Boutique Graphics - Affordable Web Design, eCommerce Templates, Graphic Design for WAHMs

FREE STUFF!

2011-01-22T12:13:00.000-08:00

Check it out, people!

I am going to be offering templates for photographers and a bunch of other new fun stuff this year. So, when Daria from Boutique Café asked me to make some Valentine's downloads to share, I was thrilled to do it!

These two cards are available EXCLUSIVELY at Boutique Café... and they are FREEEEE!!

Get over there NOW by clicking HERE and download your free card templates... and make sure you bookmark Boutique Café -- leave a comment with some love for Daria too!

Soulographer Giveaway!!!

2010-12-09T08:03:00.001-08:00

This is a HUGE giveaway (AND a sale, who doesn't LOVE a SALE?!) -- hop over to http://www.soulographer.com to enter!!! TONS of winners for this one!!!

GIVEAWAY!!!

2010-12-09T07:20:00.001-08:00

Check out this awesome giveaway.... easy to enter and you could win amazing handmade designs!!!

Linkie:
http://veaterfam.blogspot.com/2010/12/fun-finds-holiday-gift-guide-handmade.html

One of the contributors is Sweet Bitty Bows... one of the companies that Miss Emmie does modeling for! :)

Free Holiday Prints – A GIFT from Boutique Cafe!

2010-12-08T17:28:00.001-08:00

A GIFT FOR YOU: As a little Holiday treat , Daria at Boutique Café commissioned me to create some original Holiday prints as a Christmas gift to you!!

Click here to go over to the Boutique Café blog and download your own free printable... two designs, each available in 4 sizes!

¦FREEBIES!!!¦ Client Referral Cards

2010-06-02T10:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun freebie for you! These are business card size files that you can use for a ton of different things... perfection for photographers as rep cards or a thank you gift! Boutique owners could put a product photo on these and use them as hang tags or business cards. The possibilities are endless!!

These are super easy to use as long as you have experience using layers in Photoshop.
You can simply add your photo and update the text and be done -- or you can change the colors, fonts, etc -- it's up to you!

Click here to download Mod Dots
Click here to download Seeing Red
Click here to download Pink Dots
Click here to download Mellow Yellow

¦Commercial Boutique Product Photography¦ briar.claire!

2010-06-02T07:48:00.000-07:00

Love it!!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/briarclaire

¦Commercial Boutique Product Photography¦ Sugar & Spice

2010-06-02T07:47:00.001-07:00

More cute cute cute hair stuffs!!!

I looove the little marabou headband for Emmie... now she needs a white satin robe and some tiny marabou pumps LOL!!!!

All this adorableness and more: Sugar and Spice on Etsy

Grand Re-opening!!!

2010-06-02T07:43:00.001-07:00

I am back from maternity leave!!! AND I'm having a sale!!!! :)

¦Commercial Boutique Product Photography¦ briar.claire!

2010-05-11T16:04:00.000-07:00

We looove us some briar.claire hair doo-dads around this house! My girls wear something pretty much every day from our stash!!! So when they asked for my girls to do some modeling and photos I jumped on it!!

briar.claire on Facebook
Bliss Photograph on Facebook
Boutique Graphics on Facebook

We have one more headband to do, but here's the cuteness so far...

¦Commercial Product Photography¦ Hair Accessories for briar.claire

2010-05-06T16:24:00.000-07:00

Baby Emalie has appeared in her first commercial photos -- at the ripe old age of 10 days! LOL

We're thrilled to be working with http://etsy.com/shop/briarclaire ...
and we've got more goodies on the way ... can't wait!!

Need professional commercial photography for your products?? I can help you out!

You can contact me through any of these sites:

http://blissphotograph.com
http://boutiquegraphics.com
http://facebook.com/blissphoto
http://facebook.com/boutiquegraphics

or just shoot me an email at info@blissphotograph.com!

Post-Baby Updates!

2010-05-06T10:46:00.001-07:00

I can't believe baby Emmie is already 5 weeks old!!! Time is truly flying. She is just so precious -- she doesn't sleep much and is my hungriest baby by far, but I am cherishing every single moment of her sweet babyhood!! :)

That said, it's time to look ahead to getting back in the swing of things. Although my maternity leave is technically through July 9, I am going to open up a couple of areas starting in the next week or two. I have some really cool updates planned for the website. The areas I'll be opening first will be updates and maintenance for my existing clients, and the premade template shop will also reopen soon so I can get back to prettying up websites!

It has been great to take a break, but I'm excited about getting back to work helping my fellow entrepreneurs with their businesses, and catching up with my awesome clients-turned-buddies! In the meantime, I'll be working on those updates to make my website an easy to navigate and order from as possible, so that I can help my clients in the most efficient and rock-star-awesome way possible. :)

I'm going to be introducing a wicked cool new blog program too... a chance for all my clients to earn goodies just by referring people to this blog... who doesn't love freebies???!!! Stay tuned!!!

And since every blog post deserves a photo, how about a couple of my gorgeous baby girl? ;)

Emalie Annalise has arrived!!!

2010-04-23T11:48:00.001-07:00

(click to enlarge)

Maternity Leave Has Begun!

2010-03-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

Boutique Graphics is currently closed for new orders until July 2010 while I am on maternity leave!

Feel free to sign up for my email list so that you can get notification when I am back to work and accepting new orders!

And.... check back for baby photos in about a week! :)

Thank you!!!

Custom Boutique Website Design - Just Launched: PattysParties.com!

2010-03-01T11:16:00.000-08:00

WOOHOO a fabulous new website is up and running!

Love the bright happy colors and kid-friendly design on this site!

If you're in Bucks County, Greater FAR NE Philadelphia, Parts of Montgomery County, New Jersey and Surrounding Areas and you need characters for a kid's party, get in touch with Patty!

Scramblin'!!!

2010-02-23T13:05:00.000-08:00

Hi peeps! MAN I have been so busy lately I haven't had time to breathe much less blog!!!! LOL I'm not complaining though! Hope to have some time this week to catch you up on the awesome projects I've completed... some of my all time favorite designs have come about in the past month!!! :)

[Premade Boutique Website Template] - Damask Songbird

2010-01-02T12:54:00.001-08:00

I love to combine clean graphic lines with textures -- it gives a unique style to the design, and this is no exception! I created this little songbird and then filled her in with subtly patterned textures.

Click here to purchase the template!

[New Premade Website Template] - Little Panda

2010-01-02T12:51:00.001-08:00

I love pandas! They have such cute little faces, and I finally created an adorable little panda for a web template -- I think he's so cute!! And perfect for pretty much any kind of site. :)

Click here to buy this template!

[Premade Boutique Web Template] - Pink Chickadee

2010-01-02T12:49:00.001-08:00

Here's another limited edition premade website template!

Click here to purchase!

[New Premade Boutique Website Template] - Mocha Owl

2010-01-02T12:41:00.000-08:00

I've been busy over the holidays making new premade templates!

These are great because it's so inexpensive to get a gorgeous website design, and it's super easy because I install the design for free on approved hosts.

Check this one out, and as an exclusive blog promo, use code MOCHA to get 10% off when you buy this template by 1/15/10!! :)

[Customized Template Design] -- Lemon Tree Cards

2009-12-19T14:06:00.000-08:00

This client asked me to make some modifications to an existing premade template to coordinate with their business name, and I was happy to oblige! I changed the pinks to shades of yellow, and the pears to lemons, and ended up with a lovely, lemony website. :)

There's a huge selection of cards for any occasion at lemontreecards.com!

[Customized Template Design] -- Kayden Grace Designs

2009-12-19T13:54:00.001-08:00

This client had a logo they wanted to use on my premade template, so a little tweaking made them match up perfectly! The result -- a fun, bright site that makes their mod products pop!

Customized initial tees for kids and more are at kaydengracedesigns.com!

[Made to Match Template Design] -- Just the Word

2009-12-19T13:47:00.000-08:00

I created this made-to-match template design to match the client's existing logo style and colors. The result perfectly matches her branding and makes her products pop!!

Customized note cards, thank you, tees, scripture cards and a lot more in vintage-modern designs at justthewordonline.com!

[Customized Template Design] -- Inkredible Creations

2009-12-19T13:32:00.000-08:00

This client already had a logo they loved, then they fell in love with one of my premade templates. Problem? The two didn't match!

So, we decided to make some adjustments to my template and I made it perfectly match their existing logo -- perfection!!

Handmade cards, albums and gifts await at inkrediblecreations.net!

[Custom Illustration and Logo Design] -- Foxy Feet Shoes

2009-12-19T13:12:00.000-08:00

Love love love it!! This little fox came out so coquettishly cute I can't stand it... I drew her by hand with my digital tablet and then added in the polka dots and business name to create a cohesive circular design. One of my favorite illustrations and custom logos that I've created so far!

[Custom Boutique Website Design] -- Everyday Chic

2009-12-19T13:01:00.000-08:00

Retro chic... perfect for a site selling fun retro-styled products like aprons, bibs, nursing covers etc. Bunches of flowers, bold colors and rounded corners all contribute to the retro look of the custom site!

Check out everydaychic.com!

[Flash Website Templates] -- Evermore Jewelry

2009-12-19T12:55:00.000-08:00

I created a simply beautiful flash template for Evermore Jewelry... perfect for showcasing their amazing designs -- they create jewelry with beads made from your flowers. For instance, a flower from your wedding bouquet can be made into beads and worn as a necklace, bracelet, etc!

It's one of the most unique things I've ever heard of!! Check it out at evermorejewelry.com.

[Custom Blog Design for Blogger] -- Delta Etiquette

2009-12-19T11:44:00.000-08:00

Want your child to learn good manners? Wouldn't we all LOL! If you're in northern GA, you're in luck, because Michelle can teach your kiddo to be a real southern gentleman or lady! I designed this perfectly charming blog for her recently!

Check her out -- deltaetiquette.com

[Custom Photography Blog Design] -- Christine Chang Photography

2009-12-19T11:24:00.000-08:00

I loooove working on photography blogs. For one thing, when I'm done with them they look fantastic... hehe... but mainly I love the chance to play with other photog's pics! ;)

Christine is a ridiculously talented photographer in Beverly Hills. I figure this makes me half-famous. LOL! If you're anywhere close by, hire her... as her blog says, she's cool.

christinechangphotoblog.blogspot.com

[Web Advertising Banner Design] - a bunch of 'em!

2009-12-18T16:37:00.000-08:00

Here are a few different web banners I've worked on lately... these are used to advertise a website online, on other websites -- this is one of the most affordable AND effective marketing tools for online businesses!

[Premade Website Template] -- Baby Origins

2009-12-18T16:03:00.000-08:00

Baby Origins chose my "Fun Bolds" premade web template for their site, and I think it's a perfect fit!!

Check them out for super cute hair clippies at babyorigins.com!

[Design Your Own Template] -- My Three Sweet Peas

2009-12-18T15:42:00.000-08:00

Pink, white and green... so fresh, classic and girly -- love it!!!

My Design Your Own Website Template service gave this site just the sweet simplicity it needed, and we also jazzed it up with a custom home page collage using the client's images -- voila, a unique website for an unbelievably great price in a super-short amount of time!

[Custom Business Card Design] -- Vuncannon Plumbing

2009-12-18T15:36:00.000-08:00

Check it out -- a business card design for my favorite plumber -- my dad! :)

If you live in the Greensboro NC area and need a plumber/heating and air tech, contact me!! ;)

[Custom Website Design] -- Pink in Motion

2009-12-18T15:26:00.000-08:00

I love to be part of a good cause, and working with my long-time client and friend Kim of Nola Pilates on her newest venture was a treat!

Check out her amazing organization, developed to help breast cancer survivors stay fit and healthy -- regardless of their ability to pay. Kim, you ROCK!

Find out more or donate at pinkinmotion.org.

[Custom Brochure Marketing Design] -- It's So Personal

2009-12-18T15:16:00.000-08:00

It is always extra FUN to design for clients who also like bright, happy, fun colors... and Kacki of It's So Personal is no exception!! I love the pinks, greens and blues, and the modern yet timeless style of her brand and her products that comes through loud and clear in her custom designed tri-fold brochure!

Check her out for very cool painted Preppy Glasses™ or even custom orders at its-so-personal.com!

[Custom Photography Blog Design] -- Annie Novak Photography

2009-12-18T15:05:00.000-08:00

It's been wayyyyyy too long since I updated my blog!! Things have just been crazy busy but that's a good thing! Now I truly HAVE to update my portfolio so I'm going to try and knock out my blog and FB updates at the same time, all organized-like! LOL

First up, this GORGEOUS (if I do say so LOL) blog for an awesome new Michigan-based photog, Annie Novak... I'd never guess she's just starting out!!

Check her out at annienovakphotography.blogspot.com!

It is I! The web designer!

2009-09-22T11:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, I do exist! Things have been a little crazy lately!!! I've fallen so far behind on blogging I don't know if I'll ever catch up. BUT! I have an excuse, a really really good one!

There it is, my cute little reason for being so behind... this little stinker has had me feeling the most fatigue, queasiness, and overall

"getting off the couch to do anything but pee (again) is actually physically impossible".

Maybe it's the fact that it's been almost 5 years since I experienced the wonder of pregnancy
(sarcasm, me? no...)

maybe it's because I am 5 years older...

maybe baby #3 is gearing up to be another big'un and is making lots of extra hormones
(please baby, 9 pounds is truly my limit... I barely got the other 2 out!)

Whatever the reason, God has chosen to bless us with this precious little SURPRISE!!
and once we recovered from the

"HOW ARE WE GOING TO DO THIS NOW?!"
we started getting really excited.

We trust that God will provide, as He so graciously has up to this point.
And we will have another little baby to adore.
My husband and I both really love babies.
Even people who don't know me that well seem to know that I love babies.
I take that as a compliment!

At any rate, now that I have reached the 10 weeks and 4 days point,
I am slowly becoming human again.
I can function for a portion of each day; a marked improvement over the
5 weeks
I spent with my greatest accomplishment for the day being
"I ate today and didn't throw up."

OK I got a little more than that done;
being a business owner doesn't give you much choice in the matter!
However I admit I've been slower than usual.

I'm hopeful that once the dreaded - er, beautiful - first trimester ends,
I will be visited by the happy energy hormone fairy.
My mom promises I will, and I'm banking on it.

In April 2010, we will become a family of 5... and we couldn't be more thrilled.
Despite the challenges we face at this very busy time in our lives,
we know we can only be enriched by the presence of this new person.

GIVEAWAY! Penelope's Oasis Blogoversary!

2009-07-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Click here to go to The Great Pamper Yourself Blogoversary Giveaway!!

Premade Boutique Website Templates - The Name Bracelet Boutique

2009-07-28T15:13:00.000-07:00

Another happy boutique template!! Love this ultra-pretty in pink design and it looks fantastic on NameBraceletBoutique.com!!

Check out all my $24 budget boutique web templates here!!

Premade Boutique Website Templates - Bow Couture Boutique

2009-07-28T11:24:00.001-07:00

My Mod Flower one of a kind web template hung out for quite while, just waiting for the right person to come along... and finally it happened!!

Check out how the (um, gorgeous!) hair bow on the home page collage perfectly matches the colors of the template!!!

Go see BowCouture.com and check out my boutique templates by clicking here!!

Boutique Template Made to Match Your Logo!!! Haus of Pink

2009-07-28T11:18:00.001-07:00

I loooove this design... it's become one of my all-time faves!!!

I designed this template to match Haus of Pink's existing logo, branding and colors, and it turned out fantastic!!!

Check out HausofPink.com... and if you need a template to match your logo or branding, click here!

Premade Boutique Website Templates - Mustard Seed Couture

2009-07-28T11:03:00.000-07:00

Love love love this one! I think this template was the perfect choice for MustardSeedCouture.com ... it just fits!!! This is my Olive Pink $24 budget template... I installed it free, and look what a unique and beautiful site came into the world wide web! ;)

Check out the Mustard Seed Couture website and the Olive Pink template!

Custom Twitter Page Design - New for Me and Mommy Boutique!

2009-07-28T10:39:00.000-07:00

Just installed this fabulous (if I may say so!) new twitter page design for Stephanie of www.meandmommyboutique.com.

Go check out her website AND her twitter page, and follow her and buy her stuff!!! LOL

[Personal] Every Breath You Take

2009-07-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

What is the scariest job? The most stressful, anxiety-inducing job ever?

Firefighter? Nope.

Police officer? Nope.

Fire-eater? Nope.

It's MOM. As the saying goes,

To have a child is to have your heart walking around outside your body.

This is true.

My heart goes out to all moms... y'all, we are the true heroes. We don't give ourselves enough credit.

Onward to the reason for this post.

On Sunday night 7/19 my 4 year old daughter had an asthma attack. It built slowly, but after a sleepless night it was obvious we needed to make a trip to the doctor.

We went in first thing, and the doctor immediately ordered a pulse-ox check and a nebulizer treatment. After that she still wasn't satisfied, so we did another treatment and she got a dose of steroids. After that the doctor felt she had improved.

She gave us rx's for albuterol, singulair, flovent (inhaled steroid), orapred (oral steroid). We were to do the albuterol inhaler every 3 hours, then every 4, then every 5, and so on over the next few days, as well as the other various meds, and come back in two weeks for a check up.

A trip to the Target pharmacy and $250 later, we had rx's in hand. We came home, got ready and headed to my mom's house for dinner.

As soon as we walked in, mom knew something wasn't right with Sophie. She said instead of her usual pink and white baby complexion, she looked somehow too tan, with brown rings around her eyes. I filled her in on the day's events.

We left mom's house around 7:45. On the way home, I was keeping an ear open and noticing that her breathing rate seemed way too fast. I decided to call the nurse line.

The nurse told me to give her two inhaler treatments 20 minutes apart, and she'd call me back 10 minutes after the 2nd. I did it, and also put her in a steamy bath in between, just to see if it would help.

Unfortunately it didn't. The nurse called back about 9 and had me count breaths while she timed one minute. It was 60-61. The nurse said that was way too fast and that I needed to go ahead and take her to the ER.

She and I got shoes on and right into the car. We drove to the ER at Baptist and struggled to find parking.

(note to everyone - if you are going to the ER, but are NOT the one driving the endangered party, do NOT park in the main ER lot, because when you do, and when your friends STAND in spaces to save them for you, you are keeping sick people from getting inside quickly because you are too lazy to park in the deck.)

We ended up in the parking deck, and had to walk what seemed like a mile to get back to the ER. Once there, I checked in with the front desk and told them I was there because my daughter couldn't breathe well. Within about 4 minutes we were in triage... about 9:30.

They took an initial weight, temp (100.9) and pulse-ox (89). Then we got what would be our new home for the next 4 hours.

Sophie was hooked up to a pulse-ox/heart rate monitor, an oxygen cannula, and given several treatments of albuterol in a row, as well as a half dose more of steroids. She was checked every 15 minutes by tons of people and her heart rate was going through the roof due to the albuterol... at one point it got to the 190s and her pulse-ox was not improving.

The monitor was going crazy because of her high heart rate... so for the entire 4 hours, every 5 seconds, it was "boop-boop-boop, boooop-boop". Very loudly. It was absolutely the most irritating sound on earth (so far).

Jeff came at about 1:00 because I was exhausted, frazzled and wanted backup. He was exhausted too, working and finishing his summer school semester has him wiped out.

Around 1:30am, the attending came in and said he was going to talk with the pediatrics doc upstairs at Brenner Children's Hospital to see about admitting her. A few minutes later a new nurse came in and said they had decided to admit her because they were concerned about her oxygen levels.

By 2:30 we were admitted and in our room on the 11th floor at Brenner's. Jeff left at 3 to go home, shower and go to work.

Sophie was hooked back up to the pulse-ox monitor, and had 3 leads on her chest to measure her heart rate, resp rate, etc. The numbers weren't very good. She was put on 3 liters of oxygen (no clue what this means except the lower the number the better) throughout the night.

Her pulse-ox monitor was set to alarm at 90 or lower, so it basically went off constantly. People came in and out giving her inhaled treatments and checking her lungs. Doctors, nurses, med students, nurse assistants, respiratory, etc.

There was no sleeping for me due to the alarms, and the stress they induce. I asked several times if they could make it silent in the room since it sounds at the nurse station and they said it couldn't be muted. That the point is for it to wake the patient. Well... it sure didn't wake this one... she slept right through it, in 20-30 minute spells.

The nurse told me to try and keep her lying up on the incline, so every time the alarm sounded I was shifting her up the bed, adjusting her head, checking for kinks in the hoses and wires.

Basically for several very long, tiring hours, it was alarms, inhalers, o2 adjustments, stethoscopes, etc. o2 levels stayed at 86-89 (we wanted 100).

My brother came to visit us at some point. Sorry bro, I don't remember what time, but I will always remember you came. Thank you so much... it was wonderful to see your face after so many hours going it alone.

He became as obsessed as me with the stupid bottom blue number, watching it go from 87 to 92 and listening to the alarm BOOP BOOP BOOP when it hit 90 or lower.

My mom came around 1:30 and brought food I couldn't eat and magazines I could read. We ordered lunch for Sophie, but she only picked at it then fell back to sleep. We sat and talked, and listened to the BOOPs. o2 at 86-92, back and forth, back and forth.

Around 2:30 or 3, a hospital chaplain came by.

I'll be honest. At first I resented him coming in. I thought, why are YOU here? My child is FINE. I wasn't very friendly. But I think he knew this would be his reception and he stuck it out, asking gentle questions in a soft voice.

He asked us if we would like to pray with him.

I stood up and went to the bedside. We held hands and mom put her hand on Sophie's forehead.

He said a beautiful, appropriate prayer. That's when I finally cried.

Only a little. I knew if I let the gates open it wouldn't stop. I still haven't had my big cry.

Here's the amazing part. This is the part that gives me chills.

After the chaplain left, Sophie started to perk up. A lot.

Her o2 levels went up into the mid-high 90s. The doctor came in about 3:15 and said to take her off oxygen, and all the monitors, and see how she did. She said they'd check her o2 every hour for a few hours.

We took the hated cannula off, peeled off the chest leads, unwrapped the o2 finger sensor.

At 4, her o2 was 99.

At 5, her o2 was 99.

We ordered a dinner of mac-n-cheese, tater tots, sprite and orange sherbet around 5:30. She ate it ALL except the tots, which mom sampled and declared revolting, so that was understandable.

Now she was bouncing in the bed, hopping around the room, climbing on the built-in sofa/bed to watch the helicopters arrive and depart a few stories below us (there must have been 40 take offs/landings during the time I was there, no exaggeration).

At 7, we were discharged, given istructions, told to follow up with the pediatrician in a few days.

This is my testimony. We spent over 40 hours in breathing distress, from Sunday around 8pm to Tuesday around 3pm. After our joining hands, praying together, within an hour she was off all oxygen and monitors. I have recently had some doubts, some reservations, some thoughts about my faith. Uncertainties, and maybe some anger too. Although I never want to go through anything like this again, I have no doubt that God took this opportunity to bolster my faith. I feel His presence in the work that was done through that hospital prayer. I thank Him and praise Him for it. I am not ashamed of my faith and my God, and will not back down from anyone who thinks negatively of me for it. If they'd been through it with me, they'd have a hard time doubting.

That's the story. We are home now, and Sophie is doing much better. We'll check in with her pediatrician tomorrow morning and hopefully have a great check up.

Hug your babies, because they are PRICELESS!

[Boutique Graphics] Some Summer Fun!

2009-07-17T09:30:00.000-07:00

All work and no play makes Maggie a very dull web designer. So the other day the kids and I headed out to the park for a picnic and hours of playing... followed by sprinkler time at home! What a lovely way to spend a day. :) Here are a few pics!

Sister on the slide

Brother was not in the mood for pics!

Our little friend here came right up asking for french fries... we gleefully complied!

Not the most in-focus pic, but one of my faves anyway... love these babies!

Hooray for the sprinkler... good old fashioned fun! lol

Hope you're having a fantastic summer!!

[Budget Premade Boutique Website Template] - Featured as a Trendy Must-Have!

2009-07-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled that one of my new Budget Premade Boutique Website Templates has been chosen as a Trendy Must-Have on Trendy Me & Mommy Boutiques!

Click here to check out this and all the other awesome budget boutique web templates available for only $24!!!

Custom Blog Design for Blogger/Blogspot - For Me and Mommy Boutique

2009-07-13T16:03:00.000-07:00

It is so grand and amazing to me how us girls can make friends (e-friends?) of people we've never met (and will probably never meet in person) through the interwebs. We find friends on Facebook, on twitter, through groups and forums and by hiring each other.

The latter being the case with Stephanie of Me and Mommy Boutique. What began with a boutique website template purchase grew into print designs, blog design, banner designs, etc... plus a new e-friend.

Check out the custom blog design I did to match her premade template!

http://www.meandmommyboutique.blogspot.com

Custom Blog Design for Blogspot -Custom Design for The Maternal Lens

2009-07-13T15:52:00.001-07:00

Talk about a talented group of ladies! It was awesome to do a blog design for such an amazing team, and their blog is always full of fresh new posts, which I love! I was commissioned to do a single-column layout and make the overall design match their existing logo, and they were quite thrilled with the result!

Go see it!

http://thematernallens.blogspot.com

Blog Design Templates for Blogger - Design for Thousand Words Photography

2009-07-13T15:44:00.000-07:00

Yet again, I am blown away by the amount of talent out there. I got to do a new custom blog design for Thousand Words Photography... totally appropriate name, since it would take that many words to describe the awesomeness of this talent. Shannon, you rock, and I'm thrilled that I got the chance to make your blog worthy of your posts! ;)

Check it out folks!

http://thousandwordsphotographymontana.blogspot.com

Custom Blog Design for Blogger/Blogspot - New design for Sweetface Photography

2009-07-13T15:32:00.001-07:00

I was soooo excited to get this job, designing a new blog for Sweetface Photography. Such talent has she!! I got to play with a few fab photos to use in the custom Flash header I created, which is always good times for me (I am so easily amused). And the colors are some of my own personal faves... black, white and hot pink is such a great combo!

Check out the blog in action!

http://sweetfacephotographyblog.blogspot.com

Sweet Gwen was even kind enough to write me one of the best testimonials I've gotten to date! Read on...

What can I say about Maggie and Boutique Graphics that hasn’t already been said? Probably not anything new, but I can definitely reaffirm the praise she has already received. I searched for months to find the perfect blog design; a lot of designers are available, but few and far between are those that design for Blogger. Not only did she fill that huge gap, but she went above and beyond. All who provide service to be professional, which Maggie is. But beyond that, she is just a nice person who is courteous and friendly – traits which are not required in business, but sincerely appreciated. She worked closely with me to create the look I wanted for my custom blog; when I requested changes she did so without hesitation. I have already recommended her to my professional colleagues and will continue to recommend her services for years to come. If you are teetering on the decision to hire her or not – I say take the plunge; you will be more than satisfied.

Twitter Page Design & Graphics - Check out the new Ritzy Baby twitter page!

2009-07-13T15:28:00.000-07:00

Just installed Ritzy Baby's new twitter page design and avatar, and it's sure looking divine!

Check it out!!

http://twitter.com/Ritzy_Baby

GIVEAWAY!!!

2009-07-09T11:45:00.001-07:00

Blush topless undershirt, a lingerie handbook, and Mama Mio Boob Tube cream, at:

Penelope's Oasis

[Blog Photo Layout Templates] Make your blog CLASSY

2009-07-07T19:29:00.000-07:00

OK so I call this the Classic set... clean lines, totally fresh and crisp... so yea it'll make your blog even more classy than it already is! ;) This set has TEN templates in it, you can mix n match and never have the same post twice!

These work in all versions of Photoshop and PSE, and if you know how to use layers you can use these templates! Reuse them at will! Each template is 900 pixels wide or tall at 72dpi.

Ready to buy and start bloggin' with CLASS? Click HERE!

[Blog Photo Layout Templates] Grunge up those blog posts!

2009-07-07T16:54:00.001-07:00

A super easy way to make awesome blog posts in a SNAP... just drop your photos in behind the frames and background layer, erase any overlap, and save! You can even recolor the background (shown in white) to match your blog with one click using the paint bucket!

This set of EIGHT is my first of many to come, and it's SOOO COOOL... grungy, stapled, taped, awesome frames overlapping and listing this way and that... this adds some serious panache to any blog. And at $24 for the entire set, it's a steal too!

These work in all versions of Photoshop and PSE, and if you know how to use layers you can use these templates! Reuse them as many times as ya like! Each template is 900 pixels wide or tall at 72dpi.

Ready to buy and start bloggin' in style? Click HERE!

[Photo Business Card Templates] Perfect for Photographers!

2009-07-07T13:56:00.000-07:00

I am sooo excited about the new avenue I'm starting on... printable templates for business cards, photo albums, hang tags, photo cards, and more... these are perfect for photographers, or anyone who wants to show off a photo on their marketing materials!

If you have Photoshop (any version, including Elements) and know how to use layers, you can use these templates.

I just added the first 4 designs (of MANY to come) to the store... check them out and order HERE!!

Also I will soon open a new online store dedicated to these printable templates, so stay tuned for info on that!

[Commercial Product Photography] Fall Shoot for Sweet Funky Vintage!

2009-07-07T13:23:00.000-07:00

I was beyond thrilled to get this job... shooting SFV's fall fashions with some adorable little models!! I have loved SFV from the very beginning, and their clothes are so comfy, cute and well-made... check them out if you haven't already!

I get to claim the big guy - my son Ian - isn't he a studmuffin? ;) Also the beautiful young lady, my daughter Sophie. And thanks so much to my friend Laura for driving close to an hour to bring her little guy to the shoot!!

It was a gorgeous evening and I love love love Harmon Park for shoots... the stone walkways, the gazebo, the fountain, the landscaping... it's perfection!!

If you need professional photos of your product - whether it needs modeling or not, natural setting or white high key style - get in touch and I can help you out!!
info@boutiquegraphics.com or info@blissphotograph.com

OK I ramble... without further ado here are the photos. :)

[Happy 4th of July!] Praline Brittle Recipe

2009-07-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

I know, I'm a day early, but this recipe is so fast, easy, all-American and yummy that you just might decide to make up a batch to take along with you to family get-togethers tomorrow! I've made it a few times and I always get asked for the recipe. I can't take the credit though; my aunt Vicky originally passed it along to me. :)

Praline Brittle

Ingredients:
1 box graham crackers, any variety (you won't need them all)
2 sticks butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans (some prefer finely chopped, but I like the bigger pieces!)

Preheat oven to 350
Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil
Cover bottom of cookie sheet with a single flat layer of graham crackers
Dissolve brown sugar into butter over medium heat
Bring to a boil, and boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly
Remove from heat and stir in pecans
Pour mixture over graham crackers, using a spatula to extend all the way to the edges
Bake for 6-8 minutes until bubbly
Let cool, then break into pieces either along the perforations or into random chunks (my favorite!)

Enjoy, and have a safe and happy 4th!!!

Online Marketing Guide from My SEO Gal

2009-07-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

I recently got this free marketing guide from Carla at MySEOGal.com. It is full of awesome information that any online store owner can benefit from! I'm sharing this guide with you with Carla's permission - it can also be found, along with other great tools, at MySEOGal.com.

Enjoy!!

-----------------------------------------------------

So, you've made the decision to start your very own online website business.

Good for you!

Whether your decision to start an online business was personal or business driven, your going to need some exposure!

This guide is designed for beginners and you “experts” too! No matter how long you have had an
online business. It's always great to learn ways to increase your exposure to your online business.

This guide gives you three simple ways you can use to increase your online exposure with little to no cost!

Now that we have that covered. Let's get down to learning.

Here are the three marketing strategies I am going to focus on in this guide :

Search Engine Optimization or better known as SEO
Social Networking (Facebook, Twitter etc.)
Forums and Groups

So let's start off with SEO. Yay! My Favorite.

There are a lot of ways to get traffic to your site but one of the biggest
and most popular ways is via SEO.

What is SEO and Why should you care?

Search Engine Optimization in simple terms is a process of improving your site or making it "search engine friendly" in order to increase the amount of targeted traffic you receive naturally by the major search engines like Google, Yahoo and MSN.

What does naturally mean? Naturally means that you will show up in the "non paid" section of the search engines directories. Your ad or listing shows up under the paid advertising (pay per click) section of the search engines. The exception is that you don't have to have an “ADWORDS” account or a Search Marketing Account to do this. In other words. You don't pay Google, Yahoo or MSN to show up in their search engine results. It's all done naturally by making sure your website pages are relevant to what a searcher is looking for at that very moment.

How can I show up naturally in a search engine?

You can show up naturally by making sure your website pages are relevant to a search query or a “keyword term” that someone uses while searching for a product, service or topic and that your content is top quality and kept fresh. I recommend researching keyword phrases that are being searched for on a daily basis and using these keywords in your meta tags and throughout your websites content.

You can use Google's Free Keyword Tool to find keywords for your website pages.

Although search engine optimization is definitely something you can learn on your own with enough research, time and patient. If your site is not properly optimized, your chances of showing up in the natural search results are very slim and you can take the risk of being removed from the search engine results if you optimize your site the wrong way.

I recommend hiring a SEO expert to assist you with your search engine ranking needs especially if you don't have the time, patience or knowledge to make your site search engine and user friendly. Although you may not find a company that will be willing to do this for you for free. There are a lot of companies out here that are not just out here to drain your business budget.

Take a deep breath. I know that was a lot to take in.

Since we have gone over what I consider a major part in your online exposure efforts. I would like to go over another topic that a lot of online businesses are not aware of and guess what! It's FREE!

The next most important marketing strategy is Social Networking and Bookmarking Sites.

I am quite sure you have heard about Facebook, Twitter and hopefully Stumble Upon? If you haven't then let me introduce you to your next wave of constant daily exposure.

Social Networking and Bookmarking sites are a great way to get exposure to your business. Like any social setting. There are right and wrong ways of marketing your business.

Let's go over a couple right and wrong ways before I go into my top 5 Social Sites.

I always like to get the DONT'S out first. That way you don't have to get a dose of all things wonderful and pure, just to be thrown into the deep dark valleys of Oh No You Didn't!

Don'ts:
When marketing your business on social networking sites Don't:

Be annoying! Remember that these are social places with real people. You don't want to spend
120% of your time on these sites marketing your site. If you do. You will eventually end up
being ignored and labeled as one of the “Losers” of social networking. Now don't get me
wrong, it's okay to market your site but make sure you are only marketing your site 30% of the
time and being yourself 70% of the time (I'll go more into this in the last marketing tip.)

Be Inconsistent. Be consistent. Yes this may seem like a complete contradiction to what I just
mentioned above but there is a difference. What I mean about being consistent is when you
“do” decide to advertise your business , make sure you are giving the same message each time.
Don't jump all over the place. Stick with the same logo. Don't change up your logo each time
you post an update. The more recognizable you are the more memorable you will become and
maybe intriguing too. The mind works in very funny ways. The more people see your brand
name or logo the more curious they will become and will eventually end up clicking on your
links or products.

Don't be unrealistic. Your human but try not to be unrealistic. Once you decide to step into
Social Networking land. Don't expect everyone that has an account on these sites to coming
flocking to your site just because you have joined and introduce yourself. Don't follow the
concept that if you post it they will come. It just doesn't work like that in a realistic scenario.
People have to get to know you and your business first. Research shows that a person may not
click on your link until the 7th time they have seen your link.

Don't mix business with pleasure. Keep your business separate from your personal account:
When possible, try to keep your business accounts separate from your personal accounts. You
sure don't want that friend from 10 years ago to post something not so nice on your Facebook
account that you don't see right away but all of your friends/fans see before you do. Like those
picks from high school that you wish would disappear, or they might have a serious potty
mouth. Not so nice when you are trying to create a brand.

Things you should Do:

Post your link after each comment made when possible. This is something that I do on
Twitter. I make sure that my updates are short enough for me to put a link. It's like a signature at the end of my updates. I post it even if I am not referring to my business. It's not annoying but it's being consistent (there goes that word again.)

Mention Sales. Offer special discounts to your fans, friends or followers. Give them a code that
they can use for a sale that you are having. Make sure to set codes for each account you have so
you can keep track of where your sales are coming from.

Build Friendships. Build friendships with people that are related to your business. Although it's definitely okay to friend people who are not within your target market, but just to stick with the theme of marketing. I would definitely suggest to friend people who are related to your
business. For instance, if you own an online children's business. Target Moms and Dads,
Grandmothers and Grandpas. So far we have gone over how to obtain natural search results and the do's and don'ts of social networking marketing.

Now let's go over my top 5 Social Sites. These sites are sites that I have personally researched myself and have seen an increase in traffic and in some cases sales for my clients or networking friends.

First I'll go over the obvious most familiar social sites which are Facebook and Twitter. Below are my faves and a very small description of each.

Facebook: Facebook is a great way to gain exposure to your site. You can set up a business
page and get fans for your business page. Once you set up a business page. You can post messages about sales, events, how to's , links to your articles, upload products etc.. And GUESS
WHAT! When you post messages on your facebook business page or page it is sent as a news feed., and news feeds show up on all of your friends profiles on the right hand side column and
their friends and on an on. Cool Huh?

Click the link below to create a Facebook business page.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/create.php

Note: If you already have a personal Facebook account, I would suggest setting up another account using a different email address for your business.

Twitter: Ah Yes, Twitter.

What is Twitter exactly. Think of Twitter as sending Text... online.

You can post little updates about what's going on in your life/business life but, the trick is, you have to say it in 140 characters or less. So if you are long winded, like me (SMILE), then you may want to work on cutting it down a bit.

You can get your sales in and discount code and even your link if you are crafty (wink, wink). All
you need are what Twitter calls Followers. You can get followers by doing a People search on
Twitter and follow others. But don't you go following thousands of people and you have no
followers. If you do, you can find yourself kicked off of Twitter for not having enough followers.

So make sure you only follow 20 people at a time. Nine times out of 10 they will follow you back.

Just set up an account and add a brief profile and you are on your way to being an obsessed Twitter having people stalking you from all over the web!

Stumble Upon: One of my favorite traffic generators. Stumble Upon is a social bookmarking site.

Members or “Stumblers” go to your site and give it a Thumbs up or a Thumbs down.

The more thumbs up you get the more traffic you get.

It's a simple as that. The key is to get as many thumbs up reviews as possible. You can do this by
working with your online business buddies and asking them to review your site or give your site a thumbs up and you can do the same for them.
Sign up for a Stumble Upon account below:

http://www.stumbleupon.com

Squidoo:

Squidoo is one of my favorites too.

It's a great way to share your interest with others. You can create a mini article, or flyer that is called a lens page.

You showcase everything you know about that topic. From pictures of your products to mini
descriptions. You can post links back to your site and prices of your products. Or you can post little how to instructions (my favorite way of advertising), that will lead to viewers clicking on
your links that you have in the content.

Squidoo's lens pages are showing up on the first pages of Google. So your chances of having more
venues of getting your product out there on the search engines have just greatly increased.

To get started with your lens pages. You can go to the link below:

http://www.squidoo.com

Kaboodle:

Last but not least KABOODLE!!!

Phew! I never thought I would get to Kaboodle.

Kaboodle is another only sharing community. Similar to Squidoo but a bit different.

People can recommend your products to other Kaboodlers. If they see your product on your site
they put it on their wish lists making it viewable to the millions of Kaboodlers.

You create an account and add your products to your account.

You can also become a retailer and have a store on Kaboodle, just make sure you use the same exact email address that you have on your website when you go to create your retailer account so it can be approved right away. If you don't it will take a while for your account to be approved.

Sign up today:

http://www.kaboodle.com

So you should be a pro by now!

We've covered SEO, and Social Networking. What's next you ask?

Forums and Groups!

Forums and groups are an excellent way to market your site BUT, oh yes there's definitely a but.

Joining a forum or an online group is a big benefit to your online success. If done properly you can see an increase in traffic and sales just by being a dedicated member of a forum or group.

There are rules to using forums as a part of your marketing tactics. Here are a few rules that I
recommend and have used and tested myself over the years.

Forum Rules In My Opinion:

1. Join forums that are related to your products or services. If you have an online pet business, join forums or groups that are related to pets. Preferably a pet lovers forum.

2. Include your website in your signature: Where allowed make sure to include a link to your site with a very small description about your business above your link. Make sure you check the forum rules before posting your link in your signature. Some forums do not allow you to advertise your business in your signature.

3. Join for lasting relationships: If your going to join a group, make sure you are going to join to make friends and possible business relationships. Make sure that you post on your group(s) at least three to four times a week. What I mean by post. Is respond to other members post about topics that you have an interest in. If someone is talking about the latest recipe they tried. Chime in and mention a recipe that you like. The key to building relationships is to let people know who you are personally. Once they get to know who you are on a personal level they will be more inclined to visit your site and purchase or recommend your products to their family and friends.

4. Take advantage of advertising opportunities: If a forum has a section where you can post sales or plug your site. Make sure you post your sales only twice a month. That gives you the opportunity to post a sale bi-weekly. You don't want to go over board because members will
start to ignore your posting if you are posting an ad a day. Boring.

5. Be informative: There's nothing more attractive than a person who knows their stuff. If you
see someone posting a question that pertains to a product or service you offer on your site.
Respond to it and be informative about it. Give the pros and or cons about it. Tell them your
experiences or knowledge about it. Only tell them that you have the product if they ask where
they can find the product at, but also let them know other places that it can be found locally.

6. Don't bite off more than you can chew: Forums and Groups can become time consuming. If you are a person who is not very organized. I recommend only joining one or two very popular forums or groups. Don't join tons and tons of forum if you can not handle posting on every one each week. If you are an organized person. Then join as many as you can and make sure you post on them at least three to four times a day. Even it's just a simple How are you Doing post. That's it. Those are my rules.

Below are some of my suggestions as far as forums:

University of Moms
http://uofmom.com/forums

Justmommies
http://www.justmommies.com/forums/

MomTalk
http://www.momtalk.com/forums

Pet Lovers
http://www.petlovers.com

Pet Peoples Place
http://www.petpeoplesplace.com

Networking Forums

Are you a circler?

Get fans for your Facebook business page, followers for your Twitter account, help promoting
your contest, sales and coupons. We recommend your site on our blogs, and social networking
sites. Join for free.

http://www.myseogal.com/networkcircle

Groups:
Yahoo groups: Go to yahoo groups and do a search for groups using your niche name. For instance, if you have an online baby boutique. Use the keywords mommy or mom. You are more likely to get orders from other mothers than joining a forum about insurance or affiliate programs.

http://groups.yahoo.com/

Also make sure to check out Yahoo Answers. This is another great way to market your site and you don't have to post every day. The key to your success on Yahoo Answers is having the answers to questions being asked everyday.

Try it out at the link below:

http://answers.yahoo.com/

Well, That's all folks! I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I did writing it.

I hope this guide brings you in some much deserved traffic and sales to your site!

Written and Narrated by:

Carla Phillips

http://www.myseogal.com
http://myseogal.blogspot.com

Copyright 2009.

This guide is copyrighted. No information within this guide can be duplicated, copied, or reselled
without written permission. If it does then I will hunt you down and prosecute you to full extent of the law!

eCommerce Boutique Website Template - Tweetly Singing

2009-06-21T16:08:00.000-07:00

Truly a unique template!! My favorite part is the fixed background along the bottom, such a cool effect! The bright fun colors just pop out and grab the attention - and best of all, this is a One of a Kind template! Click here for all the details!

Boutique eCommerce Website Template - Tweet Blueberry

2009-06-21T11:43:00.001-07:00

Yum, the delicious colors of fresh blueberries! This refreshing and colorful template fits with pretty much any type of store, making it perfectly versatile and wonderfully eye-catching! It's a One of a Kind template too, so you'll be getting tons of attention! Click here for all the details!

Pre Made eCommerce Website Template - Tweet Raspberry

2009-06-21T11:40:00.000-07:00

Fresh and springy just like raspberries! This delicious template is One of a Kind, and pops with bright happy colors! Add in one sweet little birdy and you've got the recipe for a fabulous website! Click here for the full scoop!

Boutique eCommerce Website Templates - Baroque Boutique with FREE Custom Color!

2009-06-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

This template is so classic and sophisticated, and will work for just about any type of website! It's the first time I'm offering FREE custom color change - you can opt to replace the pink with any other color you choose so this template will truly reflect you... and it's still only $75! Click here for all the details!

eCommerce Website Template Designs - New OOAK "Tropicowl"

2009-06-20T18:59:00.001-07:00

So, birds are "in"... and one my favorites to create is an adorable little owl - this one is bright pink, how can you not love a bright pink owl?! If you're into bright, happy, fun colors, then this template was made for you! Click here for full details!

eCommerce Website Template Designs - New OOAK "Boho Funk"

2009-06-20T18:56:00.001-07:00

Now we have Boho Breeze's outgoing and slightly rebellious cousin, Boho Funk. I'm in love with the bright, bold colors and the gorgeous contrast! Click here for full details about this yummy template!

eCommerce Website Template Designs - New OOAK "Boho Breeze"

2009-06-20T18:48:00.000-07:00

I've been on a template-creating blitz here lately and I'm loving the results!!! These are some of my new faves... bot only are the designs really fun, but these fit with most of the popular eCommerce hosts out there AND they're really affordable. Not to mention easy, since I do the installation! OK OK I ramble. Without further ado, may I introduce "Boho Breeze"... click here for full details about this springy template!

Boost Your Exposure - 6 Great Ideas

2009-06-11T12:57:00.000-07:00

The success of your business Web site ultimately depends on its quality and value, not just on your marketing skills. But if no one knows about your site, they´ll never get the chance to judge it (or buy from it). And with hundreds of thousands of sites clamoring for attention, it's all too easy for your company to get drowned out by all the noise.

Short of spending millions of dollars to broadcast commercials during the Super Bowl, there's no surefire way to rise above the crowd. But there are things you can do to make your Web site more visible.

1. Register with the search engines.

Search engines and directories such as Yahoo and Google constantly look for new sites, but you can speed the process by submitting your own site.
Yahoo: http://siteexplorer.search.yahoo.com/submit?ei=UTF-8
Google: http://www.google.com/addurl/?continue=/addurl

Some paid services charge anywhere from $30 to more than $100 to submit your site to hundreds of search engines covering every conceivable topic... but I don't recommend this. Yahoo and Google power 99% of the search engines out there, so if you submit to those two, you're submitting to them all.

2. Buy and trade ad banners.

The one thing you know about your audience is that they´re online, so it makes sense to advertise to them online. You can buy banner advertising campaigns on other sites at monthly, yearly and even lifetime rates.

Monthly/Lifetime advertising:
Posh Mom Boutiques: http://poshmomboutiques.com
Posh Babies: http://poshbabies.gotop100.com
Haute Mama Shoppes: http://hautemamashoppes.gotop100.com

If you can´t muster the funds for a big-time online ad campaign, consider trading banners with other sites that are relevant to your customer base. Many small business owners are in the same boat and would love the opportunity to trade ad banners.

Don't have any ad banners?
Boutique Graphics has them for $15 per banner, or a set of 5 for $50.

3. Pay Per Click Ads, or Search Engine Marketing (SEM)

For prices ranging from $.01 to $.10 or more per ad impression or ad click you can "buy" keywords.
"Pay per impression" means that you pay every time your ad appears in search results, whether it gets clicked or not.
"Pay per click" means that you only pay when someone actually clicks on your ad.

Buying keywords and managing campaigns can seem confusing and overwhelming. Just start small and keep it simple at first. Try buying one keyword on one search engine.

Pay-per-click/impression advertising:
Google AdWords: http://www.google.com/intl/en_us/ads/ads_3.html
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/advertising/?src=pf
Yahoo: http://sem.smallbusiness.yahoo.com/searchenginemarketing/index.php?...

Feedback is very fast, so you can test your ads and keep testing until you hit that buyer hot button that generates the sales you need. Search providers provide easy, free analytics tools to help you track the response to your ads and calculate your return on investment.

4. Go offline.

The Web is big, but its audience remains small compared to traditional media. You still need to physically get your brand in front of people. It's a proven fact that people prefer to buy from someone they "know" - and if your ad appears in something they are holding in their hands, this fosters a feeling of security, of knowing you, and lends you credibility.

Your URL should appear on every bit of marketing material that your company produces, from business cards to brochures to sales receipts.

There are also many small local papers and magazines that have very reasonable ad rates, and these are definitely worth looking into. Many times these small publications are working hard to meet their ad purchase requirements and can work out deals or discounts if you ask.

Need business cards, hang tags, brochures, etc?
Boutique Graphics does custom design and can professionally print t...

5. Keep your site fresh.

Search engines give higher rankings to sites that grow and change. Add new pages and kinds of content to your site as often as once a week, and no less often than once every couple of months. Photos and video, if appropriate, are good ways to enrich your site and to get the notice of search engines.

I recommend Carla as a top-notch SEO expert.
www.myseogal.com

6. Get out there and Network!

The more people who know about your site, the more traffic you're going to see. Online business networks, Facebook, Twitter, and others are very popular and can be very effective too. There are hundreds of online networking sites you can join, but don't stop there. Join your local business association, the Chamber of Commerce, networking groups online, local MOPS or other groups in your area.

Talk about your business, and make sure your pride in it comes across. You should be proud of what you've accomplished, and if you are impressed with it, other people will sense this and be intrigued! Do everything you can think of to get people's attention... even if it means going outside your comfort zone. The more unique you are, the more people will remember and talk about you! You could even end up in the local paper as free publicity!

Ask local merchants if you can leave your cards or brochures near their register - think of an incentive for the store owner such as an exclusive discount for their customers.

Local events like town festivals or trade shows are often a great value - it will cost you usually about $50-100 for a "booth", then the cost of your marketing materials to pass out. This is worth every penny, because it means exposure to hundreds of people in a few hours. Make sure you have something fun going on at your booth to draw people in. A great idea is to have them sign up for a prize drawing (can be anything, a $25 gift card to your store, etc) with their name, email and phone number. Make sure you have a yes/no for them to sign up for your newsletter if they want. Then hand them your card and tell them winners will be announced early on your website, then notified by phone or email a few days later.

Host a seminar at the public library - they are always happy to have something new going on to bring people in, and they will usually let you plaster flyers all over their building and the town. A seminar, you're thinking - about what? ANYTHING you are knowledgeable or passionate about... a seminar about Cloth Diapering/Organic Baby Food/Kids' Fashion/Pet Grooming, sponsored by Your Boutique (www.yourboutique.com).

Ask your local coffee shop if they will let you do a raffle. Buy some cheap raffle tickets, and have them for sale near the register. PUT YOUR URL ON EVERY TICKET! People pay $1 per ticket, and are entered into a drawing for day, a pound of their favorite coffee. Offer to pre-pay for the pound of coffee, and to donate all raffle ticket sales to a charity of the merchant's choice. Put on the tickets that the sales are going to charity! Are you going to make money selling the tickets? Nope. Are you going to get an unreal amount of exposure for your business? Absolutely. What you've got is a Charity Raffle sponsored by Your Company, and that is good stuff.

Any time that you host an event of any kind, big or small, submit a press release - you never know who might pick it up!
www.free-press-release.com

Content ©2009 Maggie Phillips
Feel free to share this article, but please keep the copyright in place, and give credit where credit is due!

Super Sale on Mary Kay!

2009-06-03T19:02:00.001-07:00

Just found this awesome sale over on the BGnetwork... a one day sale on Mary Kay up to 30% off!!! All you have to do is respond to her post on the network - click here to go there now!

Not a member yet? Sign up to find out about ALL the sales and giveaways that the members are posting!!

Giveaway!!

2009-05-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

Found another awesome giveaway from a friend at BGnetwork... a FREE pair of Wee Squeak shoes - so cute!!!

Click here to check it out and enter!!

Giveaway!!

2009-05-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

I found this sweet giveaway from one of my fellow networkers over on the BGnetwork... Venezie Bags is hosting a giveaway for THREE items - and all you do is leave a comment for a chance to win!

Click here to check it out!

Is Your Online Store Really Working For You?

2009-05-28T07:55:00.003-07:00

Pick a Web Business Model that Works for You!

http://www.inc.com/articles/2000/06/20003.html

A New Service From Boutique Graphics!

2009-05-28T07:55:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know about a great new service I came up with while I had time to relax and brainstorm.

It's a Design Your Own eCommerce Template, and it works whether you're just starting out or just ready to give your current site a fresh new look. Best of all, it's budget-friendly and can be up and running super-fast! :)

Click here to check out Design Your Own eCommerce Templates!

And if you want to go the whole 9 yards, my most popular service will always be there, Custom eCommerce Website Design.

Hope you're having a great week so far!!

What Have You Done Today to Feel Proud?

2009-05-28T07:54:00.003-07:00

Come on, put on that Heather Small song to set the mood while reading this column about finding business inspiration as a mompreneur. The advice that follows struck me during my usual morning run, shadowing my son as he rode his bike to school. As I was returning home, I glimpsed a challenging hill I've tackled a few times. But like a horse being drawn back to the stable, I was running toward home thinking of all the e-mails and phone calls that awaited me.

So I asked myself, "What are you going to do today to make you feel proud?" And I turned around and decided to take on that hill. Immediately, I felt proud of myself for deciding to reach beyond my comfort zone. As I climbed that hill, I kept asking myself, "Are this pace and effort something to be proud of?" When they weren't, I reached deep and pushed harder.

In general, my philosophy is to take baby steps each day in all areas of your life, be it parenting, your health, your business or your marriage. If you move a small step forward each day, that's progress. Eventually, you'll get to where you want to go.

But now I think we should take that one step further. Ask yourself each day, "What have I done today to make me feel proud?" Perhaps you'll clean out your closet and donate clothes to Dress For Success. Maybe you'll leave work early to play on the floor with your kids. You might jump ahead on a project that you've been procrastinating about. If each day we did something to be proud of, that would make a big difference in our lives.

As a mompreneur, there's always too much to do and never enough time to do it. Each day, each week runs into another, and we never seem to get ahead. We feel deflated because we can't do it all. Through my columns, I share various time management tips and ways to get more done.

However, I think this particular exercise might bring you the most powerful results. Success builds on success. Each time you accomplish something, it makes the task a lot easier to do the next time. Each day, do something that makes you feel proud.

Article courtesy of womenentrepreneur.com, written by Lisa Druxman

Now's the Time to Make a Killing

2009-05-28T07:54:00.001-07:00

In today's economy, nearly everything you read, including my columns, offers advice and information about how to pull back, cut costs, avoid failure and even accept failure and close down.

Recently I have been thinking about this trend and what it means for entrepreneurs.

In even the best economic conditions, most new businesses fail. Yet entrepreneurs still start businesses.

So, recognizing that entrepreneurs tend to buck trends anyway, I want to advocate another way to view this current environment. This is a time of tremendous opportunity for those who joined this game to succeed, rather than survive.

Here are my observations on what makes the present economic environment opportune:

1. You're already living lean. Entrepreneurs tend to start and run their businesses on a shoestring. While VPs and managers at large competitors are seeking to keep their jobs and perplexed by how to create results for less, for you, living lean isn't an inconvenience: It's what you are used to.

2. Grab competitors' dissatisfied customers. As larger players lay off skilled people and cut back, they create gaps in the services they provide, leaving customers who might be dissatisfied. Both instances create opportunities a hungry entrepreneur can step into. Think about new markets that may have been out of your reach, customers you previously could not capture or services you could not deliver previously.

3. Take advantage of lower prices. Many tools that were too costly before may be accessible now. Pick up your local newspaper. Notice how thin it is? It's still being read every day. It's thin because salespeople are finding it hard to sell ads to large customers. The same is true of virtually every advertising medium--from radio and television to online ads. A small, scrappy company can now negotiate incredible advertising deals. The ads they place can make them look big and sophisticated, and generate new leads and expand market share for a mere fraction of what it used to cost.

4. Talented people are available. Extremely talented people who may have been unwilling to work with or for a small company are now willing to take on projects they wouldn't have considered previously. Today, even if you don't have the right team now, it takes only a day or two to find the talented people you need to deliver a project after you've landed the order.

In addition, many out-of-work executives are using this time to get involved in interesting projects. As a result, you may be able to find people to take on critical tasks or advisory roles in return for board seats or for shares in your company. That will help give your company a more high-powered image.

When this economy turns around, you don't want to be forced to ramp up again. You want to be running at full speed when the tide turns.

Article courtesy of womenentrepreneur.com, written by Tamara Monosoff

Unique Traits of Mompreneurs

2009-05-28T07:53:00.002-07:00

Where we find inspiration: Many women who never would have thought of themselves as entrepreneurs are startled by the ideas that motherhood spurs. You realize all kinds of needs aren't being met and constantly think there must be a better way. One mompreneur, Tamara Monosoff, has created an entire business to help mom inventors achieve their dreams. But frequently, it's not a product that inspires mompreneurship--it's motherhood itself. For instance, the drive and desire to be home with their children motivates some moms to create businesses that fit in with their family lives. They may start businesses that have nothing to do with motherhood but that give them the opportunity to work from home or work nontraditional hours.

How we work: First off, there is no blanket generalization for mompreneurs. I know some who work a few hours a day and others who have worked diligently to create an empire. But most of those I interview tell me they're mompreneurs so they can call their own shots. Most shy away from traditional 9-to-5 hours. They work during the fringe hours of the day so they can spend precious time with their kids. They work from wireless laptops while watching their kids in karate class. And they keep in touch via their smart phone wherever motherhood may take them.

I have yet to meet a mompreneur who hasn't said it's the hardest she's ever worked in her life. But the good news is that every woman also says she wouldn't trade it for the world. Mompreneurs truly are working 24 hours a day. When they're not working, they're thinking about work. When they are working, they're thinking about being with their kids. It's a full life, and each woman accomplishes it in her own way.

Where we work: Most mompreneurs I encounter work from home (or at least start out that way). They spare themselves the commute to the office, and they don't have to get baby-sitters when their babies are at home napping. Offices have gone virtual. You'll see mompreneurs working at Starbucks, local libraries and even on park benches. As long as they have cell phones and laptops, they're in business. New business ideas are emerging, such as Cubes and Crayons, which combine child care and office space, giving moms an opportunity to work and take good care of their kids. Some mompreneurs start companies with child-friendly offices or provide day care.

Why we work: There are many reasons mompreneurs go into business. Some want to bring in a little extra money. Some want to have something stimulating and rewarding they can do beyond motherhood. And others want to see a change in the world. While some mompreneurs do experience huge financial success, most don't go into business expecting it. That is very different from the mindset of most traditional entrepreneurs. More and more moms are starting their own businesses. I love that more and more women are realizing they can fulfill their dreams and still be successful moms.

Article courtesy of womenentrepeneur.com, written by Lisa Druxman

5 Brand-Busting Mistakes to Avoid

2009-05-28T07:53:00.001-07:00

Mistake No. 1: Equating branding with communications. Yes, branding includes communications. But if your branding strategy is all about messaging and advertising and nothing about business strategy or people, then you won't be able to deliver on your communications. If you have lousy customer service, telling people it's great will only drive customers away faster. But investing in training and infrastructure to improve service will enable you to market your great service and still look yourself in the mirror As more information about companies and products is available online, a great company and product are your brand's only defense.

Mistake No. 2: Branding on price. Don't do it. Basing your brand on your low price is a race to the bottom--and someone will always beat you there. Even if your prices are the same as your competitors' prices, you need to give clients compelling reasons beyond price to buy from you. The difference between the product offered by Morton Salt and a supermarket's house brand? Not much. The difference in pricing? Fourteen percent. That margin is due to how well Morton has built up the intangible parts of its brand. Establish trust with your customers, and you can breathe a lot easier when the newest competitor undercuts your price.
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Mistake No. 3: Changing your promise. Like a dog sniffing at a fire hydrant, every time a new marketing vice president is brought into a company, there's a risk she'll try to change the brand, or put her mark on it. While your brand promise should be relevant and up-to-date, making a wholesale change from, say, being the educational leader to being the innovation leader will only confuse your market.

Are you ready to change your tagline or logo? Companies get tired of their own marketing way before the market does. (You live with it day in and day out. They see it only once in a while.) Remember when Jack in the Box killed its ping-pong-ball-headed CEO? Customer sentiment brought him back, but the company was smart enough to do so in a new, updated way. Whatever you do, don't let your visual brand identity and messaging force changes in your brand promise (see Mistake No. 1).

Mistake No. 4: Overpromising. The least expensive way to brand yourself is to have your customers do it for you. How do you get them to become evangelists? By underpromising and overdelivering. Fight the temptation to sound better than you are: Promise what you can deliver, then do it to the nth degree. Are you the fastest? Then don't give customers a long voice-mail message to listen to before they can act. Are you the friendliest? Don't let your employees bad-mouth clients behind their backs. Are you the coolest? Then make sure your lobby looks awesome and has wow power.

Alongside this advice, I recommend that you focus your brand message--don't try to be all things to all people. Figure out the most compelling part of your promise and build that up, rather than try to communicate 10 different elements of your brand promise.

Mistake No. 5: Me-too branding. I can't tell you how many entrepreneurs have said, "If I only get x percent of the market, I'll be rich." You have to give consumers a compelling reason to give you their business to get that percentage. You can't expect to siphon off business from the market leader without a substantive reason. Don't try to be like other companies: Be yourself. There will be a subsegment of the market that likes what you do better than what the market leader does, and that's the percentage of the market you can skim off. Instead of emulating competitors, be different. If you're competing against Starbucks, zig when it zags. Make your dÃ©cor unique, encourage customers to play board games, roast beans on site or have coffee-tasting parties. Get your own buzz on.

Steer clear of these mistakes, and you'll be well on your way to branding nirvana--being known for your compelling and differentiated value.

Article courtesy of womenentrepreneur.com, written by Lynn Parker

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-01T15:14:00.000-07:00

after playing in the snow and mud, this is what poor Suzi has to look forward to

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-25T04:45:00.000-07:00

Welcome UBP09-ers!!

2009-03-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much for stopping by to check out the Boutique Graphics blog!

Boutique Graphics provides web and graphic design and business solutions for WAHMs and small businesses. My great joy is in helping other business owners with their website, graphic design, printing and marketing needs!

Pretty much whatever you need for your business, I've got you covered! Custom blog designs, photoblogs, websites, eCommerce, business cards, postcards and hang tags, templates, illustrations, custom logo design... way too much to list here! :)

I also run a free WAHM networking site that I'd love for you to join - tons of great articles and tips for success, from marketing to SEO! Click here to visit the BGnetwork.

I started doing graphic and web design in 1999 and I absolutely love it... I can be creative while helping other women with businesses. Many times I end up making great new friendships with my clients, and we help and support each other, which to me is a major benefit of what I do!

I enjoy helping other small business owners become successful. I'm always available to my customers for technical help or just some advice, even after the project is done.

Whether you are starting from scratch, redesigning, or just want some extra-special touches, together we will make your design dreams come true! There is no limit on revisions for your custom design!!!

Click here to read Testimonials from past clients!

What style speaks to you? whether you want chic and sophisticated, high-tech, all-out girly, retro, clean and simple, or any other style, we can design it together!

Not sure what you want? Just contact me!

A little about me...

My name is Maggie. I am a WAHM to two awesome kids. Ian is 7 and Sophie is 4, and they are the joys of my life!

I am also a professional photographer (Professional Photographers of America member) with a years of experience taking, editing and enhancing product photos.

I take my job as a web designer and developer very seriously. Therefore, I maintain memberships with several professional organizations, support movements and causes related to my field, and continually broaden my knowledge base with seminars and new courses. As a professional, I feel it is important to be a part of the community relating to my industry, and to support causes that make a difference to that community.

If you're in need of anything - just want some business cards, need a whole website, or would just like to talk about being a mom entrepreneur and share advice - please contact me! I'd love to hear from you!

PS - I'm offering a prize for the UBP - I'm INTL 65!!
http://www.5minutesformom.com/ultimate-blog-party-2009-prizes/

The Ultimate Blog Party 2009 has begun!!

2009-03-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

Running from March 20-27, 2009... an awesome way to meet new friends, and win fabulous prizes!! Check it out!! :)

If I win I want this!! :)

Scrapbook Photo Box
Provided by: Scrappy Gifts

Please vote for me!!

2009-03-20T12:26:00.000-07:00

Leading Moms in Business 2009 Competition

I would so appreciate your votes!!! Thank you!!! :)

Do This TODAY To Improve Your Site's Ranking!

2009-03-20T09:25:00.000-07:00

The Title meta tag is the most important SEO factor on your website. It needs to be well-written so it makes sense, and contain your business name and relevant keywords, all while being the correct length and correct structure. I found an article which I think breaks it down in easy-to-understand terms. If you want to know what your Title tag is now, simply go to your website and look at the very top of the page. For instance, right now on the BG Network, it reads - BGnetwork - network it! (Which I will probably be updating so I can hopefully add more relevant keywords!!)

If you want to change your title tag, and you are using a WAHMShoppes eStore, this is super easy to do. You can contact me at techsupport@boutiquegraphics.com if you need help with it, but try these steps first. If you're not using a WAHMShoppes eStore, contact me and I'll take a look for you.

1. Log into your store admin at http://yoursiteurlhere.com/store/setup.asp

2. Click Configuration.

3. Scroll to Mode 4 (or whichever mode you are operating in - if I built your site, it's 4.)

4. Click HTML Store Template.

5. Look at the very top of the code, after the tags, and see if you see: If not, add this directly after the tag and save. If it's already there, do nothing to the code.

6. Now click on Configuration again, go back to your mode, and click Add Meta Tags.

7. In the Title box, add your new fantastic Title, then save.

8. Check out your website (you may need to refresh the page or clear your cache) and see your new Title in action. :)

Here's an excerpt from the article, credit goes to www.highrankings.com:

What Is a Title Tag?

The title tag has been — and probably will always be — one of the most important factors in achieving high search engine rankings.

In fact, fixing just the title tags of your pages can often generate quick and appreciable differences to your rankings. And because the words in the title tag are what appear in the clickable link on the search engine results page (SERP), changing them may result in more clickthroughs.

Search Engines and Title Tags

Title tags are definitely one of the “big three” as far as the algorithmic weight given to them by search engines; they are equally as important as your visible text copy and the links pointing to your pages — perhaps even more so.

Do Company Names Belong in the Title Tag?

This is one of the most common questions asked about titles. The answer is a resounding YES! I’ve found that it’s fine to place your company name in the title, and *gasp*, even to place it at the beginning of the tag! In fact, if your company is already a well-known brand, I’d say that it’s essential. Even if you’re not a well-known brand yet, chances are you’d like to eventually be one. The title tag gives you a great opportunity to further this cause.

This doesn’t mean that you should put *just* your company name in the title tag. Even the most well-known brands will benefit from a good descriptive phrase or two added, as it will serve to enhance your brand as well as your search engine rankings. The people who already know your company and seek it out by name will be able to find you in the engines, and so will those who have never heard of you but seek the products or services you sell.

Title Tags Should Contain Specific Keyword Phrases

For example, if your company is "Johnson and Smith Inc.," a tax accounting firm in Texas, you shouldn’t place only the words "Johnson and Smith Inc." in your title tag, but instead use something like "Johnson and Smith Inc. Tax Accountants in Texas."

As a Texas tax accountant, you would want your company’s site to appear in the search engine results for searches on phrases such as "Texas tax accountants" and "CPAs in Texas." (Be sure to do your keyword research to find the best phrases!) You would need to be even more specific if you prefer to work with people only in the Dallas area. In that case, use keywords such as "Dallas tax accountants" in your site’s title tags.

Using our Dallas accountant’s example, you might create a title tag as follows:

Johnson and Smith Tax Accountants in Dallas

or you might try something like this:

Johnson and Smith Dallas CPAs

However, there’s more than enough space in the title tag to include both of these important keyword phrases. (I like to use about 10-12 words in my title tags.)

One way to do it would be like this:

Johnson and Smith - Dallas Tax Accountants - CPAs in Dallas, TX

I’ve always liked the method of separating phrases with a hyphen; however, in today’s competitive marketplace, how your listing appears in the SERPs is a critical aspect of your SEO campaign. After all, if you have high search engine rankings but your targeted buyers aren’t clicking through, it won’t do you much good.

These days I try to write compelling titles as opposed to simply factual ones, if I can. But it also depends on the page, the type of business, the targeted keyword phrases, and many other factors. There’s nothing wrong with the title tag in my above example. If you were looking for a tax accountant in Dallas and saw that listing at Google, you’d probably click on it.

Still, you could make it a readable sentence like this:

Johnson and Smith are Tax Accountants and CPAs in Dallas, TX

I’m not as thrilled with that one because I had to remove the exact phrase "Dallas Tax Accountants," as it wouldn’t read as well if it said:

Johnson and Smith are Dallas Tax Accountants and CPAs in Dallas, TX

It sounds redundant that way, as if it were written only for the search engines.

In the end, it’s really a personal preference. Don’t make yourself crazy trying to create the perfect title tag, as there’s just no such thing. Most likely, either of my examples would work fine. The best thing to do would be to test different ones and see which rank higher and which convert better. It may very well be that the second version doesn’t rank as well, but gets clicked on more, effectively making up the difference.

------------------------------

Naturally, I must point out that I can make no guarantees as to your ranking by utilizing any articles that I post on the blog!

Children's Fashion Workshop - oh, so fun!

2009-03-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

I just happened to stumble across this blog the other day, and I am loving it!! Not sure if you know this, but I used to be a children's clothing designer and am actually thinking of starting back up sometimes this year. So anything that has to do with fashion, sewing, patterns, design... I love it!

This site has some really nifty info, patterns, tutorials, etc... I keep checking back hoping to find new stuff added!

http://childrensfashionworkshop.squarespace.com/

Successful Newsletter Marketing

2009-03-19T17:45:00.000-07:00

Why Email Marketing With Newsletters Works So Well
By Lewis Leake

A new report by the Nielsen Norman Group Report entitled “Email Newsletter Usability” has just been released. In the report, they look at the effectiveness of newsletters as a part of your email marketing strategy.

Some of the reports positive finding were:

readers often have a highly emotional reaction to newsletters
readers tend to forward newsletters to friends and colleagues
newsletters create a bond between readers and your company
newsletters are convenient - delivered to the users inbox

Some negative findings were:

readers often felt frustrated when trying to unsubscribe
there is little tolerance for newsletters that waste time
readers are subscribing to fewer newsletters
newsletters are sent too often

So there you have it, overall newsletters are welcomed by most of the readers. However, email marketers must do a better job with their newsletter marketing if they hope to retain their current readers and add new subscribers.

Your newsletter must:

be informative and relevant to the readers’ needs
have a predictable publishing schedule
be brief and to the point
have a strong subject line so that it’s opened
be designed for users who scan rather than read
make it easy to unsubscribe

The report stated that “sixty-nine percent of users said that they look forward to receiving at least one newsletter.” Make sure that you do everything that you can to ensure that your email newsletter is the one that they look forward to getting. If you don’t they may be subscribing to your competitors newsletter. Click here to read the Executive Summary.

Article Source:

http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lewis_Leake

5 Minutes for Mom's Ultimate Blog Party 2009!

2009-03-19T17:19:00.000-07:00

Are you ready to [blog] party March 20-27??

Click the image below to find out all about it!!

Getting More Online Exposure

2009-03-19T16:54:00.001-07:00

Here are just a few things you can do (and should, in my opinion!) that can really boost your exposure and ranking for your website.

Submit your URL to DMOZ - Google's open directory.
http://www.dmoz.org/
Navigate to the best category and subcategories, to find your exact niche. Then, at the bottom of that page, click the Submit a Site link.

Some sites you may want to exchange links with/add your site to:
http://www.indiedesignerlabels.com
http://www.dashinfashion.com
http://www.swankymoms.com
http://www.5minutesformom.com/mom-sites/
http://www.squidoo.com/build/magic
http://jamesgirone.com
http://boutiquecafe.com
http://journalmodiste.com
http://poshmomboutiques.gotop100.com

Font Lovers Rejoice!

2009-03-16T13:32:00.000-07:00

76 pages of $1 fonts over at www.scrapnfonts.com!

Now offering custom PhotoBlog design!

2009-03-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

Do you love all those beautiful, eye-catching blogs with the big, fabulous photos? Having trouble getting a similar look with Blogger? That's because it requires a custom coded layout to achieve the look - luckily, I can help!

It is best to design your blog to match your website, so I can coordinate with your existing brand and use any existing graphics such as your logo!

Check out some examples, then order your custom design!

Examples....

http://pictureyouhappy.blogspot.com

http://poshmomboutiques.blogspot.com

New Marketing Templates - Bright Modern!

2009-03-08T22:51:00.000-07:00

Just added these fresh, fun templates - perfect for boutiques and photographers - edit them a little or a lot; buy one template or the entire kit - it's up to you! Click here to purchase.

Product Pictures - Something Sweet Bowtique

2009-03-05T11:44:00.000-08:00

Sophie recently got her first modeling assignment from Something Sweet Bowtique for these adorable hair clippes - she loves them!! I'll update when they have been added to the website!

Product Pictures - LKS

2009-02-17T16:57:00.000-08:00

A few more pics from today's shoot for Little Keeper Sleeper.... how cute is this little munchkin!!!

New Character Illustration - Giggle n Groove

2009-02-17T16:47:00.000-08:00

Here's the final draft of the cute little fairy for this lovely client - love how she turned out!!

(Watermarked for copyright protection!)

Product Photos - LKS

2009-02-15T13:15:00.000-08:00

Here's a peek at some of the product photos for the Little Keeper Sleeper - see my little mascot there on the front? How exciting! :)

Product Photos - Ritzy Baby

2009-02-15T13:13:00.001-08:00

Just sharing a few of the newest crop of shopping cart covers from Ritzy Baby - www.ritzybabyonline.com - aren't they TDF??

In the Works - Little Keeper Sleeper

2009-02-15T13:06:00.000-08:00

What a cool project this has been - from designing the mascot (above) for the Little Keeper Sleeper - seeing it in action on the actual product - building the website - taking photos with my models - I will be taking the final product photos for LKS this week, and the site will launch shortly after - wait til you see what a novel concept these creative folks have come up with!

In the Works - Party Theme Team

2009-02-15T13:04:00.000-08:00

Under construction... a fun new website for Party Theme Team - they have tons of themes that you buy to do yourself AND in their local area they will come and throw the party for you (doens't that sound great, Moms?? lol)... should be completed pretty soon!

Posh Hair Bows Cards

2009-02-15T12:47:00.000-08:00

Just finished up a fun double-sided business card design for Posh Hair Bows!

In the Works - LMPP Character Visits

2009-02-15T12:36:00.000-08:00

One of my new website projects is for another long-term client, Little Miss Princess Parties. She's now expanding to a dedicated character visit business - lovely actresses dressed up like princesses and fairies, etc visit birthday parties - too fun! Check out the new logo above and the new site in progress...

www.missprincesspartycharacters.com/store

New Stuff - Ritzy Business Cards

2009-02-15T12:34:00.000-08:00

Just finished up a new business card design for one of my lonest-running clients, Ritzy Baby - I designed these cards to match their new brochure - love the leopard print and green damask with touches of pink!

In the Works - Giggle 'n' Groove

2009-02-15T12:32:00.001-08:00

I've been working on this adorable little fairy illustration for Giggle 'n' Groove... just love how she's looking!

Next up - a bunch of fun new graphics for the web site! Stay tuned!

Marketing Your Site

2009-02-15T12:27:00.001-08:00

A mini-series of marketing tip, tricks and ideas... check back for new installments!

MARKETING YOUR SITE

If you build it, they will come... right? I wish it was that simple!

In order for people to find your store, you will have to market it.

Word of Mouth
Banner Advertising
Print It Everywhere
Newsletters/Mailing Lists
Link Exchanges
Top List Sites
Track Your Stats
Know Your SEO
Keep It Up!

WORD OF MOUTH

Tell people about your store! Talk it up, make it sound absolutely irresistible... the great products, the easy ordering, etc. Make sure you tell them both your business name AND your domain.

For instance: "....my store, ABC Baby Stuff - it's www.abcbabystuff.com..."

Even if you talk to someone who isn't interested in your kind of products, they may be impressed enough to pass it along to someone who is!

A great place to start is with your friends and family - they are sure to tell people about your incredibly awesome store!