PR Chat 09-18-07

[2007.09.18 18:58:38] Welcome to the CafePress Chat Room
[2007.09.18 18:58:38] DooniDesigns has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 18:58:39] All users in this room have been allowed to talk
[2007.09.18 18:58:43] Renee has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 18:58:43] MarcCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 18:58:45] Blonde Designs has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 18:59:32] fusions has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 18:59:33] ninaPA has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 18:59:35] Gandalf_Parker has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 18:59:48] Karen has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:00:00] MarcCP: Hello Everyone
[2007.09.18 19:00:02] BrittaCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:00:02] khorah has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:00:22] BrittaCP: Hi everyone!
[2007.09.18 19:00:22] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2007.09.18 19:00:23] MarcCP: I'm going to wait one minute, I think a few people may still pop in
[2007.09.18 19:00:28] Kim - LTT has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:00:33] BrittaCP: Thanks for joining
[2007.09.18 19:00:37] FJS has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:01:02] JudiQue has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:01:03] DooniDesigns: hi
[2007.09.18 19:01:57] Alan (deadhippo) has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:02:02] gaS has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:02:13] MarcCP: Ok - lets get started
[2007.09.18 19:02:23] MarcCP: So… PR – what’s it all about – that’s what I’m here to talk about today
[2007.09.18 19:02:27] LittleLizzyLou has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:02:38] MarcCP: PR means a lot of different things to a lot of different people, and in our last chat (about how we can help Shopkeepers with PR) it became clear that a refresher course with be helpful.
[2007.09.18 19:02:51] SaraCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:02:52] MarcCP: What I noticed was that almost all of the questions were about press releases.
[2007.09.18 19:03:04] apparelparade has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:03:11] KC Graphics has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:03:20] SaraCP: hello everyone
[2007.09.18 19:03:23] MarcCP: And PR is about so much more. So, For the purpose of tonight let’s focus on what PR is, what it’s not, and how we think you can use it for your shop.
[2007.09.18 19:03:41] MarcCP: Thats quite a bit of stuff to talk about, but here’s the agenda
[2007.09.18 19:03:53] MarcCP: 1. What is PR, what’s NOT P
[2007.09.18 19:04:01] mamm has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:04:04] MarcCP: 2. What does the CafePress.com PR Department do
[2007.09.18 19:04:05] debbie@just4me.us has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:04:09] AngelaCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:04:12] MarcCP: 3. What types of PR are successful for shopkeepers/what can you do?
[2007.09.18 19:04:17] Sandra has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:04:25] MarcCP: 4. How can CafePress help?
[2007.09.18 19:04:32] MarcCP: 5. Q&A
[2007.09.18 19:04:52] MarcCP: We'll start with "what is PR"?
[2007.09.18 19:04:58] refinish69 has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:05:03] Winter has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:05:20] BrittaCP: Just a reminder, this chat is moderated. So if youmay not see your comments right away
[2007.09.18 19:05:47] BrittaCP: We'll try to get every one's questions in the hour that we have
[2007.09.18 19:05:51] Chris Scroggins has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:06:27] MarcCP: Thanks Britta - back to the program - What is PR?
[2007.09.18 19:06:39] MarcCP: A few of you may have seen some of this before – so be patient and we’ll get to Q&A ASAP
[2007.09.18 19:06:47] MarcCP: What is PR - Often pointing out the differences between PR and Advertising helps people understand what PR is…
[2007.09.18 19:06:53] apparelparade has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:07:04] MarcCP: PR: Free Placemen
[2007.09.18 19:07:11] MarcCP: Advertising: Paid Placement
[2007.09.18 19:07:13] fusions has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:07:21] MarcCP: PR is: Journalistic Slant – a journalist can write what they want – no matter how you position your stor
[2007.09.18 19:07:32] MarcCP: Advertising is: Controlled – you have complete creative control
[2007.09.18 19:07:34] Karen has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:07:41] MarcCP: PR is: Usually only runs one or two times per story (there are exceptions
[2007.09.18 19:08:07] MarcCP: Advertising is: Will run as often as you are willing to pay
[2007.09.18 19:08:10] kaosnorway has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:08:20] MarcCP: PR is: Viewed as a third party endorsemen
[2007.09.18 19:08:32] MarcCP: Advertising is: Media savvy consumers know its and ad, and tend to be skeptical
[2007.09.18 19:08:41] MarcCP: PR Creates credibilit
[2007.09.18 19:08:49] MarcCP: Advertising Creates Visibility
[2007.09.18 19:08:58] cowpie has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:09:03] MarcCP: PR is: Time consuming, not easy, no guarantee
[2007.09.18 19:09:13] MarcCP: Advertising is: Easy if you have $ to spend
[2007.09.18 19:09:33] MarcCP: PR creates: Publicity, Increased Awareness, Increased Traffic, $$$ - Yes a well-placed story can increase sales.
[2007.09.18 19:09:44] MarcCP: So how is it done -
[2007.09.18 19:09:54] Lekker Jen has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:10:04] MarcCP: There are many tactics. The key to good PR is: Know your audience, know your products, tell your story (pitch) to the right media, and make sure it’s a relevant/newsworthy story.
[2007.09.18 19:10:12] MarcCP: That’s a good basic formula.
[2007.09.18 19:10:19] Chris Scroggins has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:10:26] MarcCP: Tools? The basic tools are: press release, press contacts, email, a phone and a really good idea
[2007.09.18 19:10:37] Chris Scroggins has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:10:37] MarcCP: Creativity sure helps – before you do anything ask yourself
[2007.09.18 19:10:51] MarcCP: If I was a reporter - sitting at my desk with an in-basket of 100 press releases, and phone ringing constantly – will I want to hear your story?
[2007.09.18 19:11:02] MarcCP: So – why do it?
[2007.09.18 19:11:21] MarcCP: PR is difficult - It can be discouraging at times - but let me tell you - a placement in the LA times or even a small paper is such an amazing thing
[2007.09.18 19:11:37] MarcCP: Start by thinking of a story you want to tell. This could be about a product, your personal story, or a story about your shop.
[2007.09.18 19:12:07] MarcCP: Then find your media Target - there are tons of media possibilities - but targeting is extremely important - you need to understand who the exact person and media who will be interested in your story - that takes a lot of research
[2007.09.18 19:12:19] MarcCP: Then work on the approach. More and more often email is the best bet
[2007.09.18 19:12:33] dreamup has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:12:35] MarcCP: This can be a simple email “pitching” your story, or a formal press release.
[2007.09.18 19:12:38] KC Graphics has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:12:48] MarcCP: In general you want to catch attention of a reporter in about one or two sentences - whether this is a press release, or an email
[2007.09.18 19:12:59] MarcCP: Or you can give them a call. Always practice your pitch so you can “sell” your story in a sentence or two.
[2007.09.18 19:13:08] MarcCP: Believe me – this is really hard.
[2007.09.18 19:13:23] MarcCP: A quick tip – when you get a reporter on the phone start by introducing yourself and saying “I have a story I think you’ll love and I’m wondering if you have one minute”.
[2007.09.18 19:13:25] Photo Girl has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:13:32] blip has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:13:41] MarcCP: You’ll then give your pitch – keep it VERY short and to the point. At the end of that minute you’ll know if they’re interested if they start asking questions. If they end the call you know its time to move on to the next reporter on your list.
[2007.09.18 19:13:42] Timewarp has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:13:45] Gretel has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:14:00] cowpie has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:14:14] KC Graphics has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:14:15] electricgreen has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:14:30] MarcCP: anither tip – don’t pester reporters. One of the things reporters have told me is that if one person continually sends them misguided releases or pitches - they're likely to be be black listed - not sure how true it is - but it is a very important thing to remember.
[2007.09.18 19:15:52] MarcCP: So - moving on to #2 - What does the CP PR dept do...
[2007.09.18 19:16:17] MarcCP: At CafePress we call the department Communications – and it does two things, PR and it manages all corporate communications.
[2007.09.18 19:16:25] MarcCP: Tonight we focus on P
[2007.09.18 19:16:40] dirtyword has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:16:41] hi has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:16:49] MarcCP: basically we manage corporate information, company image, new product announcements, misc. branding opportunities, partnerships, trade shows, and crisis communication.
[2007.09.18 19:16:59] MarcCP: press relationships, press tours, speaking opportunities for CP staff
[2007.09.18 19:17:09] MarcCP: and the list goes on
[2007.09.18 19:17:12] MarcCP: and on
[2007.09.18 19:17:14] MarcCP: and on
[2007.09.18 19:17:19] MarcCP: and on...
[2007.09.18 19:17:32] refinish69: lol
[2007.09.18 19:17:36] Renee: ok, we gets it ;)
[2007.09.18 19:17:57] MarcCP: So, now i'm moving on to What SK's can do
[2007.09.18 19:18:33] MarcCP: Can any of you give examples of what you've done that has been successful (related to PR )?
[2007.09.18 19:18:55] KC Graphics: blogs
[2007.09.18 19:19:15] MarcCP: ok, thanks
[2007.09.18 19:19:19] MarcCP: blogs are great
[2007.09.18 19:19:21] refinish69: With your help I sent out press releases about a couple of designs and got mentioned in some small papers
[2007.09.18 19:19:44] MarcCP: That's great - I'm glad it worked - were you happy with the results?
[2007.09.18 19:20:10] debbie@just4me.us: I just started blogging and I have not gotten any sells from it-what do you suggest?
[2007.09.18 19:20:12] refinish69: Got a few sales and lots of return business fomr the areas
[2007.09.18 19:20:34] kaosnorway has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:20:35] Gandalf_Parker: got my shop discussed on sites that were both Pro and Con to the hot topic
[2007.09.18 19:21:00] MarcCP: Great examples - thanks
[2007.09.18 19:21:36] blip has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:21:55] heni has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:21:56] Alan (deadhippo): I had a country design where the map didn't match the name and it brought a huge amount of vistors never seen before or since...it was unintentional PR and I got a few sales from it...not that design though...which I removed to the detriment of visits to my store
[2007.09.18 19:21:59] MarcCP: We are able to help to a caertina extent - and I want to introduce Sara (again) and she'll briefly talk about what we can do to help - then we'll jump into questions...
[2007.09.18 19:22:01] preggoprincess has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:22:05] MarcCP: Sara take it away
[2007.09.18 19:22:07] cowpie has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:22:09] SaraCP: hello
[2007.09.18 19:22:19] Alan (deadhippo): hi
[2007.09.18 19:22:25] SaraCP: We went over this program in our last chat – and you can read about it here:
[2007.09.18 19:22:38] SaraCP: http://www.cafepress.com/cp/learn/pr_overview
[2007.09.18 19:22:56] SaraCP: You can…
Have your Press Release Featured in the CafePress Press Center
[2007.09.18 19:23:08] SaraCP: Have Press Coverage Featured in the CafePress Press Center
[2007.09.18 19:23:13] Chris Scroggins has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:23:19] SaraCP: Have your products featured in the Shopkeeper "In the news..." Portal
[2007.09.18 19:23:33] Chris Scroggins has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:23:34] SaraCP: Suggest Online PR Chats and workshops
[2007.09.18 19:23:48] SaraCP: Read the tools we’ve created in the Learning center
[2007.09.18 19:24:00] Alan (deadhippo): How do we find reporters that might want to write about us or our products?
[2007.09.18 19:24:00] MarcCP: Good question - there are a few methods. One is to google the media you want and look for a staff listing. Another is to send us an email at pr@cafepress.com with the name of the media outlet (newspaper, magazine) etc - and we'll check our database for a name and contact information. The only thing to keep in mind is that this can take some time
[2007.09.18 19:24:12] SaraCP: Read about our Editorial Sample/Image Program
[2007.09.18 19:24:19] Butterfly has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:24:31] SaraCP: And more…
[2007.09.18 19:24:57] SaraCP: For instance if you know you want to contact your local paper, but don’t know who to
[2007.09.18 19:25:12] cowpie has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:25:29] SaraCP: send me an email and I can help you find the right reporter.
[2007.09.18 19:26:10] SaraCP: OK – time for Q&A
[2007.09.18 19:26:24] refinish69: should we also send a sample product
[2007.09.18 19:26:24] MarcCP: My rule of thumb is to offer samples, and if the reporter want them, by all means. There are exceptions to this, but this is the way I usually try to go. Also - some reporters misinterpret samples as gifts, and many of them are not allowed ot accept gifts
[2007.09.18 19:26:37] refinish69: and your email is?
[2007.09.18 19:26:50] JoArtee has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:27:03] Gandalf_Parker: helped local events provide staff event shirts, stickers, aprons which got me a sponsor mention in their press releases (which also mentioned my shop)
[2007.09.18 19:27:03] SaraCP: pr@cafepress.com
[2007.09.18 19:27:25] SaraCP: that's great gandalf
[2007.09.18 19:27:30] Alan (deadhippo): I notice that that the Cafepress blog hasn't been updated since November 2006 ... is that just a failed experiment?
[2007.09.18 19:27:30] MarcCP: Its more of a stalled experiment. We're working on a strategy for how to get this started again.I hope to have this up and running later in the year. Wish me luck
[2007.09.18 19:27:31] KC Graphics has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:28:16] Alan (deadhippo): I think that the line between PR and advertising is getting blurry as one Cafepress recommended a site where people will blog about your topic (in our case - design) .. for money
[2007.09.18 19:28:16] MarcCP: in many cases it is getting blurry...
[2007.09.18 19:28:29] Alan (deadhippo): Good luck! ..and think of me...
[2007.09.18 19:29:07] Alan (deadhippo): Are we allowed to provide urls to sites we think may be useful for PR purposes in this chat (I'm not affiliated)
[2007.09.18 19:29:07] MarcCP: sure - send them over and Britta will have a look
[2007.09.18 19:29:37] debbie@just4me.us: how can I get sales from my blog
[2007.09.18 19:29:38] BrittaCP: hi debbie, stick around after the chat and you can chat with other Shopkeepers in the lobby about using blogs
[2007.09.18 19:29:39] Gandalf_Parker: being helpful to reporters.... "Im guessing you might have a story coming up on and mentioning the CafePress activity might provide some filler. Such as "
[2007.09.18 19:29:39] SaraCP: hi gandalf
[2007.09.18 19:29:41] Alan (deadhippo): Wow, I'm getting all my questions answered...this is fantastic
[2007.09.18 19:29:54] SaraCP: in regards to your question
[2007.09.18 19:30:22] SaraCP: if you can tie your store into a current event or topic that is great
[2007.09.18 19:30:40] Sandra: I'm going to use Community Spotlight as my intro to my local paper.
[2007.09.18 19:30:40] MarcCP: Great Idea - have you filled out a form?
[2007.09.18 19:30:46] haka lue gie has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:30:58] Sandra: I am the one right now.
[2007.09.18 19:31:20] Alan (deadhippo): If you send a t-shirt to this site they say they will review it...I havn't tried it yet but I do see some Cafepressers items - http://www.tshirtwatch.com/about/
[2007.09.18 19:31:20] MarcCP: Hm - this is a new one for me, but a cool idea
[2007.09.18 19:31:40] Karen has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:31:42] SaraCP: that's new to me to
[2007.09.18 19:31:56] Shawn - Pristinephoto has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:32:45] Robb has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:32:45] BrittaCP: the spotlight is an area on our site where we'll feature you for a few weeks. Just fill email the address on the page, and we'll send you a questionarre.... if you're selected you'll be featured
[2007.09.18 19:32:59] BrittaCP: http://www.cafepress.com/cp/community/spotlight
[2007.09.18 19:33:01] The Shadow has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:33:05] debbie@just4me.us: what is community spotlight
[2007.09.18 19:33:18] BrittaCP: that was to debbie.. working in reverse today
[2007.09.18 19:33:46] ninaPA has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:34:01] jimborimbo has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:34:04] Gretel has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:34:38] MarcCP: I have a question for you... Has anyone here approached your local newspaper with a story? If so - what apporcah did you use, and was it successful?
[2007.09.18 19:35:07] Alan (deadhippo): payperpost.com - This was recommended in the forum, by Donna, if I remember correctly, - payperpost.com
[2007.09.18 19:35:30] Gretel has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:35:30] SaraCP: that's great alan..so what happened
[2007.09.18 19:36:07] Rchnts has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:36:20] gaS: I'm kind of surprised that radio media hasn't been mentioned. Reaches a lot of people!
[2007.09.18 19:36:20] MarcCP: I love radio - it hasn't been mentioned until now - thanks for reminding us. The only problem I've had with it lately is that more and more its becoming about advertising. However, if you can get a DJ to mention you, or a product it can be great!
[2007.09.18 19:36:40] Gandalf_Parker: providing prizes to local events can be good PR (but try not to overdo it by providing items that have your shop address as part of the image). Its the giving that will count, not the item itself. Tile boxes are good for this.
[2007.09.18 19:36:40] MarcCP: Great idea
[2007.09.18 19:37:00] Alan (deadhippo): LOL .. sorry I haven't gotten around to trying it out yet. I was waiting to here some success stories first.
[2007.09.18 19:37:39] shewolf has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:37:42] Gandalf_Parker: if you feel your shop is your business, then joining the local Chamber of Commerce can provide quite abit of PR and open doors for other PR
[2007.09.18 19:37:42] SaraCP: hi gandalf. Yes joining the local chamber of commerce is a great idea
[2007.09.18 19:37:43] Alan (deadhippo): There was a recent post in the forum about the benefits of being in the Spotlight to which I replied that I don't believe it helped my sales...I did get a lot of visitors but I believe they were mostly shopkeepers, as far as I could tell I didn't get any sales...of course that could be just my experience
[2007.09.18 19:38:03] SaraCP: as it gets your name out the general public
[2007.09.18 19:38:22] Butterfly has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:38:24] Robb: You seem to have a lot of great marketing tips - from reading the posts out there...wish I could pick your brain...hehe
[2007.09.18 19:38:24] MarcCP: Please do - i'm alwyas slad to help when i can
[2007.09.18 19:38:45] gaS: Send them a t-shirt, go on as a local guest about your business, tons of ways to approach it. I know, because I have used it for several personal campaigns and an easier nut to crack.
[2007.09.18 19:38:45] SaraCP: hi gas
[2007.09.18 19:39:15] SaraCP: gas are u talking about radio?
[2007.09.18 19:39:34] Karen has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:39:53] gaS: gas is Sag backwards sugar!:-D Yes, radio.
[2007.09.18 19:39:55] BrittaCP: Well Hello Sag!
[2007.09.18 19:40:09] MarcCP: I'm not seeing anymore questions come in...I still have 20 minutes... Anyone...
[2007.09.18 19:40:10] debbie@just4me.us: How can going to the chamber of congress help
[2007.09.18 19:40:31] Renee: Last year there was an article about people creating "save pluto" designs. The article didn't link directly to our store, but they mentioned a bumper sticker I created "Pluto 2006: Running as an independent planet", and we sold a lot of those. I think people found it through Google.
[2007.09.18 19:40:34] SaraCP: yes i a good idea to go to your local radio station and let them know about you and your store
[2007.09.18 19:40:56] SaraCP: provide them with some t-shirts that they can use in a giveaway
[2007.09.18 19:41:55] SaraCP: or if there is a current hot topic that they are talking about on the radio you can always try and tie your cafepress products into that
[2007.09.18 19:42:10] Alan (deadhippo): I have just noticed that there are sample PR letters to use so if you think you have some newsworthy storry you have no excuse
[2007.09.18 19:42:31] Robb: Sara - what's the best approach to join a local chamber? Just tell them "Hi, I sell t-shirts...?"
[2007.09.18 19:42:31] SaraCP: hi robb
[2007.09.18 19:42:38] SaraCP: humm good question
[2007.09.18 19:42:49] BrittaCP: http://www.cafepress.com/cp/community/spotlight
[2007.09.18 19:43:03] BrittaCP: scroll towards the bottom for all the juicy PR tutorials
[2007.09.18 19:43:07] Photo Girl: When you provide shirts, what size do you give?
[2007.09.18 19:43:07] MarcCP: If sending shirts I'd go large - its the most common. I try to send things that dont require sizes
[2007.09.18 19:43:19] MarcCP: or send jpgs
[2007.09.18 19:43:36] SaraCP: i would say i would say write up a short summary about you and how long you have had your cafepress store and what kind of items you sell
[2007.09.18 19:43:43] refinish69: I send mugs
[2007.09.18 19:43:50] SaraCP: include an image or so
[2007.09.18 19:44:36] SaraCP: marc do you have any other suggestion in regards to sigining up with the chamber of commerce
[2007.09.18 19:44:40] Timewarp: Would CP be willing to send product samples to blogs or just print newssources? If so how do you determine if the blog is worthy?
[2007.09.18 19:44:40] MarcCP: we look at every request - and have to evaluate each one individually. Generally we dont supply samples unless they are requested by a reporter for a specific story - but - if you're contacted by a reporter and they want a sample its a good idea to email us - we may be able to help
[2007.09.18 19:45:25] gaS: Listen to your favorite talkradio host. Grab a quip they use and design a t-shirt with a letter of introduction. It works!
[2007.09.18 19:46:21] refinish69: That means I would have to listen to the radio LOL
[2007.09.18 19:46:32] Timewarp: Okay thanks, I had a request for samples from a blog and sent them to the samples request form.
[2007.09.18 19:46:35] Robb: Good suggestion, gaS!
[2007.09.18 19:46:37] The Shadow: makes note to listen to talk radio
[2007.09.18 19:46:39] gaS: Uh-huh, that's right!
[2007.09.18 19:47:16] refinish69: Talk radio in Texas is not something I can listen to LOL
[2007.09.18 19:47:34] Alan (deadhippo): I often see articles in the newspaper that I think are not newsworthy and I also think my designs are not newsworthy...what advice can you give for fooling some reporter in to writing an article about me or my designs
[2007.09.18 19:47:34] MarcCP: In many cases it can be about spin. I hosted a chat once about "newsworthyness" - its important, but also kinda funny how easy it can be sometime to make a simple stroy interesteing and newsworthy. have a look at this - http://www.cafepress.com/cp/learn/pr_newsworthiness
[2007.09.18 19:47:46] Alan (deadhippo): Is getting dugg at digg (and such sites) a type of PR?
[2007.09.18 19:47:46] MarcCP: you bet!
[2007.09.18 19:47:59] gaS: Gotcha' refinish!:-D
[2007.09.18 19:48:01] Alan (deadhippo): Radio - I'm too young to remember radio.
[2007.09.18 19:48:35] JoArtee has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:48:38] Shawn - Pristinephoto has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:48:39] Winter has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:48:59] BrittaCP: Alright gang.... we've got 10 minutes left... hit marc with your burning PR questions while you still can!
[2007.09.18 19:49:14] Robb: refinish....Texas is very opinionated - talk radio here is different. But usable for marketing...I'll work on it.
[2007.09.18 19:49:18] MarcCP: I'm ready - i think...
[2007.09.18 19:49:57] brandig19 has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:50:02] Alan (deadhippo): I noticed the PR pages before but because I thought my store was not newsworthy I didn't study them ...but I will definitely take a look now...thanks for that link
[2007.09.18 19:50:16] shewolf: sorry.. hello... I came in late so i'm trying to catch up on the reading.. lol
[2007.09.18 19:50:17] BrittaCP: Well have a transcript up for you shortly
[2007.09.18 19:50:48] winter has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:50:52] Robb: Cool, Britta - I need to read more transcripts...!
[2007.09.18 19:50:54] shewolf: thanks
[2007.09.18 19:51:30] BrittaCP: Robb... we have a whole collection of transcripts here: http://www.cafepress.com/cp/community/chat
[2007.09.18 19:51:35] BrittaCP: dive in and enjoy
[2007.09.18 19:51:55] Robb: Thank you - I'll do exactly that!
[2007.09.18 19:52:13] brandig19 has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:52:17] Robb: Marc - you might talk about business card marketing - dropping some literally EVERYWHERE possible....everywhere you go type of guerilla mnarketing.
[2007.09.18 19:52:17] MarcCP: I've seen it work... good call. I've seen people leave stacks of cool bumper stickers and buttons with URL's too. Another idea is to put cool magnets around - with your URL of course
[2007.09.18 19:52:20] babydave has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.18 19:52:38] refinish69: join groups and show up wearing your designs and handing out business cards or small buttons
[2007.09.18 19:52:49] JudiQue: I've read most of those transcripts -- some great info there!
[2007.09.18 19:52:52] SaraCP: thats a great idea refinish
[2007.09.18 19:53:13] MarcCP: I've seem magnets placed on lamp posts, etc, in strategic places
[2007.09.18 19:53:29] refinish69: I belong to 35 political and civil rights groups and always show up wearing one of my designs LOL
[2007.09.18 19:54:00] Robb: Wow, refinish....I membership has its rewards.
[2007.09.18 19:54:09] SaraCP: another thing to think about
[2007.09.18 19:54:55] refinish69: I even gave John and Elizabeth Edwards coffee mugs from my shop
[2007.09.18 19:55:02] SaraCP: from what we have heard shopkeepers have had success in donating their products to a certain cause or charity
[2007.09.18 19:55:14] Photo Girl has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:55:20] SaraCP: its a good way to get your name and product out
[2007.09.18 19:56:04] SaraCP: refinish69
[2007.09.18 19:56:27] Robb: Yes, cool ideas...I like the lamp post idea too.......dropping cards in shopping bags also works -
[2007.09.18 19:56:36] refinish69: I get quite a few sales for my AIDS designs and do link back to rides and walks
[2007.09.18 19:56:50] SaraCP: howaabout seeing if any of these organizations you have joined have a newsletter that goes out to its memeber each month or so
[2007.09.18 19:57:16] SaraCP: and see if they would like to feature a product of yours
[2007.09.18 19:57:22] refinish69: I am in their email groups and send emails with links to my shops LOL
[2007.09.18 19:57:29] Gretel: I donate a large portion of my profits to the cause the design is about. That has helped (and also got an article written about me in a large publication). Lots of luck and hard work will get you there.
[2007.09.18 19:57:51] SaraCP: that's great Gretel
[2007.09.18 19:58:05] debbie@just4me.us has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:58:12] Gretel: you mentioned that we should read about your Editorial Sample/Image Program...but I didn't see it anywhere (and I crashed, so I may have missed the link). Where can I read about that?
[2007.09.18 19:58:12] MarcCP: have a look here http://www.cafepress.com/cp/learn/pr_overview
[2007.09.18 19:58:26] SaraCP: don't despair refinish69
[2007.09.18 19:59:04] refinish69: I never despair or rarely LOL
[2007.09.18 19:59:06] Gandalf_Parker: Kindof cheesy but "accidentally" leaving things in library books on thematic subjects, magazines at the doctor/dentist office, stands at businesses that have pamphlets
[2007.09.18 19:59:17] Rchnts has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.18 19:59:21] BrittaCP: And here we are at the top of the hour
[2007.09.18 19:59:37] Gretel: I put some of my bumper stickers on my car (and ordered tons extra to keep in my car). I get stopped and asked about them all the time and now I have them on hand to pass out and/or sell.
[2007.09.18 19:59:46] BrittaCP: I think we got most of the questions that have come in
[2007.09.18 20:00:20] BrittaCP: I hope you all learned something today
[2007.09.18 20:00:26] MarcCP: I did
[2007.09.18 20:00:27] Robb: Thanks for a great chat CP people - and all others. I have more reading to do.
[2007.09.18 20:00:34] Robb: Yes...
[2007.09.18 20:00:39] shewolf: was very interesting:)
[2007.09.18 20:00:42] refinish69: thanks to all the folks at CP
[2007.09.18 20:00:54] SaraCP: thanks for all joining us
[2007.09.18 20:01:00] BrittaCP: I shall reopen the lobby for all of you, please feel free to keep chatting

Halloween CP Chat 9-13-2007

[2007.09.13 18:56:42] Welcome to the CafePress Chat Room
[2007.09.13 18:56:42] dooni designs has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:56:43] All users in this room have been allowed to talk
[2007.09.13 18:57:20] Cassiopeia has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:57:29] Renee has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:57:43] Blonde Designs has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:58:05] I'm Here has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 18:58:20] I'm Here has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:58:37] Ne' at 1512BLVD has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:59:11] BrittaCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:59:12] Sag has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:59:14] NiftyGaloot has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:59:17] dreamup has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:59:21] blip has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 18:59:36] BrittaCP: Hi everyone... we'll be ready to roll in just a minute
[2007.09.13 19:00:00] scarebaby has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:00:15] Bridey has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:00:15] kab has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:00:50] kab has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:01:06] PeggyWvB: Wherez the candy?
[2007.09.13 19:01:08] BrittaCP: it's coming up
[2007.09.13 19:01:11] Shannon (hazeleyes7): Good day everyone!
[2007.09.13 19:01:13] FJS: Hey Britta
[2007.09.13 19:01:36] sat728 has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:01:46] Uncle Frog: Trick or Treat?
[2007.09.13 19:01:48] FJS: Is everyone wearing their costumes?
[2007.09.13 19:01:51] gmonte34: hello
[2007.09.13 19:03:34] BrittaCP: ok... ang seems to MIA, but we can get things rolling with out her for now
[2007.09.13 19:03:34] Scalability has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:03:39] Sag: Yep, 365 days a year!
[2007.09.13 19:03:40] Kippy: I came dressed as a kippy
[2007.09.13 19:03:43] cafebrat has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:03:44] espressocup has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:03:52] BrittaCP: and it is quite a nice costume too
[2007.09.13 19:04:06] scarebaby: hi all
[2007.09.13 19:04:07] Ne' at 1512BLVD: i got my supermom costume on
[2007.09.13 19:04:44] BrittaCP: Thanks for joining today.
[2007.09.13 19:04:58] BrittaCP: Today we’ll be talking about (what I think) is one of the best holidays of the year, Halloween.
[2007.09.13 19:05:05] cafebrat: Thank you
[2007.09.13 19:05:27] Renee: I'm apparently dressed as a little fisher price person with no hair or face. I *know* I was able to set an avatar before, but I'm stumped today
[2007.09.13 19:05:30] PeggyWvB: I'm the Donot fairy this year
[2007.09.13 19:06:06] BrittaCP: Most of you already know me, but those who don’t, I’m Britta and then there's Angela who will join shortly. We’re the Community Team, here at CafePress.
[2007.09.13 19:06:26] hi has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:06:30] BrittaCP: You’ll usually see us on the forums and in these chats, or other celebrity (j/k) appearances like Meet & Greets.
[2007.09.13 19:06:32] PeggyWvB: waves to Britta
[2007.09.13 19:06:58] FJS: You guys are our favorites, shhhh don't tell the others.
[2007.09.13 19:07:02] BrittaCP: Ha!
[2007.09.13 19:07:18] Marti has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:07:28] BrittaCP: Well, quick little background about me... I've been working with shopkeepers like you for the past 4 years
[2007.09.13 19:07:51] BrittaCP: And been involved with the Community for the last year and a half
[2007.09.13 19:08:01] PeggyWvB: poor thing
[2007.09.13 19:08:10] BrittaCP: no... i love it :)
[2007.09.13 19:08:28] BrittaCP: I've seen a lot of cool things from all of you
[2007.09.13 19:08:34] BrittaCP: espceially around this time of year
[2007.09.13 19:08:40] brev87 has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:08:54] BrittaCP: There are so many awesome ideas that many of you Shopkeepers have come up with over the years, in prep for Halloween, especially with cool designs to put on products
[2007.09.13 19:09:07] BrittaCP: We’ll go over some of the things that you guys might want to think about, and then go into sharing Shopkeeper ideas a little later.
[2007.09.13 19:09:38] BrittaCP: Before we start, just as a reminder this chat is moderated, meaning your questions and comments will go into a queue, so don’t worry if you don’t see yours immediately.
[2007.09.13 19:09:43] wave720 has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:10:10] BrittaCP: Since we only have an hour, we may not be able to get to all questions, but we’ll try our best.
[2007.09.13 19:10:46] BrittaCP: So who is going to have thier first CafePress Halloween?
[2007.09.13 19:10:56] SDSpanielRescue has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:11:05] espressocup: This is my first CP Halloween :)
[2007.09.13 19:11:05] cafebrat has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:11:07] Ne' at 1512BLVD: me
[2007.09.13 19:11:23] dreamup: me!
[2007.09.13 19:11:24] brev87: I have my first Cafepress Halloween designs up
[2007.09.13 19:11:27] wave720: well the first I'll be actually participating in ;-)
[2007.09.13 19:11:28] photographz: me too
[2007.09.13 19:11:34] BrittaCP: YaY!
[2007.09.13 19:11:58] Marti: Me too!
[2007.09.13 19:11:59] FJS: I was really just getting started last Halloween so this is my first one that I'm ready to embrace.
[2007.09.13 19:12:01] Blonde Designs: its my second...im super excited!!
[2007.09.13 19:12:03] BrittaCP: The agenda for the chat will be as follows:
[2007.09.13 19:12:10] BrittaCP: NUMBERS & STUFF
[2007.09.13 19:12:19] BrittaCP: SPOOKING UP THE STOREFRONT
[2007.09.13 19:12:29] BrittaCP: SEO – Search Engine Optimization is not Scary
[2007.09.13 19:12:32] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2007.09.13 19:12:35] BrittaCP: Creepy Keywords
[2007.09.13 19:12:42] BrittaCP: Macabre Mail
[2007.09.13 19:12:55] BrittaCP: and of course Q&A
[2007.09.13 19:12:59] dooni designs: this my 4th. well technicallymy third halloween
[2007.09.13 19:13:02] SDSpanielRescue: first *real* one
[2007.09.13 19:13:18] BrittaCP: So, let’s start off with some interesting charts and statistics about Halloween spending trends.
[2007.09.13 19:13:34] Gandalf_Parker has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:13:47] BrittaCP: This first chart breaks down the total spending towards Halloween in 2006.
(source: BIG Research, Consumer Intentions & Actions 2006):
[2007.09.13 19:14:29] BrittaCP sent a picture:
[2007.09.13 19:14:37] BrittaCP: I hope you can all see that
[2007.09.13 19:14:45] Haley has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:14:47] brev87: :-o
[2007.09.13 19:14:48] Renee: Cool
[2007.09.13 19:14:53] FJS: Yep looks good
[2007.09.13 19:15:01] BrittaCP: excellent
[2007.09.13 19:15:04] camobabygifts: :bow:
[2007.09.13 19:15:15] Haley has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:15:16] Marti: wow
[2007.09.13 19:15:17] SDSpanielRescue: about what I would have expected, proportionally
[2007.09.13 19:15:33] Butterfly: we need to start selling candy.
[2007.09.13 19:15:36] BrittaCP: Obviously candy isn’t something that we can Print-on-Demand, although that would be pretty fun. Decorations and Greeting Cards are where we, as Shopkeepers, could fall in. Those of you who are really crafty, could fall into costumes.
[2007.09.13 19:16:02] BrittaCP: of course... if we could customize candy, i imagine it would be like willy wonka's factory
[2007.09.13 19:16:10] BrittaCP: i'd make custom snozzberries
[2007.09.13 19:16:29] wave720 has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:16:30] Marti: is that in million?
[2007.09.13 19:16:39] BrittaCP: here's another chart to answer that question
[2007.09.13 19:16:52] BrittaCP sent a picture:
[2007.09.13 19:17:06] PeggyWvB: I have costume designs
[2007.09.13 19:17:08] gmonte34: lol
[2007.09.13 19:17:12] FJS: Maybe we should look into doing personalized candy wrappers. They are a big deal you know.
[2007.09.13 19:17:17] PeggyWvB: As re Barry's post, that's gobzillions
[2007.09.13 19:17:22] brev87: :-c
[2007.09.13 19:17:42] BrittaCP: Next is Average Halloween Spending by Age.
(source: BIG Research, Consumer Intentions & Actions 2006):
[2007.09.13 19:17:55] BrittaCP sent a picture:
[2007.09.13 19:18:06] Marti: thanks. that clarifies my question!
[2007.09.13 19:18:45] BrittaCP: It may be hard to see for some... but from left to right it breaks down buyers ages
[2007.09.13 19:19:24] BrittaCP: starting at the left: 18-24, 25-34, 35-44, 44-54, 55-64, 65+
[2007.09.13 19:19:33] brev87: wow, my age group rocks
[2007.09.13 19:19:37] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2007.09.13 19:19:47] Cassiopeia: It looks like we get too old for costumes, but we're never too old for candy!!!!
[2007.09.13 19:20:10] BrittaCP: my thoughts exactly... candy and decorations will always be big sellers
[2007.09.13 19:20:18] patty has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:20:19] dooni designs: why are we seeing these charts? Our products barely fall into these categories
[2007.09.13 19:21:03] BrittaCP: well the charts are to help you to get a perspective of what the average halloween consumer is looking for. from there you can make your shop and products work
[2007.09.13 19:21:07] LittleLizzyLou: if you click on the graph, it will open up a new window & it is easier to see.
[2007.09.13 19:21:10] BrittaCP: thanks for the tip!
[2007.09.13 19:21:17] Marti: Last year I bought so much candy, but had no trick or treaters.....I live in a condo complex...that's bad.
[2007.09.13 19:21:21] PeggyWvB: I just went from the 25-34 bracket to the 35-44 one and my spending isn't any different
[2007.09.13 19:21:23] brev87: decorations fall in our products
[2007.09.13 19:21:25] Marti: I love the charts...thanks!
[2007.09.13 19:21:27] PeggyWvB: b'cause we CAN make decorations ;)
[2007.09.13 19:21:43] BrittaCP: As you can see here, 18 – 44 are big spenders in Halloween. But the greeting cards are big sellers with 18-24 and 55-65.
[2007.09.13 19:22:06] Ne' at 1512BLVD: If you get creative enough, you could actually fall into any of the three. I won't elaborate though.
[2007.09.13 19:22:11] Marti: yeah we can....your coasters are decorates
[2007.09.13 19:22:29] PeggyWvB: no-one in my gen. sends cards?
[2007.09.13 19:22:30] LA has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:22:41] BrittaCP: oh they do.... they're are just more int he other groups
[2007.09.13 19:22:44] Ne' at 1512BLVD: any of the four I meant!
[2007.09.13 19:22:49] blip has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:22:56] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2007.09.13 19:23:07] Shannon (hazeleyes7): Are those greeting cards like Hallmark or does that stat also include those little cards kids give to each other in school?
[2007.09.13 19:23:21] BrittaCP: that i don't have the specifics on... though it is a great question
[2007.09.13 19:24:16] BrittaCP: i would think it would just be cards in genereal, since I can't say I've ever seen special kids Halloween cards... do you mean like Valentine Cards?
[2007.09.13 19:24:25] Carl (absolutecotton) has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:24:27] Marti: definitely a good question.
[2007.09.13 19:24:58] BrittaCP: So some of you might be thinking “how do t-shirts fit into all of this?”
[2007.09.13 19:25:19] BrittaCP: Believe it or not, there are a lot of folk out who don’t necessarily go all out in full blown costume, but still enjoy celebrating Halloween.
[2007.09.13 19:25:43] BrittaCP: For them, it’s about participating in the party in a much simpler way.
[2007.09.13 19:25:50] AngelaCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:25:55] LA has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:26:16] michigal has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:26:48] BrittaCP: Of course there is still room to get inventive with your apparel items, and make something costume like items
[2007.09.13 19:26:55] Ne' at 1512BLVD: Hi, Angela
[2007.09.13 19:27:00] PeggyWvB: Think of all the cashiers/waitresses who wear holiday themed pins and such
[2007.09.13 19:27:05] BrittaCP: right!
[2007.09.13 19:27:09] PeggyWvB: I've already spent $40+ on my sons costume alone *gasps*
[2007.09.13 19:27:12] AngelaCP: hi everyone, sorry for joining you so late...
[2007.09.13 19:27:26] Ne' at 1512BLVD: Don't forget about things to wear to the office, to school, etc. You can't go in costume!
[2007.09.13 19:27:32] BrittaCP: rib cages for skeleton’s, something 80’s themed, blood splatters on an apron for a maniac butcher, etc
[2007.09.13 19:27:38] BrittaCP: … just thinking out loud off the top of my head.
[2007.09.13 19:27:45] Sag: Halloween party invitations, spooky posters, spooky stickers etc. book of the dead journal etc.
[2007.09.13 19:27:49] PeggyWvB: but you CAN wear a t-shirt
[2007.09.13 19:27:52] BrittaCP: for sure!
[2007.09.13 19:28:01] AngelaCP: I saw a shirt that said "this is my costume"
[2007.09.13 19:28:20] AngelaCP: definitely
[2007.09.13 19:28:26] BrittaCP: There are also Halloween themed apparel and decorative items. You see them a lot at retail chains. Shirts that promote and celebrate Halloween, they probably have a fun witch or bat image on them and a phrase to match.
[2007.09.13 19:29:02] BrittaCP: To find something original and unique, that you won’t find at one of those retail chains, people come to CafePress – or your shop.
[2007.09.13 19:29:18] BrittaCP: so that's where you're t-shirts and other products fit in all of this
[2007.09.13 19:29:24] Bridey: I just put one up that promoted genealogy with witch and broom, so it can be done
[2007.09.13 19:29:35] PeggyWvB: can we PLEASE have a halloween portal?
[2007.09.13 19:29:35] BrittaCP: see you guys get the idea
[2007.09.13 19:29:36] Shannon (hazeleyes7) has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:30:08] dreamup has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:30:08] BrittaCP: peggy.. we'll talk more about that later
[2007.09.13 19:30:22] Ne' at 1512BLVD: From looking at the MP, I'd say we got the big stores beat when it comes to cool and unique
[2007.09.13 19:30:24] PeggyWvB: oh goody!
[2007.09.13 19:30:37] BrittaCP: That’s where you start to think about how to incorporate your own shop style with Halloween flare.
[2007.09.13 19:30:52] BrittaCP: People tend to wear these in the days leading up to Halloween, or to small parties. Or in my case… all year, ha!
[2007.09.13 19:31:05] Renee: The mention of costumes reminded me of something I've been meaning to do. My husband did several designs in the sci-fi section that could also work as Haloween wear, so I'm importing those items into the Halloween section http://www.cafepress.com/brainchildshop
[2007.09.13 19:31:09] BrittaCP: excellent!
[2007.09.13 19:31:35] BrittaCP: So to help you out with idea generating for what to stock, here’s a list of the top items that sell at CafePress during Halloween.
[2007.09.13 19:32:03] BrittaCP: APPAREL: DARK TEES, DARK TEES, DARK TEES… that’s a no brainer
[2007.09.13 19:32:07] PeggyWvB: getcher pencils out
[2007.09.13 19:32:25] BrittaCP: along with: Jr. Jerseys, Yellow Tees, Hoodies, and Ringer Tees.
[2007.09.13 19:32:53] BrittaCP: On a related note, people LOVE dressing up their pets, so dog tees are something to keep in mind too.
[2007.09.13 19:32:53] PeggyWvB: How'er we doing with printing issues with the dark tees?
[2007.09.13 19:33:08] michigal has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:33:10] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2007.09.13 19:33:13] brev87: good question
[2007.09.13 19:33:44] AngelaCP: It's a big improvement. They are looking very good. We made big improvements last spring and the ones today are looking even better than the ones from Spring.
[2007.09.13 19:34:00] AngelaCP: We'll have more information on this coming up....
[2007.09.13 19:34:03] dooni designs: in general or with halloween specific designs britta?
[2007.09.13 19:34:09] BrittaCP: to Halloween
[2007.09.13 19:34:20] Ne' at 1512BLVD: Too bad we don't have an orange tee!
[2007.09.13 19:34:25] BrittaCP: that would be lovely
[2007.09.13 19:34:49] Marti: what about baby and young kid clothes items?
[2007.09.13 19:35:01] BrittaCP: those are always a great thing to include for any holiday
[2007.09.13 19:35:14] kristin has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:35:23] Marti: that's what i thought....thanks.
[2007.09.13 19:35:24] BrittaCP: Ok... next items
Housewares: Mug, Large Mug, Keepsake box, Throw Pillows, Ornaments
[2007.09.13 19:35:38] Ne' at 1512BLVD: Do non-Halloween designs suffer during Halloween?
[2007.09.13 19:36:05] Marti: oooo, good questions Ne' !
[2007.09.13 19:36:21] AngelaCP: They continue to do well at CafePress. Halloween is a great way to spark interest in your shop. Gives you a reason to have some spooky fun :D
[2007.09.13 19:36:25] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2007.09.13 19:36:31] BrittaCP: Think about Tote bags as well. Not only do they make great bags to collect candy in, but they are reusable too.
[2007.09.13 19:36:34] dooni designs: i can see the tote bags being trick or treat bags... but alot of the others. creative or not are too expensive for consumers to bother with
[2007.09.13 19:36:53] The Amazing Shadow has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:37:20] BrittaCP: Goodies: Stickers, buttons, license plate frames, magnets
[2007.09.13 19:37:21] Ne' at 1512BLVD: I have been working on the tote bags all day for Halloween!
[2007.09.13 19:37:51] Bridey: you can always suggest they use the tote bag for when they go shopping and use it instead of plastic bags
[2007.09.13 19:37:53] PeggyWvB: are the pillows gonna be in stock soon?
[2007.09.13 19:38:15] AngelaCP: We're working on it with the vendor. The last batch that came in was not acceptable...
[2007.09.13 19:38:44] BrittaCP: Buttons and stickers can work well as a supplement for something to give to trick or treaters. Mini buttons can be added to grab bags.
[2007.09.13 19:39:04] Ne' at 1512BLVD: good idea!!!!
[2007.09.13 19:39:32] BrittaCP: Cards & Prints: Greeting Cards/ note cards, posters, framed prints, journals
Posters are great to use for home decoration.
[2007.09.13 19:39:40] BrittaCP: They are fun to hang up on the door, and in even in the windows.
[2007.09.13 19:39:57] BrittaCP: Before moving on, does anyone have any unique product ideas to share with the group?
[2007.09.13 19:40:09] jmgnole has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:40:11] michigal has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:40:14] Butterfly: Attach a mini-button to your business card and give this out with the candy...
[2007.09.13 19:40:32] Ne' at 1512BLVD: I wouldn't want someone to give my kids buttons cause they are sharp, but the other stuff is a good idea.
[2007.09.13 19:40:45] AngelaCP: They are actually popular in grab bags
[2007.09.13 19:40:56] AngelaCP: My daughter got one with a pumpkin last year from school
[2007.09.13 19:41:13] BrittaCP: i thought about that as well before I mentioned it... but i also remembered how i had to have all my candy inspected before eating.... and the idea can still work for parties
[2007.09.13 19:41:27] Sag: The posters can be designed per holiday with cut lines and holiday designs for instant mailbox holiday covers. Betcha' didn't know that! :-D Working on that now.
[2007.09.13 19:42:02] Uncle Frog has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:42:03] Ne' at 1512BLVD: You shouldn't have given that away Sag!!!!
[2007.09.13 19:42:10] Butterfly: Parents usually check their child's goodie bag after trick-or-treat and they'll be the ones finding the mini-button store pin...Hopefully turning them into a curious buyer.
[2007.09.13 19:42:15] PeggyWvB: SAG, the queen of Marketing!:bow:
[2007.09.13 19:42:16] Marti: that's a cool spin to the posters....
[2007.09.13 19:42:19] Ne' at 1512BLVD: explain grab bag
[2007.09.13 19:42:25] AngelaCP: awesome idea Sag :)
[2007.09.13 19:42:33] BrittaCP: grab abgs meaning a mix of candy in a little bag
[2007.09.13 19:42:40] Sag: We are all family, so we share!:-D
[2007.09.13 19:42:42] Marti: i don't think i'm skilled enough for that yet though.....
[2007.09.13 19:43:02] BrittaCP: ok, moving on...
[2007.09.13 19:43:06] BrittaCP: SPOOKING UP THE STOREFRONT
[2007.09.13 19:43:17] kab has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:43:24] BrittaCP: Many brick and mortar shops have got their stores in full Halloween gear.
[2007.09.13 19:43:30] BrittaCP: I walked into a popular candle shop about a month ago, and just about died. It was an orange and black utopia.
[2007.09.13 19:43:47] kristin has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:43:49] BrittaCP: That doesn’t mean you have to do a total shop overhaul though. Just get those seasonal items upfront, so they can’t be missed, and let your customers know upon entry that you have Halloween swag.
[2007.09.13 19:43:55] camobabygifts: I redid my shop to make it halloween themed www.cafepress.com/7577
[2007.09.13 19:44:01] Ne' at 1512BLVD: okay. I wasn't sure how grab bag applied to Halloween. Now I see.
[2007.09.13 19:44:05] PeggyWvB: ya don't want poeple getting the wrong idea if they come into your store and see cobwebs...
[2007.09.13 19:44:17] sat728 has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:44:17] BrittaCP: We all know about being above the fold, right? Is there anyone here who doesn’t?
[2007.09.13 19:44:33] BrittaCP: That’s where you want your Halloween stuff to be. Think about the first half of your storefront being that place that where you will set the mood for your Customers and get them excited about Halloween.
[2007.09.13 19:44:51] BrittaCP: Try creating a banner and putting it at the top of your shop. The banner could then direct them to the Halloween section of your shop.
[2007.09.13 19:44:55] BrittaCP: If you do advertising on the web, you could use that same banner to promote yourself.
[2007.09.13 19:45:03] Uncle Frog has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:45:18] Ne' at 1512BLVD: I am making a Halloween shop with nothing but. I hope it does well. I imagine, it will pay off more next year than this year.
[2007.09.13 19:45:21] BrittaCP: You can get really wild with your banners and section thumbnails. And with those extra images that you add to your shop make sure that you include alt tags on them.
[2007.09.13 19:45:37] The Amazing Shadow: I plan on doing a banner with animated imaged that change
[2007.09.13 19:45:42] BrittaCP: Note that alt tags can’t be applied to the images that you upload into the product designer, or section thumbnails. But if you have images that you display in your shop using HTML that’s where the alt tags will be used.
[2007.09.13 19:45:52] BrittaCP: correction....
[2007.09.13 19:46:42] AngelaCP: so although you can't add alt tags for Section Thumbnails and Product Thumbnails, we do have alt tags automatically there for you... it will match what you're naming your section and product
[2007.09.13 19:47:05] BrittaCP: You can see an example of what and how they work in our Back-2-School Workshop: http://www.cafepress.com/cp/community/workshop_btsworkshop
[2007.09.13 19:47:06] AngelaCP: mouse over your product or section image and you'll notice alt tags popping out
[2007.09.13 19:47:11] AngelaCP: that's to help your SEO
[2007.09.13 19:47:13] camobabygifts: get a count down code for you shop counting down the days until halloween
[2007.09.13 19:47:20] BrittaCP: We’ll talk more about why alt-tags are important in a minute.
[2007.09.13 19:47:27] AngelaCP: That's a great idea
[2007.09.13 19:47:34] BrittaCP: You can create a collage of the new Halloween designs and products that you created, but add some photos of trick or treaters, party go-ers, and even some graphics like bats, pumpkins, and spiders.
[2007.09.13 19:47:36] AngelaCP: anything to keep it fun
[2007.09.13 19:47:48] Marti: i've already seen x-mas stuff...eeekkk
[2007.09.13 19:47:52] BrittaCP: We recently had a chat on shop navigation and how to clean up your storefront. You can check out the transcript for more ideas and a better understanding on the importance of easy to use storefronts.
[2007.09.13 19:47:55] brev87: will there be coupon banners provided by cafepress?
[2007.09.13 19:47:59] BrittaCP: http://www.cafepress.com/cp/community/workshop_shoporg
[2007.09.13 19:48:03] Kamen has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:48:13] AngelaCP: We will probably not have a coupon promotion for halloween
[2007.09.13 19:48:21] BrittaCP: Of course tailor all of this to look like something that belongs in your shop theme and niche. You may think that your shop isn’t appropriate for traditional 20th century, pop-culture, American Halloween.
[2007.09.13 19:48:29] Sag: Or, develop a slideshow at http://www.slide.com -
[2007.09.13 19:48:41] BrittaCP: So again, you have to make holiday work for your niche, and that’s almost always possible.
[2007.09.13 19:48:56] BrittaCP: I also want to share with you this interesting article I found on Wikipedia. I thought it might be good for brainstorming ideas for your shop, products, and picking a direction you want to go in to celebrate.
[2007.09.13 19:49:11] BrittaCP: Keep in mind it’s a wiki, so the information documented may not be 100% accurate, but it highlights some interesting facts and tidbits about Halloween, its history, and the different ways it’s practiced.
[2007.09.13 19:49:27] BrittaCP: It also has some great keywords that you may want to think about using.
[2007.09.13 19:49:30] BrittaCP: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Halloween
[2007.09.13 19:49:34] stratman has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:49:46] Ne' at 1512BLVD: Will the main CP page be Halloweeny?
[2007.09.13 19:50:02] AngelaCP: Yes, but if time allows...Britta will cover what we're doing for Halloween
[2007.09.13 19:50:13] BrittaCP: after the chat you guys can gather in the lobby and discuss other decorating ideas
[2007.09.13 19:50:29] catchall pickles has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:50:30] BrittaCP: Next Topic:
SEO – Search Engine Optimization is not Scary
[2007.09.13 19:50:40] BrittaCP: We’ve had a lot of chats that have talked about SEO in the past. There is really is no end to stressing how important this is for your shop.
[2007.09.13 19:50:58] BrittaCP: For those who aren’t sure what exactly SEO is, or where to start, take a few moment to go over our tutorials and previous chat transcripts. http://www.cafepress.com/cp/learn/tutorial_seo
[2007.09.13 19:51:03] BrittaCP: http://www.cafepress.com/cp/community/workshop_seo101
[2007.09.13 19:51:07] The Amazing Shadow: Google knows how important it is
[2007.09.13 19:51:11] SDSpanielRescue: maybe a bride doing pumpkin carving? :-D
[2007.09.13 19:51:15] BrittaCP: ha! awesome!
[2007.09.13 19:51:27] BrittaCP: that's actually how i picture my wedding
[2007.09.13 19:51:35] PeggyWvB: lol!
[2007.09.13 19:51:49] BrittaCP: Timing is key when it comes to SEO. For those that started a month ago, excellent. For those who haven’t get cracking now.
[2007.09.13 19:52:03] BrittaCP: Creepy Keywords
[2007.09.13 19:52:22] BrittaCP: I tend to shop for cool Halloweeny stuff year round. In my head, I have a list of particular keywords that I use when I do my searching.
[2007.09.13 19:52:46] trucker379 has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:52:52] BrittaCP: There are the obvious key words like “Halloween” “October” “costume” “pumpkin” “witch” but beyond that try using keywords that represent your product and the occasion.
[2007.09.13 19:52:58] kab: i need seo - nearly every visiter i have comes through my store's squidoo lens
[2007.09.13 19:53:13] BrittaCP: Without tag spamming (big No-No) there are words that can be used like “spooky” “creepy” “All Hallows Eve” “haunted.”
[2007.09.13 19:53:25] BrittaCP: Again, you’ll want to make sure that these words are appropriate for your products and shop, as you should be using them with the content/ text of your shop (shop description, section description, prod description, and alt tags.
[2007.09.13 19:53:42] BrittaCP: These same words can be used in your image tags, which will allow for your designs to be searchable in the marketplace. But again, avoid tag spamming.
[2007.09.13 19:54:10] BrittaCP: ok... we're down to 5 minutes.. so i'm going to jam through the rest of this
[2007.09.13 19:54:12] PeggyWvB: and no marketplace spamming plz
[2007.09.13 19:54:23] AngelaCP: Correct - NO TAG SPAMMING
[2007.09.13 19:54:28] BrittaCP: Macabre Mail
[2007.09.13 19:54:36] BZ has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:54:42] AngelaCP: don't add halloween to your image if it doesn't belong there
[2007.09.13 19:54:51] BrittaCP: Newsletters are a wonderful tool. Start getting your newsletter ready to let your customers know that you’ve got Halloween gear, and they are going to dig it. Show off those awesome designs and images, and talk about how they can be used.
[2007.09.13 19:55:10] BrittaCP: You want to let them know that you’re shop has just as many if not more unique items as the major retail specialty shops do. Newsletters are also mood setters. Us it to get your customers excited about the occasion.
[2007.09.13 19:55:14] catchall pickles has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:55:31] Bridey has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 19:55:38] Renee: Marketplace spamming? Is that like when someone does versions of a design using every name in the baby name book?
[2007.09.13 19:55:41] mx-mom has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:55:51] AngelaCP: Kind of... or putting in a tag that is not relevant to the design
[2007.09.13 19:56:08] BrittaCP: And now... for the question that you all are dying to know about.... What we’re (CafePress) doing for Halloween
[2007.09.13 19:56:20] BrittaCP: We’re actually doing pretty much the same things that have been suggested in this chat.
[2007.09.13 19:56:29] BrittaCP: Just like in past years, we will be launching a Halloween portal.
[2007.09.13 19:56:36] BrittaCP: So as you create and add images, be sure to tag them appropriately so they’ll be included.
[2007.09.13 19:56:44] AngelaCP: do not add christmas in your tag if your image is not related to Christmas - because you think it makes a good Christmas gift -- for example
[2007.09.13 19:56:51] LittleLizzyLou: Ooh Renee! I hate that!!!
[2007.09.13 19:56:56] NiftyGaloot has left the room
[2007.09.13 19:57:06] PeggyWvB: A new Portal????
[2007.09.13 19:57:12] AngelaCP: Britta is getting there....
[2007.09.13 19:57:18] AngelaCP: oh, she's there
[2007.09.13 19:57:19] AngelaCP: ha
[2007.09.13 19:57:35] BrittaCP: so yes... a new halloween portal
[2007.09.13 19:57:37] AngelaCP: so yes, we'll be having Halloween portal. The team is putting the finishing touches and then it will be featured
[2007.09.13 19:57:48] PeggyWvB: YAY! (does a happy dance)
[2007.09.13 19:57:56] AngelaCP: yes, it will replace the bride - i know you guys hate to see her go... sorry about that ;)
[2007.09.13 19:58:00] Renee: I was just wondering about that. We sometimes search to see if your new designs are showing up, and get stuck wading through PAGES AND PAGES of essentially the same design. I don't know how one could fix that, but it would be great if it were possible.
[2007.09.13 19:58:03] PeggyWvB: lol- maybe the bride of Frankenstein
[2007.09.13 19:58:18] BrittaCP: that was my costume last year ;)
[2007.09.13 19:58:23] Butterfly: I have that design!
[2007.09.13 19:58:41] Carl (absolutecotton): can we know ahead of time what keyword the portal will promote?
[2007.09.13 19:59:03] Butterfly: nice try, Carl!:-D
[2007.09.13 19:59:06] AngelaCP: No, we don't. What we use also depends on what actually get returned as well
[2007.09.13 19:59:16] AngelaCP: But yeah, nice try ;)
[2007.09.13 19:59:16] bearabull has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2007.09.13 19:59:21] BrittaCP: And so that’s it. I hope some of you are now inspired to get to work on Halloween.
Questions or ideas to share?
[2007.09.13 19:59:50] The Amazing Shadow: doesn't have that design...but I have no halloween designs anyways ...lol
[2007.09.13 19:59:58] Marti: sneaky
[2007.09.13 20:00:03] bearabull: do you have what you talked about in the chat in notes anywhere?
[2007.09.13 20:00:14] BrittaCP: this will put up in a transcript later
[2007.09.13 20:00:27] AngelaCP: We'll have the chat transcript next week... or someone can send you a copy....
[2007.09.13 20:00:41] Kamen: Is halloween a season where sales go up significantly normally?
[2007.09.13 20:00:47] AngelaCP: Not as much as the other seasons
[2007.09.13 20:00:53] BrittaCP: Please fee free to continue with questions, and the lobby will open in a second
[2007.09.13 20:00:55] AngelaCP: slightly
[2007.09.13 20:01:05] BrittaCP: I've got to jam... thanks for joining!
[2007.09.13 20:01:06] gmonte34: does changing the background to your shop help with customer sales
[2007.09.13 20:01:12] AngelaCP: Probably not if that's all you do
[2007.09.13 20:01:18] kab: not meaning to flood the search, but i usually have a couple versions of a design - one for the clock, one for the mug, one for the oval sticker, one for on darks, and one for on lights.....i would love a way to just link them together so only one shows up in search, and brings you to products with alll of them - i sometimes find my one images knocking my other images off the search results page
[2007.09.13 20:01:31] Butterfly has left the room (logged out)
[2007.09.13 20:01:38] scarebaby has left the room (logged out)