Marketing Idea -Corporate Business Gifts, Incentives & more

3 Marketing Ideas for your Jewelry Business
A niche market for repeat business-the corporate world

1. This is probably one of my more unusual marketing ideas but I'm sure there are opportunities out there!Last year, I was approached by a start up venture that wanted to include a pair of my 14k GF earrings in their direct mailing with the "motto"...."We think our customers are precious just like gold." This was a paid wholesale order and the bonus was the company included my url on their direct mailing piece in case someone wanted to "order more" and yes, I did make more sales off the referrals. Do you have jewelry or other items that could be used to market another's business? Pitch them!
   
2. Market your jewelry to business for corporate gifts and "major events" to recognize employees like years of service.
3. Do you know of a company that offers incentives based on performance? Approach them with a jewelry design that can have "charms, beads, etc" added on to through the year for various achievements (sales goals, etc). I would like to say this is my idea but I would be fibbing! Check out this success story by Lynn Kvigne on Rena Klingenberg's, Home Business Jewelry Success Tips, blog (which you should be subscribed to if you're serious about making money with your handcrafted jewelry!).

I know many of you reading are having a light bulb moment thinking of "business types" you could pitch with an idea like this. For those who think this doesn't apply to them, how about these "business types"--

• Realtor's-many successful realtor's are composed of teams. Learn who is top dog and pitch them (make sure to include something for men & women!).
• Pharmacy & medical sales-these folks are driven by their numbers. Go to the company's website and call HR to see who would best be able to make an decision. Learn a bit about the company and pitch that person.
• Spas & salons-think about how many women attend a spa or salon everyday??? A staggering amount I guarantee you! Pitch the business owner in these two ways and remember to instill the value of treating clients and employees well!
  

1. Most salons/spas have pamper packages. Pitch the owner to include a FREE jewelry gift for clients who purchase any package over $100.
2. Most employees at salons/spas "rent their space", ask the owner if they offer incentives each month/quarterly to "push products and/or services". Inquire how your jewelry could be used as an incentive for employees to take a proactive step in boosting sales by upselling clients on products and services. This is a win-win situation!

Now, grab the big yellow phone book and look at different business types that you could pitch. Make a list and "customize" your pitch. I would love to hear your success stories. Make a comment !

Where does your jewelry fit in the market place?

If you are an emerging jewelry artist, it is imperative that you "nail" down what your target or niche market is and find venues/opportunities to get in front of that niche market.
One way you can determine what your target market is by showing your jewelry in a variety of venues/markets and tracking your results.
Does your jewelry appeal to a certain age group ? How affordable is your jewelry ? Does the opposite sex stop too and look for "gifts"? Have brides or upcoming grads been enticed by your designs? What was your average sales ticket?etc.....
Another great way to get feedback is to host a jewelry show and give out $10 gift certificates with a quick anonymous survey that includes questions on pricing, style, appeal, packaging, etc...

Here is to your success in your niche jewelry market. Don't forget to enjoy the journey and celebrate each success from a new customer to a new design that you love!

Wedding-Bridal-Prom & other Black Tie Events....

With Spring in full gear and summer just around the corner, you should be thinking of these markets---

*Wedding
*Bridal Party
*Prom
*Other Black Tie Events

All of these markets need your service-your handcrafted jewelry.

But how do you get in front of them???

Get the 411 on wedding planning events in your area by doing a Google search,scouting the newspapers, picking up the Yellow pages and calling local bridal shops and ASKING about upcoming events they are aware of....

Host trunk shows at bridal events or a bridal shop (if you can get the owner's permission)....ask for referrals. Get pictures. Submit a press release....share the story behind the couple....and the jewelry she choose from you! ;)

Is your brain on fire yet??? It should be...

All these principals apply to prom or other formal events. I live in the Big D and there are always charity balls, galas, and special events going on. I continually network for exposure to get in front of the folks who need my services! Plus, I offer baubles for Silent Auctions and get publicity and press exposure just for helping my community out!

Got any other great ideas??? Post your comments so we can all learn something. Don't' be shy!!;) We all have valuable experiences to offer and often know more than we think!