One man's junk is another man's treasure!
This is so true. Just take a look around. People everywhere are looking for that one great find. You know, that stuff you just can't stand looking at anymore. The boxes that are accumulating in the basement, garage, every storage area possible in the house and you don't even remember what's in them.
If I have learned anything about organizing it's that I don't purge enough. And I know I'm not the only one. But all that stuff you have packed away, that you don't even remember having or haven't used in more than a year could give you a pretty nice paycheck for one weekend.
Garage sales have many advantages to both the seller and the buyer so making money on what you consider junk isn't very difficult. An average weekend garage sale can make one person an easy $600. Not bad for a few hours of cleaning storage areas, setting everything up and then watching everyone flow in to discover your hidden treasures.
How about those of us that don't have the time, patience or desire to do the who garage sale thing but would love nothing more than to benefit from this same system? That where someone like you, someone who enjoys making the sale, helping others comes in. Your enterprises is the never-ending garage sale.
To make this a truly profitable business adventure you need to do a little educating. Start buy selling what you have around your house already. This is a good introduction to potentional customers and clients. To further your selling and buying knowledge visit other locate garage sales. While there you will get a good basis of what items are selling for and the need.
Now that you have a pretty good idea as to what is out there, start talking to family and friends about your intentions. Ask for donations, offer consignment or see if they have anything you could buy to resell. Ask your family and friends to spred the word.
Should you do things on consignment have a clear idea as to your percentage cut. Most consignment stores run a 40/60 or 50/50 split. Be fair and your customers will keep coming back. Make sure you have a good log book so that you can record who the consignment contract is with and what it is that you sold for them. A good way to do this is assign a number to each of your consignment customers and place the number on the price tag. When the merchandise is purchased, record it next to the appropriate consignment customer using the tracting number. Make sure you document how much the item sold for so that your consignment customer will be certain you are not ripping them off. It is also good to have a contract written up.
Advertising need not be difficult. You already started the advertising with your word of mouth by asking family and friends for items and letting them know what you are intending to do. The next best thing to do is run an ad in your area newspaper and shopper papers advertising the sale, where it is and the hours of operation. Be sure to keep your ad up-to-date, especially once things are running on a full-time basis.
Another great way to ad is using the old-fashioned "sandwich board" sign displayed in front of where ever you are having the sale announcing that you are open for business. This will attract your neighbours as well as people driving by. Setting sandwich boards up at key traffic intersections, not too far from the sale destination, will attract more drivers or pedestrines your way. Even use two pieces of cardboard and tack them up on poles about 200
metres apart will do the same job. (Check local ordinances to see if this is permitted in your area)
By all means, search out and use all the free bulletin boards in your area. It's better, and usually much more profitable, to take the time to make up an attention grabbing circular you can post on these bulletin boards than just using a written 3 by 5 card announcement.
To do this, pick up some "transfer lettering," go through your newspapers and old magazines for interesting illustrations, graphics and pictures, then with a little bit of imagination, makeup an 8.5 by 11 poster type announcement of your sale. When you've got it pasted up, take it to any quick print shop and havethem print up 50 to 100 copies for you. The cost should not come to more than six or seven dollars.
If you make this "circular/poster" up with versatility and long-time usage in mind, you can use it over and over again, simply by pasting a new date. In case you were puzzled when we talk about "pasting" this is simply pasting another piece of paper on to the overall page. Say you have a circular with a date of Wednesday March 1st, and you want it to read Thursday, July 16th. Rather than do the whole thing over, simply write out thenew date with your transfer letters on a separate sheet of paper, cut it out to fit in the space occupied by the old date, and paste the new date over the old date. A good paste to use for this purpose is rubber cement. That's
all there is to it; the printer does the rest.
Now let's talk about the 'insider secrets" of drawing people into your sale, and merchandising "gimmicks' that will result in maximum sales and profit for you. First, call attention to your sale. Don't be shy, bashful, or self-conscious about letting everybody for miles around know that you're having a garage sale. Some sharp operators do the next best thing to having the Goodyear blimp overhead: They rent miniature blimps, send them up above the housetops, and tether them there on their sale days. Of course this giant balloon or miniature blimp has some sort of sign on the side of it, inviting people to the garage sale! This is one of the strongest
available advertising ideas for pulling "traffic' to a sale.
You have to give your sale some flair. Put some posts up across the front of the property and run some twisted crepe paper between them. Even better than crepe paper, run some brightly colored ribbons. Invest in some colorful pennants and fly them from temporary flag poles. And don't forget the balloons!
Make your garage sale a fun kind of event with clusters of balloons anchored to your display tables and racks. Be sure to "float" them well above the heads of your customers as they are browsing through your merchandise displays. Cover your display tables with colorful cloths. Don't hesitate to use bright colors with busy patterns. Regardless of what you sell, effective display is still predominately essential! You cannot "dump" items haphazardly on a
table, sit down and expect to realize great profits. The people doing the most business---making the most sales--are the ones with interesting displays, action and color. Try to have as wide a selection of colors as possible in your clothing racks, and mix them for a rainbow effect. Make sure that your jewelry items shine and sparkle. Arrange them in and with jewelry boxes, jewelry ladders and other items sold for the purpose of showing off jewelry while keeping it neatly organized. Think about it, and then study the methods of display used by "rack jobbers" in
the stores in your area. These are the wire racks that usually hold card packaged items. Keep these things in mind, and build your individual displays as part of the whole; make it pleasing to the eye as well as convenient for your customers to browse through and select the items that appeal to them.
Look for some kind of interesting and unusual item to call attention to your sale--something you can set up or park in front of your house during your sale. Some of the displays we've seen along these lines include a horse-drawn surrey, a restored Model T, and old farm plow. But anything of an unusual and interestingnature will do the trick for you. One couple we know put up a display using a mannequin dressed in an old time farm bonnet, long dress and apron. The display depicted a farm woman of old, washing clothes with a scrub board and two steel wash tubs. You have to believe this drew crowds and made people talk!
Where ever your imagination takes you, you have to be different and distinctive, or you'll get lost in the hundreds of garage sales going on all around you. If you'll take the time to employ a bit of imagination and set your sales up with the kind of flair we've been talking about, you'll not just draw the crowds, you'll end up being the one holding the most profits.
It's almost a compulsion of many women to go shopping, to search for the interesting and sometimes rare and valuable items. This fact will keep you as busy as you'll ever want to be--staging andholding garage sales. The market is so vast, and the appetite so varied, that anything from a brass bedstand to a used diary of somebody's long-forgotten grandmother will sell, and sell fast at garage sales. Put it all together, use a little imagination, and you'll easily make all the money you want!
Furniture Business At Home
Do you have a nache for seeing the beauty in a piece of neglected old furniture? Can you take something old and make it look new again? Are your friends and family coming to you to help them repair, refinish or restore "that great find" or personal hierloon? Or have you simply wondered what it would be like to do something like that. Why not turn that hobby, pass time, nache into a business of your own?
All you need to have is a garage or work building and are willing to learn or a knowledge of a craft, upholstering, re-upholstering and/or furniture refinishing and you have an excellent home business. The investment is comparatively small, especially if you already have the tools needed, there is always a market for these skills and the products they yield.
If you do not already know how to upholster or refinish wood, the first priority is to learn how. If you are experienced, you can begin with small projects then work your way up to the more complex, better paying jobs. In the case of a husband and wife, one could specialize in each to provide a complete service!
Learning these crafts starts with reading, then practicing. If possible, get a job working in the field to learn direct from the professionals. Otherwise, there are schools, courses and hundreds of books covering every possible aspect of furniture upholstery and refinishing. During your preparation, you may decide to specialize --modern, antiques or just chairs and sofas for example. When you are ready for customers, have a sign made and place an ad that announces your services (be specific). Put signs on your car or truck so people can see them when you pick up or deliver furniture. When you bring in jobs that are badly in need of repair, take"before" pictures of them -- to compare with "after" pictures when they are finished. Post the best of these in a photo album (portfolio) to show prospective customers and for possible future use in ads or brochures (you may need well contrasting black and white photos for these.) Arrange your album with good examples of each major type of work that you do and include a short (no more than 3 line) title and explanations for each. This way, if you are busy, customers can browse through them while waiting. These pictures will not only show what fine work you do-- they will also suggest other jobs to the customer. Use a good camera for these pictures (hire a photographer if necessary), so the pictures will accomplish their mission.
Plan your shop according to the work you are going to do in it. You will need more room to refinish tables, stands to do smaller items and a dust free section for the application of wood finishes. Upholstering takes less room, but the area must be safe from mice and moths -- especially your storage areas. When operating a business like this, you will be asked to recommend finishes, fabrics and methods. As a professional, you are often in a better position to answer these questions than your customers, but be careful not to routinely recommend those things that bring you the most profit. Remember that they may also ask someone else! It is OK, however, to point out things that are easier (therefore, cheaper) to work with. You will find that in the long run, honestly really is the best policy!
Pricing in a business like this is very difficult, and you have to give estimates on most of our work. If you see the cost is going well over your estimate, give the customer a call before proceeding. The rule here is "never surprise a customer with bad news". If the cost is slightly more, and your "estimate" was pretty firm just absorb the cost as the price of a "lesson" in how to estimate. Your pricing of course, will be based on the cost of materials, labor and utilities plus your profit. Note that labor and profit are two entirely different categories. Labor is the amount you would have to pay someone to do the job; profit is your "override" on the labor plus your profit on the materials (usually 25-40%). A fully qualified upholster or furniture refinisher should not earn less than $10 (gross) per hour -- and in some areas, $25 per hour may not be out of line for top quality work. When making your estimates, add a little "padding" (perhaps 5%) to cover unforeseen costs. Always figure your estimates and prices with good quality materials -- when you use lower quality materials, usually to save money, let it be your customer's decision.
The fastest way to learn if you want to get into the furniture refinishing or upholstery business to redo some of your own. Take a chair or table, set up a practice area and try your skill. Use BIX finish remover (available at most hardware stores) to remove paint (a second coat will also remove the stain), clean thoroughly, sand and apply the new finish. The secret is not to get in a hurry! Let the wood dry between operations; take the extra few minutes for a first class sanding job; wait another day for the finish to dry enough for the next cost, and go over the surface with fine steel wool (if recommended) and wipe thoroughly between coats. In a business, you will have several pieces in different stages of completion, so the temptation to rush will not be so great.
Another way to help expedite your "education" is to hire an experienced helper -- for both the assistance and "lessons". In addition to your signs, have a good quality 3 or 4 line rubberstamp made to custom print your own invoices and even business cards. If funds are scarce, get some duplicate ticket books at the local stationery store and stamp your name on each original ticket to get "custom printed" invoices. As long as your business is not too professional, you can place 3x5 cards with your name and services on supermarket bulletin boards. Keep an ad in the local paper, but change it a little every so often (like a new special every month), to help stimulate interest. When you are ready for more business, put an ad in the yellow pages.
Whenever business lags, you can always contact rental agencies (both real estate and furniture) to either buy used (but good quality only) furniture that needs repair, or to do their repair work. The profits will be lower, but low profits are better than NO profits. Also, bear in mind that refinishing and re-upholstering other people's furniture is not your only option. You can also buy things to restore -- from auctions, garage sales, foreclosures (business furniture is a whole new market!) and from individuals who answer your "will buy" ads. The item you buy to refinish must bring at least double its cost PLUS a fair return for your labor and materials to restore it. For this reason, buy only high quality or antique furniture, so you will "have something" when it is completed.
One possible pitfall in the refinishing and upholstery business is unpaid bills. People sometimes really want to have a couch recovered and visualize how nice it would look with a nice, quality (expensive) fabric. Trouble is, while the couch is being covered they spot a new item at half what they owe on the old couch -- and buy it! This leaves the upholsterer with $100 worth of material cut and sewn onto a $50 couch. The message here is to protect yourself; get enough down to ensure the recovered couch will be worth your investment should the customer "disappear".
All you need to have is a garage or work building and are willing to learn or a knowledge of a craft, upholstering, re-upholstering and/or furniture refinishing and you have an excellent home business. The investment is comparatively small, especially if you already have the tools needed, there is always a market for these skills and the products they yield.
If you do not already know how to upholster or refinish wood, the first priority is to learn how. If you are experienced, you can begin with small projects then work your way up to the more complex, better paying jobs. In the case of a husband and wife, one could specialize in each to provide a complete service!
Learning these crafts starts with reading, then practicing. If possible, get a job working in the field to learn direct from the professionals. Otherwise, there are schools, courses and hundreds of books covering every possible aspect of furniture upholstery and refinishing. During your preparation, you may decide to specialize --modern, antiques or just chairs and sofas for example. When you are ready for customers, have a sign made and place an ad that announces your services (be specific). Put signs on your car or truck so people can see them when you pick up or deliver furniture. When you bring in jobs that are badly in need of repair, take"before" pictures of them -- to compare with "after" pictures when they are finished. Post the best of these in a photo album (portfolio) to show prospective customers and for possible future use in ads or brochures (you may need well contrasting black and white photos for these.) Arrange your album with good examples of each major type of work that you do and include a short (no more than 3 line) title and explanations for each. This way, if you are busy, customers can browse through them while waiting. These pictures will not only show what fine work you do-- they will also suggest other jobs to the customer. Use a good camera for these pictures (hire a photographer if necessary), so the pictures will accomplish their mission.
Plan your shop according to the work you are going to do in it. You will need more room to refinish tables, stands to do smaller items and a dust free section for the application of wood finishes. Upholstering takes less room, but the area must be safe from mice and moths -- especially your storage areas. When operating a business like this, you will be asked to recommend finishes, fabrics and methods. As a professional, you are often in a better position to answer these questions than your customers, but be careful not to routinely recommend those things that bring you the most profit. Remember that they may also ask someone else! It is OK, however, to point out things that are easier (therefore, cheaper) to work with. You will find that in the long run, honestly really is the best policy!
Pricing in a business like this is very difficult, and you have to give estimates on most of our work. If you see the cost is going well over your estimate, give the customer a call before proceeding. The rule here is "never surprise a customer with bad news". If the cost is slightly more, and your "estimate" was pretty firm just absorb the cost as the price of a "lesson" in how to estimate. Your pricing of course, will be based on the cost of materials, labor and utilities plus your profit. Note that labor and profit are two entirely different categories. Labor is the amount you would have to pay someone to do the job; profit is your "override" on the labor plus your profit on the materials (usually 25-40%). A fully qualified upholster or furniture refinisher should not earn less than $10 (gross) per hour -- and in some areas, $25 per hour may not be out of line for top quality work. When making your estimates, add a little "padding" (perhaps 5%) to cover unforeseen costs. Always figure your estimates and prices with good quality materials -- when you use lower quality materials, usually to save money, let it be your customer's decision.
The fastest way to learn if you want to get into the furniture refinishing or upholstery business to redo some of your own. Take a chair or table, set up a practice area and try your skill. Use BIX finish remover (available at most hardware stores) to remove paint (a second coat will also remove the stain), clean thoroughly, sand and apply the new finish. The secret is not to get in a hurry! Let the wood dry between operations; take the extra few minutes for a first class sanding job; wait another day for the finish to dry enough for the next cost, and go over the surface with fine steel wool (if recommended) and wipe thoroughly between coats. In a business, you will have several pieces in different stages of completion, so the temptation to rush will not be so great.
Another way to help expedite your "education" is to hire an experienced helper -- for both the assistance and "lessons". In addition to your signs, have a good quality 3 or 4 line rubberstamp made to custom print your own invoices and even business cards. If funds are scarce, get some duplicate ticket books at the local stationery store and stamp your name on each original ticket to get "custom printed" invoices. As long as your business is not too professional, you can place 3x5 cards with your name and services on supermarket bulletin boards. Keep an ad in the local paper, but change it a little every so often (like a new special every month), to help stimulate interest. When you are ready for more business, put an ad in the yellow pages.
Whenever business lags, you can always contact rental agencies (both real estate and furniture) to either buy used (but good quality only) furniture that needs repair, or to do their repair work. The profits will be lower, but low profits are better than NO profits. Also, bear in mind that refinishing and re-upholstering other people's furniture is not your only option. You can also buy things to restore -- from auctions, garage sales, foreclosures (business furniture is a whole new market!) and from individuals who answer your "will buy" ads. The item you buy to refinish must bring at least double its cost PLUS a fair return for your labor and materials to restore it. For this reason, buy only high quality or antique furniture, so you will "have something" when it is completed.
One possible pitfall in the refinishing and upholstery business is unpaid bills. People sometimes really want to have a couch recovered and visualize how nice it would look with a nice, quality (expensive) fabric. Trouble is, while the couch is being covered they spot a new item at half what they owe on the old couch -- and buy it! This leaves the upholsterer with $100 worth of material cut and sewn onto a $50 couch. The message here is to protect yourself; get enough down to ensure the recovered couch will be worth your investment should the customer "disappear".
Party Planner
Mardigras -- Chinese New Years -- Who Done Its -- Chuckles the Clown -- any theme, any time. The only restrictions are in your imagination and the client's budget. Party planners put together parties for newborns to seniors. Customers can be found in any arena: corporations, conventions and just plain folks. Magic, fantasy and entertainment are possible starting points and the sky's the limit!
There are no-pre-set definitions for party planners and there are very few party planners companies in existence (perhaps as few as five hundred across the country). If you live in an area that lends itself to parties and/or conventions, there is probably room for you to join the fun. The background and experience needed to start a party planning business is as varied as the services it provides.
While some party planners simply provide their clients with the idea for their party, others plan and execute the "do". In addition to coming up with the basic party theme, they put together the entire party including creating the props, arranging the location, sending out invitations, hiring the caterers, picking the menu, and finding the entertainment, just mention a few. When you're first getting started you will probably utilize the services of all types of subcontractors such as florists, balloon decorators and caterers. You can lease props from rental stores and hire a caterer who can provide servers and bartenders. It is also possible to hire free-lancers of all kinds. Again use your imagination. Hire local actors to be Keystone Kops and gangsters at a "Roaring Twenties" party. Use celebrity look-a-likes to M.C. an awards banquet. When negotiating the fees for your services make sure to ask for a large enough deposit to cover the what-ever-up-front costs you incur when contracting-out for all these services. Keep in mind, you'll have to meet the costs of deposits for all your subcontractors.
As your business takes off and if you feel you have the know-how, you may want to consider handling some of the standard party functions in-house. Many party planners also have catering capabilities or own and store props, tents, flatware, or coffee pots etc., in order to reap the increased profits derived from the rental fees. Whether or not, make a conscious decision to accumulate any of the above, during the course of operating your business, you will undoubtedly begin to acquire some props and miscellaneous equipment. Eventually you will probably have to have some storage space and you will need office space. Each facet of the operation you incorporate into your own business will increase profits because you will be keeping the profits you had been giving to your subcontractors.
Of course you can begin operations out of your home, but eventually you may want to set up an office as your base of operations and a showcase for potential clients. If you can create an atmosphere of fun and fantasy, it can be a strong selling point for clients coming to your office and the setting may help them visualize some of your ideas. As you grow, you will undoubtedly need vans to transport props and other accouterments to the party sight. These vans can be rolling billboards. One catering company in Washington, DC uses purple step-vans with their names written in distinctive script on the back and sides. Very few people in the DC area fail to recognize these vans on the road or at a party and the catering company realizes a huge amount of advertising from their unique color and design. Having a purple van parked at the kitchen entrance for a Washington, DC party adds a great deal of prestige to any event.
One of the best ways to get started in this type of business is by extensive networking. By calling the types of people in your area who make their living supplying services to parties, you can not only garner invaluable information, you can begin to make the contracts you will need as you begin operations. You may be able to formulate quid-pro-quo arrangements with photographers, caterers and florists. You use their services for your parties, they give your name to their clients, and everyone ends up with nicely scratched back. Many hotels have banquet managers so you can let these banquet managers know your available to enhance the services the hotel offers. Offer your assistance to convention planners or any of their exhibitors who may want to throw a party. Large corporations often hold private and office parties and may want to utilize your services. You will be able to do a more comprehensive job and get better prices for your clients if you get commitments for parties several months in advance.
Obviously, the larger and more elaborate a party will be, the more time and effort it will take to set up. You will probably determine your fees by working backwards. First you will ascertain what each part of the event will cost, from catering to balloons. When you have determined that figure, then tack on the costs for your services and overhead (keeping in mind what the market will bear). Think small in the beginning, and do a really great job. You will need excellent references and samples of your work before you begin to receive assignments to plan huge, expensive, elaborate parties. Accumulate a portfolio of pictures, letters of recommendations and samples of your work to show to prospective clients. If you need more material for your portfolio, perhaps you could offer your services to a charity event or offer to plan an exemplifying your creativity and abilities. And if you are fortunate enough to be well capitalized when you start your business, you could plan a gala affair of your own and invite the types of business people mentioned above including caterers, florists, hotel banquet managers, convention planners, and affluent members of your community.
Fun is the name of the game and making sure your events aren't forgotten is the key to referral and repeat business. Making your parties three dimensional and participatory will make your parties even more unforgetable -- having your servers dressed in the party theme -- serving drinks in coffee cups at a Roaring Twenties Party -- personalize the cups with the guests' names. Stir the guest's anticipation by soliciting their participation even before the event begins. Costume parties are one good way to build anticipation, but use your imagination and you will be able to think of others.
The bottom line for any event is what your client hopes to achieve. Use their interests, hobbies, goals and even pet peeves as the foundation for the event. Intermingle ideas. Perhaps one client's most outrageous idea, while not suited for that client's party, would be perfect for the next client. Keep records and don't discount any possibility. You want to mesh with your client's needs, be wild and crazy when the occasion calls for it, but quiet and discrete under other circumstances.
Since no event ever goes exactly as planned and there are always unexpected glitches, you'll have to be able to improvise and think on your feet. You'll be dealing with a myriad of details and many different organizations and personalities. It could rain on an outdoor wedding, and the souffle could fall when a delivery man slams the door, so you will have to be able to keep 100 balls in the air at the same time. Remember ... flexibility and creativity are absolutely essential for a successful party planning enterprise. If you break into a cold sweat when you are faced with planning your only child's fifth birthday party, then party planning probably isn't for you. But if you find the idea of planning a Golden Wedding Anniversary, a graduation, a daughter's wedding and the Democratic Convention all on the same day, challenging and exciting, you are probably destined to be a party planner. Relax, have fun, and let the good times roll.
There are no-pre-set definitions for party planners and there are very few party planners companies in existence (perhaps as few as five hundred across the country). If you live in an area that lends itself to parties and/or conventions, there is probably room for you to join the fun. The background and experience needed to start a party planning business is as varied as the services it provides.
While some party planners simply provide their clients with the idea for their party, others plan and execute the "do". In addition to coming up with the basic party theme, they put together the entire party including creating the props, arranging the location, sending out invitations, hiring the caterers, picking the menu, and finding the entertainment, just mention a few. When you're first getting started you will probably utilize the services of all types of subcontractors such as florists, balloon decorators and caterers. You can lease props from rental stores and hire a caterer who can provide servers and bartenders. It is also possible to hire free-lancers of all kinds. Again use your imagination. Hire local actors to be Keystone Kops and gangsters at a "Roaring Twenties" party. Use celebrity look-a-likes to M.C. an awards banquet. When negotiating the fees for your services make sure to ask for a large enough deposit to cover the what-ever-up-front costs you incur when contracting-out for all these services. Keep in mind, you'll have to meet the costs of deposits for all your subcontractors.
As your business takes off and if you feel you have the know-how, you may want to consider handling some of the standard party functions in-house. Many party planners also have catering capabilities or own and store props, tents, flatware, or coffee pots etc., in order to reap the increased profits derived from the rental fees. Whether or not, make a conscious decision to accumulate any of the above, during the course of operating your business, you will undoubtedly begin to acquire some props and miscellaneous equipment. Eventually you will probably have to have some storage space and you will need office space. Each facet of the operation you incorporate into your own business will increase profits because you will be keeping the profits you had been giving to your subcontractors.
Of course you can begin operations out of your home, but eventually you may want to set up an office as your base of operations and a showcase for potential clients. If you can create an atmosphere of fun and fantasy, it can be a strong selling point for clients coming to your office and the setting may help them visualize some of your ideas. As you grow, you will undoubtedly need vans to transport props and other accouterments to the party sight. These vans can be rolling billboards. One catering company in Washington, DC uses purple step-vans with their names written in distinctive script on the back and sides. Very few people in the DC area fail to recognize these vans on the road or at a party and the catering company realizes a huge amount of advertising from their unique color and design. Having a purple van parked at the kitchen entrance for a Washington, DC party adds a great deal of prestige to any event.
One of the best ways to get started in this type of business is by extensive networking. By calling the types of people in your area who make their living supplying services to parties, you can not only garner invaluable information, you can begin to make the contracts you will need as you begin operations. You may be able to formulate quid-pro-quo arrangements with photographers, caterers and florists. You use their services for your parties, they give your name to their clients, and everyone ends up with nicely scratched back. Many hotels have banquet managers so you can let these banquet managers know your available to enhance the services the hotel offers. Offer your assistance to convention planners or any of their exhibitors who may want to throw a party. Large corporations often hold private and office parties and may want to utilize your services. You will be able to do a more comprehensive job and get better prices for your clients if you get commitments for parties several months in advance.
Obviously, the larger and more elaborate a party will be, the more time and effort it will take to set up. You will probably determine your fees by working backwards. First you will ascertain what each part of the event will cost, from catering to balloons. When you have determined that figure, then tack on the costs for your services and overhead (keeping in mind what the market will bear). Think small in the beginning, and do a really great job. You will need excellent references and samples of your work before you begin to receive assignments to plan huge, expensive, elaborate parties. Accumulate a portfolio of pictures, letters of recommendations and samples of your work to show to prospective clients. If you need more material for your portfolio, perhaps you could offer your services to a charity event or offer to plan an exemplifying your creativity and abilities. And if you are fortunate enough to be well capitalized when you start your business, you could plan a gala affair of your own and invite the types of business people mentioned above including caterers, florists, hotel banquet managers, convention planners, and affluent members of your community.
Fun is the name of the game and making sure your events aren't forgotten is the key to referral and repeat business. Making your parties three dimensional and participatory will make your parties even more unforgetable -- having your servers dressed in the party theme -- serving drinks in coffee cups at a Roaring Twenties Party -- personalize the cups with the guests' names. Stir the guest's anticipation by soliciting their participation even before the event begins. Costume parties are one good way to build anticipation, but use your imagination and you will be able to think of others.
The bottom line for any event is what your client hopes to achieve. Use their interests, hobbies, goals and even pet peeves as the foundation for the event. Intermingle ideas. Perhaps one client's most outrageous idea, while not suited for that client's party, would be perfect for the next client. Keep records and don't discount any possibility. You want to mesh with your client's needs, be wild and crazy when the occasion calls for it, but quiet and discrete under other circumstances.
Since no event ever goes exactly as planned and there are always unexpected glitches, you'll have to be able to improvise and think on your feet. You'll be dealing with a myriad of details and many different organizations and personalities. It could rain on an outdoor wedding, and the souffle could fall when a delivery man slams the door, so you will have to be able to keep 100 balls in the air at the same time. Remember ... flexibility and creativity are absolutely essential for a successful party planning enterprise. If you break into a cold sweat when you are faced with planning your only child's fifth birthday party, then party planning probably isn't for you. But if you find the idea of planning a Golden Wedding Anniversary, a graduation, a daughter's wedding and the Democratic Convention all on the same day, challenging and exciting, you are probably destined to be a party planner. Relax, have fun, and let the good times roll.
Greeting Card Business
Most of us enjoy getting greeting cards from time to time. Birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, the birth of a baby, and other occasions mean even more to us when we are remembered by friends, relatives and colleagues. A well written card can make a genuinely personal statement for any occasion. That's why greeting cards continue to be a sincere and effective means of communication. In fact, the demand for greeting cards is such that it is now a multi-billion dollar industry and still growing.
Since there will always be birthdays, holidays and other occasions appropriate for card sending, the market remains stableand prosperous for talented and creative writers. Besides the ever popular traditional greeting card messages, greeting card companies are constantly looking for fresh and innovative ideas and concepts. And although most companies employ staff writers and artists, the opportunity for free-lance writers is very real and substantial. Many greeting card companies actually encourage free-lance writers to submit a regular stream of card ideas.
Writing greeting cards on a freelance basis is a creative way for writers to make excellent part-time money. In some cases, extremely talented and prolific writers can write greeting cards full time and make a comfortable living. Of course, the amount of success a freelance writer can expect from writing greeting cards depends on talent, initiative, knowledge of the industry, and time devoted to creating new ideas and concepts. Many freelance writers are attracted to writing greeting cards simply by the nature of the work. Everything is usually accomplished from the writer's own home. All that's needed is a typewriter and a fairly consistent supply of new ideas. There are no agents, or complex contracts to deal with, and most business transactions are done by mail. As a rule, writers who have success in the greeting card industry are creative people who not only love to write, but alsounderstand what other people want in greeting cards. These writers have learned the secret of "marketability and sendability" and as a result are able to express, in a minimum number of words, a multitude of sentiments.
Getting started writing greeting cards on a freelance basis is not at all difficult. You don't have to possess a college degree, or live in New York. What you will need is the ability tocreate messages that people want to send and receive. You'll also need to be familiar with what is already on the market; what people are buying and sending. Then you'll need to know which companies are most likely to accept your particular type of submissions. This report will offer information and suggestions about the greeting card industry and how to create and submit material thatcould earn you $150 or more per idea. It is not intended as a guarantee against rejection. Even the most successful writers are familiar with editor's rejections. But, if you are creative, enjoy writing, and are willing to follow specific company guidelines, you could soon be making good money doing something that is both fun and challenging.
WHAT GREETING CARD COMPANIES ARE LOOKING FOR
While the greeting card industry is not stagnant, and new ideas and trends are frequently being developed, the three basic card categories remain the same -- traditional, studio (or contemporary) and alternative. And when publishing a line of greeting cards, in any category, a company must cater to the people who are most likely to buy and send cards. In most cases, that means women between the ages of 18 and 50.
The majority of companies are looking for cards that target issues these womencare about; relationships, success, religion, money, health, and so on. Even though traditional and contemporary cards continue to be a staple of the greeting card industry, there may be an even better opportunity for the freelance writer in tune with relevant issues. Issue oriented, or alternative cards, are becoming increasingly popular even with smaller companies that are expanding their lines in order to reach this growing market.
Alternative cards offer a response to non-traditional card-sending situations and can be just as viable a means of communication as traditional cards. Some of today's best selling cards are non-traditional cards commemorating new jobs, promotions, and salary raises. Other top selling alternative cards deal with relationships, even the break-up of marriages. Still another significant line of alternative cards is aimed at people who have experienced, or are experiencing, drug and alcohol addictions. At least one greeting card company has already created a complete line of such cards, in cooperation with a drug and alcohol abuse foundation.
Whether the sending situation is traditional or non-traditional, it's safe to say most companies prefer a personal, conversational style message rather than a verse of rhyme. However, rhymed verse is often used for inspirational cards, which also have a fairly large market. Most companies specify their individual preferences in their writer's guidelines. That's why it is essential to know what a specific company is looking for before you make a submission.
Another ingredient many companies are looking for is humor. Cards that convey a message with humor are very popular, especially with the baby boom generation, which makes up a large portion of the card-sending market. The preference, even with humor, is for short messages that are immediately understood and funny. The ideal is to have an attention-getting, one-sentence lead in on the outside (or front) of the card, with an equally brief, but effective, punch line inside. The intention is to get the potential buyer/sender hooked by the lead-in message so she/he can't resist opening the card to get to the punch line. Companies that are looking for humorous card ideas are usually emphatic and clear about the kinds of humor they will accept. As a rule "corny" or sentimental humor is not preferred. Most companies request humor that is "off-the-wall," "laugh-out-loud," "irreverent," "outrageous," and in many cases, "risqu�." In other words, try to make your humorous ideas as "cliche'-free," unpredictable, and funny as you can. In general, most greeting card companies are looking for cards that are appropriate for traditional sending occasions, as well as cards for newer "issue" oriented situations.
Here are several of the most sought after types of card ideas:
(1) Birthdays: Since there's never a shortage of birthdays, the market for original birthday cards, both humorous and serious, remains a steady market for writers. Birthday cards can make us laugh about getting older, or they can be sensitive, serving as a reminder of the positive side of life, past and future.
(2) Friendship: Good friends are hard to find, and keep. That's why friendship cards continue to be a profitable part of the greeting card industry. Most friendship cards deal with the general value of friendship, or the significance of a specific friendship. Again, both humorous and serious card ideas are acceptable to most greeting card companies. The main thing is that the ideas must be original and genuinely and clearly expresssome positive aspect of friendship.
(3) Get Well: Like birthday cards, the need for get well cards remains constant. Most people with not-so-serious illnessesappreciate humorous get well cards. But, prospective writers should be cautioned to stay away from over-used and worn out hospital humor concerning hospital gowns, hospital food and so on. Greeting card companies are looking for fresh ideas, not a re-working of old ones.There is also a need for non-humorous get well cards that express appropriate, and sensitive sentiments toward someone experiencing a serious illness. What greeting card companies are looking for here is a sensitive approach to a serious, and even grave situation. Sometimes the sentiment "get well soon" is not appropriate, even for get well cards.
(4) Sympathy: Unfortunately, sympathy cards are always needed. To fill that need, a writer must be able to address the loss of a loved one with good taste and sensitivity.
(5) Love And Romance: Writers of love and romance card ideas will do well to address all kinds of love and different aspects of romance; first love, long-term romantic relationships, marriage, sharing, trust, commitment, renewing an old romance, and so on. The market is good for both humorous and serious cardsaddressing the themes of love and romance.
(6) Support And Encouragement: This type of card has increased in popularity over the past decade and offers creative writers a good deal of opportunity. These cards can be given to friends, relatives, colleagues, lovers -- anyone who might need to know that they are not alone. The most common message with this type of card is "I'm here for you." These cards offer both encouragement and support, and can be treated in either a seriousor humorous manner.
(7) Inspirational Cards: Most companies looking for inspirational cards request messages that address spiritual or human potential. These cards normally deal with some aspect of personal growth, are non-humorous, utilize sensitive language, and require an understanding of the spiritual and human condition.
(8) Alternative Cards: These cards are designed for non-traditional sending occasions. The most common card ideas in thisline are those offering congratulations for a new job, job promotion, or raise in salary. More serious issues, such as divorce, terminal illness, and substance abuse, are also top-selling themes in the alternative card line.
The main thing a writer should remember is that greeting card companies are all looking for fresh ideas and messages, not time-worn clich�s and sappy sentiment. Greeting card messages should be immediate and clear. Writers should avoid wordy or complex messages, and be direct and original. In short, most greeting card companies are looking for ideas they haven't seen or heard before.
HOW TO SUBMIT IDEAS
Most greeting card companies have their own specific guidelines for submitting editorial, verse, and artwork. You can find out what each greeting card company requires by writing a brief letter, asking for a copy of their writer's guidelines. You should always include a Long Self-Addressed, Stamped Envelope (LSASE) with your request. And if the guidelines are available, you should receive them in two or three weeks. Your request letter need not be more than a simple, polite request.
For example:
Jane Doe
Locust Lane
Jackson, OH
45640
American Greetings
10500 American Rd.
Cleveland, OH
44144
(Your letter does not need to be addressed to a specific person.)
Please send me a copy of your writer's guidelines. I have enclosed an SASE for your convenience.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In order to send your request letters, you will, of course, need a list of greeting card company addresses. You can get this information from several different sources. Two good sources are:
Writer's Market from Writer's Digest Books in Cincinnati, Ohio
The Writer's Handbook published by The Writer, Inc., Boston, MA.
Both of these publications contain sections on greeting cards, featuring alphabetical listings of many companies with assorted information, including addresses and the availability (or not) of writer's guidelines. Some libraries have these books in their reference sections, but if not, be prepared to spend $20 - $25. While both the Writer's Market and The Writer's Handbook are valuable tools for freelance writers, there are a couple of more economical ways to get the information you need. One way is by writing to:
Artist and Writer's Market,
The Greeting Card Association,
1356 New York Ave. NW,
Suite 615,
Washington, DC
20005
Be sure to include an SASE with your request. You can also visit card racks in various stores and select the lines that appeal to your particular creativity. Jot down the companies that interest you and send them a request letter.
Trade magazines such as Greetings, published by Mackay Publishing Corporation of New York, also offer specific greeting card company information, as well as information about the latesttrends, trade shows, and seminars. While submission guidelines may vary from company to company there are some generalizations that can be made:
(1) Each message or verse should be typed on a separate piece of paper (8 1/2" x 11"), or 4" x 6" or 3" x 5" slips of paper or index cards. Most companies require submissions on 3" x 5" index cards, but in some cases studio-card submissions may be required on 9" x 9 1/2" folded paper.
(2) In most cases you will be required to use only one side of the submission card or paper. Your name, address, and phone number should be placed in the upper left-hand corner of each submission, and the message or verse in the center.
(3) Most companies will allow from 5 to 15 separate card ideas with each submission. If you are not sure how many ideas orverses a specific publisher will accept in one group, send no more than 10.
(4) Each submission should be accompanied by a brief cover letter. The letter should be addressed to the editor or editorialstaff, and briefly indicate what you are submitting. The cover letter should be no longer than a short paragraph. Also include an SASE for return of any submissions not accepted.
(5) If you make a lot of submissions, you'll need to keep organized. The best way to do this is to create your own coding system. Your system doesn't have to be elaborate or complex -- just something you will understand. One simple coding system is to place your initials, the company initials, and a number in theupper right-hand corner of each submission card.
Here's a sample card submission:
Jane Doe JD-AM-1Locust LaneJackson, OH 45640(Phone number)ANOTHER BIRTHDAY!I'm Glad I Haven't Known You All Of Your LifeI Couldn't have afforded FORTY Birthday Cards!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Most greeting card company writer's and artist guidelines will follow the general format outlined above. However, you should never take submission guidelines for granted. Before you submit, get the company guidelines and follow them to the letter.
ARTWORK
It's not necessary for freelance writers to furnish artwork as well as the editorial for card ideas. As a rule, greeting card companies have artists on staff, or they commission artists to illustrate accepted new card ideas. That doesn't mean writers cannot submit their own artwork too. Many companies are pleased to hear from creative individuals who can provide both the editorial and the artwork. Again, you should refer to each company's writer's and artist's guidelines to familiarize yourself with individual company policies. If you are an artist, illustrator, designer, or photographer, and wish to submit some concept to a greeting card company, you should understand that most companies do not accept original artwork of any sort. Instead, you'll be required to submit slides, photocopies, photos, promotional pieces, or some other reproduction of your work. Generally, greeting card companies like to see an artist's style before they ask for an original work or contract for an assignment. So don't send any original artwork unless a company specifically requests that you do.
Whatever representations of your artwork you send, you'll most likely be required to reduce your submissions to standard sizes -- 5" x 7" or 4 3/4" x 6 1/4" for cards, and 4 1/8" x 5 1/2" for postcards. Photographs are often required to be submitted in the form of transparencies. And color, or hand-colored work is usually preferred over black and white.
Every piece of artwork you submit should include your name, address, and telephone number. And while it is not necessary, you can place the copyright symbol next to your name. You should also include an SASE if you want your material returned. Make sure the envelope is large enough to hold your submission, and be sure it's stamped with the proper amount of postage.
Usually, the relationship between copy and artwork is significant. It's a good idea for writers to think of, or plan, the card as an entire concept. Even if you are not artistically inclined, most card company editors appreciate intelligent suggestions from writers about an overall concept.
NOVELTY IDEAS
Writing messages and verse for greeting cards is not the only way a freelance writer can use such a talent to make money. There's also a good market for writing messages for posters, t-shirts, buttons, telephone answering machines, wedding invitations, and other items. In fact, many greeting card companies also feature a line of novelty items. Some of these companies pay the same flat fee for a novelty message as they do for a greeting card idea.
The greeting card companies also involved with novelty items are usually in need of editorial and/or concepts for buttons, mugs, key rings, plaques, bookmarks, refrigerator magnets, and other such items. In most cases novelty humor as well as serious themes are accepted. Mugs, which are popular gift items, work best with strong personal me-to-you messages. Some popular themes companies look for include birthday, get well, and personal relationships. The messages are similar to greeting card messages, but must be expressed in one line since the message is only on the outside of the mug, rather than the typical two-line greeting card.
In general, slogans, sayings, or any copy for non-card products should follow several guidelines. First of all, a novelty product must accurately reflect the lifestyles, attitudes, and personalities of the people who use or wear the product. That also means that the written message must be some catchy and relevant statement about a multitude of life experiences. The messages on novelty products are usually philosophical statements about relationships, dieting, school, sex, work, men, women, hobbies, etc.
When creating slogans and statements for novelty products, it's important to keep in mind that the end result should be a means of self-expression. People use or wear such products as a fun way to make personal statements. In many cases novelty products are humorous items that allow us to make fun of life's ups and downs as well as ourselves.
POTENTIAL EARNINGS
Since greeting cards is a multi-billion dollar industry, there is good potential for substantial earnings. Most companies pay from $25 to $150 for each freelance idea or verse they buy. Some pay as much as $500 for a single idea or verse. If your work is especially original and creative, a submission of ten card ideas to one company could bring you anywhere from $25 to $1,500 (or more) depending on how many of the ideas the company buys, and how much they pay per idea. In most cases a company's writer's guidelines will tell you how much they pay per idea. If you feel your ideas are worth more than $25 a piece, submit them to a company that pays more. The choice of companies you wish to deal with is entirely up to you. Just make sure your submissions fit the specific guidelines and needs of the company you are sending them to.
Usually, if an editor buys 2 or 3 ideas out of a batch of 10 to 15 submissions the writer is doing very well. But it isn't unheard of for an editor to buy most, or all, of a writer's ideas from one submission. Admittedly, for that to happen all the writer's ideas and/or verses must be highly original, creative, and exceptional. And they must be exactly what the company is looking for. While most companies pay per card or idea, a few pay small royalties. Other companies may prefer to test a card before buying it. In that event, the company will pay a small fee to test the idea before they make a final decision. Many companies also give a writer's credit on the back of the card. Some companies will even include free samples if they accept your idea(s).
How much a company pays per card is certainly a consideration when deciding where to send your ideas, but it's not the only consideration. You must also be reasonably certain your ideas fit the particular needs of the company. You should also consider whether the company pays on "acceptance" or on "publication." Being "paid on acceptance" simply means that shortly after a company accepts your idea(s) for publication you'll be getting a check. On the other hand, being "paid on publication" means you'll most likely have to wait a good deal longer before you get any money. The time that elapses between acceptance of an idea and its actual publication can be several months. That's why most experienced freelance writers prefer to work with companies that pay on acceptance.
The important thing to remember regarding potential earnings from writing greeting cards is that there are no guarantees. Anyone who has ever written anything for publication, from greeting cards to novels, has suffered rejection. Not every editor will find your ideas and verses as witty, original, or creative as you do. But if you are truly creative, prolific, and persistent, you will eventually be successful. To a large degree,your potential earnings from writing greeting cards is only as limited as your imagination and creativity.
SOME TIPS
(1) As a general rule, the most successful greeting cards are those that are short and to the point. Concentrate on creating card ideas that work with a one-sentence front and a one sentence follow-up on the inside. Since most stores that carry greeting cards have from 500 to 1,000 cards on display, a quick glance is all each card gets. So a short, catchy, readily understood front-of-the-card sentence has a decided advantage over a more lengthy and ponderous message.
(2) Since birthday cards are usually a company's biggest seller, it's a good idea for beginners to concentrate on birthday ideas and concepts. It's not only a good way to learn what companies are looking for, it may also be the best opportunity for initial success.
(3) When writing card ideas, consider sending occasions such as birthdays, Christmas, job promotions, etc., and imagine someone (a friend, colleague, or relative) to whom you would give the card. In effect, you should look at your card ideas and ask yourself if you would actually buy them and send them to people.
(4) If you think you've heard it before, then forget it. Originality is one of the main keys to success in writing greeting cards. One way to insure that your ideas will be fresh and innovative is to keep in touch with what's going on in the world around you. Read newspapers, popular magazines, go to the movies -- anything that will keep you abreast of the latest issues, fads, and fashions. You'll be amazed at the amount of inspiration you'll get simply by "paying attention."
(5) Even if you are not an artist or illustrator, it's always a good idea to have a complete concept in mind when you create a specific message. It's also a good idea to suggest the entire concept to an editor when you make your submission. Don't worry about artwork. If the overall concept appeals to the editor, a company staff member will take care of the card design.
(6) Send your rejections to other companies. Take a careful look at all your rejected ideas. Eliminate the weakest ones, and send the rest to another company. Rejection of an idea may simply mean that a specific company doesn't need it. That does not mean another company can't use it.
(7) Don't get impatient. If you haven't heard from an editor 3 or 4 weeks after you've submitted material, don't write, and don't call. You should allow at least eight weeks for a response.Some companies may not get back to you for 12 weeks or more. Many companies state their typical response time in their guidelines.
(8) When most card companies buy an idea they "buy all rights." Many of these companies will also require the writer to guarantee that the material they are buying is original and has not been sold to any other company. If a company requires you to sign a release form and/or a contract to sell all rights, make sure you understand the terms of the agreement before signing.
(9) Keep records. Use a 3"x 5" card file to hold duplicates of your submissions. You can arrange your ideas any way you like -- subject, season, prose, verse, one-liners, etc. Keep on file what you send, where you send it, and the date it was sent. Of course, you should also record whether an idea was purchased or rejected.
SUMMARY
How much money can you make writing greeting cards? The answer to that question is really up to you. Certainly a creative, motivated writer can make excellent money on a part-time basis. But it is also possible to make a comfortable living freelancing for greeting card companies full time. Obviously, the more time you devote to creating new greeting card ideas and concepts, the more money you are apt to make. Just don't expect great monetary rewards over night. It takes time.
Before you make any money writing greeting cards, you'll have to take the first step. Become familiar with the greeting card industry. Browse through card racks and see what the market is offering. Get a list of greeting card companies and send for their writer's guidelines and market list. And before you submit your ideas make sure they fall within the company's requirements.
While there are no guarantees, there is a great opportunity for freelance writers to make big money writing greeting cards. An initial small investment in index cards, postage, and envelopes, can easily be recovered with one purchased idea. If you are creative, love to write, have initiative, and are willing to make the effort, you can see your words and ideas become greeting cards and make money as well.
Since there will always be birthdays, holidays and other occasions appropriate for card sending, the market remains stableand prosperous for talented and creative writers. Besides the ever popular traditional greeting card messages, greeting card companies are constantly looking for fresh and innovative ideas and concepts. And although most companies employ staff writers and artists, the opportunity for free-lance writers is very real and substantial. Many greeting card companies actually encourage free-lance writers to submit a regular stream of card ideas.
Writing greeting cards on a freelance basis is a creative way for writers to make excellent part-time money. In some cases, extremely talented and prolific writers can write greeting cards full time and make a comfortable living. Of course, the amount of success a freelance writer can expect from writing greeting cards depends on talent, initiative, knowledge of the industry, and time devoted to creating new ideas and concepts. Many freelance writers are attracted to writing greeting cards simply by the nature of the work. Everything is usually accomplished from the writer's own home. All that's needed is a typewriter and a fairly consistent supply of new ideas. There are no agents, or complex contracts to deal with, and most business transactions are done by mail. As a rule, writers who have success in the greeting card industry are creative people who not only love to write, but alsounderstand what other people want in greeting cards. These writers have learned the secret of "marketability and sendability" and as a result are able to express, in a minimum number of words, a multitude of sentiments.
Getting started writing greeting cards on a freelance basis is not at all difficult. You don't have to possess a college degree, or live in New York. What you will need is the ability tocreate messages that people want to send and receive. You'll also need to be familiar with what is already on the market; what people are buying and sending. Then you'll need to know which companies are most likely to accept your particular type of submissions. This report will offer information and suggestions about the greeting card industry and how to create and submit material thatcould earn you $150 or more per idea. It is not intended as a guarantee against rejection. Even the most successful writers are familiar with editor's rejections. But, if you are creative, enjoy writing, and are willing to follow specific company guidelines, you could soon be making good money doing something that is both fun and challenging.
WHAT GREETING CARD COMPANIES ARE LOOKING FOR
While the greeting card industry is not stagnant, and new ideas and trends are frequently being developed, the three basic card categories remain the same -- traditional, studio (or contemporary) and alternative. And when publishing a line of greeting cards, in any category, a company must cater to the people who are most likely to buy and send cards. In most cases, that means women between the ages of 18 and 50.
The majority of companies are looking for cards that target issues these womencare about; relationships, success, religion, money, health, and so on. Even though traditional and contemporary cards continue to be a staple of the greeting card industry, there may be an even better opportunity for the freelance writer in tune with relevant issues. Issue oriented, or alternative cards, are becoming increasingly popular even with smaller companies that are expanding their lines in order to reach this growing market.
Alternative cards offer a response to non-traditional card-sending situations and can be just as viable a means of communication as traditional cards. Some of today's best selling cards are non-traditional cards commemorating new jobs, promotions, and salary raises. Other top selling alternative cards deal with relationships, even the break-up of marriages. Still another significant line of alternative cards is aimed at people who have experienced, or are experiencing, drug and alcohol addictions. At least one greeting card company has already created a complete line of such cards, in cooperation with a drug and alcohol abuse foundation.
Whether the sending situation is traditional or non-traditional, it's safe to say most companies prefer a personal, conversational style message rather than a verse of rhyme. However, rhymed verse is often used for inspirational cards, which also have a fairly large market. Most companies specify their individual preferences in their writer's guidelines. That's why it is essential to know what a specific company is looking for before you make a submission.
Another ingredient many companies are looking for is humor. Cards that convey a message with humor are very popular, especially with the baby boom generation, which makes up a large portion of the card-sending market. The preference, even with humor, is for short messages that are immediately understood and funny. The ideal is to have an attention-getting, one-sentence lead in on the outside (or front) of the card, with an equally brief, but effective, punch line inside. The intention is to get the potential buyer/sender hooked by the lead-in message so she/he can't resist opening the card to get to the punch line. Companies that are looking for humorous card ideas are usually emphatic and clear about the kinds of humor they will accept. As a rule "corny" or sentimental humor is not preferred. Most companies request humor that is "off-the-wall," "laugh-out-loud," "irreverent," "outrageous," and in many cases, "risqu�." In other words, try to make your humorous ideas as "cliche'-free," unpredictable, and funny as you can. In general, most greeting card companies are looking for cards that are appropriate for traditional sending occasions, as well as cards for newer "issue" oriented situations.
Here are several of the most sought after types of card ideas:
(1) Birthdays: Since there's never a shortage of birthdays, the market for original birthday cards, both humorous and serious, remains a steady market for writers. Birthday cards can make us laugh about getting older, or they can be sensitive, serving as a reminder of the positive side of life, past and future.
(2) Friendship: Good friends are hard to find, and keep. That's why friendship cards continue to be a profitable part of the greeting card industry. Most friendship cards deal with the general value of friendship, or the significance of a specific friendship. Again, both humorous and serious card ideas are acceptable to most greeting card companies. The main thing is that the ideas must be original and genuinely and clearly expresssome positive aspect of friendship.
(3) Get Well: Like birthday cards, the need for get well cards remains constant. Most people with not-so-serious illnessesappreciate humorous get well cards. But, prospective writers should be cautioned to stay away from over-used and worn out hospital humor concerning hospital gowns, hospital food and so on. Greeting card companies are looking for fresh ideas, not a re-working of old ones.There is also a need for non-humorous get well cards that express appropriate, and sensitive sentiments toward someone experiencing a serious illness. What greeting card companies are looking for here is a sensitive approach to a serious, and even grave situation. Sometimes the sentiment "get well soon" is not appropriate, even for get well cards.
(4) Sympathy: Unfortunately, sympathy cards are always needed. To fill that need, a writer must be able to address the loss of a loved one with good taste and sensitivity.
(5) Love And Romance: Writers of love and romance card ideas will do well to address all kinds of love and different aspects of romance; first love, long-term romantic relationships, marriage, sharing, trust, commitment, renewing an old romance, and so on. The market is good for both humorous and serious cardsaddressing the themes of love and romance.
(6) Support And Encouragement: This type of card has increased in popularity over the past decade and offers creative writers a good deal of opportunity. These cards can be given to friends, relatives, colleagues, lovers -- anyone who might need to know that they are not alone. The most common message with this type of card is "I'm here for you." These cards offer both encouragement and support, and can be treated in either a seriousor humorous manner.
(7) Inspirational Cards: Most companies looking for inspirational cards request messages that address spiritual or human potential. These cards normally deal with some aspect of personal growth, are non-humorous, utilize sensitive language, and require an understanding of the spiritual and human condition.
(8) Alternative Cards: These cards are designed for non-traditional sending occasions. The most common card ideas in thisline are those offering congratulations for a new job, job promotion, or raise in salary. More serious issues, such as divorce, terminal illness, and substance abuse, are also top-selling themes in the alternative card line.
The main thing a writer should remember is that greeting card companies are all looking for fresh ideas and messages, not time-worn clich�s and sappy sentiment. Greeting card messages should be immediate and clear. Writers should avoid wordy or complex messages, and be direct and original. In short, most greeting card companies are looking for ideas they haven't seen or heard before.
HOW TO SUBMIT IDEAS
Most greeting card companies have their own specific guidelines for submitting editorial, verse, and artwork. You can find out what each greeting card company requires by writing a brief letter, asking for a copy of their writer's guidelines. You should always include a Long Self-Addressed, Stamped Envelope (LSASE) with your request. And if the guidelines are available, you should receive them in two or three weeks. Your request letter need not be more than a simple, polite request.
For example:
Jane Doe
Locust Lane
Jackson, OH
45640
American Greetings
10500 American Rd.
Cleveland, OH
44144
(Your letter does not need to be addressed to a specific person.)
Please send me a copy of your writer's guidelines. I have enclosed an SASE for your convenience.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In order to send your request letters, you will, of course, need a list of greeting card company addresses. You can get this information from several different sources. Two good sources are:
Writer's Market from Writer's Digest Books in Cincinnati, Ohio
The Writer's Handbook published by The Writer, Inc., Boston, MA.
Both of these publications contain sections on greeting cards, featuring alphabetical listings of many companies with assorted information, including addresses and the availability (or not) of writer's guidelines. Some libraries have these books in their reference sections, but if not, be prepared to spend $20 - $25. While both the Writer's Market and The Writer's Handbook are valuable tools for freelance writers, there are a couple of more economical ways to get the information you need. One way is by writing to:
Artist and Writer's Market,
The Greeting Card Association,
1356 New York Ave. NW,
Suite 615,
Washington, DC
20005
Be sure to include an SASE with your request. You can also visit card racks in various stores and select the lines that appeal to your particular creativity. Jot down the companies that interest you and send them a request letter.
Trade magazines such as Greetings, published by Mackay Publishing Corporation of New York, also offer specific greeting card company information, as well as information about the latesttrends, trade shows, and seminars. While submission guidelines may vary from company to company there are some generalizations that can be made:
(1) Each message or verse should be typed on a separate piece of paper (8 1/2" x 11"), or 4" x 6" or 3" x 5" slips of paper or index cards. Most companies require submissions on 3" x 5" index cards, but in some cases studio-card submissions may be required on 9" x 9 1/2" folded paper.
(2) In most cases you will be required to use only one side of the submission card or paper. Your name, address, and phone number should be placed in the upper left-hand corner of each submission, and the message or verse in the center.
(3) Most companies will allow from 5 to 15 separate card ideas with each submission. If you are not sure how many ideas orverses a specific publisher will accept in one group, send no more than 10.
(4) Each submission should be accompanied by a brief cover letter. The letter should be addressed to the editor or editorialstaff, and briefly indicate what you are submitting. The cover letter should be no longer than a short paragraph. Also include an SASE for return of any submissions not accepted.
(5) If you make a lot of submissions, you'll need to keep organized. The best way to do this is to create your own coding system. Your system doesn't have to be elaborate or complex -- just something you will understand. One simple coding system is to place your initials, the company initials, and a number in theupper right-hand corner of each submission card.
Here's a sample card submission:
Jane Doe JD-AM-1Locust LaneJackson, OH 45640(Phone number)ANOTHER BIRTHDAY!I'm Glad I Haven't Known You All Of Your LifeI Couldn't have afforded FORTY Birthday Cards!
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Most greeting card company writer's and artist guidelines will follow the general format outlined above. However, you should never take submission guidelines for granted. Before you submit, get the company guidelines and follow them to the letter.
ARTWORK
It's not necessary for freelance writers to furnish artwork as well as the editorial for card ideas. As a rule, greeting card companies have artists on staff, or they commission artists to illustrate accepted new card ideas. That doesn't mean writers cannot submit their own artwork too. Many companies are pleased to hear from creative individuals who can provide both the editorial and the artwork. Again, you should refer to each company's writer's and artist's guidelines to familiarize yourself with individual company policies. If you are an artist, illustrator, designer, or photographer, and wish to submit some concept to a greeting card company, you should understand that most companies do not accept original artwork of any sort. Instead, you'll be required to submit slides, photocopies, photos, promotional pieces, or some other reproduction of your work. Generally, greeting card companies like to see an artist's style before they ask for an original work or contract for an assignment. So don't send any original artwork unless a company specifically requests that you do.
Whatever representations of your artwork you send, you'll most likely be required to reduce your submissions to standard sizes -- 5" x 7" or 4 3/4" x 6 1/4" for cards, and 4 1/8" x 5 1/2" for postcards. Photographs are often required to be submitted in the form of transparencies. And color, or hand-colored work is usually preferred over black and white.
Every piece of artwork you submit should include your name, address, and telephone number. And while it is not necessary, you can place the copyright symbol next to your name. You should also include an SASE if you want your material returned. Make sure the envelope is large enough to hold your submission, and be sure it's stamped with the proper amount of postage.
Usually, the relationship between copy and artwork is significant. It's a good idea for writers to think of, or plan, the card as an entire concept. Even if you are not artistically inclined, most card company editors appreciate intelligent suggestions from writers about an overall concept.
NOVELTY IDEAS
Writing messages and verse for greeting cards is not the only way a freelance writer can use such a talent to make money. There's also a good market for writing messages for posters, t-shirts, buttons, telephone answering machines, wedding invitations, and other items. In fact, many greeting card companies also feature a line of novelty items. Some of these companies pay the same flat fee for a novelty message as they do for a greeting card idea.
The greeting card companies also involved with novelty items are usually in need of editorial and/or concepts for buttons, mugs, key rings, plaques, bookmarks, refrigerator magnets, and other such items. In most cases novelty humor as well as serious themes are accepted. Mugs, which are popular gift items, work best with strong personal me-to-you messages. Some popular themes companies look for include birthday, get well, and personal relationships. The messages are similar to greeting card messages, but must be expressed in one line since the message is only on the outside of the mug, rather than the typical two-line greeting card.
In general, slogans, sayings, or any copy for non-card products should follow several guidelines. First of all, a novelty product must accurately reflect the lifestyles, attitudes, and personalities of the people who use or wear the product. That also means that the written message must be some catchy and relevant statement about a multitude of life experiences. The messages on novelty products are usually philosophical statements about relationships, dieting, school, sex, work, men, women, hobbies, etc.
When creating slogans and statements for novelty products, it's important to keep in mind that the end result should be a means of self-expression. People use or wear such products as a fun way to make personal statements. In many cases novelty products are humorous items that allow us to make fun of life's ups and downs as well as ourselves.
POTENTIAL EARNINGS
Since greeting cards is a multi-billion dollar industry, there is good potential for substantial earnings. Most companies pay from $25 to $150 for each freelance idea or verse they buy. Some pay as much as $500 for a single idea or verse. If your work is especially original and creative, a submission of ten card ideas to one company could bring you anywhere from $25 to $1,500 (or more) depending on how many of the ideas the company buys, and how much they pay per idea. In most cases a company's writer's guidelines will tell you how much they pay per idea. If you feel your ideas are worth more than $25 a piece, submit them to a company that pays more. The choice of companies you wish to deal with is entirely up to you. Just make sure your submissions fit the specific guidelines and needs of the company you are sending them to.
Usually, if an editor buys 2 or 3 ideas out of a batch of 10 to 15 submissions the writer is doing very well. But it isn't unheard of for an editor to buy most, or all, of a writer's ideas from one submission. Admittedly, for that to happen all the writer's ideas and/or verses must be highly original, creative, and exceptional. And they must be exactly what the company is looking for. While most companies pay per card or idea, a few pay small royalties. Other companies may prefer to test a card before buying it. In that event, the company will pay a small fee to test the idea before they make a final decision. Many companies also give a writer's credit on the back of the card. Some companies will even include free samples if they accept your idea(s).
How much a company pays per card is certainly a consideration when deciding where to send your ideas, but it's not the only consideration. You must also be reasonably certain your ideas fit the particular needs of the company. You should also consider whether the company pays on "acceptance" or on "publication." Being "paid on acceptance" simply means that shortly after a company accepts your idea(s) for publication you'll be getting a check. On the other hand, being "paid on publication" means you'll most likely have to wait a good deal longer before you get any money. The time that elapses between acceptance of an idea and its actual publication can be several months. That's why most experienced freelance writers prefer to work with companies that pay on acceptance.
The important thing to remember regarding potential earnings from writing greeting cards is that there are no guarantees. Anyone who has ever written anything for publication, from greeting cards to novels, has suffered rejection. Not every editor will find your ideas and verses as witty, original, or creative as you do. But if you are truly creative, prolific, and persistent, you will eventually be successful. To a large degree,your potential earnings from writing greeting cards is only as limited as your imagination and creativity.
SOME TIPS
(1) As a general rule, the most successful greeting cards are those that are short and to the point. Concentrate on creating card ideas that work with a one-sentence front and a one sentence follow-up on the inside. Since most stores that carry greeting cards have from 500 to 1,000 cards on display, a quick glance is all each card gets. So a short, catchy, readily understood front-of-the-card sentence has a decided advantage over a more lengthy and ponderous message.
(2) Since birthday cards are usually a company's biggest seller, it's a good idea for beginners to concentrate on birthday ideas and concepts. It's not only a good way to learn what companies are looking for, it may also be the best opportunity for initial success.
(3) When writing card ideas, consider sending occasions such as birthdays, Christmas, job promotions, etc., and imagine someone (a friend, colleague, or relative) to whom you would give the card. In effect, you should look at your card ideas and ask yourself if you would actually buy them and send them to people.
(4) If you think you've heard it before, then forget it. Originality is one of the main keys to success in writing greeting cards. One way to insure that your ideas will be fresh and innovative is to keep in touch with what's going on in the world around you. Read newspapers, popular magazines, go to the movies -- anything that will keep you abreast of the latest issues, fads, and fashions. You'll be amazed at the amount of inspiration you'll get simply by "paying attention."
(5) Even if you are not an artist or illustrator, it's always a good idea to have a complete concept in mind when you create a specific message. It's also a good idea to suggest the entire concept to an editor when you make your submission. Don't worry about artwork. If the overall concept appeals to the editor, a company staff member will take care of the card design.
(6) Send your rejections to other companies. Take a careful look at all your rejected ideas. Eliminate the weakest ones, and send the rest to another company. Rejection of an idea may simply mean that a specific company doesn't need it. That does not mean another company can't use it.
(7) Don't get impatient. If you haven't heard from an editor 3 or 4 weeks after you've submitted material, don't write, and don't call. You should allow at least eight weeks for a response.Some companies may not get back to you for 12 weeks or more. Many companies state their typical response time in their guidelines.
(8) When most card companies buy an idea they "buy all rights." Many of these companies will also require the writer to guarantee that the material they are buying is original and has not been sold to any other company. If a company requires you to sign a release form and/or a contract to sell all rights, make sure you understand the terms of the agreement before signing.
(9) Keep records. Use a 3"x 5" card file to hold duplicates of your submissions. You can arrange your ideas any way you like -- subject, season, prose, verse, one-liners, etc. Keep on file what you send, where you send it, and the date it was sent. Of course, you should also record whether an idea was purchased or rejected.
SUMMARY
How much money can you make writing greeting cards? The answer to that question is really up to you. Certainly a creative, motivated writer can make excellent money on a part-time basis. But it is also possible to make a comfortable living freelancing for greeting card companies full time. Obviously, the more time you devote to creating new greeting card ideas and concepts, the more money you are apt to make. Just don't expect great monetary rewards over night. It takes time.
Before you make any money writing greeting cards, you'll have to take the first step. Become familiar with the greeting card industry. Browse through card racks and see what the market is offering. Get a list of greeting card companies and send for their writer's guidelines and market list. And before you submit your ideas make sure they fall within the company's requirements.
While there are no guarantees, there is a great opportunity for freelance writers to make big money writing greeting cards. An initial small investment in index cards, postage, and envelopes, can easily be recovered with one purchased idea. If you are creative, love to write, have initiative, and are willing to make the effort, you can see your words and ideas become greeting cards and make money as well.
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