Wednesday, January 27, 2010

Be on Point - 2010 Spring Trends

You’re in the business of selling image. You need to stay on top of the latest trends and constantly present what is new. It can be hard to stay plugged in while juggling your personal and professional life. Don’t worry – the Bag Lady Blogger has you covered. This month I’m sharing the highlights on color and pattern trends for spring 2010 to keep you in the know!

Colors
The color of the year – turquoise. It is a very similar shade to the Tiffany’s signature robin egg blue. Other heavy hitters this season are versions of the pink/orange coral colors. When these colors are paired with turquoise, they provide a natural vibe that encompasses the eco-minded atmosphere seen in many color palettes lately, but more lively with bright warmer tones. Other trendy colors are neutrals in the beige family along with olive green. Add in a warm navy blue, a romantic lavender, a tangy red, and a gleaming yellow to round out this year’s spring colors. Overall the message is soft, warm, earthly but not dull. Click here to see Pantone’s Official Spring Colors for 2010.

Patterns
Trendy patterns swing from muted to loud. Animal prints are still the rage with zebra, leopard, and snake skins leading the pack. They can range from a natural look to mixing in a bold color. Blooms and flower prints are very big. Patterns range from subtle to loud designs of falling petals or bright blooms. Other stand outs include the sophisticated, classic black and white pairings. Additionally, abstract patterns with bohemian, hippy-inspired prints crossing the run ways. Click here to see these looks in action.

Need help incorporating these trends into your professional image? Check out our packaging options that will give you instant style!

Products on Color Trend for Spring: Flowers of Ceres Collection, In-Side Out Totes, Poly Prop Totes

Products on Pattern Trend for Spring: Skins and Safari Collection, Summer Breeze and Pink Perennial Collections and Mosaic Tile Bags.

Have fun playing with these new trends livening up your business décor and retail packaging. The key to incorporating trends is to selectively pick what works for you. Combining everything at once will be overload. Mix them in as appropriate –colors and patterns right for you, your business, or your clients. Fresh, new colors and patterns featured in your displays, packaging and promotions will create interest and drive up your sales!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Out with the old – in with the New Year

It seems like someone pushed the fast forward button and soon it will be the new year. Some of us would rather forget that 2009 ever happened and are ready to start with a clean slate. It is always good to re-energize and get motivated for the new year, however this past year taught us many lesson that we can bring forward to create a successful new year!

Right Size
All of us had to take a hard look at our budgets and make every penny count. Keep this focus as you plot out next year’s expenses. Monitor your inventory levels and carry the items that are continually moving. Work with your distributor rep for staggered payment terms and discounts for pre-payments. Try to keep a just-in-time inventory level by rotating your shipments and only buying what you need when you need it. This right size methodology also applies to your staff. If you business has decreased, right size your operations to fit your service levels. Having stylist or receptionist sitting around is costing you money. Chart hours and appointments levels to find the right mix for your business. Make it a priority to track these areas and adjust as needed with seasonal flows.

Innovate
Doing the same thing gets the same results. This year creativity counted. Stay inventive by developing new promotions, events, and other marketing related ideas. If you need help coming up with creative promotion ideas, reach out to our experts! We are happy to assist in cause-related marketing events, promotions ideas from ready to go gift sets, postcard ideas to seasonal packaging. The mission is to create interest and captivate your clients to keep your business top of mind.

Positive Attitude
I’m a firm believer that positive energy brings positive results. Worrying, fearing doom and gloom, or dreading each bill only makes things worse. Being proactive with a defined plan for success will ease the worry and keep everyone on the same page. If your team has high energy and makes you atmosphere positive, clients will pick on up that and enjoy their experience more.

Celebrate
Everyone seems to feel they have to work harder, longer, and smarter. Take time out to celebrate achieving small goals such adding a certain amount new clients this month, or obtaining a set goal for pre-bookings or retail sales. Celebrations don’t have to be extravagant. Order lunch in, go on a coffee run, or giving out a few gift cards are all simple ways to show appreciation. Tracking smaller goals will keep you on the right path for your larger targets. Recognizing your staff's hard work helps keep them motivated.

Carve out some time to think back on the lessons you and your business learned this year. Plot out your goals and promotional plans for the new year incorporating the steps above. Remember we only see the light when we know darkness. Use last year as your spring board for success in 2010!

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Two Powerful Words - Thank You!

There are two magical words that can brighten a day, strengthen relationships, and can grow your business. There is a lot of power packed into the two tiny words - Thank You!

Here are easy ways to harness the power of “thank you” to build your business:

The Spoken Word
Make sure your guests are greeted with a thank you. "Ms. Smith, we thank you for your visit today and are so happy you are here!" This puts your client at ease and feeling valued as they start their appointment. Reflect your gratitude upon their departure. "Ms. Smith it is always a pleasure to see you. We appreciate your visit and look forward to seeing you again on (pre booked appointment)." This seems like a no brainer, but you would be amazed at how many fail at this small detail.

Handwritten Notes

Add the wow factor to a new customer experience! After a customer’s first visit, send them a handwritten note of thanks. With emailing and texting, no one takes time to put pen to paper these days. Provide a note that is a reflection of your brand (elegant gold for a high end spa, recycled kraft for an organic business, or hot pink for the trendy make up studio). Offer a coupon or free gift with their next visit. The method here is to build the client relationship from a possible one hit wonder to a loyal client.

The Just Because Gift
How long has Mrs. Johnson been a client of yours? Do you take for granted that she is on time for her appointment every 6 weeks? Why not surprise loyal customers with a thank you for their business gift. Present a small gift at the end of their next appointment, mail a small goodie box, or invite them to a VIP event. Gifts don't have to cost a lot to mean a lot. You can elegantly package trial samples in an organza bag, pillow box tied with a bow, or create a small gift basket. You can also provide a discount off services or retail products. Many time loyal clients are upset by the discounts lavishly thrown at new customers when their loyal business seems forgotten. Customers will appreciate that you value their repeate business and will keep coming to that pre-booked appointment.

Celebrate
Customers aren't the only ones to stay thank you too. What about your staff that is dealing with the front lines everyday? They are your voice and are your brand. Or what about your distributor or local vendors you use frequently? Why not host a staff/vendor party one night or invite them to a networking happy hour. It can also be as simple as ordering a pizza for lunch one day, sending over some bagels, or giving out some gift cards as a thank you for a job well done.

Especially in the time of thanksgiving, remember to say thank you to those that help your business grow. The small little words can have a big impact!

(As our thank you gift to our blog readers, receive FREE SHIPPING on your order of $250 or more by 12/1/09. Enter Promo Code FS9)

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Holiday Retail Rev-Up!

Retail sales are one of the professional beauty industry's profit centers and ideal tool for bottom line growth. Here are some proven tactics to increase retail product movement and maximize seasonal sales!

Ready-to-go-Gifts
Perfectly lined up shampoo and conditioner bottles look elegant and clean, however they usually only encourage a single product sale. Create ready-to-go gifts by using vinyl bags, holiday packaging, or paper shopping bags with holiday tissue paper. Add complete hair or skin product systems. Design various price points for all types of buyers. Packaged sets create a higher perceived value because the customer is purchasing a group of products. These sets are no fuss ready to go gifts. Buyers simply place it under the tree!

Gift Cards/ Certificates
Gift Cards and Certificate are the #1 holiday gift item! These no-brainer gifts ensures the recipient receives exactly what they want. Display these at your reception areas and instruct staff to talk them up. Offer free gifts with the purchase of a gift card or gift certificate. This free gift can be an add on gift for the gift recipient or as a little something extra for the buyer -- a win-win! For more details on gift cards, check out my previous blog on this powerful retail item!

Magic Table
Department stores have been using this trick forever. Place a draped table in a high traffic point to create drama. Set up a sampling area on the table where clients can try before they buy. These tables are also an ideal location to place those ready-to-go-gift sets. Use acrylic displays to add additional depth and interest. Add try me signs and holiday messaging such as “Holiday Gift Giving Center”. Make it a focal point in your retail area and sales will follow.

Dress Up
You are in the business of selling image so create the holiday look that matches your company's personality. Decorate with tasteful holiday displays in your window and retail areas. Small promotional signs can be placed at your stylists stations – ideal for mentioning gift cards or holiday specials. Reception areas should display gift cards and service menus. Holiday decorations should fit your décor and business image. Too much holiday is overkill and takes away from the professional ambience, but too little doesn’t sing of the season and encourage customers to see your products as ideal gifts. Balance is key.

A little planning and promotion can go a long way. Please share your successes or other additional ideas with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Myspace. Together we can create a successful holiday season. Happy Selling!

Thursday, September 24, 2009

The holidays already?

The air is a bit crisper and the days are a bit shorter. You know what that means – the holidays are just around the corner! Does the simple mention of this make you break out in a cold sweat? Does your blood pressure rise and panic sets in? I have the magic answer that will instantly calm you – a plan!

Imagine a holiday season where your retail products are fully stocked, you don’t run out of gift cards or packaging, your staff is fully aware of all your promotional offers, and happy customers are filling your store and your register. This can all be yours with a little forethought! Planning your seasonal efforts will ease your stress level and maximize your holiday sales.

Don’t know where to start? Click here to download our free “Checklist for a Successful Holiday Season”!

Our checklists defines when and what items to plan. Sit down with your staff and review the list. This planning doesn’t have to rest only on your shoulders. Assign certain team members specific tasks and hold them accountable. Getting your team on the same page is another benefit to a group meeting. With your whole team working off the same script, everything will flow much smoother even during stressful times.

Still need some help? Our friendly industry experts are here to offer promotional and packaging ideas. Call us toll free at (888) 715-3458 or contact us online (Twitter, Myspace, Facebook, Salon Galaxy). Spending a few minutes now can save you many headaches later. Maximize your seasonal sales by having a holiday plan!

Monday, August 31, 2009

Cause Related Marketing – Show You Care

Are you stumped on what to do for your next promotion? Are you tired of the same old 10% discount offer receiving minimal results? I have the answer to liven up your promotions and build your business image – Cause Related Marketing!

Cause related marketing is where you tie your promotion efforts to a charity or cause. Causes could range from a special charity like Locks of Love, Breast Cancer Research, or activities such as a fundraiser or community event. Cause-related marketing can be a powerful tool for you connect with customers and your community. Your participation will generate goodwill, improve your visibility, increase customer loyalty, enhance your brand image, provide positive media attention, and increase your business! Customers would rather do business with a company that stands for something beyond profits.

Tips for Successful Cause-Related Marketing Campaigns:

Align with your business

Choose a cause that makes sense for your business. Many in the beauty industry are choosing to support breast cancer research, heart health awareness, locks of love, or cut-it-out domestic abuse programs. Your cause should be something meaningful your business type in order to resonate with your clients and community.

Passion = Success
Pick an event, cause, or charity you are passionate about. You need to be revved up about your cause. Your energy will inspire your internal team and customers. It also enhances the credibility of your efforts because you and your efforts are coming from the heart - sincerity counts!

The How To
Create your own campaign. Offer promotional items (such as awareness bands) as a gift with purchase or present as a token of appreciate for a client’s donation to your cause. Partner with local charities or unite with various national organizations. Many groups offer free marketing materials and kits to get you started. Hold special events and give away awareness related goodie bags full of educational info and how your business is championing the cause.

Still don’t know where to begin? Let us help. Check out our wide variety of our pink ribbon (breast cancer awareness) and red dress (heart health awareness) items. Click here to see our a pdf of our latest awareness catalog or click here to visit our website . If you have a question, call us toll free at 800-824-2247 or tweet with us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/actionbag. Happy Promoting!

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Promote your Business

Want to increase your sales? Promotions can help draw attention, build your brand, foster customer loyalty and of course increase your sales!

You might be nodding in agreement. Your business runs typical promotions around the holidays and offers 10% off retail products with the purchase of a service. But are you reaching your customers the way they want to be reach? Are you running inventive promos to get people interested? Here are a few ways to help you create buzz about your business, capture attention, and ultimately get more sales.

Tech Savvy
Use the power of the internet. Everyone is spending more time online from surfing the web to networking on social sites. Place special online only offers on your website and in your tweets, facebook, myspace and beyond. These are free ways to drive traffic to your online activities. They could go viral and everyone will start sharing your offers. Rope in special discounts, free gifts, complimentary service coupons, or promotion codes.

Email Relations
All your clients have email. Are you collecting addresses? Emails are an excellent tool to alert clients of special offers, send out your quarterly newsletter, or roll out a customer survey. You can also link into your website and other social sites. Make the digital connection and start engaging. Make sure it is meaningful, relevant info your clients want or you will be deleted.

Friends and Family Plan
Each one of your clients has a best friend they can’t live without and family members that they always share their latest salon experience with. Use that network to your advantage. Offer friends and family discount packages for clients that refer new customers. Give the original client free products or services as a thank you for sending new business your way. Word of mouth advertising is a glowing testimonial and your original client will be thrill to get some extra perks.

You’ve Got Snail Mail
Fewer items are being mailed these days with the onset of the technology wave. Now is your chance to be noticed in the mail box. You don’t have to spend a lot to have a big impact. Go for inexpensive postcards. There are a ton of providers (including us) that can offer you stock designs and add your unique message. What a wonderful surprise for new customers to receive a thank you note from you. Or what about sending a birthday wish or a just because note to a brighten a current client's day. Postcards can also be powerful promotion tools. Make it look like a coupon and say bring in this card to your next appointment for a discount or free gift.

What’s in your Wallet
Loyalty programs keep customers coming back for more. Offer punch cards or key tags that are punched with each purchase. Give a free gift or extra special discount once the cards are filled. You can also offer VIP cards. Create a winners circle of bronze, gold, platinum clients. Base these categories divisions on number of visits or purchase volume. The benefits increase at each higher level. Make a big deal of your member clients. Use signage talking up the program, tout clients who have moved up the ranks, and share what benefits they recieved. People will want to be an elite member and will do what it takes to get there. Don't forget people open their wallets and purses daily. Talk about repeat brand exposure for your business with your card right there!

Stumped on ideas to promote? Click here to check out our Promotion Planning Calendar to get the creative juices flowing. Creating promotions can be a lot of fun not to mention increase your business!

What is your biggest business struggle?

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