Gift Biz Unwrapped Podcast: Recent Episodes
Sue Monhait
Gift Biz Unwrapped provides insights and actionable strategies for the creative business entrepreneur; Gifters, Bakers, Crafters, and Makers. Sue interviews business owners who have been where you are. They share how they started their business, challenges they faced and advice for those following the same path.
Have you thought about starting a business but not sure what it should be?
Do you have a craft or hobby that you'd like to turn into a business but uncertain how to go about it?
Have you started your business already but it's not progressing as you had envisioned?
At the end of each episode, you'll walk away with new ideas, tools, or processes that you can apply immediately to get results. Decide on your business. Learn how to get started. Hear what others do to get customers and increase their sales.
When you subscribe to the show, you'll automatically get each new episode on Monday morning. That way you have a fresh dose of inspiration to start your week and increase your small business sales with energy and determination.
Yes, you're not seeing things. This is the last episode of the Gift Biz Unwrapped podcast. Over these last 8 years and 545 episodes, we’ve covered every topic currently out there that applies to starting and growing a handmade product business. We’ve heard from amazing expert guests who didn’t hold back with their knowledge and expertise. We’ve also heard the experiences of small business owners just like you in all phases of development. Startups and established businesses alike have valuable stories to share. Lessons to learn from or points that bring us back to the basics that often get lost over years in business. All this guidance is still accessible to you anytime … which is one of the beauties of podcasts. I’m proud of the library of content that’s been created here. Most of it is evergreen, meaning it stays relevant over time. That was my goal from the start - to build up this resource bank of knowledge for you. In this episode, I review everything available to you and how to access it all as you move forward. I want to thank you for being a listener. Maybe you’ve just recently found this show, or you’ve been listening for years – I want you to know how much I appreciate and feel honored that you chose to spend time with me. You may be a coaching client, have purchased products from me, are part of The Breeze, or are a casual listener I’ve never met. No matter our level of connection, I am thankful for you. And now, be safe and well, and I hope to interact with you again outside of the Gift Biz Unwrapped Podcast. Bye for now. Resources for Growth of Your Handmade Biz * 5 Rookie Mistakes Webinar (FREE) * Start with Confidence * Networking Ninja * Content for Makers * Inspired! Daily Planner * Makers MBA * Directory Of Podcast Topics
Connect With Sue GBU Instagram | Sue's Instagram | Biscotti's Instagram Check out the Merch Shop Gifts for you or your biz friends that will make the days brighter and add a touch of inspiration and happiness. Enter the shop here. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, and learn new things - it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do
I’ve heard it said that the answers you seek in life are only as good as the questions you ask. Because so much goes on in our heads, sometimes our thoughts are trying to answer the wrong questions. Or you get in a brain spin and ideas go round and round randomly without even attempting to answer a specific question. To make some sense of this random thought behavior, I decided to put together sets of questions to ask that will help reflect on your handmade product business journey. Some won’t apply to you at all, some you’ve got covered and some may poke at you and perhaps make you uneasy. The best way to work through this is to listen to the entire podcast first. Then go back and write down the questions that resonate with you the most or the ones that you know deserve some time to ponder. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Gift Biz Unwrapped Podcast Resource ListInspired! Daily Planner CONNECT with me here: Website | Facebook | Instagram SUBSCRIBE to the podcast: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a rating and review. I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that right here. Thanks for listening! Resources for Growth of Your Handmade Biz 5 Rookie Mistakes Webinar (FREE)Start with ConfidenceNetworking NinjaContent for MakersInspired! Daily PlannerMakers MBA Check out the Merch Shop Gifts for you or your biz friends that will make the days brighter and add a touch of inspiration and happiness. Enter the shop here. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, and learn new things - it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like...
What is the role of your website in your handmade product business? Let's talk about this, because my answer may surprise you. The biggest misconception of eCommerce is the idea that putting up a website is the “do all, end all” of getting sales online. In reality, it’s just the beginning. Many people are shocked when they put so much time into getting their website set up, and designing the perfect layout before finally pushing the live button … but no sales come in. This situation is one I'm often asked to talk about at trade shows. Given that, I decided to record an audio version of my presentation on the purpose of your website, so you can take advantage of this information, too. My goal today is to get you thinking about your website and overall online presence in a whole new way. The Role Of Your Website In Your Handmade Product Business In this episode, you'll hear ... * Your overall approach to marketing + 6 different channels you can use * The true purpose of your website * How your website is your HQ and all the roles it can fill * The sections and content your site should have * What your website can and can't do for you * Two strategies for attracting people to your site * and (of course), more!
Tune into this special episode with Sue to discover the true role of your website and start making it really work for you! Resources Mentioned in this Episode * GBU Topics Directory * Content for Makers * Inspired! Daily Planner * Start with Confidence
Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, and learn new things. It's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
There are lots of ways to increase your sales but today I’m going to tell you what I believe to be the number one thing you should be doing to see your orders increase. What I have to say is going to be controversial because it goes against natural inclinations. It will feel like you’re wasting time on something small that will barely move the needle. Except you’ll think differently when you see the results. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Content for MakersInspired! Daily PlannerStart with Confidence Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Today's episode is guaranteed to bring more beauty and richness into your life. This show is a special one because it brings two different but connected messages your way. An inspiring start-up story that illustrates just how far you can go starting from your home. We also explore the ancient Korean belief about health and wellness. You'll get an inside look into self-care tips to enhance your inner and outer beauty, which then shines onto all areas of your life. Angela Jia Kim is the founder of Savor Beauty, a natural skincare and facial spa brand inspired by Korean beauty and self-love rituals. She’s also a former international, classical concert pianist. Called “the unexpected beauty virtuoso” by MindBodyGreen, she created her award-winning skincare products in her kitchen, becoming an accidental entrepreneur. This led to a multimillion-dollar enterprise around the philosophy of manifesting beauty, brilliance, and balance. Angela has led hundreds of women empowerment workshops and her Savor Beauty Self-Care Planner has sold over 100,000 copies. A highly recognized skin and self-care expert, her skincare and spas in New York City have been chosen as “Best of New York” and featured in top publications such as The New York Times, Vogue, Elle, People, and Allure. Angela lives in New York City with her teen daughter, mini golden retriever, and philanthropic partner. Raise Your Revenue By Raising Your Radiance * How the jobs you do before you start your business help prepare you for success. * Why prototyping is absolutely crucial and is the key to success. * The importance of being passionate about what you're doing. * How to look at failures to propel yourself forward. * Angela's 5-point sales process that has been key to her success. * Reframing your sales mindset. * How your relationship with yourself affects everything. * And so much more inspiration packed into this conversation!
Tune into this episode now to learn how to raise your revenue by raising your own radiance! Resources Mentioned * Get a virtual goodie bag when you buy Angela's book! * GBU Topics
Angela's Contact Links Website | Website | Instagram (biz)| Instagram (personal) Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This...
I wish I would have thought of that! Or maybe you did, but now someone else has actually turned your idea into a product and it’s catching the world by storm. The old saying is true, ideas come a dime a dozen. But they don’t mean anything unless you take action. It’s the person who stops in their tracks and makes a decision to claim the new idea and follows-through with its development who is the winner. Towards that end, I’m going to share with you some ways, categories if you will, that are the foundation for creating ideas that can turn into profitable goldmines. Mentioned in this Episode Content for MakersInspired! Daily PlannerStart with Confidence Get Free Coaching thru a Gift Biz Boost! A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Today’s show might just be the game changer you’ve been hoping for if you know you should send regular emails but that’s where it ends. You tell yourself you’ll get to it in the future and then bump it back week after week until it finally drops from the list. Or you’ve sent out a few emails, maybe even years ago, and just couldn’t make the connection with the effort put into results that make it worth it. This all changes right now! Liz is here to present a fresh approach to email marketing. You’ll hear why it can bring in additional sales and how to make it so much easier than you’ve been approaching it in the past. The Fresh Princess of Email Marketing, Liz Wilcox is an Email Strategist who shows small business owners how to build online relationships, package up their “magic” and turn it into emails that people want to read and (more importantly) purchase from. In the span of 5 years, Liz grew and sold a successful blog, got bought out of her second company, and built her third business into a multiple six-figure party that just won’t quit! Liz Wilcox is on a mission to help more businesses package up their magic and sell through email in a way that leverages their personality, vision, and values. She's also a walking 90s pop culture encyclopedia for a unique teaching style you're not likely to forget anytime soon. Email Copy For More Opens And Sales * The secret to creating a relationship with your subscribers. * Liz's Email Staircase system. * Why it's crucial to remember there's a real person on the other side of that email address. * Who your BEST customer is. * Ideas for what to put in your emails. * How to invest in your customers so they invest in you. * The key to being relatable - people buy from businesses they trust. * How to get people to like and trust you. * Who to scrub from your list. * And tons more!
Tune in to this episode PACKED with tips to help you write email copy that gets more opens and more sales! Resources Mentioned * GBU Topics Directory
Liz's Contact Links Website | Facebook | Instagram Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This PodcastApple Podcasts |
This desire to stretch for more and more has been ingrained in us over the decades. The thinking that bigger is better. You were exhilarated when you made your first sale. And from there the focus was on getting another sale … and then another one. And when that happens, then you start thinking about how you can grow even faster and bigger. Always looking for that next level. Think back to why you started your handmade business. It’s because you love the act of making. Doing more of that and seeing others enjoy your products is a beautiful vision. Reality is slightly different however, and by thinking ahead about how you’ll manage the changes (or to what level you want your business to evolve) can keep it a business you love. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Gift Biz Unwrapped Podcast Resource ListInspired! Daily Planner Get Free Coaching thru a Gift Biz Boost! A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Do you know what user-generated content is and how can it help you in your handmade business? User-generated content deserves more attention because understanding and utilizing this content creation strategy can help you more easily create customer communications and add depth and variety to the messages you send out. The beauty is, user-generated content can be used in all touchpoints from social media posts, to email content and even what you include on your website. To be honest, I entered into this discussion with the idea that we were talking about one thing, and Lauren expanded the topic by defining User Generated Content in a much broader way. So, you’re getting both what I expected to cover and more! Lauren is a thought leader in producing profitable creative strategies for eCommerce brands and a design professional with over 15 years of experience within the digital space. Lauren's passion lies in generating top-performing ad creatives. She’s personally led the creative strategy for top brands such as Love Wellness, Needed, Kate Farms, and AutoBrush. When not working with clients, Lauren teaches others her profitable creative methodology, focusing on Direct to Consumer Advertising, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. She’s also spread her knowledge as an AdWorld Conference speaker for the last 3 years. Ideas For User-Generated Content In this episode, you'll hear ... * What Auser-generated content is all about. * The easiest way to connect with your audience. * How to make your videos sound natural instead of scripted. * Tips for working with content creators. * The value of planning and strategy vs posting on the fly. * Which platform to focus on. * How your content strategy can contribute to business growth. * And lots more!
Listen to this fascinating conversation to hear all the ideas for user-generated content that can help build your handmade product business! Resources Mentioned * GBU Topics Directory
Lauren's Contact Links Website | Facebook | Instagram | Linkedin Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This PodcastApple...
Competition is not something you need to fear. There are actually advantages to being in a well-known and established industry. I explain why and how to look at your competition differently. The emotion and feeling of discomfort comes up when you don’t have a plan to tackle competitive situations. Here’s why competition is a good thing and what you can do to be the star when in the midst of all the others. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Inspired! Daily PlannerStart with Confidence Get Free Coaching thru a Gift Biz Boost! A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
By now, you've probably noticed the uptick in people talking about the importance of email marketing. That's because (dare I say it?) email is even more important than social media! In fact, email is your key to predictable and growing monthly sales. It’s one thing to understand the importance of email in theory but another to know how to use it to your advantage in your business. Thankfully, today’s guests are going to shed light on this with concrete direction on the “what” and “how." Plus - my huge pet peeve - Laura and Adam answer the question about whether you should sell in each and every email you send. I’ll tell you the answer right now … No … and Yes! Laura and Adam founded and have co-directed Pink Leopard, an eCommerce growth acceleration agency, for the last 8 years. They're driven and passionate about getting under the skin of eCommerce businesses, helping them grow to 7 & 8 figures. Laura also has her own eCommerce store. She understands every aspect of running a successful online store since she’s been in the trenches with her clients. Laura and Adam focus on sharing their knowledge on how to grow via paid ads and email marketing. As a thought leader in creating advertising strategies for eCommerce brands, Adam takes time to understand the individual requirements and direction of each business to be able to make custom recommendations for their clients. Together they are passionate about building a people-focused agency that attracts, retains, and cultivates the best talent to ensure client satisfaction. Email Marketing Strategies To Increase Sales In this episode, you'll learn ... * How to grow your email list. * 4 communication flows you should have in place. * Where to find ideas for email content. * What to do after your email is sent. * How to map out a 6 or 12-month email calendar. * The key to client retention. * How to get people to sign up for your list. * What to do before every campaign. * And yes - even more.
Listen to this full conversation to get email marketing strategies that increase sales so you can get started right away! Resources Mentioned * GBU Topic Directory * Inspired! Daily Planner
Laura & Adam's Contact Links Website | Facebook | Instagram | Linkedin (Laura) |Linkedin (Adam) Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform...
Being likeable. Sometimes that’s all you need to make a sale. And if you describe yourself as an introvert, this is a reason to push past this self-limiting label. Because you have no chance of being likeable if someone doesn’t have the ability to get to know you. 95% of buying decisions are made based on emotion. Neuroscience confirms it. Given this, why do we focus so much on talking about all the specifics of our products if we haven’t even been asked? Why not just be friendly and welcoming when you meet someone in your booth for the first time? That takes a lot of pressure off, doesn’t it? Remember that going to craft shows is a form of entertainment for those attending. Let’s talk about how to use this to your advantage. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Gift Biz Unwrapped Episode Reference CenterInspired! Daily Planner Get Free Coaching thru a Gift Biz Boost! A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
If you're looking for your first (or new) home for your eCommerce website - you need to tune in, because this episode is just for you! Today we’re talking about a new eCommerce platform ONLY for handmade creators that offers options not available anywhere else. I say they’re new but they have solid experience under their belt from the last two years of startup and growth. So, what should pique your interest? First, Jon is serious about keeping this marketplace only for true handmade creators. Nobody slips in who’s producing from a factory or justifies “handmade” when in truth it isn’t. The goimagine Marketplace is affordable, provides you direct access and ownership of your customers’ contact information, and promises to stay focused on makers! Almost too good to be true, right? Well, I’ll one up even what I’ve said here. You know you should have a website of your own, too – perhaps in addition to another outside-owned eCommerce site like Etsy or Amazon? One with your own domain name, smooth setup and control, and reliable functionality? Goimagine has the solution for this too. All in one place. Jon Lincoln is the founder of goimagine, the handmade marketplace that’s donating 100% of profits to help children in need. This new marketplace concept is following in the footsteps of other great companies such as Newman's Own and Patagonia by building philanthropy into the fabric of the business. Since launching in 2020, goimagine has attracted thousands of makers & artists throughout the United States supporting their mission to create a more caring economy through handmade. This year, goimagine is adopting a shared ownership model where the vendors on the marketplace are given ownership in the company including voting rights and board representation. It’s with the support of the maker community that goimagine continues to grow and they feel it’s only right the makers are given a ‘seat at the table’ when decisions are being made. Discover This Alternative To Etsy * The healthy way to grow your business. * What is actually the true power of a marketplace? * The thing you must know about your customers. * How to differentiate yourself from other brands. * The secrets to supporting and marketing your product. * What you need to have in mind when you look at places where to sell. * Why it's so important to have your own URL. * And tons more!
You need to listen to this full conversation and hear all about this intriguing alternative to Etsy PLUS get tips and insights for selling online! Resources Mentioned * GBU Topics Directory * Inspired! Daily Planner
Jon's Contact Links Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
We are so lucky in our industry of handmade to have what feels like endless options for face-to face-selling. Today let’s talk about the size of a show and how that can affect your success. You may initially thing that larger shows will bring greater results but that’s not always the case. Both large and small shows are worth considering. Testing is always the only way to know if a show will work for you … but there are things to consider to slant the odds in your favor. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Inspired! Daily PlannerStart with Confidence Podcasts about Craft Show Booth Tips Tips & Talk 8 - Craft Show Convo 3 Tips & Talk 9 - Craft Show Convo 4 238 - How to Maximize Sales at Shows 353 - You Think You've Tried Everything Get Free Coaching thru a Gift Biz Boost! A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
150 craft shows in 3 years! Tips from craft show pros you can use in your handmade product business
Do you underestimate confidence and enthusiasm? I realize these are two entirely separate things, but they do go hand in hand in your business and can seriously impact your progress and the success you’ll see in the long run. Let’s define each of these first - so we’re on the same page in terms of what I’m talking about. Then I’ll go into how they affect your business and what you can do to leverage each characteristic for your benefit. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Network NinjaInspired! Daily PlannerStart with Confidence Program Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Start Your Handmade Business from Scratch. Tips and ideas to incorporate into your business development plans.
It makes sense that for most things in life it’s best if you start at the very beginning, except when it comes to one very important part of your business - the messaging you use to sell your products. In this case, you want to flip the script. It's the old features/benefit story. Describing your product in this way gives them all the specifics to choose and place an order. But they may not be interested in that just yet. Here’s what’s missing with this approach. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Content for MakersInspired! Daily Planner Get Free Coaching thru a Gift Biz Boost! A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Bath Bombs and a Million Dollar Amazon Business. How to start an Amazon business or collaborate with one to sell more of your handmade products.
What do you do when a camera points your way? Probably the same as most people. Do you find yourself totally changing your behavior? It’s like now you have to be “on,” and you analyze and adjust so you’re captured in the best way. While all these tricks make for great photos that show your best self and ones you don’t shy away from, they’re not the best ones for your business. What is natural for you to do when a camera is pointed your way, may send your potential customers in the opposite direction. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Inspired! Daily Planner Get Free Coaching thru a Gift Biz Boost! A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Yes! You Can Be Successful Opening a Retail Shop Today. How to make a brick-and-mortar shop a reality for your handmade business
Regardless of what you make, there’s a skill that you’ve had to perfect. There are certain critical production points or special additions you include that make your creations extra special. There are cooling times, temperature levels, material quality specs, and interesting tools of the trade. Showing these things to your customers, things they’d never have the ability to know or see otherwise, adds to their perspective of the value of your products. And this added value doesn’t cost you more in materials or production time either. You’re already doing it. It’s just that your audience doesn’t know about it. It’s well worth your while to tell them. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Inspired! Daily Planner Get Free Coaching thru a Gift Biz Boost! A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
A Brave and Unconventional Path To An Award Winning Tea Company. An inspiring journey to building a business in creative and unexpected ways!
How will it fail? At first glance, you may think I’m referring to the success of your business. Actually, I’m not. I’m talking about your product. And now you’re saying, “Not MY product!” I make it myself with quality materials not to mention my top-notch professional creation skills. Hold tight. I know all this is true. But your product can fail because of things that are completely out of your control. Here’s what I mean and what to do about it. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Inspired! Daily Planner Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities! The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above. A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
It’s National Bakers Crafters Makers Day! It's a time to recognize, uplift, and celebrate all handmade makers in the world. Here's what it's all about and how to access all the free resources.
National Bakers-Crafters-Makers Day celebrates ALL handmade creators of the world! Being a maker yourself, you know that what you create originates in your soul. It’s very existence requires your imagination, passion and skill. And when you present your creation, the final result provides happiness for both you and the person who receives and uses your handmade products. This act of providing happiness is something the whole world needs - especially right now. National Bakers Crafters Makers Day is meant to honor both those who have turned their handmade craft into a business and also those who enjoy it as a hobby. Towards that end, please join me in recognizing and uplifting the makers in our lives this week. Here some ways you can do this. Resources Mentioned in this Episode National Day Archives - National Bakers Crafters Makers DayNational Bakers Crafters Makers Day Celebration Page Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities! The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above. A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
How to increase customer retention in your handmade product business. Your key to sustainable business growth so you can stop the constant search for new customers.
Here’s a thought to keep in mind as you go about upgrading your business processes in the months ahead. It will make you smarter with your decisions and save you time and money because it prevents you from piling up unnecessary costs without realizing it. Skill and feature creep happens when you add new things in various areas of your business either that never get used or duplicate what you already have. By consciously recognizing the potential for this to happen, you’re more likely to make wiser choices which keep you away from snap decisions that add to your expenses. Here are some scenarios where this can occur and what to do to get back in line. Mentioned in this Episode Inspired! Daily PlannerShould You Purchase that Online Course?6 Steps to Getting the Most of Your Online Course Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities! The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above. A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Identify, Create and Bring a New Product to Market. How to take new ideas of product from concept to sale in the handmade market, step by step.
Getting your dreams on paper makes them more likely to come true. Setting intentions is the direct path to manifesting what you want. Journaling, creating a vision board or closing your eyes and imagining yourself achieving what you’ve set out to do are various actions to take as you let your dreams swirl around in your mind. All of these are worthwhile activities to bring your desires into reality. But there’s more to it than that and this is where our wishes for what could be remain just that - dreams. Here's how to truly make your dreams turn into reality. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Inspired! Daily PlannerFree Video - 5 Not So Obvious Mistakes When Starting A Handmade Business Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities! The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above. A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Dealing with life's challenges throughout all the chapters of your life. Discover your own strength and inspiration for dealing with life's challenges no matter when they may occur.
Starting a business is often compared to having another child. You’re responsible for its vitality and the one who sets the vision, plans the strategy and has the final vote on all the decisions. The life of your business is in your hands. Have you ever thought about it this way? And along with that, are you treating your business as a responsible guardian? Just as you do everything (in your control) to ensure your son or daughter doesn’t go off track, you should be doing the same for your company. Here are several areas to give attention to with guardian thinking in mind. A checkup, if you will, to add to the stability of your business so it has a solid future ahead. Resources Mentioned in this Episode Inspired! Daily Planner Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities! The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above. A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward. Join our community of handmade product makers Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us! Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks! It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
How to Live a More Enriched and Peaceful Life. The secret to living in a way that focuses on what truly matters to you and a plan to help you get there.
I have a story for you about a friend I met years ago through the Chamber of Commerce. You’ll be as surprised as I was when I tell you. After this event I'm going to share with you, Alan could have kept looking back and wondering what his life would have been like if he’d made a different choice. Did he? Nope!Alan demonstrates 3 solid life lessons based on his experience and where he is today. Good things for us all to reflect on and learning to take into our futures.Resources Mentioned in this EpisodeInspired! Daily PlannerBe part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.Join our community of handmade product makersGift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Influencer Marketing - Word Of Mouth At Scale For Your Handmade Product Business
How you can use influencer marketing as a small-scale handmade product business to scale your word of mouth sales.
Whether you are a first time listener or have been with me from the very beginning, the amount of content here can be overwhelming.
How do you find an episode you heard a while back and now want to revisit?
Or what if you’re after a specific topic that didn’t apply when it first aired but now makes sense to integrate into your business plan?
I've got solutions to both of these situations for you. Which lead me to thinking, about how you can get the most out of listening to my podcast overall. Tune in for the details.
Mentioned in this Episode
Podcasts by Main Episode Topic
Search Podcasts by Keyword
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
How to Attend Trade Shows to Get Wholesale Accounts For Your Handmade Products
What to do (and NOT do) to make trade shows a positive and successful experience for you and your business
Negotiating is a valuable skill to have. It’s made strongest when you think about and plan for it ahead of time. By having strategies and pre thought through actions in your back pocket, you won’t give away the house or feel taken advantage of. Instead, you can lead the conversation, offer options that fit the situation and stay in control - cool, confident and collected.
You’ll find yourself negotiating mostly around 3 things. Price, Freebies or Add-ons and Returns. Let’s talk about options to handle each one.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
Inspired! Daily Planner
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Is Wholesale the Right Sales Strategy for Your Handmade Products?
How to decide if selling wholesale is the right choice for your handmade product business
Expect this to happen after you start. And you’re not alone, it happens to everyone. What am I talking about?Heidi who started making wedding accessories and now sells holiday ornaments and diy kits boutiques.Sheila who started a gift basket business out of her house and now owns a building that includes a home goods retail shop in addition to her gifting business.Amy who began selling marshmallows directly to consumers only to find wholesale was really where it’s at for her.The truth is, you really have no idea where the path will lead when you get started.Resources Mentioned in this EpisodeInspired! Daily PlannerBe part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.Join our community of handmade product makersGift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
The StartUp Story of Little Rebels + What You Can Learn For Your Own Business
What it takes to go from a clever idea to a successful business and all the steps along the way.
Why am I sharing my favorite daily life things with you? Because I want you to think about yours!
I found that once I wrote down this list, I gained even more pleasure in all the activities. I’d say to myself, this is one of the things on my list. How fortunate am I right this minute to be doing what I love?
It’s really true that the small things bring the most happiness. The things that make up our day to day minutes as we pass through time. By recognizing what these are for you, you’ll find ways to fit them in more often and appreciate them even more.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
Hello Fresh
Wentworth Puzzles
Nautilus Puzzles
Oura Ring
Embark DNA Test
Inspired Daily! Planner
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Discover this clever painting technique you may never have heard of plus learn how to smash mental blocks and free your own creativity!
What would it be like if you could own a spot in someone’s mind where, whenever they thought of you, it brought up warm positive feelings.Wouldn’t it be something if you could have this effect on the people you interact with each day in your business? Imagine what it could do for your sales! Resources Mentioned in this EpisodeInspired! Daily PlannerBe part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.Join our community of handmade product makersGift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Find the Words to Spice Up your Brand - How to write killer product descriptions for your handmade goods that get more sales on Etsy, your website, Amazon, or anywhere!
How many customers you really need to reach your sales goals? Knowing this can help guide your sales activities and reduce the overwhelm that comes with ambiguity - not knowing where you’ll find people to buy your products and leaving things up to chance.
This number is also the basis for gaining confidence because you understand and can put in place various ways to get the number of customers you need. As an added bonus, it also may prompt you to relook at your pricing, production, staffing and even materials.
My goal here is to help you figure out your own unique customer number.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
Inspired! Daily Planner
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The Gift Biz Bash offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A Gift Biz Boost is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
Gift Biz Breeze is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: Rate This Podcast
Can I be on both Shopify and Etsy? How Etsy, Shopify, and wholesale trade shows work together for handmade business success.
Ever wonder why experts recommend so many different ways to get the word out about your business? Can’t you just sell at craft shows and call it a day? Yes, of course you can. As the owner of your business you can do anything you want.
But this isn’t how the most successful brands behave. They utilize different methods of reaching out to customers and integrate them together to form an even more powerful approach to communicating and attracting customers. Here’s why.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/inspired/ (Inspired! Daily Planner)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
A New Way To Get First-Time Customers To Buy Again And Again - Discover a no-cost way to get existing customers to buy again and create loyal fans for your business
There’s more to this email thing than just sending them out regularly.
If you haven’t gotten started with email yet, wait no longer. You’re leaving money on the table. Struggling with what to say in your emails? I’ve got you covered there in my Tips and Talk episode #83.
Today let’s take email marketing up a notch. I’m going beyond the basics to help you put even more power into your email efforts.
Here are 6 ways to up-level your email game.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/inspired/ (Inspired! Daily Planner)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
The Key To Pricing For Retail AND Wholesale For Your Handmade Business. How to get your pricing for retail AND wholesale right plus retiring into a business you love.
This one tip will save you an enormous amount of time and your sanity. It will give purpose to your efforts or help you catch yourself if your intended actions aren’t even necessary.
This should happen very time you’re about to embark on a new project regardless of its size. It could be huge, like starting your business or small like adding a new social media platform or deciding on a craft show to attend.
Listen in to hear what the question is and why it’s so important that it can change everything.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/inspired/ (The Inspired! Daily Planner)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Hashtags - use them or not? The latest info you need to know about using social hashtags for your handmade product biz
My goal in sharing my business startup experience is to get you thinking about what you do or want to do in a whole new way.
I share 5 significant things for you to ponder:
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You don’t need to wait for anyone’s permission to start your business
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Before you start, think of what you want in a business and consider multiple options before making a final decision. The first thought may not be it!
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The easiest way to get your first sales are at in-person events.
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Think about your past experiences and how they may add value to what you’re doing today.
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Your business may morph into something else over time. Allow room in your brain for that expansion.
Each of us is an original and applying that to your business makes your company truly one of a kind!
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How to set up systems to build in repeat sales for your business through subscription programs
Email serves a different role in your business than your website, blog posts or even social. Its goal is to keep you top of mind with customers to deepen the connection leading to repeat purchases. It’s also a tool to stay in touch with those who find you online or meet you in person. You want to keep communicating with them for a future first purchase.
In this episode I give you 5 overall categories of email topics with examples to get your mind rolling - plus an action plan to put it all in play.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/connected (Connected! Content Scheduler)
https://suemonhait.lpages.co/content-for-makers/ (Content for Makers)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Tips and best practices on how to sell handmade products through your website for your handmade craft business.
What should you write about in your blog when you’re a maker and sell your handmade products?
Your blog should compliment your business goals in some way. Attract new customers, inform, educate, answer FAQ’s or share other information your reader will find valuable. Plus, the most important part … it should be SEO friendly.
All this ultimately leads a potential customer to trust you and see you as an expert that they’d want to buy from. For current customers, it reinforces their smart decision of past purchases and reminds them of you when it’s time to buy again.
Let’s talk about how to find topics that will achieve these goals so your blog works for you 24/7 to grow your business.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
By nature of being a product-based business owner, you WILL be approached to donate to an https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/mindymoore (event) or https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/for-profit-business-with-social-cause (cause) at some point. It’s inevitable.
And while I know in your heart that you’d like to give to everyone ... as a business owner, you need to balance these requests with sound business choices.
In today's show, we dive into this topic so you know whether you should or shouldn't donate when asked.
What's In This Bash?
1. Free Training: How To Handle Requests for Product Donations
In this BASH, we cover:
How do you decide whether to donate?
What can you expect as a return to your business from your donation?
Everything you need to consider when https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/maker-to-master-5 (calculating the worth) of your donation.
Ways to sway the results in your favor.
Specific action steps to take when you receive a donation request.
- QandA about this topic with Bash attendees.
Did your question get asked and answered? If not, https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (come ask in the Facebook Group).
- Business Showcases
Listen to the full episode to hear about discounts, collaboration opportunities, and more!
Amanda Bond - https://www.instagram.com/thatcraftygolden/ (That Crafty Golden)
Anita Housman - https://www.facebook.com/TheHersheyGiftingCo (The Hershey Gifting Company)
Cassie - https://cassiescountrycupboard.com (Cassie's Country Cupboard)
Isheka Barrett - https://www.facebook.com/extrafashizz (Extra Fashizz Merchantile)
Lex Anne Stroh - https://www.facebook.com/fountainsbythesea (Fountains by the Sea)
Lili - https://www.etsy.com/shop/EveryLileatleThing (Every Lilea Thing)
Tune in now to learn how to make product donation requests work for your business plus how to know when to say no!
Resources mentioned:
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/contentformakers (Content for Makers)
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/shop/ (Gift Biz Unwrapped Merch Shop)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (click here).
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussing a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
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Let’s talk about why now is the most opportune time to get moving on your business. If you’re just starting – it’s the moment to flip that switch on. And if you’ve stalled out or pressed pause for whatever reason - it’s time to reignite that forward momentum.
Here are four reasons why you shouldn’t delay. Some of these situations are fleeting and if you don’t take advantage of them they’ll pass you by.
Resources Mentioned in this Episodehttps://suemonhait.lpages.co/start-with-confidence-course:// (Start with Confidence Course)
https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Sign up for a Gift Biz BOOST)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makershttps://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Tech for eCommerce can be easy. Discover resources, best practices and ideas to enhance your sales online and off
By now I’m sure you recognize how very important your product photos are. On Etsy for example, where you’re up against many others who sell handmade products similar to yours, a photo will be the differentiating factor in choosing who gets the sale. This extends to stopping the scroll and getting visibility on social media sites too. All told, images and graphics are of "make or break" importance.
In the past, having high quality photos was an investment both in time and money. You either hired a professional photographer or purchased your own high quality camera. That required a level of skill in photography not to mention editing software knowledge or hiring a graphic artist.
The continual upgrades of mobile phone cameras has come to the rescue. Now there’s no excuse for not capturing great images of your products since your phone can do the trick. And on the software side - things have changed too.
Enter Canva. If you’ve never used Canva before, perk up your ears because “gamechanger” is the word that comes to my mind! This one tool can dramatically affect your work day and the quality of your brand overall. Here are 10 reasons why.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/canva (Canva)
https://www.thetemplatetribe.com/template-menu?ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thetemplatetribe.com%2Fa%2F24514%2FzUkCCjAa (The Template Tribe)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
My favorite number is 2. You’d think it would be number 1, right? I mean, who doesn’t want to be at the top, in the lead, “the winner” if you will? But there are some definite advantages to being second. And no matter how big you get, there will always be times when you don’t hold the top spot. In this episode I give you my insight into pros and cons in each of these positions.
And, the next time you see someone progressing ahead of you, I want you to reposition your thinking and open your mind to the benefits of being second. Seeing a fellow maker succeed proves that it’s possible for you too. It’s evidence that there’s a path to that level. While your road does not, and actually should not, mimic someone else’s, you can take clues from their actions to spark ideas for your own forward progress.
Seeing others do things that you’ve been afraid to do can spark action in you and open up your mind’s eye to a whole new level of opportunity you never dared believe is possible. I’m here to tell you it is possible and being number 2 provides the motivation for you to get there.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Learn how these subconscious secrets can help you overcome your self-limiting beliefs and achieve the life you truly want.
This cheerleading thing probably comes as no surprise if you’ve been hanging out with me for a while. I’m an eternal optimist. I love to cheer people on. I’m okay with attention and I love football. I’ve thought about sharing this NFL cheerleading experience with you for a while.
As I reflect on my journey there, I realize so much of what I experienced and learned applies to being a small business owner too. I’m going to drop the lessons here but listening to the show will give it context and better understanding.
Learning 1 – To accomplish anything you need to put yourself out there. Take the chance.
Learning 2 – Just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean you have the passion to invest a major portion of your life to it.
Learning 3 – Don’t force your passion onto someone else if it doesn’t resonate with them.
Learning 4 – Jump on opportunities when they spring up.
Learning 5 – It’s truly who you know at various points along the way.
Learning 6 – Work through setbacks and swallow your pride if you have to in pursuit of your goals.
Learning 7 – The work doesn’t end when an achievement is reached.
Learning 8 – Don’t ever get overly confident of your position or expect the same results time after time. They aren’t guaranteed.
Learning 9 – Observe the roles you naturally gravitate to. You may discover new potential.
Learning 10 – The value is in the journey, it’s not discovered only when you reach your destination.
Here’s to you stretching. You may be surprised how far you can go!
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
A Must Listen! How Your Behaviors Affect Your Mental Health. Learn how your inner self directly impacts your outer voice and what to do to stay healthy - inside and out.
If you think about your approach to product development, where do you fall? Do you stick with what’s standard and proven or do you venture off and test new things just to see what happens?
While there’s nothing wrong with either approach, I’m going to suggest that the greater opportunity for your business lies in going past the tried and true and expanding to create something truly new and unique. The trick is to do something your audience wants or needs. Or something that solves a common problem people can easily relate to.
And you might say, there’s really nothing else that can be done with soaps or candles. That all the stitches and uses for knitted items have been created. Or that every single flavor and variation of chocolate is already out there.
And I’ll challenge you on that. In this episode I explain why and give you examples that will get you looking at your product in an entirely different way.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
The How, What And When Of Hiring Help For Your Handmade Business. Here's your guide on how NOT to make the mistakes so many make.
I took a month off social media in July. This wasn’t my intent but it proved to be an enlightening experience.
You may be thinking my account got hacked or closed. Nope. Worse. Tragedy happened in my life. I wasn’t in a headspace for social media at all. Hard stop. In fact, I was off for a little over a month. I didn’t care if I lost followers. I didn’t care if the algorithm dinged me about consistency. It just didn’t matter. (More details in the podcast.)
I’m using my situation because let’s face it. Life presents us all with drama, illness, loss … and at some point we need to get back up and keep living. But to get to that point, it’s important to focus on you and your recovery, going through the stages of grief – whatever it is for you. And it could be good times too. You want time to be all in for your wedding or the birth of a baby. What I’m trying to say here is life comes first and sometimes as a business owner, we forget that.
In this episode I cover what I learned in this time off social. I think it may help for when you feel the need to do the same.
Resources Mentioned
https://smarterqueue.com/?ref=8yu (Smarter Queue)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunities!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
A https://go.oncehub.com/giftbiz (Gift Biz Boost) is a free one-on-one strategy session discussion a part of your business you're trying to grow. Maybe it's the first steps to getting started, or how to attract more sales, whatever your current focus is. You'll leave with actionable steps to "boost" you forward.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How to use your website to attract ideal customers to your handmade business plus 3 specific tweaks to consider.
Today I’m going to give you a number of things to consider while you’re brainstorming the name for your business. But I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t remind you that this is NOT the first thing you should do when thinking about starting your business.
The very first thing when considering starting your business is to validate your product. Once you’ve confirmed there’s a market for what you sell, then it’s time to decide on the name and register it officially.
But, how do you decide on a name?
There may be a name you’ve been thinking about all along or you may be starting fresh by brainstorming all the possibilities. Your business name is an important consideration but can also be a stalling point. I’ve seen too many people spend weeks if not months with their business on hold because they can’t decide on the perfect name. My intent here is to help you along with making a great choice. Or, if you’re wondering if the name you currently have could use a refresh – stay to the end to hear a story about just that.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How to know - is it time to close down your business? What to do when your business no longer fits your life and goals.
What if you could jump on the phone with me for a quick 10-minute conversation? Now you can. Ask my opinion of a website platform you’re considering. Want thoughts about how to get stronger results from an upcoming craft show? Or maybe it’s an overall strategy discussion. Whatever’s on your mind.
The second I learned about this new program, I saw the beauty of how it can help me serve you in a whole new way. It provides an opportunity for us to connect - just you and me - in an easy and convenient way – and not at standard one-on-one coaching prices either.
Listen in to hear all about it.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Which is better for a handmade product business - your own website or Etsy? There are pros and cons to each. So today, we dive into the differences between having a store on Etsy versus creating your own website.
I know for a fact that you have special powers you aren’t using. If you tap into them, they’ll make you and your business more personal, memorable and shareable. The best thing about these powers of yours is that you don’t need to act like someone you’re not. You don’t to invent scenarios you think your customers will like or project anything that feels uncomfortable or staged.
Doesn’t that sound freeing and too good to be true? Guess what? It’s not. You already have these powers but you don’t see them as such. And since you don’t recognize them, you’re letting them lie dormant with untapped potential. That changes right now!
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
An unexpected journey from Rabbi to jewelry maker. A perfect case study on how to build and grow a handmade business!
Many think marketing and promoting are the same thing and they use them interchangeably. Here’s where you can get lost in it all. Lots of time and money spent on these activities knowing it’s important for your business but seeing little in results. The purpose is blurry at best. What should you be doing to bring in the sales? How do you know if you should keep going with one thing or put more emphasis on another?
Let’s clear this up so you can be more focused and purposeful in the time you do spend on these two strategies and understand the intent behind each one.
https://suemonhait.lpages.co/content-for-makers/ (See Details and Order Content for Makers)
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
You hear about these events on the news, see the horror and sympathize with those involved. You may even know someone affected by a violent event and reach out to help, or offer financial support. There’s anger, frustration and lots of conversation asking “How we can allow these things to continue to happen? This is not the American way and it needs to stop."
It may leave you stunned, heartbroken, and unsettled for some time. But be honest – deep down – even though you say it could happen anywhere and to anyone, you never really think it will happen to you.
Me too. Until last week. You see Highland Park is my hometown. In this episode I share with you my experience around this event (no gory details I promise). Yet amongst all this horror and feeling guilty about not being able to do more in that moment, I recognized something wonderful happening too.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makershttps://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Could being a guest on a podcast be a fit for your handmade business? How to find the right shows, prepare for the interview, and reap the benefits afterward.
It makes me crazy every time I encounter it – and it’s a lot! There are two reasons this frustrates me so much. First, I’m stopped in my tracks from being able to move forward at all and second, so are you! All attempts at making connections and progress with this strategy in your business are halted. Hard stop!
What am I talking about? Instagram accounts that are set on private. If this is you and you want to keep an account private – by all means do so. But not if you’re interacting with people in any business capacity.
I’ll give you the resolution to this in a minute. But first, why does this bother me so much and what’s the harm? Let’s talk.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Why not try free methods first? We talk about 3 organic ways to get people to your website so you can make more sales.
Are you in control of your business? The answer to this, as the owner of your business, is always yes. You are the one at the top, making decisions that affect your outcomes. You are also the one in control if you decide to relinquish control. And this is something I really want you to get.
Yes, you’re going to do things that don’t work out. Being in control doesn’t mean you’re always right. But it does mean you take responsibility for all of it. The good, the bad and what action you take moving forward. You are always the one in control of your business. We’ll get into details of what maybe should change for you and I’ll give you examples in the show today too. Acknowledging this can be a game-changer!
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
A few weeks back I was at a podcasting conference called Podfest. Seriously one of the best events I’ve ever attended in terms of learning timely and relevant new things and meeting the most incredible people.
How does this apply to you? You're not a podcaster (most likely) but, I see applications that most definitely apply as a handmade product maker. If you aren't doing them already, adding them in will strengthen your business and thereby improve your results. Hold out for the last one - it's a doosy and one I didn't know before.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Uplevel your selling experience AND set yourself apart in the handmade product market with thoughtful, generous, and personal selling style.
Maybe you’re like most … defaulting to the idea that blogs aren’t meant for your handmade product-based business. My aim in this episode is to help you see this differently by sharing 5 Ways a blog can benefit and grow your business.
Am I here to convince you to start a blog tomorrow? No. But I want you to understand the many ways a blog can be an asset and then you can make your own decision from there.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Today we're talking about how to start an email list for your business.
Now, more than ever, it's important to https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/email-marketing-process (put email marketing into place). I know it can seem daunting but when you know the steps to getting started, you'll see it's not that difficult at all.
The subject of https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/email-marketing-plan (email marketing) has been coming up more and more. More attention is being given to this than ever, everywhere I look!
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/social-medias-role-in-your-business (Social media) is changing and people are wondering what's going on. Email marketing is becoming known as the platform where you have the most stability.
That's what we talk about in this episode - specifically how to start your own email marketing program.
What's In This Bash Party?
Free Training on How To Start An Email List:
why email marketing is so important and how it adds value to your business
how to start an email list for your business
plus tips on what NOT to do
QandA on the topic with Bash attendees
Showcases - attendees share new https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/host-your-own-handmade-craft-show (collaborations), upcoming events, and even discount promo codes.
It’s easy to start a business. What’s hard is to stay in business! There are a variety of reasons why businesses fail at such a high rate. And of course, nobody takes actions intentionally that will set them back. But that’s exactly what’s happening to most business startups. In the end, their initial actions never gave them a fair chance of survival right from the start.
When you first learn about a new business in town, you hear the name, perhaps see their logo, take a look at the products they offer, things like that – right? These are the first things intuitively you would put in place for your new business because they are the things you know and see about a business from an outsider perspective.
Yet there is a critical step that should be taken before doing any of these things. It’s missed because people just don’t know. And it’s this most-important first step that, when not taken, leads to many many handmade product businesses closing down.
Let’s get into the details of what to do first so your business is set up for success.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How and why to get your product sustainability score for your handmade product business. What is a product sustainability score and why should you care? Listen in to learn how and why you need to do this.
People come in your shop or show booth, pick things up, chat for a while and don’t buy. Or your Facebook page has hundreds or even thousands of followers, many who contribute by posting and commenting but they never support you through sales or take part in your special promotions. Or there’s a lot of traffic to your website but conversions to purchases are few.
What should you do about your lurkers? Here’s my answer - everything and nothing. I explain in the show today.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Finally get clear on social media's role in your business and how to make it work for you.
Craft shows can be the lifeblood of a handmade product business. It’s the easiest way to find and interact with people, get feedback on your products and the most immediate way to bring in sales. PLUS – no shipping time or delivery costs!
We’re not going to talk about the basics of participating in a show today. Instead I’m addressing some “higher level” points about exhibiting. It’s this extra style and subtle adjustments that can have a huge impact on your results.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Hear how my guest evolved her business into something she loves + why and how to host a craft show of your own!
The same holidays roll around each season of every year - Valentines Day, Mother's Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving. Because you’ve done this before, perhaps many times, are you continuing with the same ole, same ole promotions?
And is that the best you can do? Repeating what you’ve done in the past may or may not be the most lucrative and beneficial for growing your sales even though it’s the easiest plan.
Is it possible that your customers are growing tired of seeing the same messaging and offers? Did your plan last year even work? Or is it old, tired and a repeat of what everyone else is doing? Here’s what to do instead.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Discover common money mistakes made at different stages of handmade business so you can stop wasting money and truly help your business grow.
It’s going to be a radical thought but I want you to open your mind to consider how some accidents can open the door to new opportunity.
It’s so easy to get set in our ways and see things only from the perspective we have always had. Or the trained expectation of what an outcome should be – until it doesn’t happen that way.
Here’s the twist. It’s possible that this accident you’ve encountered, could present a new way of thinking that was invisible to you up until now. It doesn’t mean your past processes aren’t still to be followed. But, when encountering an accident in your business, what new idea does this prompt?
It’s a mindset switch for sure. And may be a playground for new possibilities.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
More than just a lead magnet quiz - how to use quizzes to build your handmade business and create an amazing customer experience that leads to more sales and increased order values.
Do you feel like you’re putting way too much energy into convincing customers to buy when you compare that to the return you’re seeing for all your efforts?
Is it possible you’re trying SO HARD to get sales that what you’re actually doing is pushing them away? Perhaps it’s time to try a new approach. If what you’re doing now isn’t producing results, doing more and more of the same thing is like grinding your gears. You dig a deep hole versus making any forward progress.
If you’re in this position, I bet this is how you’re selling. Your message to potential customers goes something like this: “Listen to me. I have this awesome product. It’s only $25. Buy it here.”
Here’s how to change this out for something that works.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Discover the 5 Gift Biz Growth Stages. Identify which stage you're in and how to progress to the next level. Plus - attendees showcase!
“No” feels terrible. It’s a rejection. And who likes to be rejected?
Most likely your reaction to the word “no” is to shut down. You feel defeat with whatever possibilities the “no” shut out. And to protect yourself, you give up on the person who made you feel bad and you move on to other people or activities.
What if I told you there’s a way to use this “no” to your advantage? There is!
Here’s how to settle down your emotions so responses to selling your products doesn’t feel like such a rollercoaster. And then – what to do in these situations that could turn a permanent “no” to a future “yes” as a strategy to grow your sales.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
What to do when your business starts weighing you down? Learn how reignite your handmade business passion.
Would you categorize yourself as a procrastinator? When I think about people I know, I can see how they do lean one way or another.
On the extremes, there’s the excessive planner. Someone who has everything buttoned up way before a due date. And then there’s the “get it done at the last minute” style.
I fall fully on the plan-ahead side. I like to eliminate as many surprises and rush jobs as possible. But of course, we come in all shapes and sizes as they say. I’m not saying one is better than another.
However, there are definite times when, not only is it okay, but you should ignore your natural tendencies and do things differently. We talk about how to know which way to go in today's show.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
What if you didn't have to dread tax season? Unfortunately, putting on a blindfold doesn't help. But the small business tax prep tips in this episode absolutely will.
I get it. Right after that deadline passes, you want to forget about taxes until it comes around again next year. But the reality is - it’s going to show up again whether you like it or not. So why not be prepared and make the process as easy and smooth as you can?
Tune in now for a ton of helpful tax prep tips specifically for handmade product makers!
Makers of all sorts are leaning into this up and coming sales strategy because it provides a solution to one of the biggest challenges you have as a handmade creator – limited production time. Even if you hire people to help you in certain facets of your business, there is a ceiling to how much you can make without taking the leap to factory production – which I know is a major turnoff to most of you.
Enter in this perfect solution. One that allows you to scale your business while retaining and actually enhancing, your position as an expert in your field.
I’m talking about offering workshops. Guided trainings where the result is the attendee learns the techniques and completes a project using their newfound skill. We’re going to go deeper into ways you can do this here.
But first let’s address the obvious advantage. You teach a class one-to-many in a live face-to-face setting or even more online where your attendee count is unlimited. There is no cap on your earning potential as there is when selling your physical handmade products.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Market your handmade business with simple Pinterest strategies including interest targeting, ideal pins, and promoted pins
“Not easy” times can happen at any stage in your handmade product business journey – it’s not only reserved for newbies. And I’m here today to reset your thinking when you’re working through rough patches. These are times to be celebrated! They actually offer you great opportunity.
I’m not going to give you the pep talk here about how you can overcome everything – even tho you can. I’m also not going to get all strategic giving you steps to get past these “not easy” times. That’s not the point of this episode. The point is for you to think differently about what these challenges offer you AND why they are a great thing.
Be part of the newest Gift Biz Opportunity!
The https://go.oncehub.com/GiftBizBash (Gift Biz Bash) offers you the chance to get added visibility for your business - for free. Who can't use that?! But seats are limited. To see the dates and times and to grab your spot, go through the link above.
Join our community of handmade product makers
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Gift Biz Breeze) is an active and inspiring group of creators at all levels of business development. Ask questions, see what others are working on, learn new things, it's all there and we're waiting for you to join us!
Finally, would you please leave a review? Thanks!
It helps other makers like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Insights about how to grow and pivot in business to create a profitable and enjoyable business you love to run from the owner of Marshmallow MBA.
At what point in your business do you turn from a hobbyist to a pro? And why does this even matter? In today’s show I give an example of a maker’s journey, at what point they become a specialist (or pro) and most importantly, what actions to take to incorporate this into your business for added visibility and sales.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
An inspiring product creation story about women, strength, and moving forward. Listen to this powerful episode for inspiration you'll love AND a product creation story you can learn from.
In this episode I give you 5 tips to get your listening skills up to par.
Listening is a skill that seems so elementary but is often completely ignored. The next time you’re engaged in a conversation, observe your own behavior to check in on your listening skills. Sure, you may be hearing what someone says, but are you really listening?
Unfortunately, what often happens is we’re so busy figuring out what we want to say next that we miss subtle cues that, if not taken into account in your response, affect the entire interaction.
Not listening leaves the person talking feeling misunderstood and not valued. If this is a potential customer, you just lost the sale.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
What's the trick of how to go from idea to business? My guest today shares her business journey that illustrates what it takes to make that happen.
Naa Ardua helps crafters learn how to use digital art to make handmade craft projects for their families and friends.
While living in France as an ex-pat mom, she started making digital illustrations as a way to use her artistic skills and https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/ideas-for-creative-business (be creative) every day.
She saw that she could reach people with her art and help fellow artists, crafters, and small businesses with their projects. So she started creating SVG designs and selling them online. She now has over 10,000 sales in her https://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/sell-on-etsy (Etsy shop). All of while still working a 9-to-5 job.
Now she runs her business as a full-time mompreneur, doing school pick-ups and drop-offs and running a household from abroad.
How To Go From Idea To Business One Step At A Time
Be your own biggest cheerleader.
Take action. Take the steps little by little even if it seems impossible at the beginning.
The key to super charge your productivity lies in one simple 5-letter word.
L-I-S-T-S!
I bet you’ve heard the term Operating Procedures. In essence, each Operating Procedure is a list of documented activities to perform any function within your business. They are particularly beneficial if a task is repetitive. That way you don’t have to remember all the steps and in what order. Just follow the list.
Imagine how useful it can be when you bring on employees. They can follow the same system you’ve already created. Easy and a great way to minimize errors too!
Mentioned in this show is the https://giftbizunwrapped.com/inspired (FREE VIDEO) training on productivity that is part of the https://giftbizunwrapped.com/inspired (Inspired! Daily Planner) process. You can apply this to any planner you currently use or even start with a blank journal!
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Your business income should impact your personal life. Learn how to strengthen your financial mindset so you can build your business AND personal wealth.
Today we’re talking about the value of a fleeting moment how it’s a strategic way to create anticipation and desire for your products. Instead of having the same offerings month after month (except for holiday designs – that’s obvious) why not strategically plan limited time offers into your business?
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How to build a for-profit business with social cause from a successful business owner who's done it
I heard something a long time ago, during my corporate days, and it’s one of those statements that holds true over time.
“Don’t tell people you have great customer service, show them.”
It’s too easy to talk about a level of care and service you offer your customers. Let’s face it, everyone does that. But actually following through on it is where the majority of businesses fail. They talk one thing and do another.
It’s surprising because having top-notch customer service, in the majority of cases, doesn’t add to the costs of running a business. Going the extra mile and adding in special touches is more a matter of planning and implementing a process than anything else.
Most businesses pay very little attention to this. So why should you? Repeat business – that’s why.
I want you to think about your customer service? Not what you say but what you’re really doing? I break this review into 2 categories. That’s what we talk about in today’s show.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
If you wonder, "Do I need a website for my small business?" - today's show is for you. Get the answers you need about a website for your handmade biz
In my messy “catch all” drawer, guess what I found? A key. But … a key to what? Usually, I have an identifier of some sort. Not this time.
So now what do I do? If I knew what the key went with, it would be really valuable. But holding it in its current state - without knowing where it goes, it’s useless. That struck me as such a powerful thing. In my hand was this single key that, with one important piece of information, could easily open the right door/box/treasure chest. Simple, done within seconds, and without another thought because access with the key is so effortless. But if you reach a door and don’t have the key, you’re stuck and can’t go any further. Or you have to waste a lot of time looking for the key, calling a locksmith or breaking down the door. Something easy that usually requires very little thought, turns into a big chore. All because of one little key.
This is what happens in business too. I see women every day working so hard – trying to open doors without having the right key – and getting discouraged because sales aren’t coming in and they can’t understand why. They’re missing the keys – that’s why!
If the idea of starting a business by selling your handmade products has been on your mind for a while - now would be a great time to take action! The attraction for handmade products along with the focus on supporting small business is at an all time high!
Makers MBA gives you step by step guidance and support to start your handmade business and provides all the keys to growing a business where currently sales are less than you’d like. Think of this program as a lifetime resource on “how to” and “what’s next” for every stage of your business. Once you’re in, you have access forever including all updates and enhancements to the trainings.
It doesn’t provide just one missing key. It’s an entire chain of the keys you need to open all the doors at every stage as your business opens, grows and adjusts to current times. This year I’m doing things completely differently in terms of offering the program. The content is all the same, but the timing, the pricing and the rollout are all different. AND it’s FAST – so if you think this may be for you, go https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/interested (HERE) to read through the details. You can also reach out to me at sue@suemonhait.com if you have questions or would like to talk about your specific situation and if it’s a fit.
But as I said, act fast. The doors close in just a few days – Feb 26 to be exact. No time to waste or you’ll miss it.
Makers MBA – what you need to get your handmade products out to the world, and make money at it too. I’m offering you the only key you need. Will you accept it and open the door to your future?Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Nobody talks about starting over at 50 as an entrepreneur (or anything else). So let's talk about it! An inspiring episode for women of any age.
Let me cut to the chase. I’m not a betting girl but if I was, I think I’d win this wager. I’m placing my bet that YOU are full of BS. And not only that. I’m here to convince you that you should be showing that you’re full of BS to your community too.
I’ve got you totally confused right now. Yes? I heard this BS statement from Ally Love … my favorite Peloton spin instructor. The reason I connect with her is she’s grounded in her thinking, clearly loves and seeks out the fun in life, has morals that align with mine … and tells it like it is. When she told me (and my virtual spin class) that we were full of BS, my first instinct was to say – not me. I mean I know others who are but I don’t see it in myself.
As we continued spinning and Ally continued talking, I spun faster – breathed harder and when I was done – stood prouder – because she convinced me that I AM full of BS. And that’s what I’d like to pass on to you right now. I want you to believe that you are also, from the soles of your feet to the top of your head, full of BS.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How much should you price your product? Get your pricing in line for your handmade products and crafted items
Do you feel like your life has become way too complicated? There are so many decisions to make, issues to consider, chores to get done, activities and doctor appointments to schedule AND all the tasks associated with your business.
As adults we make 35,000 decisions a day! Couple this with Decision Fatigue - per psychiatrist Dr. MacLean “the idea that after making many decisions, your ability to make more and more decisions over the course of a day becomes worse.”
So, we’ve got lots of decisions to make each day and the quality of our choices goes down as the day advances. How can you use this information to serve you best for both your personal and business dealings? That’s what we cover in today’s show.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Unseen possibilities for a creative career or business using the skills and knowledge you've already learned through your handmade craft and elsewhere
Today let’s have a heart-to-heart conversation about competition. Yes, this breath-stopping, gut-wrenching topic.
None of us get a pass from experiencing our physical and emotional responses when the subject of a competitor comes up. Just like others, you probably compare the quality and prices of your products, your social media following counts, and the many other unconfirmed stories you make up about all the ways they are more skilled, knowledgeable, or personable than you are.
Listen in for the 3 choices you have when it comes to competition and your handmade product business. Then I give you 3 ways to insulate your business from a competitive action by planning ahead and having a strategy in place to deal with it. Bonus – this plan strengthens your business overall and helps you attract customers too!
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Discover a new selling style that actually works to make more sales in 2022 for your handmade craft business.
Some makers are wonderfully content with a handmade business that balances nicely with the other priorities in their life. They get fulfillment and happiness in the process of making and never want to grow to the point where they can’t do that anymore.
But, let’s say, you’ve decided “YES!” you want to grow your business to the next level. You’re close to or have already reached your limit. Maybe you’re delaying important tasks and even making errors, because you simply can’t keep up.
Here are three paths to consider that will get you back on track and set you up to scale your business, bring in more revenue and get your handmade creations in the hands of more people.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. Tell me what you like about a particular episode or give me suggestions on a topic you'd like to see covered. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How to achieve Pinterest Success for your handmade or craft business with tips and how-tos from a Pinterest pro.
It’s here! This is the week of National Bakers Crafters Makers Day – on Friday the 21st to be exact.
The ONLY way you wouldn’t know about this already is if you’re brand new here because I’ve been talking about it and there have been activities to participate in all month long. Things like submitting your handmade memories, sharing how your handmade products provide good to others, access to done for you social media posts and stickers - so you can be part of promoting the day, downloading my free gift and more!
It’s all outlined, including what I’m talking about today over on the website page covering the event at www.handmadehealstheworld.com.
See a full rundown of https://suemonhait.lpages.co/national-bakers-crafters-makers-day-handmade-heals-the-world/ (everything you can do for National Bakers Crafters Makers Day.)
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Everything you need to know about selling crafts at fairs and local markets. Even if you think you've tried everything - there's more you can do!
January is a big deal here at Gift Biz Unwrapped because this is the month of National Bakers Crafters Makers Day. Today, I want to explain why I created the day in the first place and its significance.
Making handmade products comes from the soul. It’s an investment of time and energy. The results are one of a kind and enrich our lives by surrounding us with beauty and individuality. They provide happiness for both the creator and its recipient – something our world needs and continually seeks … which is what led to our theme this year – Handmade Heals the World.
As someone with a passion for handmade, I want you to stand proud behind your creations. Whether for a hobby or as a business, what you bring to our lives is so incredibly special and it’s something worth celebrating!
To see all the ways you can join in the celebration of National Bakers Crafters Makers Day, go to https://suemonhait.lpages.co/national-bakers-crafters-makers-day-handmade-heals-the-world/ (handmadehealstheworld.com)https://www.handmadehealstheworld.com. (.)
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Learn how to create your brand story today to connect with your ideal customer, make more sales, and talk about your business with ease.
National Bakers Crafters Makers Day and is marked in the National Day Archives as celebrated on January 21. But we’ll be celebrating all month long and you’ll hear a lot more about it as we continue through the month. Today, I want to share with you the development of the theme and the corresponding logo we’re using for NBCMD this year.
I think that my experience will give you ideas of how to move through this project if you’re either creating a logo for the first time or updating or completely replacing an existing logo.
Now, I’ve done my fair share of logo development in the past. But this time I approached it differently by employing a professional artist. In the process, I learned something that made a huge impression on me that I’m excited to share with you. Plus I walk through the 5 Steps we took in professional image design creation.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How to work hard and feel great about your life. Simple strategies to incorporate self-care and systems in your day-to-day and avoid burnout.
Choosing a theme word that will direct your year. Have you heard of this concept before? It’s similar to the idea of identifying a major goal and then developing tasks and activities underneath that goal with the idea that, once completed – your goal will have been achieved.
The difference with an annual word is it goes deeper. There’s usually an emotional element included in your word even though on the surface it looks very business-oriented. I also find selecting an annual word to be very clarifying and calming. It allows for reflection on your performance over the last year and opens up your mind to dream and project what you want in the future. Once you’ve chosen your word, it’s a beacon of sorts to walk towards and a filter to help prioritize all the things you could work on in your business versus what you should work on to get your desired results.
I’ll tell you my 2022 word in a minute but first, let me share some of my prior years’ words. This may give you ideas as you consider what your word could be.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Storytelling tips and a peek into the life of Heidi Swain, a Simon and Schuster bestselling author
Enjoy my rendition of an old Christmas classic - revised to fit our handmade business community. Enjoy and listen closely, you'll hear some priceless lessons that Amanda, our shop owner, learns from Jolly Old St. Nick.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
What is storytelling for business? A clever and natural way to get more visibility and differentiate your business.
How is it that some people get so much accomplished and others struggle to do one simple project? Obviously, there can be extenuating circumstances – like interruptions, emergencies or simply the lack of interest or desire to do whatever project you’re laboring over. But that doesn’t erase the fact that it needs to get done.
It just so happens that one of my super powers is productivity. I know it’s one of my strengths, for real, because I’m classified as a “Follow-Through” on the Kolbe Personality Profile.
Since I get asked a lot about how I accomplish so much, it might be helpful to share my secret strategy with you. It’s not supposed to be secret, in fact I’ve talked about it before in a couple of my longer podcast episodes. But it can easily get buried as a minor point within a bigger conversation.
So today I thought I’d bring it front and center and specifically highlight what I believe to be my single most valuable method of managing through my days to get as much done as possible – even the things I don’t particularly enjoy.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Starting a business as a kid - what we can ALL learn about making startup easy and fun from two kids who didn't want to wait
Making a customer feel special is where it’s at. Think about your experience from the customer end. Most of the time when you buy something, in a retail shop for sure but also online, it’s a one and done transaction. You make the purchase, get a thank you or a confirmation of the order being received … and that’s it. No further communication and if there is any – it’s probably a bounceback discount to place another order.
Don’t get me wrong that additional discount is great – but it’s very sterile and transaction oriented. There’s no connection being formed between you and that business. Any sales after that are going to be initiated by you (the customer) IF you feel so great about the product that you want more, or you remember that company name when it’s time to buy a gift.
Think now of yourself as a business owner - that’s leaving a lot up to chance. What if, you could control this interaction in a better way? How about changing the sale from being solely a business transaction into a warm friendly interaction that could lead down the road to a mutually supportive relationship?
This is what you do when you make your customer the star. When you add an emotional layer to your customer interactions that make them feel seen, special and important. By prompting these feelings, your customers will move from purchasers to supporters and this leads to long term growth for your business. Let’s talk about how to do this.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Ever wondered how to start an Etsy printables shop? The good news is it's easier than you think. Get tips and tricks from a pro in this episode.
Little did I know then but 12 years old, I created my first process. It was a system to run through each and every holiday season to ensure all gifts were purchased, wrapped and ready. This was prompted due to a disaster I share in the podcast.
Over the years, it’s been perfected to include the more “adult” elements of gift giving and holiday planning. And it’s been a life-saver that I’d like to share it with you today.
You may not think this is very business-related – as are most of the topics we cover here on the podcast … but it really is. I’m sure you’ve heard about the value of having processes and systems in your business so things run smoothly. Even if you haven’t, I bet you have them set up without even knowing it. When you make your products, you follow a certain step by step process. Same with filling orders and a number of other tasks you do that are necessary for your business to function properly. You may just not have them formalized and written down.
When you have a structured process, projects become so much easier because you don’t have to rethink the steps, you only have to follow them. I have processes for lots of things in the business, from order processing, to blog writing and promoting, podcast creation and production, and of course, social media posting.
So, you’re probably not surprised now when I tell you I have a process for holiday gift planning. And guess what?
I want to share with you the https://s3.amazonaws.com/giftbiz.downloads/Holiday+Gifting+Worksheet+-+Personal.pdf (Holiday Gifting Worksheet) I created and use every year. It keeps me organized and sane when it comes to holiday presents. It’s totally free – my gift to you - and you can download your https://s3.amazonaws.com/giftbiz.downloads/Holiday+Gifting+Worksheet+-+Personal.pdf (worksheet right here). No opt in or anything. The link sends you directly to the worksheet.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you’ll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you’d like to do me a huge favor – please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
What is micro-weirding? How to define your brand for differentiation and increased sales
Welcome to Gift Biz Unwrapped, the twice weekly show that brings you inspiration and direction on how to start and grow your handmade product business.
I’m your host, Sue Monhait, CEO of Gift Biz Unwrapped where we offer all sorts of support materials over on the website of the same name.
On Saturdays, I feature a guest who shares their experience and insights as a handmade product creator who is now monetizing their craft. Or I bring on a service provider who gives tips and strategies based on their area of expertise. I follow this up on Wednesday with a solo episode to cover topics you’re telling me are important in the world of handmade.
I’m excited for you to join me in listening to these episodes and remember to tell your friends who would be interested in small product business development that they too can listen, for free in any podcast app including Apple Podcasts, Spotify … even ask Alexa! You can also access the show on your computer from the website or our YouTube channel. Now go dive in and know that I’m here to support you in your handmade business journey.
Way back in 1997, this new arena called social media arrived on the digital landscape. Since that time, social media has been a fast and active playground with new platforms emerging, others dying and still others growing and morphing into versions that barely look like their original selves.
They rise and fall in popularity and target audiences change too. Think of what happened with Facebook - once being for the younger generations who have mostly now abandoned ship for Instagram. And still other social media formats get outright copied like Reels which of course rivals Tic Tok.
And that’s not all.
IG offers new features but only to certain accounts
FB changes it’s page layout causing confusion that requires us to relearn the app
Privacy issues are forcing significant changes
Facebook and IG go dark for 6 hours – everyone panics
Social media is pretty much synomyous with change. That’s a great thing for people who teach us how to use all the various platforms, but not so great when we’re trying to plan for our business visibility, promotional posts or when we want to run ads.
So what’s the answer? Just give up – abandon social media entirely? My answer to this may surprise you.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
How networking, mentorship, and publicity can be amazing tools for growth even for small handmade businesses like yours!
People with high integrity are known as being trustworthy, dependable and someone you can rely on. Living with integrity is important because it can determine the depth of your relationships and the success of your business.
When you start showing up as I describe in this episode, you build your integrity muscle. Along with that comes the feeling of achievement and a boost to your self confidence. Not only does the world look brighter and more interesting, YOU are proving to yourself that you have the power to make things happen.
Let’s dive deeper into a part of what integrity is and how it can affect your personal life and business results.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
Good branding is so much more than colors and a logo. Learn how emotional branding for small business can help you create raving supportive fans.
The way to truly grow a business is through repeat customer sales. Think about it. If every single month you had to start fresh to find and convert new prospects into sales – you’d be exerting tremendous amounts of energy just to stay at the same monthly revenue level.
By contrast, what if your business ran with this sales model. Month one you bring in 30 sales. The next month, let’s say 10% of your customers purchased again. You received the same number of new customer sales plus the 3 repeat sales … so now you have 33 sales for that month. If you repeat this over the course of a year you’d be bringing in 79 sales a month at the end of the year! And this would snowball and continue to grow over time.
Of course your numbers will vary from this example. You may be bringing in more or less than 30 sales a month. And your repeat customer number depends on your product - so it can also be more or less than 10%. Plus there are months when you do shows or other promotional events that bring in more sales. But the theory still works regardless of your numbers.
I’m sure you’ve heard the fact that it costs more (in time and money by the way) to convert a looker into a customer. 5x more for that matter! 5x!!! In addition to all these new customer acquisition efforts, to grow your business you should be building on the momentum you’ve started with your brand new customers too.
Here’s how to do that.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode? Feel free to share!
How can you know if selling handmade items wholesale is right for YOUR business? Tune into this episode to discover what you need to know.
You'll regret it if you don't get started now. All three of these things grow richer over time. So the longer you wait, the farther behind you'll be. Plus you're losing valuable assets your business can use to grow!
In this world of instant gratification, we've been conditioned to put things off ... because they can be obtained easily when you want them. It's not the case with what I'll be telling you today.
Consider yourself warned!
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode? Feel free to share!
Handmade business advice and paying it forward to new handmade product entrepreneurs. Lessons to help you build your own handmade biz.
Unless something drastically changes, we’re headed for toilet paper hoarding again and worse yet – the holiday gifting season is in jeopardy due to the global supply chain crisis.
I saw a post going around recently that reads, “The work of local artists is not sitting on cargo ships.” That’s exactly right! This is in sharp contrast with other product sellers who have their product produced through factories … particularly if it’s done overseas.
Compounding the issue are labor shortages, the increase in shipping prices AND the slowdown of USPS, FedEx and UPS deliveries. It’s a perfect storm setting up roadblocks right in the path of Santa’s sleigh.
Here’s where you come in. As a handmade product maker, you have a unique opportunity to help save the holidays. If you’re sitting on a decent supply of production inventory. By that I mean the elements you use to make your products, like yarn for your shawls, clay for your pottery or beads, wire and closures for your jewelry. Your product production is not affected by the supply chain crisis.
All signs point to the fact that we’ll need your help to provide gifts that we can actually get to give for the holidays.
Here’s what you should be doing right now to be of service to your customers while collecting your share (and in this environment even more than that) of holiday sales.
Determine your product scope.
Focus on producing your proven best sellers.
Get out to in person shows.
Promote the advantages of holiday handmade.
Contact your local media.
Bring the message to social media and through email.
Be fluid as the situation evolves.
Listen to the show for details under each of these steps.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode? Feel free to share!
A subscription box business with a mission - How this handmade business provides a path to supporting Black-owned businesses and what you can learn.
The often unasked question.
"Will my product sell?"
As an experienced maker, all your creations are skillfully crafted and the model of perfection. But you want to know if it will be a top seller before you put in the time and money building up your inventory.
So let's address the issue of how to determine if you have a sales winner.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode?
All about Google Analytics for small business - a simple 3 step framework to get started so you can leverage the power of analytics for your business.
I think you'll agree that a lot of time is spent on social media. In some cases too much time and it takes away from doing other important projects that will advance your business. The balance is hard to find.
Here are four strategies to make taking and resourcing social media photos less time consuming. Imagine having just the right photo at your fingertips without you having to drop everything to make that happen?
Here's how!
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode? Feel free to share!
Every small business owner thinks about how to attract sales. Learn 5 fun and effective ways to get sales for your handmade craft business.
Masterminds. Perhaps you've invested in one before that included a professional moderator and was timebound - a few months or even a year. These is the traditional structure of a formal mastermind.
I'm talking today about how you can create your own local mastermind group. It brings a level of support that will prove to be a powerful resource to move your business forward. And it's free!
I've also created a blog covering all the points I bring up in the podcast. To read or print this out for your own mastermind development use, you can access it https://giftbizunwrapped.com/how-to-create-your-own-free-mastermind-group/ (here).
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode?
Subscription box creation and participation - tips for getting into this hot niche from an insider in the subscription box industry.
This is the first activity most new business owners jump into - naming the business and then creating a logo and brand colors.
That makes sense because it's what you see as a consumer and how you identify other businesses. So naturally it's what you gravitate to as the necessary starting point. Perfect. But don't spend too much time here.
In this episode you'll get direction on the important first three steps to your branding and then where your focus should go next. It's the NEXT step that will get your business on track to bringing in sales.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode?
How to run Pinterest ads - so much different than Facebook! Tune in to hear all about how to set up and run Pinterest ads from a Pinterest expert.
You may never encounter a PR crisis. But if you do, response time and properly addressing the issue are key to upholding the reputation of your business and retaining your sales growth.
Spoiler Alert: Sometimes it's best not to do anything.
Find out step by step how to analyze the situation and determine if and what the right actions are so you can smoothly move through what is always an uncomfortable situation.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode?
How to maximize your online selling options and get more sales through automated functions and this all-in-one marketing platform.
Not all tasks are created equal. As you know, it's easy to get distracted and without even knowing it, go down the social media rabbit hole - or any other number of daily activity "fillers" that don't produce results.
Today I'm going to define and give examples of revenue producing tasks. We'll talk about why they're important and how to ensure you do some of these every day. It's in this way your energy and time spent in your business will bring in new customers and sales.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
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Meet NBC’s “Making It” Master Maker Adam Kingman. Hear from this season's winner all about his experience being on the show and learn his secrets for inspiration and creativity.
The Sales Channel Panel is the strategy that is key to maintaining sales and managing through any crisis or unforseen selling challenge. It includes all the elements for getting visibility, communicating your messages and bringing in orders.
In this episode I give an explanation of the strategy including all the elements and how it works.
Join my https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community) where you'll have the chance to learn and hang out with other inspirational makers just like you.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
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Wondering how to start a handmade business that will fit into your life? Then you'll love today's episode because my guest shares how she figured out how to create a work studio at home, work with her spouse, and make it all fit into their lives.
Yuliya is the owner and maker of Wolf Leathers alongside her husband, Ari. All of the leather used is the finest quality oil-tanned leather from Wisconsin.
Working out of their farmhouse, Yuliya and Ari have converted several bedrooms into a work studio. This allows their entire product to be made out of our home.
Yuliya believes everyone can express themselves in a unique way by embracing their imperfections. They represent this in their products by incorporating imperfections and brands from the leather into their work, giving each product extra uniqueness, just like each one of us.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTS
Be genuine when selling. Avoid being pushy and aggressive.
Continue to create unique products that people haven't seen before to keep them interested in your products. Continue to make it something that people want.
Trust your intuition when you feel that something's right for your business.
Interacting with people and http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/nurturing-customer-relationships (building relationships) with them open opportunities for repeat customers.
How to Start a Handmade Business
Find out if people are really interested in your product before you take the plunge - attending a http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/how-to-display-art-at-an-art-show (craft show) is great for this.
Pay attention to how your customers respond to your http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/maker-to-master-5 (price points). Are they shocked? Comfortable Delighted? Then you'll know where to adjust.
Have a variety of products to choose from.
Hone into your product specialty so you can set yourself apart from the rest.
See what the reaction people have towards your products so you can adjust to accommodate what they want.
Business is about your customers.
Tune in to hear more about how to start a handmade business and make it work with your family and life!
Resources Mentioned
https://suemonhait.lpages.co/content-for-makers/ (Content for Makers)
Yuliya's Contact Links
http://www.WolfLeathers.com (Website) | https://www.facebook.com/WolfLeathersWI (Facebook) | https://www.instagram.com/wolf.leathers (Instagram)
Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze)
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode?
Click a button below to share it!
Your logo is the front and center asset for your business. Most likely it includes the company name, special colors that define your vibe and an image that pulls it all together. You've given it a lot of thought and worked hard to make sure it's absolutely perfect. So now you want to show off your logo everywhere, right? Wrong!
There are some do's and don'ts for where your logo should appear and that's what I address in this episode. You'll also find out all the places your logo should go and the one place it absolutely should NOT appear. Let's do this right.
Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze FB Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze)
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode?
Click a button below to share it!
From Firefighter to a Quilting Empire - the benefits of exploring the options for a multi-faceted creative business
Certainly this varies from day to day and in different situations, but having a solid level of confidence overall is necessary in order to be a successful business owner. Small handmade product businesses in particular need a leader who projects confidence. You are the focal point as the maker right beside your fabulous products.
Pulling from a talk by https://thepersonalgiftbasket.com/about/ (Lisa Paden) at the https://thegiftdesignersconference.com/ (Gift Designer's Conference), let's talk about 5 Traits of Low Confidence and how to address these obstacles to get the results you're seeking.
Here are the traits we'll address:
Doubting your abilities
Feeling ilsolated
Running from challenges or taking risks
No self grace
Upgrade your ranking in these areas and you'll see an impact on your sales and happiness!
Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze (Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze)
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Click on your preferred platform below to get started.
Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor - please leave a review. It helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too. You can do so right here: https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (Rate This Podcast)
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
Thank you so much! Sue
Know someone who needs to hear this episode?
Click a button below to share it!
Expanding on “The Secret” with A Law of Attraction Expert who shares down-to-earth ways to understand and finally make this work for you.
Oh no! A competitor encroaches into your "territory" and your first thought is that all is lost. They must be so much better than you - with a higher quality product at a lower price.
Please press the pause button. Let's take the emotion down a level and talk logically about what to do in this situation. Because it's inevitable. We all encounter competitors on a regular basis.
Everything will be just fine and I think some of my suggestions will surprise you!
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Instagram for Beginners - the basics of setup and strategy to start using Instagram for your handmade business
It often looks like brands you admire have had a smooth path to get the attention and business success they enjoy today. It's just not true. Every company goes through struggles, deadends, disappointing results and yes, failures to get to what you see today.
But you don't see them because they don't share the backroom stories. That's where the illusion of perfection comes from ... and our misperception that these things don't happen to others. They do.
In today's show, I emphasize this point and present steps you can take to eliminate the emotional attachment to "failures." The truth is, only by failing will you find the path to your successful profitable business.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
If you've been neglecting your email list for whatever reason, today's episode is for you! Today's guest has the get started guide for your email marketing process so you can finally make it work for you.
It's inevitable. If you run a business, no matter how buttoned up your services are, you'll encounter an angry customer. How you handle it is what will determine the future of your relationship.
Here is what to do when your customer is made and the process to follow to not only turn the situation around, but make it play in your favor. What happens in the end? A happy customer!
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Winners and Wisdom from the Small Business Blog Challenge. Get inspiration on topics and starting your own blog from these new and experienced bloggers
It's a struggle to make sure my businesses don't overtake my life. Can you relate? Finding tools or apps that help streamline projects has been the solution to providing me newfound time and balance. While I have many, these are the top 8 I use every single day. Tune in to hear how they are applied to projects and work with each other to bring even more efficiency to my days.
Google Mail | Canva | Lastpass | Carbonite | Dropbox | SmarterQueue | Podcast App | Braintoss
Here's where you can see all the recommended https://suemonhait.lpages.co/tools/ (Tools and Apps )I use in my business.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
How to challenge social media best practices and algorithm-proof your business with this out of the box advice from a social media pro
Getting people to come over to your website is one thing. But that's only the first step. Once they're on your site, how do you keep them there and direct them to the ultimate goal ... making a purchase?
Here are 7 Barriers that may be lurking on your website preventing a sale from taking place. Most likely you aren't even aware of them and they can be corrected relatively easily. So let's fix your website and get sales coming in!
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
We've all heard to "do what you love," but how does that work, exactly? Today's guest shares her story of how to follow your passion and succeed.
Shelley is the author of Move the Needle, Yarns from an Unlikely Entrepreneur. This book has a singular goal: to inspire you to believe that you can pursue your passion and stick to it, even in the face of adversity.
The book traces Shelley’s journey from leaving the successful http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/how-to-use-facebook-ads (advertising) firm she founded with her husband to open a local yarn store. Along the way, Shelley shares stories from her life to show that you can pursue your life's passions - both personal and professional - no matter how quirky or impossible they may seem to everyone around you.
Shelley’s Tulsa, Oklahoma-based luxury boutique storefront is the flagship of the Knit Stars/Loops brand. It's also where she hosts her https://knitstars.com/ (Knit Stars MasterMasterclass Events) - the most-attended online knitting festival in the world.
How to Follow Your Passion and Succeed
Pursue your life's passions.
Have realistic expectations and then craft the kind of experience you want to get from owning your business.
Stick with things and make things happen.
Start small. The tiniest step is the way to go, so take that first step.
When you have all the customers in one place, there’s an incredible lift in the energy in the store.
Collaborate with other people who have similar audiences to yours.
Have different ways to meet people where they are and give people resources for great inspiration and support.
Hire sooner and more often. That way, you can take off some tasks on your list and focus more on business growth (hiring doesn't have to mean expensive or full-time).
https://ribbonprint.lpages.co/strategy-session/ (Get mentors) in the areas that are not your strength.
In business, you want to be away from the https://www.blueoceanstrategy.com/tools/red-ocean-vs-blue-ocean-strategy/ (red ocean and in the blue ocean). Look for ways to separate yourself uniquely from competitors. You always have to be innovating.
Lean into your greatest strength. Create a business that doesn't look like anyone else's business.
Find the mission underneath your business. You can have a bigger impact than you think.
Do whatever you're doing right now. It can go really big places and make a huge difference in the world.
When you land on your mission in life, everything else will be magnetized to you.
Tune in to learn more about how to follow your passion and succeed!
Resources Mentioned
https://theneedlebook.com/ (Move the Needle book)
https://www.amazon.com/Remarkable-Retail-Keep-Customers-Disruption/dp/B093DWCD7F (Remarkable Retail book)
https://giftbizunwrapped.com/search (Gift Biz Unwrapped Search)
Customer testimonials can be the deciding factor that prompts someone to make the decision to buy. The fact that Amazon uses this strategy tells you it works.
But getting people to give a testimonial is difficult ... for the buyer and the seller. Here are 3 easy ways to start capturing reviews and then how to use them to your advantage.
The resource mentioned in this episode is https://repuso.com/?via=giftbiz (Repuso)
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
A classy way of nurturing customer relationships that will set you apart in the minds of your customers.
By keeping your business too close to your chest, you're limiting your ability to attract new customers, get new sales and expand your product line. Plus, it puts you in a position of management through paranoia. NOT a good feeling ever!
I explain in today's show why this is not a good way to run your business and the only time it actually makes sense. Yes, there's always one exception to the rule.
But OMG - once you truly get this, it's so freeing!
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
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https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Are you afraid to make videos for your business? If so, you're not alone. The whole idea makes so many of us squirm! Today's guest shares exactly how to be comfortable on camera so you can reap the benefits of video in your biz.
Holly helps high-performing leading ladies save time on both sides of the camera by teaching them the skills they need to create not just video but Business Cinema™.
And she knows what she’s talking about having worked on projects for the Sundance Channel, HBO, Sony Music, and Nick.com. She’s also been a camera operator, video producer, and editor.
I think we’ve got the right gal!
Holly creates videos with a plan, purpose, system, and strategy. Videos that move your business forward and have a bigger purpose.
How To Be Comfortable On Camera
Push http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/take-control-of-your-fear (past your fears) and barriers. Love the creativity that videos allow you to have.
If you're just uncomfortable in front of the camera, dig into that a little bit deeper and find out what your real fear is. There's fear of being visible, there's fear of being vulnerable, there's fear of being judged.
It doesn't necessarily mean your face needs to be on camera. As creators, there's a lot of fun and interesting things you do with your hands that people want to see. Try overhead shots of your hands or a time-lapse video with a voiceover on it.
http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/kimgarst (Make videos) even if it feels uncomfortable until you push past that breaking point. Just pick up your camera, look at it, and hit record.
Find some natural light in your home and choose the time of day where you feel like you have the most energy. Feel free to make mistakes and learn from them.
After recording, watch it all again, and be super-objective. Then share it with a trusted friend who will give you objective feedback.
Write a full script, just a little outline, or some bullet points to keep you on target with what you want to say on http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/alfredpoor (videos).
You will have moments where you stumble. You just need to pause before you start the sentence again.
No one will ever be you. No one can ever do what you do the way that you do it. Don't be afraid to share because it is going to help attract your people to you.
Thriller, Filler, Spiller formula.
Running your own business doesn't mean you can't enjoy all life has to offer. And part of that is taking time away for yourself, your family and your customers.
Relaxing breaks away are rejuevenating and even allow for renewed creativity and excitement for your business. Here's how to do this without losing customers and sales.
CONNECT with me here:
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SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Lessons in business - what you can learn from someone with over 25 years in the handmade craft space about retail, wholesale, or combo, and much more.
Have those weeks where you're super busy but all that time and effort you put in doesn't transfer over to sales? True results come down to doing the right things to move the needle - not just lots of activity.
Follow my 6 Step SCRIPT Method to identify what single goal you should focus on each week. One thing, the right thing, focused on each week will bring immediate progress and huge results over the course of a year.
CONNECT with me here:
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JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
How to get unstuck and go after your dreams by working through the mindset blocks that hold you back.
The word brand gets used very freely these days. Do you know what it actually means? Or what's truly included in your "brand?"
You should. Because if you aren't doing this right, you may be putting up obstacles unconsciously that are driving people away!
CONNECT with me here:
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JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Support your customers and your business at the same time with affiliate marketing. A perfect way to create additional income streams for your biz.
It's time to answer the questions. Should you have a Facebook Business Page? What about Facebook Groups?
Today we cover how these are different, the pros and cons of each and what my recommendation is for your handmade product business. I believe when we're done, your answers will be clear!
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Why have a Blog as a Product Business? Benefits of blogging for business - how having a blog for a product business can help you sell your products and create new income streams.
Luck isn't as random as it might seem. You see people who appear to easily achieve succcess every step of the way. Let's talk about why this happens and what you can do to attract the same lucky streak.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
"What website platform should I use to create my website?"
If this is your question, I suggest you ask a different one because all website platforms are not the same. In this episode I break down the three platform categories to help you narrow in on which one is right for you based on the results you're after.
Yes - I know your goal on a website is to get sales. But here too, there are different types of sales to go after - doesn't make sense? Listen in - it will!
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
How to capture the power of Pinterest for your business with these Pinterest best practices. There are so many reasons to use this platform!
Take the 2 Word Challenge! By eliminating these two words from your vocabulary, you'll become a stronger, more purposeful communicator and create an achievability mindset.
People are more likely to listen to what you have to say and you'll be seen as more professional too.
Are you taking me up on this challenge? Let me know by direct message over on Instagram @giftbizunwrapped. Let's do this!
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Your Relationship with Money - Build a financial plan that supports a healthy business future
Today I present a new way to think about your product business. It's about the reciprocal exchange of giving and getting that exists with every exchange of product and money. By reframing your thinking along these lines, selling becomes easier and the relationship between maker and customer grows richer.
Particularly with handmade product businesses, a relationship between the artisan and the recipient of a product powers repeat business. You're not only buying a beanie, you're supporting the quilter. You don't just love candles, you know the candle maker. And you're selecting that special birthday cake because you have a personal connection with the baker.
These things enrich the lives of both the giver and the getter. It not only positions your business for growth, it makes the world a happier place.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
How To Sell Corporate Gifts To Companies The Smart Way - how and when to share your products to build a relationship with potential clients.
Instead of thinking about craft shows as a stand alone sales generator. I want you to start considering all the tools in your arsenal and layering them on top of each other. That's what you do when you combine social media on top of craft shows, farmer's markets or church bazaars.
Have you heard the saying, "The sum is greater than it's two parts?" That is what's at play here. You'll learn new ways to use social media throughout all the different phases of a show: When you're preparing, day of setup, just before opening, and during a craft show.
You'll also discover creative applications for social media that strenghen your business reputation long after a show is over and things you can boost sales when things aren't going your way.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
The Road to Baking Business Success - What you can learn for ny business from this baker's success story.
All is ready to go. You've registered for a show where attendees should be your perfect customer. And you've planned your booth display and strategically estimated and made products to sell.
Now you get to "go live" and interact with customers in person. So exciting! But hold on ...
It's time to talk about the challenges that can happen during a craft show. Some are completely unexpected and some may be your worst fears. But no need to worry because when you're prepared, you can handle anything.
Let's go through the top three challenges that may appear during the show.
Solutions are coming your way. Because when you know how to manage through these obstacles, you'll be confident in your actions and boldly move towards rewarding results. That means strong sales AND realizing how much fun craft shows, farmer's markets, church baazars, flea markets, (on and on) can be!
Warning: Pen and paper may be required for this one.
CONNECT with me here:
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JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
How To Get Customers To Buy? Use these brain hacks to convey the right message, prevent roadblocks, increase attraction and trigger your customers to buy!
Selecting and registering for a craft show is a great start. Now we need to make sure you're prepared to get the best results possible.
OR you may be sitting in the other camp, thinking of all the things that could go wrong ... so you never actually did sign up for that show. (Busted!)
Let's go through the top three questions that arise as you prepare for a show.
Solutions are coming your way. Because when you know how to manage through these obstacles, you'll be confident in your actions and boldly move rewarding results. That means strong sales AND realizing how much fun craft shows, farmer's markets, church baazars, flea markets, (on and on) can be!
Warning: Pen and paper may be required for this one.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Even if you've just started a business, you may one day want to sell it. Learn how to sell your business + things to do now to make it easier later.
Celebration Time! Craft shows are finally coming back and we're all ready to be together and have face-to-face (screenless) conversations again.
Whether you've just started your business and are looking for your first sales, or you've just never considered a local consumer show as a way to sell your products, here's how to figure out which show(s) is right for you.
Craft shows, farmer's markets, church bazaars, county fairs and flea markets - there are a lot of options!
And guess what? There's still more to do when the show is over and you've packed up and left. Now it's time to analyze your results to decide if it's a repeat for next time or you should move on. This isn't as obvious a decision as you may think. It's not only about sales.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
If you've ever thought of selling your handmade goods but weren't sure how to start a craft business from home, this article is for you.
When you start your business, you have dreams of sharing your products with the world ... and also making money. That's where the script flips, doing this to create income versus being a hobby.
But how do you know what's possible? I've seen too many makers discouraged by their results because they've pulled a number out of the sky with no concrete plan to achieve it. So what's really possible in the beginning when you are the only one working in your business?
Pull out a pen and paper because I give you the formula and examples.
CONNECT with me here:
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JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Why do you hold yourself back? How to get past internal blocks and create a life and business you love.
Over time your logo can get stale, look outdated and be in need of a makeover. This does not need to be an overly drawn out process. Just follow these steps and you'll be refreshed in no time!
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Something happened last week that reminded me of this very important and free way to attract and strengthen relationships. It's free, it comes in all different shapes and sizes ... and it's a true gem.
Shoutout to my awesome VA, Michele who is the inspiration behind this episode.
Resources I mentioned here are https://bombbomb.com/ (Bomb Bomb) and https://www.bonjoro.com/ (Bonjoro).
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Are Press Releases Still Relevant and How Can they Help your Handmade Biz? Here's what you need to know from a PR pro.
As a solopreneur this is most likely a question that comes up from time to time. Should I be referring to my business as "We" or "I".
Of course, saying "we" (aside from sounding french) makes you appear to be a more established business. More professional, more successful and perhaps shifts the scale in your favor.
But does it? You lose out on a big opportunity if you reprepresent yourself as "we" if it's only you. I explain what it is in this episode and also my thoughts on the topic from several other angles too.
Listen in to get the scoop.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
How to have a Successful Handmade Business. One business owner's journey from small to building her own private production facility.
It goes against all your instincts but offering too wide a variety of products will block your ability to sell your products.
As a maker, you love being creative and have the skills to make so many beautiful or delicious things. This is where the problem begins.
Listen in to hear why this is a problem and what to do about it.
CONNECT with me here:
https://www.giftbizunwrapped.com/ (Website) | https://facebook.com/giftbizunwrapped (Facebook) | https://instagram.com/giftbizunwrapped (Instagram)
JOIN our https://facebook.com/groups/giftbizbreeze (FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Group) specially for handmade product makers.
SUBSCRIBE to the podcast so you automatically receive your new episodes right when they air - no waiting!
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267 (Apple Podcasts) | https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=andinf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1 (Google Podcasts) | https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s (Spotify)
PAY IT FORWARD by leaving a https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (rating and review).
I'd love to hear your comments. Tell me how the show has helped you or a specific guest or point that had an impact. You can do that https://ratethispodcast.com/giftbizunwrapped (right here).
Thanks for listening!
Is your biz ready to run Facebook ads? How to use Facebook ads for your handmade product business.
Do you struggle with how to talk about your small business? If so, you're not alone. This is something many people struggle with. So today, let's discuss how to tell your brand story with confidence.
Dr. Michelle works with brilliant business owners who are shaking things up but having trouble talking about it.
She combines the tools of successful social movements with the qualitative research skills she earned in her Communications Ph.D., to help them craft their powerful, captivating message.
Author of the 3 Word Rebellion, host of the Rebel Uprising podcast, and featured in Fast Company, Entrepreneur and Inc., Dr. Michelle knows that speaking about what you do in a clear and captivating way is the key to reaching the people you can help the most AND making more money in your business.
This is part 2 of our Self-Confidence mini-series:
http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/self-confidence-tips (Part 1 - Makeup Talk to Show Up as Your Best Beautiful Confident Self)
Part 2 - What is Your Brand Story? How to Talk about your Small Business with Confidence
The truth is - how we feel about how we look matters. It affects how we show up and our confidence. Today's guest is sharing her best makeup and self-confidence tips to help us show up as our best confident selves.
Beverly is a professional makeup artist, beauty expert, and http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/823-treats (educator) specializing in beauty and bridal makeup.
To her, makeup is not only art but also a way to express oneself creatively, be it showing off your personality or otherwise.
She operates her business from a place of love and passion. Empowering women by teaching them - online and in-person - how to enhance their beautiful features and achieve a flawless makeup application.
Beverly lives in the UK and is the proud mum of 2 beautiful girls.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSSurround yourself with people who inspire you to keep going.
Sometimes you have to make yourself uncomfortable to grow. Stay focused and go for it! It's worth it in the end.
If you’re uncomfortable being visible online, explore, look for opportunities, take small actions that will get you out there.
Make connections with people outside your inner circle. Get involved in conversations in http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/how-to-get-facebook-followers (Facebook) groups that you join (not necessarily related to your business). Let people know what you do and how you do it so you can become known for what you do
Find alternative ways to reach your people - move your business online, do http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/onlinecourseresults (online courses), etc.
Self-Confidence Tips:Do http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/kimgarst (Lives on social media) so people can get to know you and you get more comfortable with video.
Little steps lead to big things. For example, if doing videos feels uncomfortable, ease into it by doing short video clips until you http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/kellsie-moore (feel more confident).
Do you know about online craft shows? Tune in for everything you need to know for success exhibiting at virtual shows.
Amazon Handmade vs Etsy - Learn what makes Amazon different and whether you should be selling there, on Etsy - or both!
What is Clubhouse? What can you expect? Here are the answers you need about this powerful new chat app.
Announcing National Bakers Crafters Makers Day! This week is dedicated to honoring all handmade product creators. AND, it leads up to the first-ever, formally registered National Bakers Crafters Makers Day.
How to get Facebook followers and build an audience of true fans for your handmade or specialty business.
Tune in for a ton of pro tips and tricks on how to get attention online for your business using creative advertising and more.
How to stay healthy and productive by setting up your home office the right way - whether you are sitting or standing when you work.
Get into the holiday spirit with a special holiday story (about crafting!) by Heidi Swain plus a peek into her journey to becoming a best-selling author.
Struggling to focus on what needs to get done? Tune in for pro tips to focus on the things that will move your business forward and help you achieve the life you desire (even if you have ADHD tendencies!)
Wonder how to start a craft business (or grow an existing one)? Tips and tricks from this crafter who built her successful business in just 2 years.
How to Sell On Pinterest - Tips and tricks from a seasoned craft business owner for selling your handmade products with Pinterest.
Just in time! Powerful holiday social media ideas you can use NOW to bring in sales this season, even if you're starting from scratch.
All over the country small towns and big cities are making new adjustments to manage through what, hopefully will be the final round of this 2020 lifestyle. The vaccine is on the way and I think we have every reason to be optimistic about a freer future.
But addressing the here and now … what do you do for the holidays? You’ve already been making product in preparation for the shows. Or maybe you have an alternate plan in place yet still feel like you need to be doing more to drive sales this season – but what?!?
I’ve partnered with Holli and Robert from At Home Events to present the At Home Holiday Craft and Gift Show on December 6th. This is your golden ticket to holiday sales and perhaps for you, a replacement for the newly canceled shows. It’s how you can still sell all the holiday themed product you’ve already made. And guess what? If you weren’t planning an in person show this year, here’s a chance to do something similar without having to guess how much product to bring, worry about whether it sells, and deal with all the setup and teardown of a physical show.
All that – plus the opportunity to get into a national show with an experienced and professional team that has virtual event planning figured out. That means almost everything is done for you already. And the visibility opportunities are baked right into the program, along with email list building potential … everything we talk about to put on a successful show.
The Facebook Ads driving attendees to the show have already started? Yep – we’ve already started signing up people who will show up to your booth, see your products and are specifically looking for holiday gifts!
Let me share some more details. When you purchase a booth at the At Home Craft and Gift Show, you’ll be participating in a nationwide marketplace. You’ll have your very own Booth Page customized with a branded header, logo, your product photos, videos, social media and website links. Customers will be able to buy right from that page where product orders go through your current shopping cart system. So no extra payment setups are required.
What makes this show stand out from others is the online video conference and text chat features where you can interact in real-time with attendees. They can visit your virtual booth, read about your company and buy your products. They can request to talk with you either face-to-face or audio/text only to ask questions, give you details on a custom order they want to place, or just to say “hi.”
And all of this is done from the comfort of home. Your customers can be shopping on a Sunday afternoon from their couch, kitchen table, wherever. When in normal times, they may have been out at their local craft show or church bazaar buying gifts and stocking stuffers … they can’t this year. And this is even better!
I see these virtual shows continuing as part of the mix moving forward. People are now so comfortable with Zoom, it’s just like picking up the phone. That means virtual shows, while last year this time may have been more challenging, are now accepted and welcomed.
This all sounds great I know – and there’s more! The At Home folks have two live trainings with backup recordings to help you along. You can access them live where you can also ask questions or by recorded replay if you need them. One covers how to set up your online booth. I’ve seen the interface and most can put it together in an hour or two. But if you’re concerned or think you’re tech challenged, there are going to be two of us available to assist if needed. The second training is on how your space should look when someone comes on and wants to talk with you during the event. Suggestions, ideas and tips to help make that sale happen just be way of visual representation. Included in this training is specifically on how to manage your booth. What buttons to push to allow someone to see you, how to do text chat … things like that. All this so by the time the show starts, you’ll be...
Why isn't our email marketing working? Because we don't know what we don't know. Tune in for email insider tips you've never heard before.
Some days, running a business feels like, well ... work. But we all dream of building a business we love, even when it's hard. Tune in to hear what my guest did to fall back in love with her business after almost calling it quits.
Joyce is the owner of Joyce’s Baskets, a full service Corporate and Personal gifting company that specializes in "Welcome to Florida" gifts for conferences, conventions, and corporate functions or events.
The mission at Joyce's Baskets is perfectly captured in their slogan: We Make You Look Good. They have been designing gifts and gift baskets for almost 20 years and are located in bright and sunny Miami, Florida.
Joyce is an award-winning designer and a Certified Gift Designer who has been featured in many A-list publications – most recently VoyageMIA magazine in Southern Florida.
Putting the needs of their customers FIRST is Joyce’s top priority as they seek to build meaningful relationships that will last forever.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSDon't just guess - https://suemonhait.lpages.co/start-with-confidence-course:// (validate if there’s a market) for your product.
Never stop educating yourself. Things change and you have lots to learn no matter what industry you’re in.
Plan resources ahead so you can take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves.
Adapt to changes for your business to continue to grow.
http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/jasontreu (Networking) can be a major influence on your business growth. Get to be known as a valuable resource so others refer you.
Yes, you SHOULD have an email list for your business. Get all the details on why, how, and what to do for an email marketing plan that builds connections and increases sales.
With so many things off the table this year - live events, conferences - you may wonder how to attract customers in this new environment. Well, some activities such as connections and relationships still work just fine. Amanda is here to tell us how to use these tools to boost our holiday sales (http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/holidayselling) and more.
After more than a decade in the New York City public relations (http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/amandaberlin) world, Amanda Berlin now uses her pitch powers for good. She helps entrepreneurs step into their presence, create a story that inspires others, and spread their message in the media.
Amanda has created a library of template guides and trainings and works one on one with clients to guide them to strategic storytelling (http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/brilobato) and media relations based on her 12 years of experience guiding strategy for major brands in the corporate world.
Amanda and her clients have been featured in all types of media — from Business Insider to Entrepreneur on Fire and from WNYW Fox 5 to Bustle.com. She's the host of The Empowered Publicity Podcast and loves arming soul-powered business owners with the ideas and skillset they need to go from hidden industry gem to recognizable trusted expert.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSCreate and nurture connections that will nourish you as a person and as a business. When things go sideways, you can support each other in a variety of ways.
Develop your courage to reach out and nurture relationships.
Use 3 pillars to become more visible (http://giftbizunwrapped.com/episodes/anitahousman):
Tune in now for TONS of specific, actionable tips on how to manage stress in business (and life in general) so you can get healthier and happier the easy way!
Ever struggled with how to display your art at an art show? Get pro tips on how to show your artwork for sale from an art show producer. Tune in now for all the great tips!
Struggling to keep a positive money mindset? Aim for these 7 targets to get moving in the right direction, for both your biz and your life.
Looking to add a new income stream? Tune in and learn how you can integrate private label products into your small business!
Here's an idea you may have never considered - how to use Kickstarter to grow your handmade business! Toy Coach Azhelle Wade shares all her crowdfunding tips in this value-packed episode.
Azhelle's been having way too much fun working in the toy industry for over 10 years with companies like Toys R Us, Party City, and Madame Alexander! She has 3 patented toy products, multiple design awards, and is the host of the well-known toy industry podcast, Making It In The Toy Industry.
Today, Azhelle is known as The Toy Coach. She loves helping people outside of the toy industry find their way in so that they can bring their toy ideas to life. Her online program, Toy Creators Academy, clarifies the toy development and launch process with step by step guidance. Azhelle's mantra for her students and listeners is, "Make it Toyetic!"
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSTrain your brain to be creative and generate ideas when you need them.
Are you in biz or still thinking about it? Either way, do these things NOW to build your online presence - and set yourself up for sales!
Guess what? There are some really effective ways of marketing for small business the big boys can't use. Tune into this episode to learn how to do it.
Wondering how to use Pinterest for your product business? Tune in here to get the scoop on how to do it right and start getting traffic - and sales - from Pinterest.
Do you wonder how to blog for a product business? Learn how you can build a thriving product business with your blog in this episode. Tune in now!
FREE 5-day challenge: how to to set up Facebook Shops. Learn exactly how to setup and sell your handmade products by the end of the week. Starts Aug 24.
Are you confused by Google My Business? Join the party! In this episode, we get clear on exactly what type of business GMB is for and how to use it.
What does it really take to sell on Etsy? In this episode, we cover everything you need to know to build a thriving Etsy business.
Is Facebook Shops the best online alternative to brick & mortar? Discover how to sell your products right on Facebook and thru direct messages and live broadcasts.
Wonder which online sales platform is best for you? Check out these tips to build the perfect Shopify website for your handmade craft business.
This million dollar Amazon seller shares how she's reached this level selling handmade wreaths.
Here's why you should consider eBay as one sales channels for your handmade products. We cover what is unique about the platform and its strengths.
Learn the process from sourcing a factory, communicating and shipping, and creating a prototype - we cover it all - including the risk of knockoffs!
Some of the best new products are a spin of something already familiar. The popularity is that it's been enhanced for the times or used in a new way.
The undeniable trend is video and your time to jump on board is now! Learn 3 tips to make it easier and when to do formal video versus livestreaming.
Branding is important to your business - your colors, logo and style. But let's talk about how headshots and other images can work to bring in business.
You can't just put up a website and expect people to find you. Here's what to do instead that will get the google bots directing search results to you.
Everything you need to know to bring in sales online. Retail and homebased businesses can attract new customers and sell immediately with this system.
How to set up your business to weather the storm when devastating situations occur. Here's the way to keep sales coming in and save your business.
When the world brings you obstacles, you have to get creative to jump over them. That's what Sarah did when social distancing shut down her photo shoots.
An approcah to managing through unforseen obstacles and coming out stronger on the other side.
Little adjustments can have a massive impact on getting time back to enjoy life. Here's how to increase your productivity and win back time.
A user's perspective of the platform. Hear why Eric turned to Faire and how it's benefiting his business today.
A common mistake for new businesses - particularly handmade - is offering too many products. You think it helps sales but it actually does the opposite.
Even if you're doing great in business today, how do you keep it that way? Here's how to keep a watchful eye!
You and your business need to pivot over time - to stay current and continue to be of interest to your customers.
From customer followup to opportunities that seem to appear from nowhere, owning a business is full of surprises.
Let's talk about what to do to get the most out of these events as possible - most aren't doing it right!
How do you keep your business running and provide for your family at the same time. Your financial options are covered in a clear and understandable way.
Continually attracting new business and getting repeat sales from existing customers is the winning recipe.
Owning a business requires doing scary things sometimes. Here are a few of those times and what to do about them.
How you make people "feel" impacts your business success. There's more to this than you think.
Most of us underprice our products. Getting this right doesn't need to be hard but it's the most important thing.
Derek is the co-owner of Cherry Blossom CBD. They’re a Maryland based wholesaler and distributor of industrial hemp with an exclusive retail line of hemp based products.
His innovative line of nutraceutical supplements are all made from American grown & organically processed hemp and independently lab tested.
These products are naturally helping people find relief of pain, inflammation, anxiety as well as a host of other ailments.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSLife is all about perspective. Be open to learn from others.
Acquire and seek out new skills along the way. You never know when they can help you in your chosen path.
Don’t get stuck in your initial vision because things will change. Be open to adapt to it.
Educate your consumers so they can make informed decisions.
Make sure people understand what your product is and how it works.
Sampling is the way your customers experience how good your product is. Especially with consumable products, they must be able to taste it.
Engaging with people is the key to success at craft shows.
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://www.cherryblossomcbd.com/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/CherryBlossomCBD/)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/cherryblossomcbd/)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-spruill/)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/cherry_cbd)
Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze (https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze)
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor, please leave a review. That helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too.
Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267)
Google Podcasts (https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=&inf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1)
Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Small businesses have definite advantages over big chain and box stores. They don't need to intimidate you.
Being known as a specialist in your craft is the key to effortlessly attract customers. Here's how to do it.
Action and our inner talk are the biggest obstacles when starting a business. Here's how to deal with this.
Kim is a second-generation chocolatier. Her son Colton, now 11, was only 1 year old when he suffered an anaphylactic reaction to some peanut butter. This immediately provoked a feeling of fear no parent should ever have to experience.
In learning about cross contamination and the severity of a Peanut & Tree Nut allergy, Kim and her husband Mike soon learned he couldn't eat anything that was traditional retail candy.
This inspired Kim to take a negative and turn it into a positive so no child feels left out or different.
Having a safe line of chocolates and candies is very personal and dear to her heart because, "A Nut Shouldn't Spoil the Fun!"
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSIt's a mindset switch, take the negative and turn it into a positive.
One way to ensure repeat customers is to have unique products.
Here are some ways to attract customers – word of mouth, exhibiting at tradeshows and optimizing your website so you can be found online.
Instead of searching for people, be available to those specifically looking for you or your products.
If you’re starting out, consider a pop-up shop for testing before commiting to monthly rent for a retail store.
Start small, you can always go big later.
It’s about the experience. Acknowledge customers in your store. If they need help, take time to walk them through some suggestions. No matter what, you want them to leave feeling good about themselves.
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://www.skipscandies.com/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SkipsCandiesNutFree/)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/SkipsCandies_nutfree/)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/SkipsCandies)
Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze (https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze)
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor, please leave a review. That helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too.
Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267)
Google Podcasts (https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=&inf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1)
Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
COVID-19 has obviously become a global crisis on a scale none of us have lived through before. This sounds dramatic and it definitely feels that way since we’re in the midst of it right now.
It’s hard to see the finish line. Nobody knows how long school and restaurant closings will be. Social distancing is a new term that we are all too familiar with at this point. And we now appreciate and long for the life we led just a couple of weeks ago.
I’m not going to downplay this. Many live paycheck to paycheck and have or are at risk of being laid off. Local business owners don’t know if they’ll survive depending on how long the shutdown goes on. There are a lot of uncertainties right now. And these unknowns cause fear.
I was hesitant to do a podcast about this because I don’t claim to be an expert on the virus. Obviously. But I can’t go on as usual acting like it doesn’t exist. So I want to share with you my perspective and give you concrete actions you can take to help level out the anxiety you may be feeling. And possibly, present some upside to this crisis. I mean with all the disruption, wouldn’t it be great if something positive, however large or small, came out of this?
In this special bonus episode, I share tangible actions that you can take to keep yourself healthy both physically and financially with your handmade business.
Join Our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Become a Member of Gift Biz Breeze (https://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze)
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor, please leave a review. That helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too.
Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/id986323267)
Google Podcasts (https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5naWZ0Yml6dW53cmFwcGVkLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Q=&inf_contact_key=f00b9b282a6156da6dc2e642eb167c2f680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1)
Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Ben has spent the last thirty years helping to start and grow a company called Meadowbrooke Gourds. They now have twenty full-time employees dedicated to growing, designing, crafting and marketing gourd decor designs, each one intended to create smiles and make homes a little bit warmer.
They sell about half their gourds wholesale to customers located in every state. The other half are sold online, at their store, and through the many classes and community events that they host at their farm.
Ben attributes their success to many things, but none more important than constantly trying to be just a little bit better every year and in every area of the business.
At this point, Ben is starting to step back and let the next generation of leaders take them forward. Ben believes it will be beyond anything he could have even dreamed when he crafted that first gourd in his garage many years ago.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSPay attention and acknowledge all your success - big and small.
Watch the reactions of your customers. Find people who can tell you whether what you've created is good or bad.
Create something that people haven’t seen before. That's the way to have products that sell themselves.
Focus on one thing when you’re starting a business. Don’t try to do everything.
Bring on employees so you can focus on the things only you can do.
Get people to "experience" your product and also create meaningful experiences and connections with customers.
Don't try to mimic somebody else but compete with yourself instead. Focus on what you can adjust and improve.
Watch people’s smiles and enjoyment more than the monetary gain.
In the craft market, people want to be surprised each time they come to your store. You can be really good but if you aren’t different and better the next time they visit, you will lose customers.
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://mbgourds.com/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/mbgourds)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mbgourds/)
Pinterest (https://www.pinterest.com/mbgourds/)
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt1S4gWChqKv2DrJywrOK5w)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
After a career as a senior executive at Microsoft and then as a venture capitalist, Laura decided to build an ecommerce business around celebrating the customer as a creative force.
Every gift they send out at Knack is made to order, whether it's one gift or thousands. Each gift on the website is easily customizable and their exclusive Gift Builders system allows customers to create completely unique gifts from scratch.
As if that’s not valuable enough, they also have a Shop By Ethos feature that allows customers to find products from companies who share their values. This could be supporting a female-led business, focusing on sustainably produced products or contributing to a business that gives back to a specific cause.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSStarting a business is about being fearless.
Take a business concept, work with it and then grow it.
You'll never reach a point that you know everything. One place to seek ideas and suggestions is from your team.
With the evolution of commerce, power and control are going to move closer to the consumer.
The customer connection is about the story behind your business and your product.
There's great value when, no matter how large the company gets, each employee has each other’s back in fulfilling the overall goal - regardless of their areas of expertise.
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://knackshops.com/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/knackshops)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/knackshops/)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/knackshops)
Pinterest (https://www.pinterest.com/knackshops/)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Amy is a certified confidence coach, masterful speaker, and personal empowerment expert.
Founder of TheJoyJunkie, Amy uses her roles as coach, writer, podcaster, and speaker to move individuals to a place of radical personal empowerment and self-love.
With acute focus on helping people “find their voice,” she is highly sought after for her uncommon style of irreverence, wisdom, and humor and has been a featured expert on Fox 5 San Diego and YourTango.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSYou can’t eradicate fear when you put yourself out there or when you’re trying something new in your business. But you can contend with it in a powerful way. Be fear optimized.
Honor how you operate. Understand what makes you feel safe.
Break down goals into mini-goals. Taking baby steps allows you to accumulate successes.
The phrase “I don’t know” doesn’t move you forward. Actively search for solutions.
Acknowledge first what you're afraid of and then choose your courageous path.
Look at the key players in your life and see if they are capable of the support you need and who can bring out the champion in you.
One way to speak through fear is using victory poses.
You accumulate confidence by taking actions.
Believe in your own intrinsic value.
RESOURCES MENTIONED Power Poses (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phcDQ0H_LnY) - Amy Cuddy
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://thejoyjunkie.com/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/thejoyjunkie)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thejoyjunkie/)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/thejoyjunkie)
YouTube (https://youtube.com/thejoyjunkie)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Deirdre "Dee" is a true southern girl born and raised in the small town of Enfield, North Carolina. In 2005 she settled in Charlotte, NC and has made it home.
She is a self-taught chocolate based treat maker, proud Army wife, and mom of two.
Dee's custom design edible creations have a long record of precise execution for large companies and customers alike. Her Who's Who client list includes NBA players, NFL players, government officials and celebrities.
Her highly sought after domestic and international classes, where she graciously teaches her techniques, sell out at the $350 and up price point, making her not only a gifted treat maker but a respected teacher.
Her work has been featured on VH1, Bravo, Fox46, and has been published in a national magazine.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSAlways charge for your product - even when starting out. We're not working for free!
Use social media to increase your visibility. Hashtags are like little search engines. You want your business to come up when people search for certain words.
It's important to quantify your time. The time you spend making your products comes with a price to your customer.
Be a people person and find business opportunities through your network and personal contacts.
It’s important to have a beautiful and visual website or social media account because people buy with their eyes.
Connect with your followers or potential customers through Stories in Instagram.
Focus on perfecting a few things first before adding new products in your store.
Teaching your craft may be a revenue generator for your business. Don't be afraid to share forward what you know.
RESOURCES MENTIONED MailChimp (https://mailchimp.com/)
Apphi (https://www.apphi.com/)
CONTACT LINKS Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/823treats/)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Brian Lawrence is one of the true thought leaders in the stationery and wedding industry.
A multi-store retailer who won top dealers for numerous invitation brands, he then became VP of Encore Studios for 14 years and went on to consult, do web design and marketing for hundreds of stationery and wedding retailers and wholesalers.
In the past year, Brian has targeted his efforts to meet the tremendous demand for industry-focused website design and effective yet affordable digital marketing and social media strategies.
Brian has spoken at both Wedding MBA and the National Stationery Show numerous times. He’s also the author of “The Wedding Expert’s Guide to Sales & Marketing.”
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSIt’s not how much business you do, it’s about how much money you put in your pocket.
Bring an entrepreneurial spirit to all jobs, where you own what you do.
Understand the value of networking. Build relationships with businesses that have the attention of your audience.
Have your own website so you can truly express your brand and capture the attention of visitors.
Make yourself accessible. Your site must show what you do and where you do it. Having contact information is crucial.
Create an inviting experience. Your home page is your virtual receptionist. It must showcase what you want people to see first.
If you're a local business, have a Google My Business account to rank on Google.
RESOURCES MENTIONED Shopify (https://www.shopify.com/free-trial?ref=gift-biz-unwrapped)
Square Space (https://www.squarespace.com/)
Wordpress (https://www.wordpress.org)
WIX (https://www.wix.com/)
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://www.brianlawrence.com/)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/localtrafficbuilder/)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/brianlawrencewedding/)
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If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor, please leave a review. That helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too.
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
dOSA Naturals is all about paying homage to the women who paved the way for Charita and her two sisters.
They were inspired by stories of their Great Grandma Dosa who was born in Mississippi and had an affinity for Magnolias. Grandma Dosa instilled a strong sense of pride and simple beauty and stressed the importance of honoring the outside of your body as well as the inside.
Not only did she insist on using natural methods to accentuate her natural beauty, she also understood and advocated for daily skin care regimes free of harmful chemicals. She knew that natural was better.
"Less is more," defines the brand today since most of their products contain less than 9 powerfully effective ingredients.
dOSA is also environmentally conscientious. They pay their customers to ship back their empty containers.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSThe universe contains enough for everyone. Don't get discouraged because there's a place for you even in a well populated category.
Your first thoughts about what your business is going to be will change along the way. Keep going and trust yourself. We all evolve.
Feedback is what makes your product better. Be open. Listen to the advice of friends and hear what your customers are looking for.
Take the first step. If you don’t make a move, you won’t have a successful business.
You can't build a business in a place of desperation.
Focus on the opportunities all around you. Shift your mindset to the positive. Believe that you can.
Get in tune with your intuition. Listen and follow it.
Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Tap into your connections and seek help. It's the way to grow.
Believe in the abundance of the universe and find ways to make your brand stand out.
Incorporate easy ways for people to repurchase your product.
Your brand is everything. Make sure not to dilute it. Let people know what you stand for and stay aligned to that.
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://dosanaturals.com/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/dosanaturals)
Instagram (http://instagram.com/dosanaturals)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/dosanaturals)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Roger is founder and CEO of Good Measures Foods, a company that is improving scratch baking for today's busy bakers.
Roger leveraged the experience he gained by leading triple digit growth for several start-up retail brands to launch Good Measures.
He has a passion for building businesses by developing winning strategies, overlaying a healthy dose of pragmatism and collaborating with excellent partners.
Roger enjoys biking, family and travel.
Personal mantra: "The measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you."
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSHave focus groups to confirm that your product resonates with your target market.
It's important to be receptive and ready to take action when the right opportunities appear.
The way to grow your business is through connections.
When building a team, define the responsibilities and divide them into roles. Then find the right people to fill those spots.
To get your products on a retailer's shelf, be courageous and talk directly with the store manager.
To effectively market your product, identify a need that your product solves and speak to that. When there are other similar products, speak to meaningful points of differentiation.
The beginning of any product lifecycle is trial and awareness. a great way to raise awareness of your brand is through product demonstrations.
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://goodmeasuresfoods.com/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/goodmeasuresfoods/)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/goodmeasuresfoods/)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/MeasuresGood)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogersudnick/)
Pinterest (https://www.pinterest.ph/nicksud0652/)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Mary is the founder of Reprise, a line of plant-based activewear aiming to free your closet from plastic.
She founded the company to educate us about the ingredients in our clothing, so we have more control over our health and wellness.
Reprise products never contain oil-based synthetics or recycled plastics because of their impact on the planet. Mary believes your skin deserves only the best, so they only work with plant-based fabrics to give you the cleanest wear.
Mary envisions a future where people not only look to see what’s in their clothes, but they expect better materials.
She's passionate about environmentalism and is an active member of the NYC sustainability community.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSInvest in education about a topic that interests you and see if there’s an opportunity to create a business out of it.
You can identify and gain access to needed resources by being in person with people who share the same passion as you do. They may hold the missing piece of information that will motivate you to get started.
Don’t let the fact that there are other products out there similar to yours deter you from starting your business. There’s a way to make it unique. There’s a way to make it yours.
Keep it simple when testing your products. Limit your products and variations as you start out. You can add to them later.
Welcome feedback from potential customers to understand the receptivity and interest in your product.
Cultivate relationships to get the word out for your product. This is best done in person particularly in the beginning.
RESOURCES MENTIONED Poshmark (https://poshmark.com/)
Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) (https://www.fitnyc.edu/)
Factory 45 (https://factory45.co/)
TexWorld (https://texworld-usa.us.messefrankfurt.com/new-york/en.html)
Quad Pay (https://www.quadpay.com/)
CONTACT LINKS Website (www.repriseactivewear.com)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/repriseactivewear/)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/repriseactivewear/)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Josh Elledge is U.S. Navy veteran and launched Up My Influence to help entrepreneurs attract the perfect audiences and grow their brands without the crazy costs associated with traditional PR companies.
Up My Influence’s purpose is to DEMOCRATIZE access to influence. Josh believes he has a moral imperative to help entrepreneurs serve the world with their collective messages while growing their revenue!
Up My Influence was the natural outgrowth of his first startup, Savings Angel which has grossed more than $6 million in sales with less than $500 in advertising. He did it all through building authority and serving audiences in the media.
Josh is a weekly TV consumer expert in Orlando, writes a syndicated newspaper column to 1.1 million readers and regularly appears on more than 75 TV stations across the country. All told, Josh has appeared in the media more than 2000 times.
Josh loves living in Orlando, FL with his wife and three children.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSIdentify a life mission that you are passionate about to keep yourself in a peak energy state to serve others.
There will be bad circumstances in business. Our goal is to succeed despite the circumstances.
Build your business for a season of winter - for the hard times. Make it resilient.
When you focus on business growth, the majority of your work should be to create awareness. You have to get in front of eyeballs.
PR (Public Relations) is communicating with audiences. Offer a lot of value and people will be drawn to you.
Earning high authority in your industry opens you up to more opportunities.
Having media logos on your site will improve your conversion rate.
Constantly invest into the bank of your brand and your authority.
Communicate that you can solve your customer's problem and provide social proof behind what you do.
Have professional and consistent social media profiles.
RESOURCES MENTIONED Newsjacking Video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2giZN6dPcRo)
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://upmyinfluence.com/)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/upmyinfluence)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/upmyinfluence/)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/joshelledge)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledge)
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1DrPd_EkMk9dhDfbT6uIuA?sub_confirmation=1)
Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/4IuoU3jO9x02uvuwCWwS36)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
(http://giftbizunwrapped.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Denay-HS.png) Denay created the Foodpreneur Institute as an online resource center to educate, train and support Cottage Food Operators and home food processors.
She describes herself as a food addict (literally and figuratively), a home-based baker and small business advocate.
She's a passionate food crafter, creating unique products that can be taken to market; a pie baker extraordinaire and the mastermind behind the Charlotte Pie Authority, a custom pie shop in Charlotte, NC.
Denay is also the host of Stories of Impact, a podcast supporting home-based bakers and food crafters across the U.S.
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSLearn before you leap. Take time to learn about what you're doing, why you're doing it and how you're going to do it.
Don't be afraid to be vulnerable and ask people for help.
Your recipe is everything. Protect it with an employee Non-Disclosure Agreement.
YOU are what makes your product special. Your story is your number one marketing tool.
Stop making everything under the sun. Start with one thing and perfect it. This is the key to success.
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://foodpreneurinstitute.com)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/foodpreneurinstitute/)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/foodpreneurinstitute/)
Twitter (https://twitter.com/foodpreneurbiz)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-denay-davis-761042192/)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
(http://giftbizunwrapped.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Teresa-McCloy-HS.jpg) Teresa is the creator of the REALIFE Process®, ACC Executive Coach, Accredited Enneagram Professional, Podcaster, and Keynote Speaker.
Through coaching, consulting and training she serves her clients to move from living with their "hair on fire" to discovering practical and sustainable practices and processes to have a life and business that is extraordinary.
Partnering together her own signature REALIFE Process® and tools such as the Enneagram Typology Profile, Teresa guides clients to a fresh new way of intentional living!
BUSINESS BUILDING INSIGHTSLook for moments where you can pause and see the extraordinary.
Stay present to the work you love. Don’t get so consumed that you forget why you started your business in the first place.
Continue to evolve and pivot based on the work you enjoy in addition to what your clients are asking for.
Break things down into 90-Day Projects so the work actually gets done to move your business forward.
See things from a personality perspective. In this way you'll understand who you naturally are and where you're most likely to go off track.
Richness in life comes when we are challenged to be a better version of ourselves.
RESOURCES MENTIONED Dr. Jerome Wagner (http://www.enneagramspectrum.com/)
The Road Back to You (https://amzn.to/34olDiw) by Ian Morgan Cron
CONTACT LINKS Website (https://therealifeprocess.com)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/CoachTeresaM)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/teresa.mccloy/)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresamccloy/)
(https://share.polymail.io/v1/z/b/NWRmODJkMDhkNTFl/bXVnNE05_0NFNMR86xqDUX4hcd0FxoZN9IhjH_x7zSGocFabnxsFbS3qXEDXskVqN1uaE4DlLQBZcipfpCb0G5SYCj5cBwAVXYDsIHmKX8g11mofOVdp9w0AIYpH8EGkvf52WIN0QRCvt_-K12npDaSnwF4Cx8v1-2g29gfC6pLlgabbkncvwtSTAn2RVLstyaznk6LxtoSmoCRl13_Rrt1iKOc-sTusSM8DCA0g6WtqKWtsk5zK7Q==)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thank so much! Sue
Learn about the origin some of the non-religious traditions of Christmas. You're in for some fun and surprises!
Increasing happiness seems like such a "soft" initiative to focus on. But when your happiness level goes up through the methods discussed here, so do your handmade product sales. Not often do you hear about ways to grow your business that don't include more time and money. Yes, all the hard core business growth tactics are important but this one may be THE ONE that has the biggest impact overall.
What do you do when there's someone right in your hometown making the same thing you do? And you're just starting your business? Sam talks through her thinking and actions when faced with this challenge. She's now has solid positioning and is on fire with her business. Hear how you can apply the same strategies in your business too.
Blingzy™ is the clever way to store or bring your bling wherever you go. It's a unique jewelry carrier solution that is made of a patented combination of materials - a gorgeous fabric on the outside and a special grippy liner on the inside.
It all started just 5 years ago when Pamela lost her job. She decided to make a huge career shift toward giving back in a more personal way. So she founded Simply Sown, a for-purpose, socially conscious business.
Its purpose is to provide flexible sewing income opportunities for women in need. The tagline, "sewing seeds of kindness," reinforces the ripple effect of women helping women.
Alesia is an e-commerce business strategist. She helps physical product sellers increase their revenue, improve profit margins and bring home more cash while creating a sustainable business.
After six years in the manufacturing and packaging industry, Alesia's learned a thing or two about how to work with international and domestic vendors, make strategic production plans, analyze trends and utilize marketing strategies.
This is what she brings to assist product-based businesses.
Alesia lives in North Carolina with her fellow nerd husband, two wild boys and a rescue dog. She loves all things savory - cue the lasagna and glass of Cab.
Business Building InsightsAs a business owner, you must watch your numbers. See where dollars are being tied up in inventory, how actions affect the bottom line and keep your overall costs in check.
Have a plan for safety stock during the holidays. You don't want to miss out on sales growth because you don't have the materials or product to sell.
A strategy to consider is bundling your products during and after the holidays. That way you can quickly sell consumable or holiday themed products and turn product into usable cash.
Your email list is the key to push those bundle sales because customers will feel it's an exclusive deal for them.
See what the numbers indicate as you prepare for the following year.
No mistake is a mistake if you learn from it.
Resources Mentioned 25 Ways to Promote Your Shop (http://alesiagalati.com/giftbiz)
Contact Links Website (http://alesiagalati.com)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/alesiagalatipm)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/alesia.galati/)
LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alesia-galati/)
Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community (http://www.facebook.com/groups/GiftBizBreeze)
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you automatically get the next episode downloaded for your convenience. Also, if you'd like to do me a huge favor, please leave a review. That helps other creators like you find the show and build their businesses too.
Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gift-biz-unwrapped/)
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Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/380HmeoVquMHRzOepaoF0s)
Thanks so much! Sue
Larry of Funnier By The Lake has been writing jokes and making people laugh his entire life. Growing up north of Chicago, in Wilmette, Illinois, what interest and talent Larry lacked in sports, he made up for with a passion for stand up comedians, and characters from movies and television, of the 60s, 70s and 80s.
Larry was a remarkably horrible high school and college student, and he often says that if those years were a book, it would be titled, Fear and Loathing on Campus.
Larry’s stand-up comedy springs from a lifetime of experiences and a view of the world seen through a comedian’s filter, in which humor can be found in everything and nothing is off-limits — unless it’s not funny.
He can be seen performing on stage throughout the Chicago area.
Through Funnier By The Lake Comedy, Larry has made it his mission to bring live comedy to the North Shore.
Business Building InsightsPlay with what you’ve got to survive.
For maximum impact, you\'ve got to be memorable.
Know your audience well so you can speak with them in a way that will peak interest and spark interactions and support.
When you’re talking to potential customers, catch their response in facial cues and adjust your message accordingly.
Your material (the information on your business and your product) is your fallback in a presentation. First play off of those in the room and the situation at hand.
Make sure your website is responsive and gives correct information. It should generate leads and help you succeed and grow. Find out what people need and walk them through how you can help them accordingly.
Make it easy for people to become your customers. Once in a while, step back and approach your company as a first time visitor. Does it present things as you\'d like?
When someone lands on your website, make it immediately obvious what it is that you do.
You just don’t shut off what you\'ve learned previously. A past career, learned skill or experience can be used in a new business venture.
Resources MentionedHow Starbucks Saved My Life by Michael Gates Gill
Contact LinksWebsite
Gift Biz ResourcesJoin our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you.
Thanks! Sue
The founder, president and head beekeeper of Savannah Bee Company is Ted Dennard. Growing up in Coastal Georgia, Ted’s journey into the magical world of bees and honey was sparked by an elderly beekeeper, Roy Hightower, who believed in beekeeping as a way of life. Even after 35 years, Ted’s passion hasn’t waned a bit.…
Oksana is the owner and designer of Oksancia Textile Design Studio and School. Her passion is to help creative people express their vision and connect with their customers by creating unique and beautiful repeat patterns and collections for their products. Oksana has a Master of Arts degree from RUG university in the Netherlands. There she…
Sarah started Southern Caramel in 2013 as a way to stay home with her newborn daughter. And as her daughter grew, so did the business. Southern Caramels’ quality comes from the fact that they’re made from scratch using pure ingredients. They’re hand-crafted, hand-cut and hand wrapped too. Additionally, production is done in small batches which…
Two sisters in business together! Combining Sarah’s culinary education, and Noelle’s business background, the two put their minds together to create Berra Bites, which are dark chocolate covered fruit centers made with 100% pureed and pressed fruit. Their goal is to create dark chocolate covered fruit bites that are different than the typical fruit and…
Getting the best product photos possible is key to any business. For online shops and social media, your images can make or break the sale. Aaron studied at North Carolina State University and obtained a degree in Industrial Design. Graduating from college, he thought his path was clear to one day becoming an automotive or…
Today’s guest is Marisa Murgatroyd, the founder of Live Your Message and creator of the Experience Product Masterclass, where she helps people who teach online programs get better results for their students faster. Marisa launched her career as an artist who built a mid-seven figure online business (despite being told she had no marketable skills).…
Packed with Purpose is a specialty gifting company with a social mission. They curate high-quality business and personal gifts that create an impact by sourcing products from purpose-driven organizations. The result is a unique gift experience that leaves a lasting impression. Leeatt was inspired to start Packed with Purpose after serving in the Peace Corps…
Annya (Annie) was born and raised on the beautiful island of Jamaica. Accordingly, she is no stranger to the nourishing, healing power of oils and herbs and has always been a creative soul, with an eye for all things bright ‘n’ bold. When her first daughter, Tiffany was born with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, she…
Anna Osborn is the owner of Life Unscripted Counseling and host of the Her Life Unscripted podcast where she focuses on reconnecting couples and inspiring individuals. She helps couples and individuals to improve communication, deepen intimacy and change negative patterns of disconnection in their love relationships. Anna also works with entrepreneurial women to inspire and…
Natalie Gingrich is the founder and host of The Ops Authority. She has been in operations for two decades – either in healthcare, corporate America or as an entrepreneur. Her goal is to bridge the gap and overwhelm when it comes to processes and systems, growing a team, and setting up solid business foundations. Natalie…
Deborah Wasylko is an entrepreneur, engineer, show host and author noted for her work in corporate sales and award-winning gift design at Baskets Galore. Her personal credo is to create a life that she doesn’t want to take a vacation from. Deborah launched Baskets Galore in 2003 and has earned the “Top Corporate Gift Company…
kudu-lah, established in 2007, is a husband and wife duo originally based in Brooklyn. Harnessing the power of awesome, Kenny and Jenifer Kudulis, bring you “critters”, their original monster-like characters that are inspired by folks seen traveling through the NYC Subways. Kenny sketches, paints and names all of the characters while Jenifer creates their individual…
CEO of “Sales Maven,” an organization dedicated to authentic selling, Nikki Rausch has the unique ability to transform the misunderstood process of “selling.” Today, entrepreneurs and small business owners from a wide range of disciplines hire Nikki to show them how to sell successfully and authentically, without being pushy or “salesy.” Nikki has just launched…
When women are finally ready to put on their Big Girl Business Panties and protect their business assets, there is only one woman in the world they can call. Her name is ReeJade Richmond. An acclaimed business and legal strategist, ReeJade is empowering women to embrace their true power bossness, turning their businesses into empires.…
Meg Sutton is the boss lady and doodler behind Belle & Union, a company that sells letterpress printed cards, art prints, southern-inspired wrappings and hand-crafted artisan goods brimming with vintage wit and wisdom that tote a bit of a foodie twist – all 100% made in the USA. Meg started the business in 2012 after…
Patti Muhlenfeld is the owner of Enchanted Events but her background is actually as an Emergency Department Registered Nurse where she loved taking care of her patients. At Advocate Sherman Hospital she was often called upon to design for corporate events such as award celebrations, leadership conferences and holiday galas. Patti and her husband have…
Heidi Thompson is the best-selling author of “Clone Your Best Clients” and the founder of Evolve Your Wedding Business where she specializes in business and marketing strategy for the wedding industry. She helps wedding professionals grow their businesses and reach their goals without going crazy in the process. Her business and marketing expertise has been…
Traci believes that entrepreneurs and businesses can change the world, and her mission is to support them along the way. Today we’ll be focusing on what’s probably missing in your Facebook strategy. Have I got your attention? As founder and CEO of Divine Social, Traci helps business owners build and grow their brands so they…
It’s time to address your state of mind as a business boss. So often we talk about the tactical things, like how to run FB ads and how to compose an intriguing subject line to increase your email open rates or how to get the perfect photo for your website from your iphone. But rarely…
Sue is an insightful, energetic, and in-demand online marketing educator, influencer speaker, and a no-BS business coach. Whether she’s taking the stage at an industry conference, like Social Media Marketing World, or working one-on-one with her clients, Sue is driven to help business owners leverage the power of Instagram to meet (and exceed) their business goals.…
A fine artist turned foodie with Sonya’s Sweet and Spicy! Sonya is known for her vivid popular pop art paintings and retail products. But in the last couple of years she’s been working on a flavorful new adventure that has caught everyone (including herself) by surprise! After moving out of the hustle and bustle of…
Katie Salmon is a self-proclaimed marketing geek and spends her days dreaming about how to help business owners sell more stuff. Since 2016, she’s been serving clients through her boutique marketing agency Katie Does Marketing, where she has helped shop owners turn email marketing into a lucrative sales channel. Katie knows that not all business…
Lindsey is the owner of Verity & Co, helping small business owners grow and scale their brands through cohesive design and effective messaging. She is passionate about branding, copy and web design coming together to represent a business that will make an impact and leave a legacy. Creating a marketing message that connects with your…
Jennifer is a wife, mother, dynamic business coach, and host of The Jennifer Allwood Show podcast. She has an infectious enthusiasm for helping like-minded creative women build their social media followers and turn their talents and hobbies into lucrative online businesses. Jennifer has built an incredible social media community, with an online following of half…
Juliet is all too familiar with the love hate relationship many sugar artists have with caking. She began a new career in cake decorating 10 years ago. At the same time she was starting a family. She found herself alone, frustrated and unhappy doing the thing she loved most: expressing her love through sugar art.…
Eric DeLary is the General Manager and managing partner at Pasta Mama’s, a small pasta manufacturer in Richland, WA. The path to where he is today took may turns, from working with Burton Snowboards in Vermont to DC Shoes in California. Eric’s passion has been with iconic brands in niche industries working on projects with…
Veronica is the Founder of Vintage Meet Modern. She has over 20 years of experience in the personal styling and shopping industry, specializing in jewelry and accessories. Her company focuses on helping women look and feel their best by dressing details. The secret sauce is her hand curated collection of designer vintage jewelry that has…
Elaine Kuckertz is a trained visual artist who makes paintings as well as smaller craft works. Currently, she’s seeing success selling painted laser cut puzzles. These are smaller, more tactile versions of her paintings. Elaine loves working with bright colors and making cheerful pieces that bring people joy. She’s excited about the possibility of spending…
Episode 212 – Coming back from Social Media Marketing World, I have good news! Although the landscape continues to change – seemingly daily – there is a lot to be optimistic about particularly for small handmade businesses. To be able to take advantage of the opportunities, however, you need to know about them in the…
Episode 211 – Abby Herman is the owner of Write Solutions, a content marketing agency for business owners who want to gain visibility for their businesses with personalized content strategies and implementation. She specializes in idea generation and content strategy and delivery so her clients can keep on doing what they love in their businesses.…
Episode 210 – Sandy is the founder of Dai Cor Baskets, a company named after her two sons and created with people in mind. It’s a family business that specializes in creating beautiful and unique gift baskets for special occasions. Sandy takes pride in her ability to customize designs by placing the needs of her…
Episode 209 – Jeremy started his first business at 6 years old. His corporate career spanned 16 years as the Global VP of Marketing & Communications for a $17B/year US/Chinese conglomerate. In 2014, Jeremy rang the opening bell at NASDAQ and helped build one of the fastest growing stocks in Illinois. He has executed and integrated…
Episode 208 – Mariana Ruiz is a Certified Business Coach + Consultant and international bestselling author. She uses her background in brain science, hospital administration, and 12 years of marketing, sales and business experience to help market in a way that attracts your ideal clients and converts followers to clients through service-based selling. She has been…
Episode 207 – Christine is the owner of a thriving print and graphics shop that has been in business for 47 years. A woman-owned business, Christine is proud to be employing 5 people and 1 intern. Although her custom printing boutique is located in Baltimore, MD they serve clients around the country and worldwide. Christine…
Episode 206 – Samatha is the owner of Bird Box Gifts. She specializes in gift sets and curated gift boxes and is ready to take it to the next level. The idea for Bird Box Gifts came about as she began putting gifts together for customers in her husband’s gift shop. Men would come in looking…
Episode 205 – Debbie is the Owner and Certified Gift Designer at My Daddy’s House of Gifts located in Magnolia, Texas. She has been in the gifting industry since 2014, originally with a business under a different company name. After the passing of her dad in 2015, the company name was changed to My Daddy’s House…
Episode 204 – Lynne Somerman of Lynne Somerman Financial Coaching helps entrepreneurs feel less stupid and sad about their money through practical skill building, habit change and mindset work. She speaks about budgeting as radical self-care and loves coaching clients and seeing them light up, realizing that they’re not doomed, after all. Lynne lives in…
Episode 203 – Jeanette Andersen is a passionate and multi-talented creator. She’s already the author of 5 books. But she also has skills in photography, a talent with designing soft goods products and is considering motivational speaking. This is a common challenge for creative women. When it comes down to starting a business, there are…
Episode 202 – Brit Kolo is the Creator of the Marketing Personality Type Framework and the Host of the Marketing Personalities Podcast. Her framework is designed to match you with your best marketing strategy based on your Myers-Briggs Personality Type. She’s here to shake up your approach to marketing and inspire you to grow your business…
Episode 201 – After more than a decade in the New York City public relations world, Amanda Berlin now uses her pitch powers for good. She helps entrepreneurs step into their presence, create a story that inspires others, and spread their message in the media. Amanda has created a library of template guides and trainings.…
Episode 200 – Carol Cox is the founder of Speaking Your Brand, which helps high-performing, purpose-driven women entrepreneurs and professionals create their signature talks (keynote, TEDx, business presentation) to grow their business and become recognized as influencers in their fields. Carol is host of the Speaking Your Brand podcast and a sought-after speaker and trainer…
Episode 199 – Katie is the founder of Tradeshow Bootcamp, host of the Proof to Product podcast, a business strategist, and mentor to creative entrepreneurs. She’s helped more than 850 brands get their products on the shelves of retail stores big and small. Her clients’ products can be found in Target, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, The Container Store…
Episode 198 – Megan Auman is a jewelry designer, metalsmith and educator with over a decade of experience in selling art through a variety of channels. She designs for women who want to be effortlessly bold. She says, “You need jewelry that makes a statement but is easy enough to wear every day. You need pieces that make…
Episode 197 – A natural-born artist, Marilyn thrives on combining her well-honed sculpture and painting skills with her talent and passion for baking and edible creations. As the Owner and Creative Director of Unique Cakes, she specializes in non-traditional wedding cakes, three dimensional sculpted cakes and blown & pulled sugar amenities. Her constant experimentation with…
Episode 196 – Salome Schillack is a Facebook Ads Strategist who helps coaches, online course creators, and personal brands scale, automate and grow their businesses faster with clever Facebook and Instagram ads strategies. Through her fast-growing agency, Salome has been able to build a global team of amazing people that work flexibly and independently allowing…
Episode 195 – 5 Affirmations to Change Your Life this Year. The New Year is upon us, and for many, it’s a marker in time to make a change. It’s a time to start fresh and reset your ways and to jumpstart the dreams you’ve been thinking about and putting off over and over again.…
Episode 194 – Merry Christmas! ‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the store, employees were anxiously watching the door. Products sat neatly on the shelves with care, in hopes that a customer soon would be there. The shopkeeper was nestled all snug in her chair, while she envisioned wrapping up gifts with flair.…
Episode 193 – Dr. Michelle Gowan is a retired educator who is using all her time not teaching school to teach people to bake and decorate cookies. In her first month of retirement, she founded The Cookie School which is a mobile, home party/class where a group of girlfriends gather in a kitchen for six…
Episode 191 – Amy is a podcaster, educator and entrepreneur who has been selling online for almost 10 years. While she started on eBay, most of that time was focused on Amazon. In 2014, she and a friend/colleague started teaching others how to sell on Amazon. This has become her area of expertise. Now now…
Episode 190 – Kate Flynn is the founder and CEO of Sun and Swell Foods, a healthy snack food company based in Santa Barbara, California. Kate started her company two years ago with her husband, Bryan, after realizing that most packaged snack foods in stores are loaded with added sugars and preservatives. Her mission is to…
Episode 189 – Sal Frances is a branding and social media content specialist. Wait, let me back that up. Sal is my branding and social media content specialist. I’ve told her before that I want to keep her all to myself, but that’s not nice. Nor does that serve you at all. Plus, you have asked…
Episode 188 – Sonya is a fine artist who has created her own highly recognized individual brand and pop art style of painting. In addition to fine art paintings, her products include Sonya Paz signature Limited Edition wristwear, watches, ceramics, apparel, clocks, jewelry, and framed prints. Sonya’s products are found in boutiques, museum shops, and…
Episode 187 – Frances is in the process of starting her own business, Francesita by Frances, with the dream of making a living income with her art. Frances works on canvas and also upcyles furniture. Actually, she’ll tackle just about anything that will take paint. Bright colors and whimsical themes are fundamental to her artwork…
Episode 186 – It’s fourth quarter and you know what that means. There is magic in the retail air. Credit cards are being swiped and Apple pay is in full swing. You want a piece of this action don’t you? I know you said, “yes.” If you’re really serious, what are you doing differently right now than…
Episode 185- The greeting card industry hasn’t really seen anything new in the last 50 years … except for the cards that play music when they’re opened. Card Isle is a company, founded by three engineers, that changes that. They’ve captured all the magic that comes from a tangible greeting card and made it easier…
Episode 184- Shelia is the founder and owner of Heavenly Treats 4 U, a custom gift basket company based in Nashville, Tennessee. Shelia’s entrepreneurial spirit, hard work and long hours provide the leverage to go places she never thought could be possible. What was born out of the hospitality industry and a passion to design, has…
Episode 183 – Kristy Mangia started Giddy Up Nuts as a way to escape “the crazy” of everyday life. Today she feels lucky because it has become her everyday life! Giddy Up Nuts was born about 5 years ago in her dad’s kitchen. They started selling at the local farmers market and then took on…
Episode 182 – Katie is a mom, wife, podcaster, and business strategist. She’s also an adventurer, seeker and change maker. Katie is committed to brightening the light of women around the world in two ways. First, through her Biz Women Rock community, which supports women entrepreneurs. And most recently, through Meditation for Women, guided meditations that…
Episode 182 – A two-time Olympian, Aja Evans, won a bronze medal in the 2014 Winter Olympic Games as a brakeman for the USA Women’s Bobsled Team. Throughout her track and field career, Aja was known for her dominance in both the sprints and shot put. At the University of Illinois, she won three Big…
Episode 180 – Shawn is the owner of All The Buzz, a gift basket and corporate gift company located in San Jose, California. Shawn’s business has grown over the past 14 years from part-time & home based to very full time in a private production facility. All The Buzz focuses on custom business gifts, with…
Episode 179 – Lisa graduated from UC Santa Barbara in 2005 with a degree in English. But there was a problem, her passion was for art and design. Unsure about what career to pursue, Lisa made what she considers to be the best decision of her life. She applied to a design school in San Francisco…
Episode 178 – Who, what, why, when, where. Back in my college journalism days, these were the necessary points to cover in any article or broadcast. As a business owner, experience has shown me that the first and most important one, by a long shot, is “Why.” Knowing the “Why” of your company is like…
Episode 177 – In his law firm, Indie Law, Joey works with creative small business owners to protect their passions and give them the legal foundation they need to thrive. With these services, Joey focuses on the legal issues that matter most to creatives: trademarks, business formation, copyrights, and contracts. I knew Joey was someone I…
Episode 176 – Susan RoAne is the author of the classic bestseller – How To Work A Room® which has sold over 1.2 million books in 14 countries, as well as The Secrets of Savvy Networking, also a best seller. Named by Forbes as one of the networking gurus of 2015, Susan is an in-demand international…
Danielle is a maker and craft business consultant who loves iced lattes and pop music. Through her work at The Merriweather Council, Danielle teaches creative people how to turn their crafty tendencies into profits. On her blog and podcast, Danielle aims to inspire and support makers in business and share insights from her eight years…
Sarah Frink, CEO & Founder of Real Marketing Solutions is a creative, driven and radically authentic digital marketing strategist with a head for marketing and the heart of an entrepreneur. Sarah has the unique talent of taking complex ideas and breaking them down into actionable steps that get results. Four years ago, Sarah founded Real…
Annette started Fill My Jar Candy Company three years ago, introducing the world to a unique line of handcrafted yet traditional caramel, toffees and chocolate barks. She grew up in a large Italian family where everything centered around the kitchen. There was always good food and a large table to gather around. Even when she…
Natalie is a Business Strategist and High Performance Coach who helps high-achieving women entrepreneurs across industries and time zones build, grow and scale their business while avoiding overwhelm. She’s the Founder of the BizChix Community, Podcast, Programs and Events and has been recognized as “One of the Top Women in Business to Listen to.” She…
Bobbi is the President of Think Big Go Local, a digital marketing agency headquartered in the Chicagoland area. They focus exclusively on entrepreneurs and have worked with over 300 clients spanning dozens of different industries. TBGL specializes in getting small business messages in front of their client’s ideal customer, thereby growing their business and bottom…
The Queen Bee Artisan Market an indoor market open year-round in the beautiful tourist town of Lake Geneva, WI. Nancy has tripled in size in only three years! Going from 22 to now 75 artisans, the Queen Bee Artisan Market displays products from all over the USA with many artisans local to the area. The…
Layne’s business, The Project Booth, focuses on the inventory and ordering mayhem that becomes a struggle for many product-based businesses. Layne grew up as a math nerd, graduated college with two engineering degrees and went straight into manufacturing. She spent over a decade in the supply chain world. But as her family started to grow,…
Viveka von Rosen is Cofounder of Vengreso, the largest provider of full spectrum digital sales transformation solutions. Known as the @LinkedInExpert, she’s also the author of the best-selling book, LinkedIn Marketing: An Hour a Day and LinkedIn: 101 Ways to Rock Your Personal Brand! She is a regular contributor to Forbes, Inc, Entrepreneur, Selling Power…
Jim has spent over thirty years in the restaurant business. Companies he’s worked with that you may recognize even if you aren’t local, are Stouffers Restaurant Corporation, Don Roth’s, and Crawdaddy Bayou. Jim has traveled and consulted in the food & beverage industry for Universal Hospitality. He also started the Restaurant Row Hospitality Group, which…
Gwen Bortner is a speaker, trainer and consultant focused on the craft enthusiast niche. Her passion is working with small business owners helping them reach their individual success goals. She calls it the light bulb moment. That moment when everything clicks into place. When an obstacle is overcome or when a goal is met or…
Bri is a visual storyteller for MVMT, a direct to consumer accessory brand that has disrupted the watch industry. She is passionate about helping brands shape their aesthetic and use photos and video to showcase their product creatively. In her real life Bri enjoys “art, yoga and time with dogs that aren’t mine.” Bri’s Journey…
Are you discouraged because your small business is not performing as you had envisioned? Are you stuck and confused about how to turn things around? Do you tell people everything is wonderful when inside your stomach is churning because you know it isn’t true? Here’s a sneak peek into the new book Maker To Master.…
Bob’s company, Hurley 45, helps businesses grow their sales by getting placement in major retail chains. Do you have a vision of seeing your product on the shelves in one of the big brand stores … maybe even a box store? Bob finds that many people want to jump in without a true understanding the…
Wendy is the founder of Pinzit Limited. Actually, this is Wendy’s third career. She also co-owns a family flooring business and practiced as a registered nurse too. Wendy’s product, Pinzit, is a women’s fashion accessory invented quite by accident. She was trying to solve a problem she was having while wearing her favorite new sweater…
Nikki is the Founder and CEO of Sales Maven, an organization dedicated to authentic selling. Her success comes through the unique ability to transform the misunderstood process of “selling.” With 24+ years of experience, selling to such prestigious organizations as The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Hewlett-Packard, and NASA, Nikki shattered sales records in many…
Carole is the Executive Director & Founder of K-9 Reading Buddies of the North Shore. This is a non-profit business that supplements literacy programs in suburban libraries and schools. They use reading teams consisting of registered therapy dogs and qualified handlers to strengthen reading skills while also boosting confidence of the young readers. The Start…
Aaron Roth is the inspirational Vice President of Sales and Marketing and co-owner at Arkon Mounts, the most recognized and respected brand in the live streaming video category. In addition to being a regular speaker at live streaming and social media events, you’ll also find Aaron broadcasting daily on Facebook, Instagram Live and Periscope from…
Why is it that some promotions work so well and others … not so much? We’ve identified 5 Features that you can integrate into your next promotion to set it on fire! The good news is you don’t need to use all five. Select which ones work best based on your industry, your customer base…
RADD-Tees is an art t-shirt company that began with five high school students and a class assignment. High school artists submit designs via the RADD-Tees website. Once the design is accepted it is included in the shop and available for purchase. Online orders are taken for a design and printed on t-shirts. Part of the…
Kelly Roach is the host of the top-rated podcast Unstoppable Success Radio. She’s also an international best-selling author, and the CEO of Kelly Roach Coaching. As a former NFL Cheerleader and Fortune 500 Executive, Kelly brings a powerful combination of proven and profitable business growth strategies. This is coupled with the mindset, wellness and productivity…
I’m fresh back from Social Media Marketing World 2108. This is a conference gathering over 5,000 people from all over the world who come to hear from the leaders in the industry all about the latest and greatest social media tips. There were over 100 speakers and guess what? It’s not just about social media.…
Jodi Pavey is the owner J Pavey Designs located in the San Francisco Bay Area. On her Etsy shop you will find hand made knitted fashion accessories and home goods. Her love of knitting started as a hobby and quickly transitioned into a business 12 years ago. Today, Jodi is also an established designer and…
In honor of March being Women’s History Month, I want to take you back in time. We will be talking with Lady Bird Johnson, the wife of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson. Lady Bird Johnson’s life spans the 20th century from 1912-2007. This is a century in which the role…
Jill Fleming is sought after speaker, best selling author, and trusted advisor. While living on a cattle ranch in a tiny town somewhere in the middle of Nowhere, Nebraska, Jill didn’t have the luxury of calling for help when something didn’t work. Instead, she learned to tap into her intuition so she could rapidly create…
Michael spent 7 years building a video company that was the envy of everyone in his field, GebbsTV. Until one day, he woke up to the realization that he’d built a cage of his own making. He had given up too much of his life in the name of something that didn’t really mean a…
It all began in January 2013 when the Soyentist, Derek, and his (then) 9 year old daughter, Erin, were looking for a craft project to work on together. They settled on making candles. Starting with a kit from Hobby Lobby, they soon found that they really enjoyed making candles and loved discovering and creating new…
You’ve purchased an online course. Now how do you ensure that you get the most out of your investment as possible? This is a sequel to the prior podcast Episode 146 where we talked about whether you should buy the online course in the first place. I went over the four steps that you should…
The beginning of the year is a good time to reflect back on what happened last year and what types of things you want to do differently in your business this year. One of those, I am hoping, is investing in yourself and in the growth of your business. That is why I wanted to…
When you start a business, your logo is one of the first things you’ll think about. It’s such fun to select your name and create your logo! Here we’ll cover how to make sure your logo is as beneficial to your business as it possibly can be. If you are just starting out, this will…
Maria Bayer is the creator of “Irresistible Selling” – an online group coaching program she designed to help creative entrepreneurs book higher-paying clients, grow their business and design a life they love. She teaches the authentic selling and mindset strategies that helped her tripled her income in less than a year, and go on to…
Scott started Twice Baked Pottery as a hobby business 8 years ago. At that time he was a criminal defense attorney practicing in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area. Three years ago, after practicing law for more than 18 years, Scott closed his practice due to stress-related health issues and became a full-time potter and merchant. Twice…
The Power of Purpose is a strategy that will help you move forward with your business and produce noticeable results each and every day. What if there was no more guessing if what you are doing is the right activity for growth? Or what if there was no more focusing on the wrong things and…
On this Christmas Day, I’d like to present a lighthearted, entertaining episode on the best holiday gift of all. It’s a holiday gift tale that crosses generations and religions. Sit back and enjoy this short story by O. Henry entitled “The Gift of the Magi.” The story transcends the materialism that is equated to gifting…
Cedar & Rush is a Chicago based style and entertaining blog empowering women to feel confident in social settings and have the courage to stand out. After graduating from the University of Iowa with a degree in business finance, Nicole found herself at a crossroad. With no map or clear direction, she moved to Cedar…
Marianne enjoys the art of transforming spaces through Feng Shui practices to provide a dynamic and rewarding environment. In addition to Feng Shui training, she combines her psychology and counseling background for extra impact. It enables her to fully understand the challenges and limitations of a busy entrepreneur. In analyzing a space, Marianne helps clients…
In March of 2016, Bruce opened his Summer Classics Home store in downtown Highland Park, IL. Bruce chose Summer Classics because he has known the owner for over 20 years and has always admired Bew White’s vision for the company and the industry as a whole. Having been in the furniture business for over 35…
In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, we’re so focused on getting gifts made and sold for our business, that remembering to do our own holiday business gifting is an after thought. That’s dangerous and stressful because addressing this at the last minute leads to overspending and mis-aligned results. You throw a list…
The holiday season brings a spirit of giving … both spiritual giving and material giving. The reality is people are expecting to spend money. They have their pocketbooks wide open and need to find the right gift … and sometimes any gift … to complete their holiday list. Corporations are the same. They have to…
Distraught by the lack of handmade chocolates in her area of East Longmeadow, MA, Maureen realized she had to save others her despair and bring her community mouth-watering homemade treats! Fortunately, Maureen was sitting on many original recipes and took to perfecting them before presenting them to the town’s people. Made fresh daily with wholesome real…
In 1987, Liz’s career began where most designer’s peak – at Barney’s of New York. There she made a name for herself with a single napkin. Liz evolved her couture linen collection into a lifestyle brand with a hold in more than 1200 luxury retailers worldwide. Since then she’s been intimately involved with such brands…
For over 100 years, Lucas Candies has been manufacturing their own chocolate confections. It is a family business currently run by 4th generation Nick Lucas and his partner, Deb Bertrand. Nick and Deb have kept the traditions that were started long ago while taking chocolate making to the next level by creating combinations that will…
Ryann is the founder and designer behind GasparaFlora, a company that specializes in corporate gifting. But it wasn’t always that way. GasparaFlora originally launched in April of 2016 as a company focused on hotel welcome gifts for weddings. Very quickly Ryann recognized an opportunity and chose to pivot. Since that time, they’ve morphed into corporate…
With a BFA in Fine Arts and MA in Art History, Tanya ended up with a career in Higher Education in the IT department! Desperate for some art in her life, about 6 years ago she opened teaching and event facility called Create Studios. She describes it as an Arts and Carafes space because people…
My Secret Garden is a retail store specializing in home décor, unique gifts, boutique apparel, garden accents and more. What started in 1990 in a booth at art shows has grown into a beautiful 12,000 square foot facility in Bay City, Michigan. Today retail is changing at a faster rate than ever before. But Terri…
Dorie Clark is an adjunct professor at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. She’s also the author of Entrepreneurial You, Reinventing You and Stand Out, which was named the #1 Leadership Book of 2015 by Inc. magazine. A former presidential campaign spokeswoman, the New York Times describes Dorie as an “expert at self-reinvention and helping…
Starting out as a mechanical engineer in Austria, Klaus Haagen had no idea that he would one day be applying his expertise from manufacturing metal and steel products to creating contemporary candles. Klaus has an eye for geometric shapes, colors and textures. He was influenced by Europe’s visionary artistry and quality craftsmanship and in 2006…
Melissa Ferber likes to think of herself as a wine drinking, coffee sipping, charity thinking kind of gal. Born in Philadelphia and living her adult life in South Florida, Melissa has enjoyed raising her 2 children, Nikki and Joey, while living a full and exciting life with her college sweetheart, Stephen. Melissa has been working…
As a child, Deborah enjoyed gardening with her Grandfather. This is what inspired her to become a certified floral designer and then she learned about flower essences. Flower essences are natural remedies made from flower blossoms, which are used to uplift the mood for support in daily life. This was her calling! Deborah became a certified…
Irene Costello and her friend Joan MacIsaac founded Effie’s Homemade, a wholesale baking company. The inspiration for Effie’s Homemade comes from Joan’s mom, Effie and her recipe for Oatcakes. Effie grew up on a rural farm in Cape Breton in Nova Scotia. Like many traditional farmhouse recipes the uniqueness of Oatcakes is in its honest…
Rebecca Bloomfield of Jerry S Pearlstein Insurance has been privileged to work with the lives of famous women in American history like Abigail Adams and Lady Bird Johnson. She’s also been asked by small communities to honor the lives of women who were important to their beginnings. We have the fortune today of meeting one…
Rebekah Wilbur is a custom wedding cake designer and owner of Rebekah Naomi Cake Design. She is also the Managing Editor of American Cake Decorating Magazine. Rebekah dedicates her free time to teaching live cake decorating classes, blogging about cake matters, demonstrating at cake shows, and creating online tutorials. Recognized as a Satin Ice Artist of Excellence,…
Matt and his wife, Jennifer started their retail journey 12 years ago in downtown Holland, Michigan with a gift and decor store called HOME & COMPANY. It took a couple of years to get to that “ah-ha” moment when they realized they were focused on all the wrong things. Matt had just opened a second…
Hallie is a licensed speech-language pathologist working full time in the public schools. In her “spare” time, she blogs and creates digital resources to assist busy speech-language pathologists to make their jobs a bit easier. She started this entrepreneurial journey 5 years ago. At that time, she didn’t have a permanent job and used her…
Todd Timmerman is a business lawyer specializing in intellectual property protection. His practice spans a wide range of intellectual property and technology-related litigation and transactional matters. Todd assists clients in crafting sound intellectual property protection and enforcement strategies. This secures and maximizes the value of their critical intellectual property assets. He also handles trademark and…
Katie Wiswald is a commercial and consumer lender at Highland Park Bank & Trust, a Wintrust Community Bank. Katie has spent the last 15 years in Highland Park focusing on community lending and serving the needs of local businesses and residents. She has previously served on the board of the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce as…
Goran Donev has been dealing with computers since he was sixteen. Back then he was building his own computers and helping friends fix theirs. He went on to work in corporate IT departments and saw that something was lacking. There was an absence of quality IT providers who truly understood the needs of small businesses.…
Nicole is an income strategist who works with everyday entrepreneurs by applying corporate strategies to help build their businesses. She has worked as a client-facing business executive for Fortune 500 companies in both sales and marketing for over ten years. Everyone from stay-at-home parents to small-business owners can access her affordable and entertaining webinars and…
Getting insurance today is overwhelming. For this reason over 15 years ago, Rebecca Bloomfield and her husband and partner Jerry Pearlstein, decided to use their experience and empathy to open an insurance agency serving the entrepreneur. They provide health, life, long-term care and disability insurance to people who don’t have a company providing these benefits. Rebecca is…
Tuscany Tours is a small business owned and operated by Pam Mercer and her husband, Sam Hilt. They work and live in a small hilltop town near Siena, Italy. It all started with a trip from California to Tuscany just over 25 years ago. Little did they know that this experience would change their thinking and change their…
Rae uses creative expression to nurture self-worth, resilience, healing and social change. She found her passion after overcoming some serious life events and now makes it her mission to assist others. She helps both individuals and organizations create powerful visions that transform their lives. This is achieved by building a problem solving culture and fostering growth…
Carmi has years of experience designing gift and home decor for retailer, big box, and global distributors worldwide. He learned naturally that having product stories attached to his gift designs results in big business. He is the Co-Founder and Creative Director of Smashup Studio, a cutting edge design studio. They specialize in marketing original re-purposed Gifts and…
Robin Walker, a former elementary school teacher, has been building businesses from home for the last 14 years. She owns and runs Zainey and Zoe which offers made to order cheer bows through their website and on Etsy. Robin also connects and supports women business owners through her Women’s Business Workshop. She is the author…
Andi Malone is the owner of Infinity Gifts, Baskets, and Balloons. She started her business 11 years ago and is a professionally certified designer and the winner of numerous awards within her industry. Infinity Gifts’ services include custom gift baskets for all occasions as well as balloon design to make events unique and exciting. When her son…
Morgan Sutton is the Director of Operations at Susan B. Zimmerman Enterprise. With a Master’s in Engineering Management, she directs all business operations, logistics, and online automation systems for social media educator, Sue B. Zimmerman. Since the company’s start almost 5 years ago, she has been a core driver of the development of Sue B.’s…
Jonathan is the author of Brand vs. Wild: Building Resilient Brands for Harsh Business Environments. He is an engaging and authoritative speaker on shaping a brand that can survive and thrive, in today’s tough uncertain world. As partner and strategy director at McKee Wallwork + Company, Jonathan led his firm to be recognized by industry…
Sue. B Zimmerman is an insightful social media educator, energetic speaker, and in-demand business coach. Her blog is ranked as one of the top 10 social media blogs in 2017 by Social Media Examiner and Huffington Post recently named Sue as one of the Top 50 Must-Follow Women Entrepreneurs in 2017. Whether she’s taking the stage…
Shenia Smith started her business, Lula’s Bath and Bombs, just one year ago. As you may have guessed, she sells homemade bath bombs and also handmade soap, sugar scrubs, bath salts and lotion bars. Selling online only through Facebook and in person at craft shows, her business is exploding – just like her bath bombs…
Lisa started Earth Sticks five years ago. By her own admission, it was a fluke. She wanted to help out a friend, and before she knew it, she was launching a website and her first product. Earth Sticks are hand-blended essential oils made into a solid stick, each with a different purpose. These essential oils are nature’s…
Max is one of the creators behind the wildly popular game Cards Against Humanity. He is also a co-founder of Blackbox which is a shipping company that helps independent artists send physical goods to their customers. Max is also the guy behind several attention-grabbing media stunts. Have you heard of “Digging the Hole to Nowhere?” Or the 30 second…
Nina Nsilo-Swai has always had a passion for helping others and spent a decade doing just that in non-profit organizations across New York City. After moving to the suburbs with her husband and two sons, Nina combined this passion with her entrepreneurial spirit and formed rahababy®. The goal at rahababy is to bring joy to…
Starting in 1968, Village Common is a dream three generations in the making and spanning over 40 years. Ben and Blake create handmade, natural apothecary goods, kindled by their family history. They bring to us this new installment of family traditions blended together and thereby continue the legacy of the Village Common. Take a look at their website and…
Calley is the owner of Fat Toad Farm located in Brookfield, Vermont. Fat Toad Farm is a family-run business that produces a Traditional Goat’s Milk Caramel Sauce. Their award-winning sauces are based on the Mexican confection cajeta, and are meticulously hand-stirred to velvety perfection. Calley has spent the last nine years mastering the art of…
Brigitte has a fine art and graphic design background and has been in the advertising industry for over twenty years. Astonishingly, within 12 years, Fabscraps has grown from what started off as a small venture in a loft by 2 sisters, into the largest craft and fabric manufacturer in Africa. Fabscraps factory employers are predominantly from…
Sheila was laid off from her corporate job in 1992. So at the age of 42 she decided it was time to do what she loved – baking. Sheila took a treasured family recipe for brownies and launched a little brownie business. There were many ups and downs over the years, and it wasn’t until…
Wow! 100 episodes and almost two years have passed since the very first Gift Biz Unwrapped podcast went live … it doesn’t seem like that long! I feel fortunate to have interviewed so many impressive business owners and service providers to our industry. Over time, the audience has become defined as people who are Gifters – Bakers…
Hailing from the land of Paul Bunyan, wooded trees and lakes for miles, Tena’s big personality + aptly given nickname ‘Tena-talks-a-lot’ sent her searching for more. After spending some time in the big city with a “big girl job” Tena quickly realized that the cubicle life wasn’t for her. With a little nudge from her…
Alex is the owner and farmer of Lifegarden Farm. He established Lifegarden Farm in 2013 with plans to grow some of the hottest peppers in the world right in the heart of Florida. History has shown the health benefits of peppers and Alex wants to share them with all of us. Lifegarden Farm’s team nurtures…
Mike was born in Rwanda and immigrated to the United States in 2010 where he launched his business. Rwanda Bean Company supplies specialty coffee products in the U.S. and abroad. In turn, it supports coffee producers by investing profits back to the farms. The company began as an importer of raw coffee, and has recently started selling…
Bear Creek runs through the pasture of Jeff and Teresa Perleberg’s property in North Dakota. They raise sheep, cattle and chickens. It’s the sheep from her property that provide the wool for Teresa’s business, Bear Creek Design and Felting. Teresa has been selling her one of a kind needle felted art online since 2006. Two…
Kitcheneez is the Direct Sales division of Lisa Shively’s Kitchen Helpers, LLC. Kitchen Helpers is a food manufacturer geared to helping families enjoy more meals at home. Lisa started her business by writing cookbooks. Then after years of hearing, “we want it quicker and easier,” she decided that the only way to do this (other…
Tom grew up on a farm in central Illinois and had a rewarding career in agricultural sales and marketing. Upon retirement in 2008 one of his “chores” was to keep the birdfeeder full. This chore lend the way to his retirement avocation of the SquirrelAway Bird Café. These unique squirrel proof bird feeders are sold…
Tom Corson-Knowles is a serial entrepreneur, blogger and international bestselling author. He started his first business at age 13, manufacturing SAD lamps out of his father’s garage. By the time he graduated from Indiana University Kelley School of Business at age 22, he was earning a full-time income from his first successful business which he…
Amy is a stay at home mom who launched an accessory business after coming up with an awesome idea. She was looking for a product that would add style to her boots and compliment any outfit. When that product couldn’t be found, she decided to create it herself. Amy didn’t have any experience in the…
Tim & Angie Burton are the owners of Burton’s Maplewood Farm located on 28 acres in the rolling hills of Southern Indiana. They have been producing 100% Pure and Barrel aged maple syrup on their farm for 8 years. Most of their bulk syrup is featured on menu’s in Chicago, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San…
Abbe has been promoting Fortune 500 companies, entertainment, and nonprofit organizations for over 20 years. She has a broad background in all aspects of communications with expertise in brand strategy, social media marketing, content development, and publicity. Over the years, Abbe has successfully crafting marketing communications programs for some of the nation’s most prestigious companies…
Mireya is a Certified Balloon Artist (CBA) and a Master Certified Party Decorator (MCPD). She has been working in the balloon industry for seven years and received her certification in 2014. Mireya recently started her home based business and is working full time doing balloon décor. I ran into Mireya at the America’s Baking and…
With a background in architecture and design, Bill Stank has long had an interest in product design and innovation. He has conceptualized numerous projects and products with sketches and models. After years of imagining a truly streamlined product Cookies in a Snap became the invention that really felt right to bring to full development. Cookies…
Since 2003 R.D. Alchemy Natural Products has been freshening the world with a wide selection of over 300 organic, natural products consisting of skincare, body care, aromatherapy, dietary supplements, makeup, and more. These products are made in house in small batches, bottled and labeled by hand and are 98-100% organic, free from synthetic fragrance, preservatives,…
Dr. Ray Lauk is the owner and founder of Dr. Ray’s Toffee in LaGrange, IL. He is also the Business Manager of the Maywood-Melrose Park-Broadview School District 89 and performs storytelling and stand-up comedy in Chicago and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Dr. Ray holds three UIUC degrees—a Ph.D. in Educational Administration, an MBA, and a…
Stephanie received her esthetics license in 2003 and since then has worked in every possible job within the field. With this extensive knowledge of all aspects of the industry, Stephanie identified that her true passion is in creating hair removal waxes and skin care products. This has led to the creation of her own wholesale/distribution company,…
Derek is the President and majority owner of Northwoods Cheese Co, which was started by Randy Krause, Henry Zwicky, and Derek almost 15 years ago. Their mission is twofold; to provide Superior Products, and Excellent Service and Customer Satisfaction. One way to accomplish this is by partnering with Greenco Industries in Monroe, WI. This allows…
Andrew and Pete run an award winning content marketing company called Andrew and Pete, where they help small businesses create share-worthy content that builds brands people love. Based in the UK, they are also authors of the book The Hippo Campus which teaches small businesses in a step by step way, how to stand out…
Mindy Moore is the Director of Events and Dining Services at Ravinia, the largest outdoor music festival in North America. She has been in the hospitality business for over 40 years. Mindy worked at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC), where they merged the development and marketing departments to create a new position for her.…
Diane Campbell is the CEO of Gratitude Goodies, LLC. Diane has always had a passion for food and creativity. She recognized that a core value was missing in corporations across America … that was saying “thank you.” So she focused on the concept of building stronger relationships within businesses by expressing gratitude through delicious gourmet…
Marshmallow MBA was born over a bottle of wine when a friend asked why Amy wasn’t selling her handmade holiday confections. After some kitchen burns and several more bottles of wine, Amy launched her business in February 2016 with her college roommate from Penn State. They invite you to forget everything you think you know about…
Celebrations Fun Food Factory is a family owned and operated business established in 1990. For the last 7 years they have been a wholesale manufacturer of JM Gourmet Popcorn. An important part of their business model is that they don’t sell directly to the general public. This way they aren’t competing with their retail partners.…
Ryan is originally from a small farming community in Northwest Missouri. He’s been in sales for over 20 years and it’s definitely his career passion; first banking and now real estate. I’m not surprised he’s so successful. He’s got a style that works; friendly, helpful, and sincere. Ryan lives on the North Shore of Chicago…
Merley Greenidge is the owner of Celebrate Sweetly, a corporate and personal gifting and event company based in Thousand Oaks, California. Her passion lies in creating beautiful and thoughtful gifts that let the recipient know they are truly appreciated. She loves to create bliss one gift and one event at a time. Merley is a…
After 28 years of fighting the stress of corporate American business, Eric Rion joined the growing ranks of corporate expatriates and took on the challenges of running a small business. Having acquired Willa’s Shortbread from Willa herself back in 2006 along with other family members, the opportunity presented itself for Eric and wife Teresa to…
John Lee Dumas is the founder and host of EOFire, an award winning podcast where he interviews today’s most successful Entrepreneurs 7 days a week. JLD has interviewed over 1400 Entrepreneurs and EOFire generates over 1 million monthly listens. John’s latest project is The Freedom Journal; a gorgeous leather bound journal that guides you in…
Kara started her business, Kara’s Vineyard Wedding in 2011 as a hobby, selling handmade wedding decor fashioned from wine corks. In the early days, profits from sales were used as extra fun money, to finance pedicures, champagne brunches, and eventually trips to Europe with her husband, John. It was after the birth of their daughter…
Janet Domrase works with her husband at Alden’s Kennels. The business is a full service kennel offering boarding, training, rescue services, and other creative programs such as a children’s vet camp! Janet’s husband, Alden, ran the business for 15 years literally through word of mouth and phone book listings. Meanwhile, in 2010, after a 28…
Marla is the owner of Marla Duran, her own clothing line of the same name. She started making clothes when her son was an infant. She was living in LA at the time and sold pieces to local children’s boutiques. In 1981 she moved back east and she started selling children’s designs to boutiques throughout…
Viveka von Rosen is known internationally as the “LinkedIn Expert” and is author of the best selling book, “LinkedIn Marketing: An Hour a Day”. Viveka is the CEO of Linked Into Business where she takes the social media marketing knowledge she has developed and perfected over the years and transforms it into engaging and informational…
Shirley George Frazier is recognized as the world’s authority on gift baskets and as one of the foremost experts on starting a business from scratch. In business since nineteen ninety, Shirley is head basketologist at Gift Basket Business dot com. She helps creative people and aspiring entrepreneurs to create a great life for themselves and…
Jennifer Zanotti is the owner of JenZ’s Beauty Services. She opened her salon 9 years ago and has been a make-up artist and Esthetician for 15 years. Jen has a passion for helping others learn how to live a happier, healthier lifestyle. She strives to empower, inspire and motivate in her own unique way ……
Angela Lee opened her first Etsy shop in 2008 to sell simple jewelry that she created at her desk while working at a domestic violence hotline. Over the next few years, she developed her skills as an artisan. As her customer base grew, her hobby developed into a full-time business. Today, Brightsmith sells custom, handmade jewelry…
Ronda is the owner of The Cocoa Cabana Gourmet Chocolates. She makes all her own chocolates in the store, including toffee, caramel, creams, marshmallow, peanut butter cups, pudgies (which are turtles) and one of their biggest sellers – chocolate covered potato chips. The Cocoa Cabana is in its tenth year of business, 9 in their…
David Levine and his wife, Melissa, are the proud and smiling owners of Illinois Nut & Candy, Home of Fantasia Confections. It’s been eleven years since they purchased the business. The couple can take credit for sweet success thanks to conscious, thorough and even ingenious branding efforts. David realized that to distinguish his company from…
Jen runs three online vintage shops on Etsy. The first shop opened in 2008 with a nice mix of vintage. Several months later she niched down and started a vintage milk glass shop, and soon after that, a vintage china shop. Jen’s passion for objects with character and history started when she was little and would…
Heather Robison is co-owner and creative director of editorr. This is a professional copy-editing and proof-reading app where you get immediate online service 24/7 with editing done by real people. Heather’s prior experience includes event planning and corporate marketing for shopping center developers. She’s now in business with her husband, Brian. While working in Singapore,…
Christine been an artist her entire working life and is influenced by natural and ancient symbols. She says, “I feel they represent all that is missing in modern life: our connection to nature, our bodies, our families, and the cycle of the seasons.” Christine has been creating and selling beads and buttons since the mid-1990’s.…
For more than 25 years, Karl has been engaged in various positions in business ownership, sales, marketing, and organizational development. During the last 15 years he has served as Owner of Cooks of Crocus Hill in St. Paul, MN. Cooks of Crocus Hill is a brand driven, specialty culinary retailer and educator focused on the belief that…
Shelley Rosen, is Founder and CEO of Luxe Bloom, a venture-backed Chicago based start-up. Luxe Bloom delivers a transformative innovation by offering natural, long-lasting rose arrangements to luxury business operators on a subscription basis. Luxe Bloom roses do not require water or refrigeration to keep their supple beauty and last 60 days. Shelley was an…
Heather Ann Havenwood, CEO of Havenwood Worldwide, LLC and Chief Sexy Boss, is a serial entrepreneur. She is regarded as a top authority on internet marketing, business strategies and marketing. Since marketing her first online business in 1999, bringing together clients and personal coaches, she has played an active role in the online marketing world…
Sandy Sandler is a marketing expert and the creator of the worldwide bestselling product, the Bowdabra. The Bowdabra is a crafting tool that helps people make professional, hand-tied bows. Her products and supplies are designed to transform the creatively-challenged into creative pros. In Sandy’s own words, “The best way to be successful in business is…
At 24 years old Sarah successfully built and sold a million dollar business. It started from her kitchen table and grew to become a national corporate gift hamper service that was formally recognized as a finalist in the prestigious Australian Telstra Business Women Awards. With the rapid expansion of Sarah’s rags to riches business, she…
Cyrissa is a southern Ohio based photographer and business coach; known for her contagious energy and social media savviness! With a Master’s in Art Education, experience on the CreativeLive stage, published work, and a large following of sparkly photographers in her online community, she is well prepared to help YOU shine online! Get ready…
Julie Yusim is the Executive Director of the Wilmette/Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce on Chicago’s North Shore. She recently returned to the helm after a six year stint as marketing director for Duxler Complete Auto Care, a family-owned chain of auto repair shops. Through her Chamber of Commerce and retail marketing experiences, Julie has fine-tuned her…
Sharon Day is the Owner and Head Designer at Express Yourself Gifts and Baskets, and the only Certified Gift Designer in Massachusetts. The winner of two National Design Awards in 2015, Sharon is in her 21st year designing corporate and personal gifts and baskets. Custom designs are her specialty and she creates everything from small…
Monika Zands is an executive business consultant and life strategist who loves to help successful entrepreneurs tap into their greatness and build global empires. Her unique ability is to see through people’s perceived limitations and help them recognize and use their true gifts and expertise to build their unique and specific LEGACY. A graduate of…
Jane is the founder of TO THE MARKET, a socially-inspired business that economically empowers vulnerable women through artisan enterprise. They work with over 25 co-ops in over 20 countries to design, source, and sell raw materials and finished products. These products range from home goods and jewelry to bags and baby gifts. TO THE MARKET…
Pam Newell and her husband Tom started their gift basket business in 1979 out of their house. In 1981 they added a retail location and in 1983 a Coffee House & Bakery. They continued to expand to 4 retail locations plus an assembly plant before selling in 2005. The sale of their business was a…
Maya Liberman, inventor of Shape+Store freezer containers, is on a mission to make homemade meals more convenient than fast food! Starting from a love of baking, she first invented a container that would portion and freeze homemade cookie dough. From there the product line grew as she realized that her freezer containers can make everyday…
Kim Garst is the best selling author of “Will The Real You Please Stand Up; Show Up, Be Authentic and Prosper in Social Media”. She is also the CEO of Boom Social, a social selling training and consulting company that helps businesses of all sizes leverage social and digital marketing strategies to increase their traffic,…
Founded in 2002, Katy and her husband Philip are the owners and pioneers of the natural, African-made, sustainable jewelry and elegant, handcrafted products called The Leakey Collection. Based in the Rift Valley of Kenya, East Africa, these renowned designers use natural elements of fallen wood, sustainable grass and “bush fired” porcelain to create uniquely exotic…
Vicki is the owner of Adrian’s boutique, a retail store in Buhler, Kansas that has been in business for 33 years. Their current product mix is 50% fashion, 25% gift and 25% kitchen and gourmet. But Vicki will tell you they are really in the People Business. Their number one priority is to earn customers’…
From London, to Athens, to Munich, to across North America, Dr. Shawne Duperon, a six-time EMMY® Award winner and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, is a good gossip researcher. She travels the globe, educating corporations, entrepreneurs, universities and government agencies on what inspires people to share good things and how to powerfully lead with compassion. Her…
Johanna has been a freelance illustrator for more than ten years and works together with publishers, manufacturers, and advertising agencies. She is currently represented by the agency Wundergarden. Her target market is children and those who like fun characters and happy colors. Johanna is already known in her industry for being active and engaging on…
London Kaye is a classically trained dancer who discovered her passion for crochet at the age of thirteen. London received a dance scholarship to NYU and after graduation, dove into the local street-art scene. She began developing her signature style by crocheting on fences. She has adorned the windows of ABC Carpet and Home and…
Karyn Ranzau is the owner of Little Pink Ladybug. The company sells templates that allow crafters to create multi loop and layered custom bows for hair accessories and numerous other applications. Karyn started making bows eleven years ago. In 2008, after the creation of the template bow making system, Little Pink Ladybug as a business…
Kerry Boozenny is the founder of Social Selling Mom where she teaches people how to make a significant part-time income selling on eBay. Kerry is an Education Specialist trained by eBay and a top-rated seller. She has been on eBay Radio, and in the YouTube video “We are eBay”. Kerry started her career as a menswear…
Cathy Nolan is a Caricaturist and has been illustrating and bringing joy with her art for over 20 years. Her passion for art and people are combined in her method of drawing faces and capturing the essence of her subjects whether they are adults, children or pets! She has drawn famous celebrities such as actress…
Cydni Mitchell is the founder of Sweet Fest, a global online directory designed to connect Sweet Lovers with local Sweet Makers. By trade, Cydni is an accountant & financial analyst with a Masters from the Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She has worked closely with many of the…
This is a very different podcast than I have ever done. As you know, I’m the host of Gift Biz Unwrapped. I want to talk with you about some super crazy things that have been happening to me over the last four months. It’s beyond belief. I want to share with you because my experience…
Founded in 2009, Treasured Touch helps individuals and businesses create unique, one-of-a-kind items that help brand their business, or give a unique presentation to a gift or special event. Anita’s specialty is using custom printed ribbon alone and/or incorporated into their gifts. This simple touch of ribbon instantly transforms even the plainest of items into…
Steve Dotto is Canada’s most respected geek. As host and executive producer of Dotto Tech, a nationally syndicated TV show, Steve has entertained and educated millions of Canadians on all aspects of technology. After 20 years in traditional broadcast Steve re-invented himself learning the world of social media, online community building and internet marketing as he built his YouTube channel…
Tracy is the founder and executive director of Icing Smiles, a non-profit organization that provides custom celebration cakes to children with critical illness and their siblings. She believes that everyone has a responsibility to give back with their God given talents. Tracy has identified two. One is her artistic skill of cake decorating and the…
Elinor Stutz, CEO of Smooth Sale, delivers inspirational keynotes, provides sales training and authored The International Best-Selling book, “Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results”. Community service led to the writing of her second best-selling book, “HIRED!” CEO World Magazine named Stutz as one of “The brightest sales minds to follow…
Jennifer Eby along with her husband Matthew own Eby Farms LLC. It is a pasture based, 36 acre working farm and homestead in rural southwestern Michigan. With her bubbly personality and contagiously positive outlook on life Jennifer has taken the simple body product of soap and created a thriving home-based (stay-at-home mom) business. In 2010 Jennifer…
Jason Treu is a top business and executive coach, sales trainer and speaker. He’s a leading expert on social engineering, influence, persuasion, and networking. At the heart of his strategy is the understanding that people and your relationships are your true “wealth.” Everything we accomplish in life is with or through other people. He works…
Alfred has been a solo-preneur for more than 30 years, and has a particular interest in effective marketing strategies for very small businesses. A graduate of Harvard, he has built his career on explaining complex concepts to people in ways that they can put to practical use. Alfred is a full-time professional speaker and writer,…
Sue B. Zimmerman is #theinstagramexpert, founder of Insta-Results (the world’s first comprehensive online Instagram course) and Ready Set Gram (a beginner Instagram Course). She’s author of the #1 e-book Instagram Basics for your Business. She’s a popular CreativeLive instructor, powerful speaker on prominent stages like Social Media Marketing World 15, and a highly sought after…
Sue is the owner of Simply Sue Speaks Global Booking Agency bringing Custom Solutions for Booking an Expert Speaker! With over 40 years of industry experience as a successful corporate executive, speaker, coach & author, Sue has the professionals that can “bring the “WOW” factor to any event! Whether it’s the perfect Speaker, Presenter, Entertainer,…
Fresh Prints of CT provides artisan crafted gifts and posters to gift shops around the country and internationally. Berk and Katie research current trends and discover artisans who excel at their craft. They find joy in providing customers access to arts and ideas that aren’t necessarily mainstream. In turn, this creates an environment for customers…
Mary has been in the retail environment for 23 years, both owning her own business and as a Regional Director handling a multi-store chain. During that time, she always wished there was someone to turn to who really understood retail. Someone who could brainstorm ideas, talk through problems and strategize concepts. Friends and family were…
Madalyn is very passionate about one thing: helping her clients generate a massive buzz on social media. She does this by developing and teaching strategies that work. Her motto is “Work Smarter Not Harder.” Madalyn honed in on Twitter several years ago when she discovered that so many don’t understand how to use it. It’s…
Jayne’s background includes over 25 years in advertising media. She began working for advertising agencies, then moved into print and digital advertising sales for national magazines including Reader’s Digest, Good Housekeeping, Harper’s Bazaar and Bon Appetit. The work life was intense and called for frequent travel. After having been in NYC on 9/11 and then facing…
Baking has always been her family’s past-time, and as a child, she often watched and baked right beside her Grandmother and Great-Aunts. Royalty Cookies was inspired by her grandmother’s recipe and has been enjoyed for more than forty years by family members, neighbors and friends. Royalty Cookies, Inc. was created in January of 2010 as…
Debbie started her career in retail, working her way into management almost immediately. At 19 years old, she was the manager of a local retail store and secretary to the President of a large electronics company. She then spent 12 years at Cisco Systems as a global security professional and after being laid off in 2010, decided…
Karl is a former member of the corporate world who allowed work and business to overtake his life to the point where he ballooned to 224lbs with zero energy. He decided to dive into the nutrition world and committed himself to learning the TRUTH about how the body works. After losing 53lbs, Karl now helps…
Karl is a former member of the corporate world who allowed work and business to overtake his life to the point where he ballooned to 224lbs with zero energy. He decided to dive into the nutrition world and committed himself to learning the TRUTH about how the body works. After losing 53lbs, Karl now helps…
Lana Horton is 69 and when she looks back she wonders where time went. She has two children in businesses of their own and four wonderful grandchildren. Lana started her first business at 23 with $2,ooo. It was an all-inclusive bridal shop and became the largest store in Ohio and the only one to carry…
Rebecca Bloomfield is a partner in Jerry S. Pearlstein Insurance Ltd. The agency was formed almost 14 years ago to provide health, life, long-term care and disability insurance to people who don’t have a company providing those benefits. Their mission is to be the Benefits Help Desk for people who have none. Today, their clients…
Jenny Doan and her husband Ron, live in a small Missouri town and love the rural life. She has seven children and twenty-one grandchildren. She also has an infectious smile, and a knack for breaking down even the most challenging quilt projects into quick and easy steps. In 2008 Jenny and her family started The…
Stacey is the founder of Shopping for a Change. This online marketplace consists of fair trade products made by artisans from economically disadvantaged areas across the globe. The local artisans set their own price points, time, where they work and how they’re paid. When you purchase from Shopping for a Change, half the net proceeds go…
Terry started Fancifull back in 1987 from her dining room table. Today her business has grown into a famous fine food and gift shop on Melrose Avenue – just a 5 minute walk from Paramount Studios. A look into the Fancifull shop reveals an array of fresh gourmet foods and wine to suit any taste.…
Terry started Fancifull back in 1987 from her dining room table. Today her business has grown into a famous fine food and gift shop on Melrose Avenue – just a 5 minute walk from Paramount Studios. A look into the Fancifull shop reveals an array of fresh gourmet foods and wine to suit any taste.…
With the lens trained on everything from sunsets to spiders, R.C. Clark captures the striking beauty of the Southwest with a passion for the wildlife and natural vistas of the Arizona Sonoran Desert. Viewing her photography you can take a journey through the surreal to the downright creepy, through cactus blooms to venomous fangs ……
Jill is the Chairman and Partner of Intermezzo VP. Corporations, associations and professional organizations across the country have benefited from Jill’s personal blend of humor, storytelling, coaching, interactive participatory talks and training workshops. With over 22 years of experience, she focuses and trains on the behaviors, attitudes and techniques necessary to help individuals and teams…
Kevin Jordan is the owner of Redpoint Marketing Consultants and the host of the Small Business Marketing Minute show, a video and audio podcast that teaches simple, affordable, and practical marketing methods to small business owners. He’s also a member of the Duct Tape Marketing Consultant Network, and has recently co-authored a book entitled The…
Dani Noyes is the new owner of Olga’s Day Spa. She purchased the prestigious spa last year and comes prepared for her new business with 14 years of experience in the salon and spa industry. She has had roles “behind the chair”, in management and also training others in the field. She gives back by being active in…
Smita Singh is a serial entrepreneur and has created and sold several successful retail and services businesses. At one point, she was running two businesses while she had two little boys at home both under 5 years old. What’s her secret? Automated processes – which is what she now teaches other women entrepreneurs. Smita believes that one size does…
Jill Balick and Susie Schuster started The Cookie Joint® as a way to express their deep devotion to all things cookies, and their desire to make eating cookies fun again. Susie is a former mosaic artist and Jill is a former jewelry designer. Their creativity and love for baking is what brought them together. Cookie…
Marlena Jayatilake is the owner of Love That Spice – a brick and mortar shop where spices and teas are masterfully blended right before your eyes. Love That Spice is unique in that it offers up-to-date information on the relatively unknown health benefits of spices and herbs. Marlena has been seen on ABC News multiple…
Eileen Cyrus is a Vietnam Veteran having spent 12 years in the US Air Force. Once she retired from Civil Service she spent 10 years working several small jobs while also caring for her mother and father-in-law. She opened a gift boutique thinking that would fulfill her passion for a business of her own, but…
Anne Pazier is the owner of Santa Barbara Gift Baskets. They design unique gifts featuring the finest gourmet food, wine and craft beers from the Santa Barbara area. She specializes in designing custom corporate gifts that combine their client’s branded or personal items with their local goodies to create memorable gifts that truly represent their…
As a motivational speaker, published author, certified wellness coach and person living with MS, Barbara Appelbaum of Appelbaum Wellness is inspiring hope through mindful health and a meaningful life. By combining healthy living, spirituality, and neuroscience principles, she helps people understand how to be proactive in their health care versus reactionary in their sick care,…
Deb Condo is the Owner of Gift Basket Junction. Her basket designs have won numerous awards nationally, and have been featured in many magazines over the years. In 2013, Deb was one of the first to certify with The Gift Basket Association as a Certified Gift Educator and Certified Gift Designer. She’s on the faculty…
Kate Erickson is a creator, engager and implementor at EntrepreneurOnFire, a 7-day a week podcast that interviews today’s most inspiring and successful entrepreneurs. She is also the host of Kate’s Take: The EntrepreneurOnFire Audio Blog and author of A Beginner’s Guide to Creating an Online Business (formerly, The Fire Path). Kate is passionate about helping…
Elizabeth has cracked the code to a healthy lifestyle. This is the basis for her company Primal Potential. She started her life overweight and as many of us have done, tried every diet out there. Elizabeth was obsessed with food and it affected her whole life. This negative food focus, however, led to a positive…
In 1993 Claudia Johnson founded her unique gift company, EXCLAMATIONS! Gifts with a two hundred dollar unemployment check and a dream. Her business has evolved into a thriving, full service, gift and gift basket company, offering an entire host of innovative and custom gift baskets, specialty items, and themed gift solutions for all occasions. In…
Julie started working at The Silk Thumb at age 16. Seven years later she bought the business and learned what being in charge is all about. She specializes in designing unique interior space utilizing the world’s finest artificial flowers, plants and trees. Learn how Julie has re-positioned The Silk Thumb for strong future success. [Tweet “Lighting it Up with Julie…
Brendan is a high school assistant principal by day and runs two other businesses by night. First there is Ok! Kimonos, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu clothing brand sold online and supported by two blogs. And he is the host of Entrepreneurs and Coffee, a business focused podcast and his newest passion. While this seems like a…
Welcome! This is Sue Monhait, your host, and I want to welcome you to the first episode of Gift Biz Unwrapped. This will be a little different than future shows in that I want to lay a foundation as to what you can expect moving forward and why the podcast is here in the first…