthy foods, drinking lots of water, and supplementing with beneficial beverages such as Votre Vu’s SnapDragon.

SnapDragon

Enjoy daily - a delicious, nutritious blend of antioxidant super fruits like mango, pomegranate and acai berry juices, collagen, calcium seven essential daily vitamins, the extracts of green, white, and red tea, and beneficial botanicals like aloe vera, ginkgo biloba, and baobab fiber.

Shed what’s dead (aka exfoliate)

In order to help our much needed moisturizers sink deeply into the skin, we must exfoliate once or twice a week. Getting rid of built-up dead skin cells exposes a fresh layer of skin that is ready to absorb your moisturizer. If you use lots of lotions but do not slough off the dead skin cells, you

can clog your pores. For instance KP – commonly referred to as chicken skin – is a direct result of trapped dead skin cells that are clogging pores and can be prevented with periodic exfoliation.

Royal Treatment Gentle Pearls Scrub

Use a gentle, less abrasive facial exfoliant that will not strip or scratch skin or break capillaries and cause red veins on the face - like Votre Vu’s organic Royal Treatment Gentle Pearls Scrub with hydro-regulating active plant extracts that soothe, balance, and resurface your skin gently.

Don’t rough it!

Avoid using harsh peels, clay-based masks, and drying toners or astringents - all of which can strip vital oil from your skin and disrupt your skin’s pH balance. Instead, use a cleansing milk or mild foaming cleanser, gentle toners, and hydrating masques – like those found in Votre Vu’s naturally based, gentle-on-the-skin product line.

Cleansers ~

Best Regards, Full Benefits & Attentive Milk Cleansers

Three of Votre Vu’s four cleansers are nourishing cleansing milks that wash away impurities without stripping essential moisture from the skin.

Peau Équilibrée Cleansing Gelée

Vu’s fourth cleanser for troubled skin is a cleansing gelée based on orange oil, not harsh alcohols that so many acne lines feature.

Toners ~

Fleur Blanc, Full Benefits and Peau Équilibrée

Votre Vu’s mild toners are based upon botanicals such as the white lily in its Fleur Blanc toner for all skin types, or rose water and calendula and sage extracts in its Peau Equilbrée tonic for oily skin. Non-drying and prep skin to best receive next step moisturizing!

Masque ~

Calm, Cool, and Collected Cotton Organic Masque

If you’re looking for that gentle, calming masque, check out Votre Vu’s Calm, Cool, and Collected Cotton Organic Masque which blends algae extracts, milk proteins, and active botanicals to soothe and rebalance the skin.



Moisturize MORE and more effectively!

As the seasons change and intensify, so often must your skin care regimen. Look for moisture-rich products that are based on ingredients that hydrate deeply and effectively and will fortify the skin – and don’t just sit on the top of the skin!

Sérums ~

Les Sorbet, Mal-Ligne Wrinkle Eraser…just to name a few

See a full list of Vu’s sérum offerings online….Sérums are like a mega-vitamin for the skin and are formulated to sink deeper into the epidermis. Use a sérum with penetrating oils in tandem with your daily face crème for optimal benefits ~ but look for those oils which are non-clogging, such as avocado oil, jojoba oil, apricot kernel oil, wheat germ oil, or almonds oil . A moisturizer then seals in the sérum and sits atop the skin to protect it from the elements.

Tragic Magic Rescue Crème

For specialized care, this intense crème solves many issues for hyper-reactive complexions, including flaking and oftentimes, eczema. It soothes, decongests,

desensitizes, rebalances and stabilizes the flush of hyper-reactive skin and simultaneously reinforces the protective barrier of your skin.

Seek shelter from the sun …even in the off-season

Sunscreen is not just for summer anymore. Your skin still needs protection from the winter sun, snow glare, artificial lighting and computer screens to prevent burning and premature aging. For extended outdoor exposure, apply sunscreen to any exposed areas – such as your face, hands, and neck - the SPF level is not as important as actually reapplying the sunscreen for continued exposure.

Le Bloc de Soleil SPF 30 Crème Total

This light crème is a heavy hitter, providing full sun block protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Rich in natural plant extracts and loaded with essential oils, this formula is highly water-resistant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and healing.

Give your hands a hand…

…and don’t forget the lips and eye area that need special care as well. The skin on the hands is thinner than on other parts of the body and has fewer oils glands, making it more difficult to keep your hands moist – particularly in cold, dry weather. To avoid itching and cracking, wear gloves outdoors and, of course, moisturize after washing and when your hands feel dry or tight.

Duette - Luxe Hand Crème & Luxe Lips

Double the winter care! Enriching Luxe Hand Crème is based on sweet almond oil to penetrate deeply into the skin and Luxe Lips nourishing lip balm made from coconut oil, shea butter and beeswax gently protects, nourishes and softens lips in every condition.

Luxee Yeux Eye Beauty Balm

This corrective and emollient balm is a highly effective combination of rich ingredients specifically formulated to counter the three prominent signs of aging around the eyes- moisture loss, collagen breakdown, and free radical damage. Plus, Luxee Yeux eye balm is a wonderful multi-tasker for cracked knuckles as well as overblown noses and chapped skin around lips.

Champagne Kisses Enhancing Lip Balm

This concentrated formula specially designed to enhance suppleness and hydration - lips may become more luscious and full after every application. One for the car, purse, kitchen…keep it handy and reapply as often as necessary to combat the drying effects of the winter season.
 
 
About our featured vendor:


My name is Jeanne Aleksiewicz, I have been a Brand Ambassador with Votre Vu

since our launch in September 2008. Prior to Votre Vu, I was using a skin care product

that is available in department stores, for 15 years. I never saw an improvement in my

complexion. With in 30 days of using Votre Vu's full benefits (for Mature skin), face base regimen,

I saw my face firm, become radiant, with an over all smooth uniformed texture and by using

Tout Le Monde (Eye Gelée) I saw a reduction of fine lines around my eyes. If I were to break

out with a blemish, Au Revoir (Trouble Spot Treatment), would do the job, usually over night...

We have wonderful products. We also have 3 incredible opportunities, depending on if a person

would want to start their own business or if they would only want to receive 30/30/50% discounts

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Consistent Branding


When you think of Mc Donalds you think of Golden Arches, Ronald Mc Donald, and Hamburgers right?
What if you took the Golden Arches away? Would Mc Donald's lose customers?  The answer is simple YES!  When customers pass by this fast food chain without the Golden Arches they would be confused and then question whether they went out of business, they would no longer recognize this restaurant, and therefore lose confidence in purchasing their burgers there.

Three factors mentioned here  CONFUSION - NOT RECOGNIZED - LOSS OF CONFIDENCE -

Even though most of us do not have a restaurant or maybe even a storefront, what we do have in common is social networking and a business that we want to thrive.  Below you will find how name branding and social networking go hand in hand.

Consistency is key as we see here in this next paragraph sent to me by Constant Contact:

Consistent Graphic Design: When one thinks of 'brand,' the first thing that usually comes to mind is the visual elements. You want to make sure you're using your organization's logo, colors, typefaces, and other brand-related images consistently across all your print campaigns, website, email newsletter, and social media sites. Obviously you don't have as much visual control with Twitter and Facebook, but you can ensure that your Twitter background matches your business or organization's colors, and that the logo or avatar you use on each network is the same -- make it one that your fans and followers will recognize no matter where they connect with you.


Once you've established your brand and your customers, clients, and members have become accustomed to it, be careful about making major changes as it could throw those loyal fans for a loop.
 
The above paragraph is key - MAJOR CHANGES are a big no no in the business world, it can ruin a thriving company.  However, subtle changes can be necessary in all of our businesses. Mc Donald's has successfully added new food items to their menu that are not hamburgers, they have successfully changed the look of their restaurant, but one thing has stayed the same and is key to their customers loyalty.  The reliable, consistent, non- confusing Golden Arches.
 
So pick a theme that is easy to carbon copy on all your social networking sites, use your logo, and brand your image in all of our minds so that next time we see your promotional product floating around the office we will remember your business!
 
For items that help you brand your image contact - Love To Promote at 815-603-2324 or e-mail us Sales@LoveToPromote.com 
 
Follow us on Facebook - Or Twitter 
 
We sell a full line of promotional products, personalized gifts, awards, wearables & more...
We specialize in Eco-Friendly Promotions and are proud members of the Plainfield Chamber of Commerce.
 

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Summer Promotions

Looking for a fun way to promote your business or upcoming event.

Try our eco-friendly tumblers.



Product Details


Item Number: VARSITYWJ5

Product Name: VARSITY TUMBLER


Quantity=Pricing
96 =  4.00
240= 3.69
480= 3.43

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Celebrate Earth Day with Eco-Friendly Promotions

Recycled material adds to the allure of this cheery tote.




•Made from 80% recycled post consumer plastic bottles
•Non-woven green accent trim
•Recycled symbol and material content stated in bottom corner of tote

Materials: PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and polyester laminate

Product Size: 15"w x 16"h, Handle: 1"w x 16"l
Product Colors: Green, Royal, White
Price Includes: 1-color imprint, 1 location
Standard Imprint Method(s):
•Screen Print: Front, 11"w x 11"h, 1 color(s) max
Production Time: 5 Business Days


Attractive and earth-friendly, this duffel is the perfect choice!



•Spacious main compartment
•Simple barrel design with zip closure
•Adjustable/removable shoulder strap
Materials: 100% Organic cotton duck
Product Size: 18-3/4"w x 15"h x 9"d, Handle: 1-1/2”w x 41-1/4”l (adjustable)
Product Colors: Natural
Price Includes: 1-color imprint, 1 location
Standard Imprint Method(s):
•Screen Print: Front, 6-1/2"w x 6-1/2"h, 4 color(s) max
Production Time: 5 Business Days
Notes:


•Imprinted with Eco Ink





Office, Magnets, Badge Holders


Magnets made from 100% post consumer recycled paper. Custom shapes available!

•Paper made from 100% post-consumer recycled fiber
Materials: 100% post consumer fiber, magnet
Product Size: 2-5/8"w x 3-1/8"h x 12 mil.
Product Colors: Brown
Price Includes: 1-color imprint, 1 location
Standard Imprint Method(s):
•Screen Print: Front, 1-1/4"w x 1-3/8"h, 1 color(s) max
Production Time: 5 Business Days


To Order your Eco-Friendly Promotions:
Call us at 815-603-2324 M-F Central Standard Time 9AM-3PM
Or e-mail us at Sales@LoveToPromote.com
View these products and more at our preferred Vendors website
http://www.norwood.com/ look under GOING GREEN for these products.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Promotional Products and Why They Work

Promotional Products - Viewed as Junk?  Not anymore...

Functional - Used Every Day - Lunch Totes, Coolers, Bags & more...
Trying to get your name out there but don't know where to turn. Think that Pens, Magnets, and other Promotional Products are too trinkety and a waste of money.

STOP RIGHT THERE!!!
The following studies prove otherwise.  Not only are Promotional Products affordable, they have a great following with customers, are often items that customers use every day, and can market your business very effectively.

A 2009 study of the advertising purchasing habits of end buyers, ranked promotional products as their top advertising choice over mainstream media including television, newspaper and internet. (Source: t Louisiana State University and Glenrich Business Studies.)



A second study, “Effectiveness Of Promotional Products As An Advertising Medium” conducted by MarketTools, Inc. evaluated the action, reaction and relationship of products and their recipients. The study found that:




• 94 percent could recall a promotional product they had received in the past two years

• 89 percent could also recall the advertiser

• 83 percent reported that they liked receiving promotional products

• 48 percent would like to receive promotional products more often

• 69 percent generally keep the promotional product


So if you are looking for an effective marketing campaign, first put together a budget of what you can afford, second figure out your target audience, third give me a call and we can find the perfect promotional product for your business needs!
 
Love To Promote - 815-603-2324 9-4PM M-F Central Standard Time or e-mail us 24/7 Sales@LoveToPromote.com We would love to hear from you! 

Monday, March 8, 2010

EXPO ADVICE

ARE YOU GOING TO BE EXHIBITING AT AN EXPO?
If so please read on...


Attending an Expo can be very rewarding if done properly.

I recently attended a few expos and found some great booth displays with high traffic results and some low traffic booths.

If you see in the picture above there are alot of vendors displaying their products and it is more than likely so are your competitors. Stand out from the crowd by doing the following:

  • Use eye catching colors if possible the same colors in your logo or that match your uniform.
  • Make sure your name is imprinted on everything you give away including pens, bags and literature
  • Have a Banner with your name on it and if possible what it is that you do
  • Give something away
  • Have movement at your booth


Lets talk about the first bullet point COLORS have anyone representing your company wear a uniform, name badge, or similar colors so that when walking the EXPO people can recognize you and patrons feel they are talking to someone that knows the products that you are selling.

IMPRINTING - As mentioned in the second bullet point give something away it does not matter what it is but make sure it is something useful, and something that has your information on it. Balloons pop, food gets eaten, but if you give someone a calendar, ruler, air freshener, they are sure to use it and this gets your name branded to your potential customers. It also attracts patrons to your booth because, let's face it everyone loves something free.

BANNER - Having your name displayed at an expo is key.  Have it displayed high so that when walking the expo people know how to find your booth and can easily recognize what you do.

MOVEMENT - It is proven that when a booth has movement people are attracted to it.  A fan, a clown passing out your give-aways, a juggler, flashing lights, even a yo-yo works well.  Eye catching - fun - and different makes you stand out from the rest.


DEMONSTRATIONS -  As I walked a few expos I noticed one thing that was very popular with prospective customers, interaction with the vendor. If you have a product that people can try out this is a perfect opportunity to draw customers in.  EX:  If you are a Massage Therapist give out free 1 minute massages.  If you are a selling remote control cars, let your patrons try them out.  If you do not sell anything that is tangible than make sure you have a TV Monitor that displays your work and is on constant loop.  Let your customers try your product, feel it, see it, and learn about it.  That is what they are at the Expo for.

WHAT NOT TO DO:
  • Do not wear jeans and a t-shirt (you will blend in with the crowd and will not be taken seriously)
  • Do not talk on your cell phone (patrons will avoid you noone wants to interrupt a phone call)
  • Do not come to an expo without business cards, or a give-away
  • Do not have a display that is cluttered less is always more
  • Do not make it difficult for people to understand what it is that you do
It is always best to attend a few of your competitors booths to see what they are doing that you may not be. 

Learn from your mistakes, and always prepare for a show by setting up your display on a similar sized table. 

If you will need electricity be sure the event is able to accomodate you and that you are not placed near a competitor.

For Promotional Products, Name Branding, Banners and more...
Please contact: Love To Promote 815-603-2324


IDOPERSONALGIFTS.BLOGSPOT.COM
Facebook.com/LoveToPromote
Twitter.com/LoveToPromote

Monday, February 1, 2010

How To Increase Traffic To Your Business

It's time to gear up for the New Year!  This economy has hit us all hard but it is still a great time to market your business.

Here are some inexpensive ideas to stir up some business to your store or online business!

  • Merchant Circle - this is a free service that is great for networking with other business owners creating coupons free blogging, newsletters, and has a great forum for your Q&A. 
  • Blog Catalog - a great place to advertise your Blog
  • Craigslist - advertise for free on this online classified ad
  • Constant Contact - A great in-expensive e-mail blast program mention Love To Promote and receive one month free!
  • Chamber of Commerce - Join your local Chamber and reap the benefits of networking as well as their many opportunities to market yourself to your local community
  • REF USA - contact your local library to learn more about this FREE way to obtain addresses to your local families, or businesses.
  • Trade Shows - Take advantage of the 2010 tradeshows geared towared your business type
  • Referrals - Pay for referrals and see how many are sent your way!
Promoting your business can be time consuming but it is always best to give your pens, business cards, and imprinted promotional products to all potential customers.

To learn more about our services call us at 815-603-2324 or visit our website to see our online catalog at:
http://www.lovetopromote.com/



We love to hear from you feel free to post your questions or comments here!

Leslie Prohaska
Owner / Advertising Specialist
Love To Promote
Building Business through the use of Promotional Products

Thursday, January 28, 2010

CHINESE VALENTINES DAY/ CHINESE NEW YEAR




All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy is a proverb. Its meaning is that without time off from work, a person becomes bored and boring.

Take some time and celebrate something fun!  This year February 14th falls on Chinese New Year!!

Bring in your favorite chinese dish, decorate the office or host a party and pass out chinese masks. 

IN OTHERWARDS FIND A REASON TO HAVE FUN AT THE WORKPLACE!!!


Chinese New Year Superstitons


There are certain customs and superstitions that many Chinese adhere to during the New Year festival. Will and Guy have researched their top twenty Chinese superstitions for the New Year. These superstitions may well help westerners to better understand their oriental brothers.



Exploding firecrackers on Chinese New Year's Eve is the Chinese way of sending out the old year and welcoming in the new.

On the stroke of midnight, every door and window in the house has to be opened to allow the old year to go out is one superstition.

Many people also abstain from eating meat on the first day of Chinese New Year festival because it is believed that this will ensure a long and happy life.

Some may eat a whole fish which represents togetherness and abundance, or a chicken with its head and feet intact, which symbolizes prosperity.

Any noodles in your bowl should be left uncut, as a sign of long life.

Plants and flowers also play a significant role in symbolizing rebirth and new growth. A home is thought to be lucky if a plant blooms on New Year's Day, as this foretells the start of a prosperous year.

Another Chinese superstition is that the entire house should be cleaned before New Year's Day.

On New Year's Eve, all brooms, brushes, dusters, dust pans and other cleaning equipment are put away. Sweeping or dusting should not be done on New Year's Day for fear that good fortune will be swept away.

After New Year's Day, the floors may be swept. Beginning at the door, the dust and rubbish are swept to the middle of theroom, then placed in the corners and not taken or thrown out until the fifth day. At no time should the rubbish in the corners be trampled upon.

In sweeping, there is a superstition that if you sweep the dirt out over the threshold, you will sweep one of the family members away. Also, to sweep the dust and dirt out of your house by the front entrance is to sweep away the good fortune of the family; it must always be swept inwards and then carried out, then no harm will follow. All dirt and rubbish must be taken out the back door.

All debts had to be paid by this time. Nothing should be lent on this day, as anyone who does so will be lending all the year.

Everyone should refrain from using foul language and bad or unlucky words. Negative terms and the number 4, sounding like the word for death, are not to be uttered. Death and dying are never mentioned and ghost stories are totally taboo.

References to the past year are also avoided as everything should be turned toward the New Year and a new beginning.

If you cry on New Year's Day, you will cry all through the year. Therefore, children are tolerated and are not chastised less they cry.

On New Year's Day, one should not wash hair because it would mean that good luck for the New Year could be washed away.

Red clothing is preferred during this festive occasion. Red is considered a bright, happy colour, sure to bring the wearer a sunny and bright future. It is believed that appearance and attitude during New Year's sets the tone for the rest of the year.

Children and unmarried friends, as well as close relatives are given little red envelopes with crisp one dollar bills inserted, for good fortune.

The first person one meets and the first words heard are significant as to what the fortunes would be for the entire year. It is a lucky sign to see or hear songbirds or red-coloured birds or swallows.

It is considered unlucky to greet anyone in their bedroom so that is why everyone, even the sick, should get dressed and sit in the living room.

Do not use knives or scissors on New Year's Day as this may cut off fortune.

Friday, December 4, 2009

People You Should Know

 
 
Mary Kay – Marta Cordoba  (Cosmetics & personal care products) WWW.MARYKAY.COM/MCORDOBA

815-254-1056

All Occasion Gifts – Julie Kaleta  (Gift Baskets & Balloons)
http://www.giftbasketsnballoons.com/
815-744-6004

Love To Promote – Leslie Prohaska (Promotional Products & Blog Setup/Maintenance)
http://www.lovetopromote.com/
815-603-2324

Cutlery Corner – David Sacks (Cookware & Cutlery/Wedding Registry)
http://www.cutco.com/
847-840-5135

CarCel Associates - Celina Schwantes (Health Care Products, Earth Friendly Products, Supplements)
Carcel.myShaklee.com
815-886-5269

Willistravels@aol.com – Kathy Willis (Online Travel, Shopping online with cash back incentives, & Wedding Registry)
http://www.willistravels.com/
815-267-8221

Portraits by ZonCom – Lesa Zonsius (Photos for business, weddings, family, graduation, pregnancy & pets)
http://www.portraitsbyzoncom.com/
815-676-5275

Baird & Warner – Dan Persico (For all of your Real Estate needs)
630-229-3536

Personal Strength Coach - Kathryn Doyle Boulware (Personal Trainer)
630-207-2984

Friday, November 6, 2009

HOW TO STAND OUT AT YOUR UPCOMING TRADESHOW

As you prepare for your upcoming expo or tradeshow here are some tips to make sure your booth is recognized and ensure that your potential customers are able to remember you & what services you offer:


THREE SECONDS: It is important to remember that it takes about three seconds for a visitor to walk past your booth. In that time you need to show them exactly who you are and most importantly, what you can do for them.




IDENTITY: If a company doesn't have a strong identity, it's very difficult to make it stand out.





BAIT: At trade shows, time is limited and you're competing for people's attention. A great tool for driving traffic to your booth is what we call "bait" - inexpensive branded giveaways. The right bait will create a commotion around your booth, and get everyone at the show talking about you. Bait can bring crowds to less than ideal booth locations and ensure passing traffic steps into your booth.




For more information on how to increase traffic to your booth or to order branded giveaways/promotional products please call us at:





815-603-2324 educating our customers on the uses of promotional products and listening to your needs is what we do best!!


Leslie Prohaska

Love To Promote

"Helping Businesses Grow"


To learn more about us please visit us at:

WEBSITE www.LoveToPromote.com

FACEBOOK Facebook.com/LoveToPromote

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Willis Travels

WillisTravels.com offering SAVE TIME SAVE MONEY get your FREE shopping portal today!

SHOP YTB CLICK HERE

Start Earning Cash Back on your everyday purchases!

Contact us today! 815-267-8221 for more information.

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

The Upside To Marketing In A Down Economy

Opportunity
It's the upside to a recession.  
It is time to embrace it.




Here are a few key points to keep in mind when precarious words like "Marketing Budget Cutbacks" occur:

Maintain your BRAND IMAGE: This sends a message that your company has successfully managed it's finances and, as a result has staying power.




Retain and/or Up your ad spending.  You have to work twice as hard to close the deals you normally would during tough times.


Stick with it.  When businesses run for cover, any empty space is created in customers' minds,  meaning more aggressive competition can take up residence.

Focus your efforts.  Marketing campagins are quicker/more cost effective when you target your current clients- you don't have to convince them of why they should choose you... they already have.

Gain good will.  marketing during a sluggish economy generates a more positive perception of your company; it shows a strong commitment to your products and services.


Sources: PPB-Keeping Advertising Up In A Down Economy, How to Gain the Advantage, by Tama Swan

Friday, September 25, 2009

HOW TO USE YOUR PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS AND INCREASE SALES



PENS, MAGNETS, KEYCHAINS, BAGS, BUSINESS CARDS
What do I do with them???


The first step to Name Branding is to realize that companies such as Mc Donald's did not grow overnight it takes time.  But, to model ones self after companies that are successful is wise.  Let's think about this franchise and realize why it is so popular.  If you are thinking like most children and yes most adults too you are thinking right it's the golden arches!!  Name branding is just that getting a picture or idea branded into your customers minds keeping it easy for your customers to remember you and remember why they need your services.  Putting this plan into ACTION is all you need to do.

If you have existing promotional products USE THEM!! But, use them wisely. 

Most of us buy 1,000 pens and then have them sitting in our drawer or closet collecting dust.  If you have had your pens for over 6 months than you have not used them wisely.  Same with keychains, magnets etc...

Part of name branding is getting your promo items out there, something they can visualize. Something that they can use and re-use. 



Get an image in their mind of your logo, your color theme, your slogan it will stick with them.

HOW TO USE YOUR EXISTING PROMO ITEMS:

When you are at an event pass out your pens, business cards etc... When you go to the Dr. instead of using their pen use your pen and leave it with them let them know it is a gift from you.  Leave your pen with your waitress, hair dresser, dentist etc... When you are in line at the Grocery store always be sure to bring your re-usable grocery bags and pass one of them to the person in line behind you. 

Trade Show- Another great place to hand out these existing Promo Items is at Trade Shows.  Leave them on your table and encourage people to take them or walk around and pass them out! 

Basically leave them where ever you go!

Make it a goal to get rid of 10 promo-items per day if you think of it that is 50 potential customers you have made contact with in 5 days!  Everyone loves something that is free and everyone uses pens, magnets, grocery bags and keychains.

If you are looking for these type of products or items that are more unique give us a call we would be happy to help you find what you are looking for.


815-603-2324 or visit our website at www.LoveToPromote.com



Monday, August 31, 2009

ZonCom Productions

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS VISUALLY

We offer a Business Combo *$275

2 Headshots and 30 Second Video Ads



If you are a business owner just starting out or needing a new concept we can help!


The Internet is the number one avenue to market you and your business and in order to achieve a high ranking on the net you must keep up with the avenues that are accessible to you. Websites need to be engaging and utilizing social networks such as Facebook, Twitter and the like you will need to submit visually appealing information for the public. Ranking high on Google is difficult unless you have the right content. Google looks for photos and video on websites and puts the sites higher than the sites that have only content on them. To make your site more visible and rank higher on Google you need to put images on your site.


We are a visual society and what a great way for you to show what you do and who you are by posting a headshot and a short video clip about you and your business.

We can help with our Business Combo Special which is one stop and one low price to get your business out there.



ZonCom Productions http://www.zoncom.com/ are a professional one stop shop for photo and video as well as audio services. We have been around since 1998.
We are a one stop shop for:


PHOTO ~ VIDEO ~ AUDIO


We service all venues from weddings to executives. We specialize in high end digital quality and pride ourselves in excellent customer services. If you are not happy we are not happy. You are not a number to us. We strive to develop relationships. All of our services carry our clients from one level to the next.

Give us a call at 815-676-5275.


We guarantee you will be pleased you did.

*This fee includes 2 high resolution images/headshots on a disc only and a ½ hour visit to your location within the Chicagoland area (some travel fees may apply if mileage exceeds 20 miles). Final edited video not to exceed 30 second duration. Raw footage not included.



Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Holiday Promotions

Looking for some creative gift ideas, promotions, personalized holiday cards, professional holiday photos taken and framed, or 2010 calendars?

Lighting Up the Night


• Front design, colors and lettering only as shown

• Name provided for inside will be used on front

• Limit name to 17 characters including spaces

• Suggested imprint color: Black Ink

• Silver-lined white envelopes included

• Folded size: 7 7/8" x 5 5/8"

YM17XXX-13


Xmas Text


• Front design, colors and lettering only as shown
• Name(s) provided for inside will be used on front

• Suggested imprint color: Red Ink

• Silver-lined white envelopes included

• Folded size: 5 5/8" x 7 7/8"



YM17XXW-11


Wine Totes


Put your wine in a tote that not only carries your wine but protects it along the way. Each tote features an insulated compartment for a wine bottle, clear acrylic handles and an exterior corkscrew pocket. Add a finishing touch with personalized wine labels. The labels are printed with the design and verse shown. Please indicate last name and ink color

Holly and Berry Frame - Horizontal


• Customer assembly required
• Accommodates 4" x 6" photos (not included)
• Glue dots included
• Suggested imprint color: Hunter Ink
• Allow one additional business day for foil
• Unlined ecru envelopes included
• Optimize with Claret lined envelopes
• Folded size: 7 3/4" x 5 1/2"

XLCB73942H-239



We have a large selection and can't wait to get your business name out there!

For more information on these items or a specific item that you are looking for please call us at 815-603-2324 or visit us at: http://www.lovetopromote.com/


From ornaments  to personalized golf putters, calendars to pens, we have 1,000's of imprinted gift ideas for the holidays.

We service nationwide and our online ordering is available 24/7 at:
http://www.lovetopromote.cceasy.com/

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Great Promo Items For Under 2.00 Each




- Smooth 12 oz. Size: 4 1/8"h x 3 3/16"w at top

Colors: Red, white, royal or yellow

Imprint area: 2 3/4"w x 2 1/2"h per side, wrap 7"w x 2 1/2"h

Screened any single PMS color 1 or 2 sides. Lip imprint not available. For each additional color add $.15 (g) each plus screen (one side only). For metallic gold, silver or copper imprint color add $.05 (g) each. Add 1 time screen $30 (g) per color.

All orders including any assortment of colors must be in multiples of 250. Lids & straws available for most, call for quote.

Shipping: Ship wgt 12 lbs/250. FOB MS. Production 1-10 work days. Restrictions apply.

Line Name: Classy Glass

ITEM NUMBER: B12S

12 OZ SMOOTH STADIUM CUP

250 (min) .36 each




This is the "Big Guy" gripper. It's short, fat and stumpy with an extra wide translucent clip, a soft white ribbed gripper and silver metal plunger and nosecone. Your recipient will get a "Big Bang" from this "Big Guy"!

Ink color: medium point jumbo black ink cartridge

Size: 5 1/4" x 5/8"d x 2" circumference

Frosted barrel color: green, orange, blue, silver or red

Imprinted any standard single color area: 1 1/2"w x 5/8"h. No extra charge to reproduce custom logos from camera-ready art furnished in exact size. No screen or set-up charge. Clip imprint now available, imprinted wihtin area: 1 1/8"w x 1/4"h. Add $15 (g) set-up plus $.10 (g) each running charge.

Shipping: Ship wgt. 9 lbs./250 F.O.B. NY. Production 7 working days.
Line Name: Aakron
ITEM NUMBER: B15800
"BIG GUY" GRIPPER
250 (min) .740 ( C )
Some More Ideas Under 2.00 each, extra charges may apply call for details:

ITEM NUMBER: BITT1916M
2 TONE MONTHLY CALENDAR
100 (min) 1.23 each

ITEM NUMBER: BWETWIPE
ANTIBACTERIAL WET WIPES
200 (min) 1.20 Each

ITEM NUMBER: BA06011
ACCENT RND LEATHER COASTER
150 (min) 1.94 Each







For more information on pricing or to place an order for this pen please call us at 815-603-2324
























Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Ideas For the Healthcare Professional

Are you a Dentist, Doctor, or in the Health Insurance Industry?  Looking for a great promotional product to keep customers happy, or draw new customers in...

Here are some great ideas for your type of business.  For more ideas or to order these products please call us at 815-603-2324 or visit our website to see our online catalog http://www.lovetopromote.com/

Just how grateful will your patients be if they forget one of these most important amenities? Kit contains a two-piece toothbrush 5 3/4" long with toothpaste package in a white plastic case.




Size: 3 5/8" x 1 1/8"



Imprinted any standard single color on lid area: 2 7/8" x 3/4". For each additional color add $.19 (g) each plus screen. Add one time screen $31.25 (g) per color. Typesetting charge add $18.75 (g).



Shipping: Ship wgt. 15 lbs/250 F.O.B. IL. Production 10 working days.



Line Name: Illini



BB26 TOOTHBRUSH KIT

250 (min) 500 1,000



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



.750 ( C ) .690 ( D ) .640 ( E )



Bandage dispensers with your choice of full color Garfield cartoon or Crayon bandages...a fun product for minor emergencies.




Size: 3 7/8" x 1 3/8" x 7/16"



Case colors: white, mauve, sky blue, green or yellow



Imprinted any standard single color one side area: 2 3/4" x 1". For each additional color add $.12 (g) each plus set-up. Add $29.50 (g) per color. Repeats $19.75 (g).Paper proof $9.50 (g). (g) per color - no extra charge for straight type.



Shipping : Ship wgt. 13 lbs./250. F.O.B. MO. Production 7-10 working days.



Line Name: Quickpoint



BQP9800 CRAYON BANDAGE DISPENSERS

250 (min) 500 1,000 2,500



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



.810 ( C ) .760 ( C ) .700 ( D ) .650 ( E )




Obviously, the healthcare industry, clinics, hospitals, doctor offices and food industry are the big users. Unscented hygienic sanitizer sterilizes, disinfects and moisturizes as well wtih a waterless, non-greasy formula. Clear bottles with white caps.



Size: 3 5/8" tall bottle holds 2 oz. of sanitizer



Clear labels are printed any standard single color with your own wording in area: 1 3/4"w x 1 3/8"h. Back lists ingredients. For 2nd color add $.20 (g) each plus set-up. Add one time set-up $35 (g) per color.



Shipping: Ship wgt. 24 lbs./150. F.O.B. IL. Production 10 working days.



Line Name: Alexander



B5402 HAND SANITIZER

150 (min) 250 500 1,000



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



1.660 ( C ) 1.620 ( C ) 1.490 ( D ) 1.350 ( E )

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Inexpensive Ways to Attract Customers to Your Booth




CANDY- If you are at an expo that families will attend make sure to invite children to your booth with some yummy candy have someone pass them out rather than putting them in a bowl that way they have to make contact with you in order to recieve the free candy.





MOVEMENT- Movements attract people’s eyes and in turn their bodies! Provide movement to attract attendees’ eyes and in turn their bodies toward your booth. If your product doesn’t move, toss a giveaway into the air (and catch it), move your arms, play with a yo-yo, or blow bubbles. Activity attracts people’s attention and piques their curiosity. Be sure to involve your product physically or through a sales pitch.



UNIFORM- Make sure that you and your staff are all wearing company t-shirts, polo's or hats. Make your name visible so that they know who to talk to when you are walking around the expo.
 
 
 
All items seen are available for purchase through Love To Promote visit our website for more information:
http://www.lovetopromote.com/

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

How to Fight Mid-day fatique.




Find yourself striving to stay awake in the afternoon? Is your work productivity at a standstill because you are so tired. You are not alone!


This drop in energy is not just in your head — it is a physiological response from your body. Tiredness only gets worse if you didn’t sleep enough the night before, or had a lunch that was especially high in fat or calories.  For some great strategies on how to fight the mid-day fatigue go to Ririan Project they have a great article on how we can get past the mid-day fatigue that reduces our productivity level.

Remember we all get tired !

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

SUMMER PROMOTIONS

 
Folding chair with cooler bag and 6 piece picnic set
- Large insulated cooler bag keeps food fresh and beverages ice cold for hours
- 6 piece picnic set includes: fork, knife, spoon, plate and goblet
- Durable twin carrying straps and adjustable shoulder strap for easy portability
- Hold up to 250 lb person
Colors: Forest green or navy with black accents
Size: 25"h x 12"w x 11.5" d
Imprint area: 4"h x 6"w
Price includes 1 standard color imprint in imprint area. Set up $50 (g) applies.
Shipping: Ship wgt 23 lbs/25. FOB UT. Production 1-15 business days.
Line Name: Snugz
0411B DELUXE PICNIC CHAIR
25 (min) 50 100

16.400 ( C ) 12.730 ( D ) 11.820 ( E )
  
Co-written by financial expert Susan Beacham and New York Times bestselling author Lynnette Khalfani Cox, the newly published "The Millionaire Kid$ Club" children's book seried are smart, creative pictures books which teach children about money. Size: 11"w x 8"h. Imprint area: under 5,000 = 2" diameter label, 5,000+ = 11"w x 8"h custom printed page inside book.
250 books (labeled)/5,000+ (custom �rinted page inside book). Label set up $70 (x). Label colors: silver or gold foil recommended. Other colors available- call. Label print colors: Black (recommended), blue, red or green (1 color only). Custom printed page plate set up $200 (x), repeats $75 (x).
Shipping: FOB IL. Production: under 5,000 with label = 10-12 business days, 5,000+ with custom printed inside pade = TBD.
Line Name: Savvy Promo
MKIDSCLUBB MILLIONAIRE KIDS CLUB
250 (min) 500 1,000

11.160 ( C ) 9.700 ( D ) 8.450 ( E )          
 
Not exclusively for sunglasses or prescription glasses but other accessories and valuables as well and it comes with a snap hook for the golf bag. Made from soft pliable protective scuba material with black zipper and snap hook.
Colors: red, royal, black or navy
Imprinted any standard single color on one side in area: 3 1/2"w x 1 1/2"h using puff ink. No extra charge to reproduce custom logos from camera-ready art. Set up $31.25 (g). 1 color puff ink imprint only.
Shipping: Ship wgt. 11 lbs./150 F.O.B. TX. Production 10 working days.
Line Name: Custom Crest
BSGH1 SUNGLASS CASE
150 (min) 300 500

.970 ( C ) .890 ( D ) .820 ( E )