I was able to jump 'back on the road again' yesterday and catch my stride. My focus zeroed in on Art Marketing Materials: business cards, correspondence, visibility tools (magnets, brochures, etc.), presentation portfolios, Search Engine Optimization (OSR). The primary point was to ensure that the newenglandartspot.com name and website is being seen quickly and easily on a web search, and by the community and art community at large.
First off, Business Cards. I made a trip to my local printer and found that the business card designer was not available; however, I could stop back next week for further consultation. So, the next stop for me was to 'go online' and try it myself!
I found an online service and was able to design my own card with my own artwork. Of course, it took me much longer than expected: choose the right font, choose the right colors, choose the right content, choose the right format, colored stock vs. white stock, print on one side or both sides of card, add business message or no message, upload the correct background image...whew! The site did have standard business card formats to choose from, but I wanted to keep the look consistent with the look of my web page/blog site. In the end, I liked what I created. I think I may still stop back at the local printer to make sure that this creation of mine is balanced and appealing to my target audience (very important in any marketing venture).
I'll talk more about OSR and presentation portfolios in another post.
Have a great day! Plan for the unexpected;-)
Andrea
Andrea's Tip: Online print services have a large number of services to help any artist or small business owner get their corporate identity, marketing tools, promotional materials setup. Your local print or office supply store can also provide these same services. You have the option to choose what works for you and your target audience (customer, supplier, etc.) In the end, you make the call. Go for it!
