Showcasing experienced entrepreneurs offers an added marketing communications or social media element to help promote their businesses. In addition, it provides a forum through which they can share solutions to unique business challenges that might be the answer to a similar challenge with which yet another entrepreneur is struggling. This openness of information flows with the following story offered by
Kenneth Adam Piercey, attorney
Piercey & Associates, Ltd.
PierceyAssociates.com
K@pierceyassociates.com
847-490-8450
ABOUT OUR BUSINESS
Piercey & Associates, Ltd. specializes in estate planning law. We offer a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee, and our clients do not have to pay our legal bill if they are not satisfied. Our client satisfaction rate is over 99.6 percent. Our approach to estate planning law is to minimize the delays and expenses that occur on an estate after death. Although death is a dreary topic, the importance of planning for it remains. With proper planning, considerably more can be transferred as intended. To that end, we eliminate all estate taxes, minimize capital gains and income tax, and avoid the costly delays and expenses of probate court, which is designed to protect creditors. Even if a person has no creditors, if they own $100,000 in their name alone at death, their estate is required to prove that they do not have any creditors in probate court. This burden is often placed on loved ones at a time when they are dealing with the loss of a family member.
OUR IDEAL CLIENT
A common misconception is that estate planning is only for the wealthy, but this is simply not the case. Our services can benefit every person, whether they are wealthy or whether they already have an existing plan and want a second opinion. Anyone who wants to learn more about estate planning can benefit from meeting with us. We offer free initial consultations.
UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Most of our new clients are referred to us by financial professionals. During the stock market decline earlier this decade, many people felt they no longer had an estate to plan. As with any business, cash flow was an issue and we struggled to grow our business.
RESOLUTION
We began to search for additional connections with new financial professionals, and re-connect with those with whom we had not recently met. Our plan was to meet with them on a regular basis and show them why we would be an excellent resource for them and their clients for the benefit of everyone involved. The process continues, and we continually look for new ways to grow our business as described and strive to do such a good job for our clients that they tell everyone they know about us.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Relationship building turns tough accounts into friendly clients
Showcasing experienced entrepreneurs offers an added marketing communications or social media element to help promote their businesses. In addition, it provides a forum through which they can share solutions to unique business challenges that might be the answer to a similar challenge with which yet another entrepreneur is struggling. This openness of information flows with the following story offered by
Norwin A. Merens, managing director
NM Marketing Communications, Inc.
http://www.nmmarketingbiz.com
nmerens@nmmarketingbiz.com
847-657-6011
MY BUSINESS
Established in March 1999, NM Marketing Communications, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois, is a boutique B2B marketing services, public relations and special events management agency that develops and implements growth strategies for North American professional services firms, manufacturers, distributors and trade associations. We take a personal interest in working with our diverse client base and are committed to their long-term business success.
OUR UNIQUENESS
Among the attributes that differentiate us from other agencies are the weekly calls we make to key client contacts and arranging in-person visits on a bimonthly basis. It’s simply not enough to send clients a string of emails and hope they know what we’re telling them.
IDEAL CLIENT
Our ideal client is typically a mid-size business or nonprofit group that values the benefits of an ongoing business relationship and encourages “open” communications with a professional marketing services firm. The client recognizes that we’re available to meet and strategize with them, review/evaluate a media calendar for possible business exposure or simply be available by phone to answer questions. We find that an ideal client recognizes what they don’t know and is receptive to recommendations that ultimately can further their business development or market visibility. It’s really wonderful when we’re able to work with an organizational contact that understands and appreciates why they really hired us.
BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Developing strong business relationships with those occasional clients who act very distant at the outset is always a challenge. There have been times when I was ready to discharge such accounts because they were extremely difficult to work with and they didn’t seem to have any interest in cooperating on various business matters no matter how routine or complex.
SOLUTION
With these types of accounts, I worked hard at mapping out a customer relationship plan unique to each client. I got to know the individuals involved not only on a business level, but also strived to know them on a personal level. Establishing a consistent stream of communications, fulfilling their demands, and anticipating their future needs has led to friendly working relationships among these now solid accounts that are flourishing with no obstacles in sight.
Norwin A. Merens, managing director
NM Marketing Communications, Inc.
http://www.nmmarketingbiz.com
nmerens@nmmarketingbiz.com
847-657-6011
MY BUSINESS
Established in March 1999, NM Marketing Communications, Inc. in Glenview, Illinois, is a boutique B2B marketing services, public relations and special events management agency that develops and implements growth strategies for North American professional services firms, manufacturers, distributors and trade associations. We take a personal interest in working with our diverse client base and are committed to their long-term business success.
OUR UNIQUENESS
Among the attributes that differentiate us from other agencies are the weekly calls we make to key client contacts and arranging in-person visits on a bimonthly basis. It’s simply not enough to send clients a string of emails and hope they know what we’re telling them.
IDEAL CLIENT
Our ideal client is typically a mid-size business or nonprofit group that values the benefits of an ongoing business relationship and encourages “open” communications with a professional marketing services firm. The client recognizes that we’re available to meet and strategize with them, review/evaluate a media calendar for possible business exposure or simply be available by phone to answer questions. We find that an ideal client recognizes what they don’t know and is receptive to recommendations that ultimately can further their business development or market visibility. It’s really wonderful when we’re able to work with an organizational contact that understands and appreciates why they really hired us.
BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Developing strong business relationships with those occasional clients who act very distant at the outset is always a challenge. There have been times when I was ready to discharge such accounts because they were extremely difficult to work with and they didn’t seem to have any interest in cooperating on various business matters no matter how routine or complex.
SOLUTION
With these types of accounts, I worked hard at mapping out a customer relationship plan unique to each client. I got to know the individuals involved not only on a business level, but also strived to know them on a personal level. Establishing a consistent stream of communications, fulfilling their demands, and anticipating their future needs has led to friendly working relationships among these now solid accounts that are flourishing with no obstacles in sight.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Elite partnerships and 24/7 customer service builds client trust for independent insurance agency
Showcasing experienced entrepreneurs offers an added marketing communications or social media element to help promote their businesses. In addition, it provides a forum through which they can share solutions to unique business challenges that might be the answer to a similar challenge with which yet another entrepreneur is struggling. This openness of information flows with the following story offered by
Mike Patel, owner/agent
MP Financial Group Insurance Services
http://www.mpfingrp.com/
mike@mpfingrp.com
847-809-6082
MY BUSINESS
MP Financial Group Insurance Services works with individuals, families and businesses throughout the State of Illinois providing quality products at competitive prices with an emphasis on long-term relationships. Our professional staff analyzes our customers' insurance requirements to provide the best coverage and reduce gaps in coverage. We are independent insurance agents.
OUR UNIQUENESS
We prepare a complete analysis of our clients' insurance needs and design a responsible protection program that is custom-tailored to each customer's special needs. What's more, we have access to many insurance companies which allows us to move quickly to prepare instant rate comparisons from among the country's finest insurance companies. In addition, we periodically review the adequacy of our clients' insurance programs looking for ways to save them money.
We do not work for an insurance company, we work for the customer. When a client has a loss, we make every effort to see that the policy holder gets fair and prompt payment.
OUR IDEAL CLIENT
Our ideal client profile includes individuals, families and businesses looking for a long-term relationship with a full-service, independent insurance agency they can trust to be honest and fair - one that treats their needs as if they were our own. We look for clients who are willing to establish a relationship based on mutual trust, letting us work on their side to develop a complete insurance program for their personal, business or financial coverages.
A UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Our biggest challenge is locating new customers who are willing to share their concerns regarding their insurance needs giving us a chance to help them. It takes time to build mutual trust and, since we are not representative of just one insurance company, we need an opportunity to show why that is to the client's advantage. Specifically, we're able to utilize our unique computer program that provides instant rate comparisons from only the finest insurance companies. We are diligent with keeping up with the the changes in insurance coverages currently driven by new rules and regulations.
OUR SOLUTION
When I began the company in 1999, I wanted it to represent a carefully selected group of financially sound, reputable insurance companies. Once I had access to these companies, I began contacting everyone I new - family, friends and friends of friends - to give me a chance to help them meet their insurance needs. I joined many organizations and attended every event I could. I worked long days and nights for the clients I acquired in hopes that they would refer me to their friends, family and business contacts. By always being available to clients in the evening, on weekends and holidays, I have earned their trust. Consequently, many of them now send me referrals which allows me to continue to develop the company into a full-service insurance agency.
Mike Patel, owner/agent
MP Financial Group Insurance Services
http://www.mpfingrp.com/
mike@mpfingrp.com
847-809-6082
MY BUSINESS
MP Financial Group Insurance Services works with individuals, families and businesses throughout the State of Illinois providing quality products at competitive prices with an emphasis on long-term relationships. Our professional staff analyzes our customers' insurance requirements to provide the best coverage and reduce gaps in coverage. We are independent insurance agents.
OUR UNIQUENESS
We prepare a complete analysis of our clients' insurance needs and design a responsible protection program that is custom-tailored to each customer's special needs. What's more, we have access to many insurance companies which allows us to move quickly to prepare instant rate comparisons from among the country's finest insurance companies. In addition, we periodically review the adequacy of our clients' insurance programs looking for ways to save them money.
We do not work for an insurance company, we work for the customer. When a client has a loss, we make every effort to see that the policy holder gets fair and prompt payment.
OUR IDEAL CLIENT
Our ideal client profile includes individuals, families and businesses looking for a long-term relationship with a full-service, independent insurance agency they can trust to be honest and fair - one that treats their needs as if they were our own. We look for clients who are willing to establish a relationship based on mutual trust, letting us work on their side to develop a complete insurance program for their personal, business or financial coverages.
A UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Our biggest challenge is locating new customers who are willing to share their concerns regarding their insurance needs giving us a chance to help them. It takes time to build mutual trust and, since we are not representative of just one insurance company, we need an opportunity to show why that is to the client's advantage. Specifically, we're able to utilize our unique computer program that provides instant rate comparisons from only the finest insurance companies. We are diligent with keeping up with the the changes in insurance coverages currently driven by new rules and regulations.
OUR SOLUTION
When I began the company in 1999, I wanted it to represent a carefully selected group of financially sound, reputable insurance companies. Once I had access to these companies, I began contacting everyone I new - family, friends and friends of friends - to give me a chance to help them meet their insurance needs. I joined many organizations and attended every event I could. I worked long days and nights for the clients I acquired in hopes that they would refer me to their friends, family and business contacts. By always being available to clients in the evening, on weekends and holidays, I have earned their trust. Consequently, many of them now send me referrals which allows me to continue to develop the company into a full-service insurance agency.
Monday, June 28, 2010
'Touchy feely' becomes new marketing mantra for entrepreneur
Showcasing experienced entrepreneurs offers an added marketing communications or social media element to help promote their businesses. In addition, it provides a forum through which they can share solutions to unique business challenges that might be the answer to a similar challenge with which yet another entrepreneur is struggling. This openness of information flows with the following story offered by
Marianne Guinee, group leader
Private Quarters
www.4cimgmt.com
mcguinee@4cimgmt.com
847-858-3610
MY BUSINESS
Private Quarters provides luxury bed and bath linens and gifts at affordable prices. We service consumers and businesses, do wedding registries and bridal party gifts, work with health & wellness professionals to ensure individuals get the best night's sleep possible. We offer 'green' materials such as bamboo and seacell fabrics in addition to those more traditional including fiber and feather & down.
OUR UNIQUENESS
We're unique in the sense that we provide high quality, individualized customer service and attention via one-to-one appointments and reviews, along with small group interactions. We really aren't faced with strong, same-level competition. Retail stores could be labelled competition, in a sense, but they don't provide the same quality, variety, unique exchange/return policy or shopping and satisfaction quotient that Private Quarters does.
IDEAL CLIENT PROFILE
Whether a business or a consumer, our ideal client is someone who recognizes quality and customer service while still looking for a good value for the money spent. We are not your big box discount retailer, nor are we the highest end provider. We look to service the mid to upper-class market with exceptional value and customer service.
UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Our challenge is simply getting in front of people in person so that they get that 'touchy feely' experience with our products that can't be described adequately any other way. As soon as a potential customer touches our bamboo linens, for example, they instantly 'get it.' Just seeing a picture of the same product in a catalog invariably raises the question, "So how are you different than any other supplier?" Just hearing how great a product is often times is not enough. Our clients need to feel it first before they will make that next leap to our other product offerings.
SOLUTION
Our experience has shown us that marketing in the normal sense doesn't bring in sales. So we have gone to the word-of-mouth/network marketing approach. This includes friends telling friends, home parties, vendor shows, fund raisers, etc. All of which are methods in which we can get in front of people. A number of interior designers have 'seen the light' now as well and are either representing our products or providing us with referrals to their customers. Even some of the higher end bed and breakfasts have started coming to us to use our linens. All these new avenues support the crux of our business which, ultimately, is relying on the human element to make the sale.
Marianne Guinee, group leader
Private Quarters
www.4cimgmt.com
mcguinee@4cimgmt.com
847-858-3610
MY BUSINESS
Private Quarters provides luxury bed and bath linens and gifts at affordable prices. We service consumers and businesses, do wedding registries and bridal party gifts, work with health & wellness professionals to ensure individuals get the best night's sleep possible. We offer 'green' materials such as bamboo and seacell fabrics in addition to those more traditional including fiber and feather & down.
OUR UNIQUENESS
We're unique in the sense that we provide high quality, individualized customer service and attention via one-to-one appointments and reviews, along with small group interactions. We really aren't faced with strong, same-level competition. Retail stores could be labelled competition, in a sense, but they don't provide the same quality, variety, unique exchange/return policy or shopping and satisfaction quotient that Private Quarters does.
IDEAL CLIENT PROFILE
Whether a business or a consumer, our ideal client is someone who recognizes quality and customer service while still looking for a good value for the money spent. We are not your big box discount retailer, nor are we the highest end provider. We look to service the mid to upper-class market with exceptional value and customer service.
UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Our challenge is simply getting in front of people in person so that they get that 'touchy feely' experience with our products that can't be described adequately any other way. As soon as a potential customer touches our bamboo linens, for example, they instantly 'get it.' Just seeing a picture of the same product in a catalog invariably raises the question, "So how are you different than any other supplier?" Just hearing how great a product is often times is not enough. Our clients need to feel it first before they will make that next leap to our other product offerings.
SOLUTION
Our experience has shown us that marketing in the normal sense doesn't bring in sales. So we have gone to the word-of-mouth/network marketing approach. This includes friends telling friends, home parties, vendor shows, fund raisers, etc. All of which are methods in which we can get in front of people. A number of interior designers have 'seen the light' now as well and are either representing our products or providing us with referrals to their customers. Even some of the higher end bed and breakfasts have started coming to us to use our linens. All these new avenues support the crux of our business which, ultimately, is relying on the human element to make the sale.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Unique art gallery revamps marketing efforts to better target niche customers
Showcasing experienced entrepreneurs offers an added marketing communications or social media element to help promote their businesses. In addition, it provides a forum through which they can share solutions to unique business challenges that might be the answer to a similar challenge with which yet another entrepreneur is struggling. This openness of information flows with the following story offered by
Sandy Guenther, president
Guenther Gallery and Design
www.guenthergallery.com
sandy@guenthergallery.com
630-773-4278
ABOUT OUR BUSINESS
Guenther Gallery and Design is an art gallery and conservation framer. We provide comprehensive services and art consultation for both corporate and residential customers. What we offer includes original artwork such as oil paintings, watercolors, lithographs, glicee and art glass. And, we frame unusual items some of which include medals, machetes, papyrus, clothing, musical instruments, sports equipment, and dolls.
OUR UNIQUENESS
The first thing that makes us unique is our conservation framing. This is a process in which we use only acid-free materials – acid-free mats, backer boards, backer paper, tape and UV glass which is all we ever use to frame pieces. We also provide art restoration and Photoshop™ work, plus, we are one of just a few who offers professional needle art lacing. Guenther Gallery carries a line of green frames that is continually growing and becoming ever more popular. Actually, 75 percent of the frames that we sell are green frames produced in green factories. Corporate clients, in particular, really favor the eco-frames.
IDEAL CLIENT PROFILE
We like to say that all our clients fit our ideal client profile, but in reality we are specifically targeting the small to medium-sized business looking to redo their visual image to create a more exciting customer and employee environment. This includes businesses that prefer unique items that are not catalog pieces.
UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Our number one challenge continues to be marketing our business to new customers. We have tried many conventional methods without great success. Direct mail, phone calls, coupons, and fliers just don’t seem to work for framers like us because we are in a unique type of business. Not to mention that we are currently trying to market our very unique business during a time when both corporate and residential clients are very mindful of their discretionary spending.
SOLUTION
Banking on the popularity of social networking, we recently began a Facebook™ page which, in its short existence, has already generated some interest. Our website has been very productive in helping customers find us. As a result, we will be updating it more regularly which includes a blog that features current events. We will be working a second blog on which we will be posting useful information on unique pieces, as well as talking about the latest eco-friendly items in the world of custom framing. To round out our reformatted marketing plan, we will continue with face-to-face networking since word of mouth has worked best for us, and to try to move into more corporate work. We believe that this new direction will help us create new business and we look forward to tracking what we hope to be a successful marketing effort.
Sandy Guenther, president
Guenther Gallery and Design
www.guenthergallery.com
sandy@guenthergallery.com
630-773-4278
ABOUT OUR BUSINESS
Guenther Gallery and Design is an art gallery and conservation framer. We provide comprehensive services and art consultation for both corporate and residential customers. What we offer includes original artwork such as oil paintings, watercolors, lithographs, glicee and art glass. And, we frame unusual items some of which include medals, machetes, papyrus, clothing, musical instruments, sports equipment, and dolls.
OUR UNIQUENESS
The first thing that makes us unique is our conservation framing. This is a process in which we use only acid-free materials – acid-free mats, backer boards, backer paper, tape and UV glass which is all we ever use to frame pieces. We also provide art restoration and Photoshop™ work, plus, we are one of just a few who offers professional needle art lacing. Guenther Gallery carries a line of green frames that is continually growing and becoming ever more popular. Actually, 75 percent of the frames that we sell are green frames produced in green factories. Corporate clients, in particular, really favor the eco-frames.
IDEAL CLIENT PROFILE
We like to say that all our clients fit our ideal client profile, but in reality we are specifically targeting the small to medium-sized business looking to redo their visual image to create a more exciting customer and employee environment. This includes businesses that prefer unique items that are not catalog pieces.
UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
Our number one challenge continues to be marketing our business to new customers. We have tried many conventional methods without great success. Direct mail, phone calls, coupons, and fliers just don’t seem to work for framers like us because we are in a unique type of business. Not to mention that we are currently trying to market our very unique business during a time when both corporate and residential clients are very mindful of their discretionary spending.
SOLUTION
Banking on the popularity of social networking, we recently began a Facebook™ page which, in its short existence, has already generated some interest. Our website has been very productive in helping customers find us. As a result, we will be updating it more regularly which includes a blog that features current events. We will be working a second blog on which we will be posting useful information on unique pieces, as well as talking about the latest eco-friendly items in the world of custom framing. To round out our reformatted marketing plan, we will continue with face-to-face networking since word of mouth has worked best for us, and to try to move into more corporate work. We believe that this new direction will help us create new business and we look forward to tracking what we hope to be a successful marketing effort.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Tracking social trends keeps life coach at the top of her profession
Showcasing experienced entrepreneurs offers an added marketing communications or social media element to help promote their businesses. In addition, it provides a forum through which they can share solutions to unique business challenges that might be the answer to a similar challenge with which yet another entrepreneur is struggling. This openness of information flows with the following story offered by
Jacqui Neurauter, owner
Harmonize Your Life Pathways
www.harmoniouspathways.com
Jacqui@harmoniouspathways.com
LinkedIn profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueneurauter
847-359-6391
MY BUSINESS
As a life, professional and personal coach, I help people create and manifest their goals and help them realize more passion in their lives. I do this through personal coaching, writing, workshops, support groups and courses that I teach. My approach to all this is multi-faceted. It’s helping individuals get to know their real YOU, so to speak, in hopes of their living their lives with more vibrancy, joy and passion. My clients work in the business community, are business owners, and people who are deciding what they want to do next in their lives. Many are experiencing life transitions. I help ease them through these milestones.
MY UNIQUENESS
In my work of creating harmony and balance in people’s lives, I take a holistic approach to body, mind and spirit. One method of achieving this is using Feng Shui. I visit a client’s home or office to evaluate their environment and use the analyses as a base from which to begin working with them. I like to bring more of nature into their space to create an environment that does not compromise their health and well-being. Another part of my uniqueness stems from individual style and personality. It’s a matter of people easily connecting with you or not. If they don’t they should know that there are other professionals available with whom they might be the perfect fit. I find my ideal clients to be people between 40 and 70 years old – someone near retirement or experiencing a transition in their life.
UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
As a businesswoman, my greatest challenge has always been trying to look ahead and stay on top of the curve. To keeping up with trends in order to be informed and flexible enough to continually improve and stay sharp. I am always asking myself if what I’m doing is working not only for my clients, but also for me. Are there any other things that I need to add to complement my services that people are beginning to seek out? I’m always challenged by wondering what have I learned and what can I do better?
EFFECTIVE SOLUTION
To continually improve, I do intensive research on methods to enhance my business. I talk with people and keep in touch with all media to identify the next trend that might affect my work. I need to have the latest available coaching tools to help bring out the best in people and help motivate them to reach out and find answers that they can’t find alone. By following these effective methods, I’ve been able to connect with so many different people on so many different levels. It keeps me open and aware of what is going on in the world. As a result, I’ve become a better listener which helps me better find out what’s behind what a person is saying. I see myself as more compassionate because I’ve worked with so many people who are trying to do the best they can. For me, it’s been a gift to have learned that.
Jacqui Neurauter, owner
Harmonize Your Life Pathways
www.harmoniouspathways.com
Jacqui@harmoniouspathways.com
LinkedIn profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueneurauter
847-359-6391
MY BUSINESS
As a life, professional and personal coach, I help people create and manifest their goals and help them realize more passion in their lives. I do this through personal coaching, writing, workshops, support groups and courses that I teach. My approach to all this is multi-faceted. It’s helping individuals get to know their real YOU, so to speak, in hopes of their living their lives with more vibrancy, joy and passion. My clients work in the business community, are business owners, and people who are deciding what they want to do next in their lives. Many are experiencing life transitions. I help ease them through these milestones.
MY UNIQUENESS
In my work of creating harmony and balance in people’s lives, I take a holistic approach to body, mind and spirit. One method of achieving this is using Feng Shui. I visit a client’s home or office to evaluate their environment and use the analyses as a base from which to begin working with them. I like to bring more of nature into their space to create an environment that does not compromise their health and well-being. Another part of my uniqueness stems from individual style and personality. It’s a matter of people easily connecting with you or not. If they don’t they should know that there are other professionals available with whom they might be the perfect fit. I find my ideal clients to be people between 40 and 70 years old – someone near retirement or experiencing a transition in their life.
UNIQUE BUSINESS CHALLENGE
As a businesswoman, my greatest challenge has always been trying to look ahead and stay on top of the curve. To keeping up with trends in order to be informed and flexible enough to continually improve and stay sharp. I am always asking myself if what I’m doing is working not only for my clients, but also for me. Are there any other things that I need to add to complement my services that people are beginning to seek out? I’m always challenged by wondering what have I learned and what can I do better?
EFFECTIVE SOLUTION
To continually improve, I do intensive research on methods to enhance my business. I talk with people and keep in touch with all media to identify the next trend that might affect my work. I need to have the latest available coaching tools to help bring out the best in people and help motivate them to reach out and find answers that they can’t find alone. By following these effective methods, I’ve been able to connect with so many different people on so many different levels. It keeps me open and aware of what is going on in the world. As a result, I’ve become a better listener which helps me better find out what’s behind what a person is saying. I see myself as more compassionate because I’ve worked with so many people who are trying to do the best they can. For me, it’s been a gift to have learned that.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Entrepreneur turns centuries-old art form into 21st century business
Showcasing early entrepreneurs offers an added marketing communications or social media element to help promote their businesses. In addition, it provides a forum through which they can guide other aspiring business owners around avoidable obstacles and toward a path of attainable goals. Sharing their insights begins with hearing their stories like the one offered by
Annette Kandell, owner
Quangels
visit via browser - http://www.quangels.wordpress.com/
quangels@yahoo.com
224-200-4497
ABOUT MY BUSINESS
My business started as a result of my being in a job that was very routine with limited opportunities to use my creativity. I really needed to be doing something creative and came across quilling. Quilling is a very old art form practiced as far back as the 13th or 14th centuries. The artist takes very thin strips of paper and turns them into coils and other shapes to make decorative pieces. I started making little gift boxes and one thing led to another. I coined the brand name Quangels which are quilled angles. The heart of my business is “Quangels for all occasions.” These can be ornaments, wedding cake toppers, mobiles or anything else that can be crafted with paper. I could say my business is unique in that I really don’t have direct competition. There may be some companies that create cake toppers, but none that are quilled.
IDEAL PROSPECTS
I have a couple of unique market niches. One would be young girls from nine years old through teens with whom my quilled Quangel Drops earrings are popular. The second niche is comprised of women who want something more elegant for a special occasion. For this market I created my Quangel Drops Elegant earrings in gold and/or silver. My products are ideal for people who say – “I’m looking for something really unique.”
MY MARKETING METHODS
The best marketing for me has been word-of-mouth. In addition, I’ve started a blog featuring quilling of the past and pictures of some of my work. It’s also a way for people to connect with me for custom orders. And, I’m starting to contact niche businesses in the Barrington area that would be logical partners for me – more of the independent boutique retail shops.
ADVICE TO SHARE
The one thing that I would have done differently would be to go with my instincts more. I’m all for taking advice, but many times my instincts were right, yet I listened to others. Now, I have to redo some things that others did for me and reclaim them as my own. I’d encourage new business owners to write down your road maps of where you are and where you want to be. Be flexible and focused. Ride out the hard times with humor and cultivate a few close confidants who will tell you the hard truth. Find your cheerleaders! What surprised me the most when starting to show my products was how much young boys were interested in them. Not for their uniqueness or beauty, but in more of the mechanics and engineering of the quilled characters. I always thought of them to have more a female focus. As a result, I plan to conduct classes soon on quilled objects for anyone and everyone.
Annette Kandell, owner
Quangels
visit via browser - http://www.quangels.wordpress.com/
quangels@yahoo.com
224-200-4497
ABOUT MY BUSINESS
My business started as a result of my being in a job that was very routine with limited opportunities to use my creativity. I really needed to be doing something creative and came across quilling. Quilling is a very old art form practiced as far back as the 13th or 14th centuries. The artist takes very thin strips of paper and turns them into coils and other shapes to make decorative pieces. I started making little gift boxes and one thing led to another. I coined the brand name Quangels which are quilled angles. The heart of my business is “Quangels for all occasions.” These can be ornaments, wedding cake toppers, mobiles or anything else that can be crafted with paper. I could say my business is unique in that I really don’t have direct competition. There may be some companies that create cake toppers, but none that are quilled.
IDEAL PROSPECTS
I have a couple of unique market niches. One would be young girls from nine years old through teens with whom my quilled Quangel Drops earrings are popular. The second niche is comprised of women who want something more elegant for a special occasion. For this market I created my Quangel Drops Elegant earrings in gold and/or silver. My products are ideal for people who say – “I’m looking for something really unique.”
MY MARKETING METHODS
The best marketing for me has been word-of-mouth. In addition, I’ve started a blog featuring quilling of the past and pictures of some of my work. It’s also a way for people to connect with me for custom orders. And, I’m starting to contact niche businesses in the Barrington area that would be logical partners for me – more of the independent boutique retail shops.
ADVICE TO SHARE
The one thing that I would have done differently would be to go with my instincts more. I’m all for taking advice, but many times my instincts were right, yet I listened to others. Now, I have to redo some things that others did for me and reclaim them as my own. I’d encourage new business owners to write down your road maps of where you are and where you want to be. Be flexible and focused. Ride out the hard times with humor and cultivate a few close confidants who will tell you the hard truth. Find your cheerleaders! What surprised me the most when starting to show my products was how much young boys were interested in them. Not for their uniqueness or beauty, but in more of the mechanics and engineering of the quilled characters. I always thought of them to have more a female focus. As a result, I plan to conduct classes soon on quilled objects for anyone and everyone.
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