hey there,

I getting started in creating my own gift/greeting cards, I was wondering if anyone knew of how I could make myself known to others? Other than fair's, I'm planning on going to a few local craft fayers to show them off, though I was wondering if there is any other way of showing my cards off?

Please help

general marketing?! Internet, flyers etc.

In one of my old jobs we used to have sales. and basically small self employed companies would come onto our premesis for the day - canteen perhaps - and set up a stool so our employers could have a look/buy stuff. Perhaps you could look at something like that. They may charge you a small amount, but for the publicity it would be worth it. It got know on my staff intranet.

My managers wife has a card business. She started by making a catologue and getting friends and family to take them into their works etc. Word of mouth really is the best marketing you can get

best of luck with the business

My mum made some money out of selling hand made cards.

She sold quite a lot of them at nurseys and primary schools, as parents came to pick up their children...

There are a few primary schools around here I could do that, and a catalogue? How many cards had your boss made treacle to create a catalogue?

Have you thought about creating a website with images of the cards that you have made? It doesn't necessarily need a shopping cart, you could just let people contact you if you are interested.

hmm. you could try sending a personalised card to the features editor at your local paper, with details on who you are and info on your new business...perhaps ask them to bear you in mind if they are ever writing anything on small/craft businesses in the area...

Also, you should ask in local shops to see if they would like to stock your cards. They would need to be independent little craft-style shops. Also, visit local businesses...especially something that is mainly a female industry. Definitely call before tho, to ask permission. If you make an appointment to pop into reception and leave some cards with your number, I am sure you will hear from someone!

Good luck.

I make my own cards, I take them into where I work, mainly before christmas, easter, mothers day etc. I also sell them in both of the pubs in my village. I found introducing them initially before christmas when the pubs are busier and people are looking at buying cards anyway was a good starter, word of mouth works best if you are doing as a hobby mainly but want to recover your costs.

I make my own cards some for charity and some for friends and family. my sister has a shop she sells bread milk ect and my cards . its hard getting known