The other day I posted this below on my Facebook page because I was super frustrated and saddened to watch one of my clients who gave me nothing but excuses after excuses as to why she couldn't launch her amazing idea. My #1 pet peeve is when people have amazing ideas, do a ton of pre-planning forecasting work and then won't take the next step! It's a "grrrr" moment with me. If you have a great product or idea go all the way!! Launch it already! And what’s the saddest part? The saddest part is ... Read More
Starting Your Project (and Succeeding) On a Shoestring Budget
This weekend, I asked the FB community what they most needed help with and is what they responded: "How about succeeding on a 'shoestring budget'". And I thought, that was a great idea, let me answer that question. Let me list 5 crucial things you must do to succeed on a shoestring budget. They have absolutely nothing to do with product development by the way:) 1. Know your market - Get absolutely 100% crystal clear on who your ideal customer is. Talk to them daily on social media, ... Read More
Which Product Should I Start With First?
Daily, I get lots of questions on which items should I start with first? And my answer is always the same: start with your Hero product first. What's a Hero product? A Hero product is your lead product that carries your line. A Hero product should be something that solves your client's problems. A Hero product has a better profit margin. A good example of a Hero products: Skincare: Anti-aging cream 1o oz. sells for $60.00 per oz. or eye cream .05 oz. sells for $39.95 Hair ... Read More
Sales Suck? Maybe Your Prices Are Too Low
Are sales faltering? Do you keep wondering what your doing wrong? Have you considered that maybe your prices are too low? Lots of product business owners shop watch their so called “competitors” discount their prices to almost nada. So you start thinking, maybe I should too...and I’d like to offer here that lowering your price will not raise your sales or increase your brand's value in the eyes of your customer. Period. Let’s get back to the basics. Look at companies like Nordstroms - they ... Read More
Do or Do Not There Is No Try
Many people set goals, get distracted and just say to themselves "Oh forget it. It's too hard, there are too many obstacles and I don' t have enough money anyway." I'm glad that's not you. So what if there are obstacles, or the product development process has taken longer than expected. Don't quit now. Now is the time to get: Refocused Reinvigorated and Dedicated back to your goals. Make a list of your top 3 goals, keep them in front of you and take ACTION. Turn your ... Read More
Start Up? Looking to Grow Your Sales? Here are 6 Different Places to Sell Your Products
Most business owners dream of starting out on the shopping networks, Target or another retail shelf space. Some can, but I generally tell most people to get some experience underneath them with their brands. Give the product some time, pay attention to the customer’s feedback, notice how the product holds up, any issues with artwork that needs to be changed and then approach the big boys. Mass market while profitable is tough and they want to have a seasoned business owner who can navigate the ... Read More
Is Private Label Right For My Business? And Other Questions I Know You Want To Ask…
Many of you are looking at whether or not private labeling is the right way to either start or expand your existing business. So today, I wanted to answer some common questions that I get regarding private labeling. Questions #1: What the heck is private label? Private labeling a product means to take a manufacturer's product and adding your brand name and logo to the product. Question #2: Who is private label for? 1. Business owner - existing lines or new business 2. Esthetician 2. ... Read More
Are You Frustrated with Manufacturers Not Calling You Back?
Have you noticed that it’s a little tough to get in touch with a manufacturer? Especially, if you are a small business does it seems that they all only have time to for the bigger accounts? Let me share with you 3 tips on how to get not only a call back but also service when working with your manufacturer. Tip #1: Ask the right questions. Manufacturers are busy, especially your rep. They manage multiple accounts (100) not uncommon with multiple sku’s, retail requirements Think of how long ... Read More
The Benefits of Private Labeling a Product
This one is super easy for me to write as I am obviously a big advocate for private label, remember private labeling fits across all industries - skin care, hair care, make up, and nail care. Benefit #1: The guess work is taking out of creating a formula And that's a HUGE benefit. Creating a formula by scratch takes a tremendous amount of time and money. There are stability issues, raw material suppliers to be found and negotiated with, packaging to be tested and so much more that goes into ... Read More
5 Tips On How To Go From Frazzled To In Control Of Your Time!
Many of you just starting your business, are not only running your business but also working while also taking care of a family and have busy lives. I know it's easy to get overwhelmed. Between work, your business and family, community obligations and taking time for yourself it feels like you are constantly running. I wanted to share some very successful tip on how to go from frazzled to in control with time to spare! 1. Get clear on your top 3 priorities. Maybe those priorities are ... Read More