Starting a new business is a dream come true for some and for others, it remains that...A DREAM.

The biggest mistake you can make when launching a new business is to worry about those people that you are not even talking to.

Don't be concerned about the perception of people that are not your target audience. Of course, your competitors view you as inferior. That's their job...they are your competition!

The goal in business is to find and keep your audience. Here's two ways to do this...

Warm-Call and Business Travel Gifts
Great for meeting clients face to face and when soliciting new business.

Birthday and Holiday Cards
Both are an effective way to keep and stay in touch with clients.

Don't feel you have to know everything when you're just starting or be what others want you to be. If I had waited until I knew everything about gift baskets, I would have never started The Gourmet Gift Boutique.

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Labels: advice, business

                     

You've set your budget. You've decided on a marketing campaign. But customers are not responding and you have no sales.

So what's wrong?

It's likely one of the following:

Lack of Patience and Consistency

If your business is new, a few months of advertising is not enough time to convert potential customers into buyers. It could take months before you see any results from your marketing. The key is to never stop strategizing and building momentum with consistency.

Pricing

Shoppers today are very savvy. Beat the competition by offering customers competitive rates. Experiment until you find the right price people feel comfortable paying for your product or service.

Wrong Audience

This is the most common mistake made in business- trying to market your products to everyone in the world. 90% of companies have more success with a specific group of people. To reach your target market, develop a creative marketing plan with a call to action.

Customers do respond to advertisements. Will they buy from you right away? Probably not. But you'll be surprised at what will happen when you stick with it and advertise on a consistent basis.

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Labels: advertising, advice, marketing

                     

Receiving a gift basket is a wonderful surprise for anyone. Whether it is flowers or fruit, what completes the gift is the basket itself.

Once the contents of the basket are gone, don’t throw it in the closet and forget about it, there are so many different uses for it!

Décor

A basket can be used in any décor. In living areas, a small basket can be used to hold pot pourri or accent rocks, or any type of decorative accent. A unique basket can also be used as a fabulous piece of wall art.

In the bathroom, a small basket can be used to hold decorative soaps, and a medium or large basket can be used to hold towels. Baskets can create a unique look to any home.

Nurseries

Parents know that having a baby means a lot of little toys and hygiene accessories. These are usually stored in drawers and cupboards. However if you have limited space, it soon becomes very cluttered. Baskets can be used to hold all the lotions, oils and soaps as well as the toys that babies need for their development. A basket can be hung on hooks from the ceiling or pegs in the wall to create a unique look in any nursery.

Environmentally Conscience

For people who choose to live the ‘green life’ recycling baskets is an excellent way to save the environment. For those who live in apartments or in areas where planting a garden is not possible, using a basket in container gardening can not only save the environment, it will also yield fresh fruits and vegetables that are beneficial to your family.

Baskets are a versatile way to decorate your home. When you receive one, you are limited only by your imagination as to what you can do with it!

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Labels: advice, baskets, holiday baskets

                     

More and more, individuals and corporations are "going green" as they become more concerned about our environment. What type of gifts can you give to those who are eco-minded? Just follow this "going green" gift guide to help you make the perfect choice.

Gifts for New Parents

Have a new baby on the way? Think about giving parents-to-be a green gift basket filled with completely natural cleaning products. This will keep your new little ones nursery and your home safe and chemical free.

Have a Special Someone in Your Life That Love Gardening?

If someone you know who has a green thumb has a birthday or other special occasion coming up, what could be better than a green gift basket containing all natural gardening products? This could include natural fertilizer to help build healthy soil - and of course made from all natural components to give your favorite gardener the most beautiful plants on the block!

Special Lady Going Off to College This Fall?

Any feminine young woman headed off for college would love a green gift basket filled with natural organic soaps and skin care products! Throw in an organic tee-shirt, and a couple of "reusable" bags for food shopping. This will make the perfect gift for any environmentally concerned college student!

Welcome a New Neighbor or Co-Worker

Someone new moving into the neighborhood, or perhaps there is a new co-worker where you work? Welcome them with a green gift basket they will be certain to appreciate! This basket might include products that are all Kosher, all natural fruit preserves, natural peanut butter, organic aloe vera drink - anything natural.

These are some great ideas to help you choose just the right thing for anyone you know who is concerned about making a difference in our environment. Choose the perfect gift basket to show you care!

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Gift baskets are key to building a successful marketing campaign for your business. There are many ways to advantageously use gift baskets to increase leads, sales, and create customer loyalty. Show your appreciation for your customers by handing out small gifts. Give them for every referral that your customers send to your business. Check back often for more tips on how to make gift baskets work for your business.

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Labels: advertise, advice, business, gift baskets, marketing

                     

Sending a gift basket is the most preferred method of gift-giving. When done correctly, gift baskets are a welcome acknowledgement for any person, for any occasion, at any time.

Remember these 5 tips when sending your next gift:

1. Have at least two numbers for the recipient of the gift basket. This can do a variety of things. Directions and information given by the sender can be confirmed and pre-delivery arrangements can be made.

2. Opt for sending your gift basket to the recipients' home instead of hospitals and hotels. Sometimes patients in hospitals have been discharged and hotel guests have checked out prior to the gift arriving.

3. Avoid sending a bath and pamper gift basket to co-workers, colleagues, and bosses. These gifts can send the wrong message and can be considered inappropriate in the work place.

4. Consider sending corporate gift baskets during the off season. To stand out, send your gift either before or after the holiday rush.

5. Unless you know a person has dietary restrictions, avoid health related gift baskets.

Because making a great impression is the only option, people just like you, have used our gift basket expert advice for their gift-giving needs.

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If you think Valentine's Day is just for lovers, then you had better think again.

These days Valentine's gifts are exchanged by everyone- from family and friends to colleagues and clients.

Make a great impression with one of these Valentine's Day gifts:

Game Time
Playing a good game is great for enhancing an existing relationship. For your enjoyment, choose from card or board games that focus on humor, romance, intellect, sex or eroticism. What a fun way to share an evening, while learning more about the other person.

Gourmet Treats
For all of you who have been thinking of someone in a nice way, this is your chance to bring your thought to reality with a gift of gourmet treats. Instead of showing affection, show your appreciation with a gift of Chocolate English Toffee, White Chocolate, Chocolate Mint or White Chocolate Raspberry Drizzle Popcorn.

Movies in a Basket
Dinner and movies anyone? Put a twist on Valentine's Day this year. Surprise a client with dinner and movies in a basket. This basket can be filled with the best gourmet foods and a couple of foreign and new release movies.

Man's Best Friend
Maybe you know someone who loves animals or who owns a pet. Send a pet theme gift basket with special goodies just for man's best friend.

If you want to learn more about gift baskets for corporate or individual gifts, our gift basket experts are available to give you gift-giving advice.

Tags: Valentine's Day holiday advice

Labels: advice, holiday, Valentine's Day

                     

Promotional items have been one of the contributing factors of a company's success. But now, companies are passing up their normal pens and coffee mugs for a more dressed up promotion.

Dressing up your promotional items has never been easier. Instead of giving a potential client a single pen, mug, calendar or calculator package them into one of the following:

Gift Bag

Coffee mug with candy or pre-packaged foods

Or

Bundle the items to create a stackable gift basket.

Dressing up your promotional items is a clever way to increase profits.

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Labels: advice, gift baskets, promotional items

                     

Recently I received an email about gift-giving ideas for Grandparents' Day. Grandparents' Day is Sunday September 7, 2008.

Now what are you going to do for your grandparents? Here’s my advice…

Because baby boomers and mature seniors don’t enjoy their golden years the way they should, a gift that reflects their hobby, favorite past time, prior career or other memorable occasion, will definitely make all the sacrifices they made for the rest of the family totally worth it.

If your grandparents don’t have any dietary restrictions, enjoy some gourmet edibles on us to make this special day one they are sure to remember.

Tags: Grandparents' Day gifts special occasion advice

Labels: advice, gifts, Grandparents' Day, special occasion

                     

Below you will find five common reasons why corporations use gift baskets…

1. Turn Prospects Into Clients

Door-opening gifts help business owners introduce their companies to prospects who in turn, starts doing business with them.

2. Can Be Personalized to Reflect Your Clients Profession

Studies link inserting items that reflect your clients’ profession into a gift basket increases response rate. Clients take special notice of anyone who acts as a partner in advancing their career.

3. Convenient for Independent Professionals and Executives

Because busy Executives, health care professionals and those affiliated with other facilities have little time to shop for gifts, ordering corporate gift baskets or Portland fruit arrangements takes the job of finding the perfect gift off their agenda so they can focus on other important tasks.

4. Great Business Travel Gifts

Business travel gifts are ideal if you are a parent who has a job that requires you to travel often to meet face-to-face with clients. Give your child a gift basket to reassure them of your love and to relieve the guilt of you leaving them behind.

5. Increase Business Over the Competition

To increase business over the competition, gift baskets are used to thank customers for their patronage while enticing prospects to remember you.

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Labels: advice, business, corporate baskets

                     

Wrapping with tulle requires only a few simple steps.

To really understand wrapping baskets with tulle, you need to know how to wrap with cellophane.

Why Knowing How to Wrap With Cello Makes Sense.

Cellophane is cost effective which allows for mistakes if more practice is needed. Because cello comes in many sizes, you will have a better understanding and control over wrapping a variety of baskets and containers. As a result you will create gift basket designs that appeal to any market.


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Labels: advice, baskets, tulle, tulle wrap, wide roll tulle, wrapping gift baskets

                     

There are so many gift basket marketing strategies but very few focuses on keeping customers for life. After all, if you don't build customer loyalty, you can forget about making any kind of income.

Here are some strategies on keeping customers for life...

Gift Basket Coupons

This encourages customers to buy more and more often. This offer is an excellent way to increase your profits.

Gift Basket Give-Aways

Reward customers for repeat buisness. Give a gift basket as a token of your appreciation.

Small Corporate Gifts

Hand deliver or mail a small corporate gift to a customer that hasn't ordered in a while. This will encourage them to continue during business with you.

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Labels: advice, marketing, strategies, tips

                     

As long as you are in the gift basket industry, you will be faced with expired products. There's no way to completely avoid it, but there are some things you can do to minimize the amount and free up space at the same time.

These are 5 tips to take the headache out of dealing with those pesky expired items.

1. Buy what your customers like.

Avoid items you like or things you think your customers will like. I know sometimes we like to try new things. But, I also know the old saying, “if it ain't broke, then don't try to fix it."

2. Don't overbuy.

Just because an item sold well last year, doesn't mean it will sell this year. Reorder on an as needed basis instead of stocking up.

3. Use them as promotional and marketing tools.

Products that are a month away from expiring are great for soliciting new business.

4. Donate them to food banks.

This is a great way to give back to your community and it's also tax deductible.

5. Use them in sample baskets.

Because you never know when someone will want to see your work, pre make the sample baskets to prevent you from making them the day before a meeting.

The expired date only means you can't sell to the public. Continue to seek creative ways to use the expired items other than throwing them in the trash.

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Gift Baskets for Jewish Holidays will require Krosher products.

When deciding on a Jewish holiday gift basket, it is important to respect the Kosher laws that Jewish families follow. In Kosher law meat and dairy products are kept separated and no pork is consumed.

With this in mind, order a gift basket with no meat and cheese or select an elegant fruit basket as an alternative.


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Our corporate gifting program was designed for busy professionals like you. Because your time is important, there's no need to worry about last minute gifts.

By participating in the Corporate gifting program, your clients will receive their gifts on a recurring basis pre-determined by you. Just give us your list and we'll take care of the rest.

There's no better way to remind clients that you’re still the best than with a corporate gift basket. Call or email us today.

Tags: advice corporate gifts corporate baskets
corporate gifting program

Labels: advice, corporate, corporate baskets, gifts

                     

Now you are thinking about selling your gift baskets at flea markets. Let's take a look inside a flea market. Before we get started, we'll assume it's indoors...

The building...an open place that reminds you of a warehouse with sections divided into numbered booths.

The booths...nothing fancy, the only thing that separates your space from your neighbor is a partition or piece of plywood that you had to buy.

Hours...normally open only on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Vendors...anybody who pays the booth rent that day gets to sell their products to the public.

Now...get ready for this.

The products...they are usually inexpensive and the quality is not guaranteed.

When thinking of flea markets, you automatically think discount and cheap.

There is nothing wrong with selling your baskets at flea markets, if it's just a hobby and you need some extra cash for the weekend. But for serious gift basket designers, your baskets will not be appreciated by the type of customers that shop at flea markets.

Why? You ask…because they are there looking for a deal. If they wanted to pay full price for something, they would be at the mall.

Desperation causes some to reduce the quality of their baskets. Like any business, it takes patience and marketing. Those that follow this advice will be the ones who succeed.

Tags: advice baskets gift baskets flea market gift basket business

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Corporate gift baskets make the best corporate gifts. Corporate gifts are popular because you understand that building a business is based on building and maintaining relationships.

We create custom gift baskets for busy professionals who understand that making a great impression is the only option.

Our gifts are appropriate for both male and female. And that’s not all! They attract new customers, promote your brand and maintain positive relations with existing customers.

To remind your clients that you are still the best in the business, place your order online or call us today.

Tags: corporate baskets corporate gifts advice news

Labels: advice, corporate baskets, corporate gifts, gifts, news

                     

I know what it's like to want to own a successful gift basket business.

You want to get started but fear making alot of mistakes. Better yet...Read books that leave you with more questions than it answered. And not only that, but...Hope your message board post will get a reply.

Fear no more. I will show you exactly how...And tell you all the tools, everything you need to get started...immediately.

What's more...You will learn where to purchase inventory, marketing techniques that work, how to present your gift baskets to potential clients, how to optimize your website, best way to set up your workspace, and gift basket designs.

It's a fact that nobody gets to the top alone. You will seek information from somewhere or someone on that road to success.

I don't care if it's an article you read on the internet or advice for the best loan from a bank rep...You will need somebody.

To avoid the mistakes made by many and achieve the success of some, call us today.

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Using cello bags to wrap gift baskets depend on preference.

Gift basket designers choose this method for many reasons. For starters, cello bags are convenient and less time goes into wrapping the baskets.

Cello bags come in many different sizes. However, there will be cases where the bags just won't fit all types of baskets and containers.

Keep in mind that the fit of the bag may be loose which gives the gift an untidy appearance.

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Labels: advice, cello bags, cello rolls, wrapping gift baskets

                     

Can you believe it's almost Mother's Day? It seems to come sooner and sooner each year. Because this day is extra special, treat mom right. Think of gift basket designs that are perfect for her.

Planters in any color are great for designing gifts. Fill it with all the treats mom likes. Add a Mother’s Day themed tea cup, wall plaque or cd for the special touch. And don't forget the floral enhancements.

After the treats are gone, she can now plant her favorite plant in her new planter, sip morning tea in her new tea cup, and she has a wall plaque to add to her home decor. Mom is sure to rave over this one.

Tags: holiday baskets advice baskets gift baskets Mother's Day

Labels: advice, holiday baskets, holiday gifts, Mother's Day

                     

Is most of your inventory purchased from Sam's or Costco? Do you only buy inventory when an order is placed? Or do you have inventory on hand at all times?

These are the questions smart shoppers are asking. When the occasion arises for gift baskets, customers don't like to wait a long time.

Gift baskets full of products purchased from retail stores are typically over priced. If you are making purchases from a gift basket company filled with store bought things, why do you need them?

Impress the recipient with a unique gift basket that includes items that can't be found at a local store.

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Labels: advice, gift baskets, inventory

                     

Using tulle to wrap gift baskets is a costly alternative to cellophane. Not only is it more expensive, it does not give a professional look, and the products in the basket can not be seen through it.

To get the best use from tulle, use it in place of shred. Tulle softens the look of the gift. It's great for baby, wedding, or bath and pamper gift baskets.

With this method, a spool of tulle should last a long time. However, if you're wrapping baskets with it, it's sure to break the bank.

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Labels: advice, baskets, gifts, wrapping gift baskets

                     

The goal for every business is to secure a thriving corporate account. Acquiring a couple of good paying corporate accounts can sustain a business through out the year.

Corporate clients expect you to work around their budget and offer impressive designs. Most budgets can be accommodated. But some won't like the options they are given for the amount of money they are willing to spend. Now what do you do?

Getting more than one corporate account is achievable with a little planning. Here are some things to help you out:

Weigh your options if…

This is your first corporate account and you think it will be worth you absorbing the cost to meet their needs.

You have many good paying corporate accounts already- The profit you make off them will afford you the extra cost.

Put your company’s best interest first if you plan on staying in business. When you're out of business that corporate account will be someone else’s.

Tags: advice corporate gift basket business gift baskets

Labels: advice, corporate, gift basket, gift basket business

                     

When I started my gift basket business, I thought all I had to do was create a website and the sales would come pouring in. Boy was I wrong!

After 6 months of being online and wasting $600 on a web designer, I still had zero traffic. Desperate for an online presence, I decided to educate myself on owning an online business.

Yes! When you decided to create a website where customers can make purchases, you are now the proud owner of an online business. To avoid the mistakes I did...

DON'T
Use free websites- search engines will ignore you.

Use too many graphics- they do not add value to your website and search engine spiders can not recognize them.

Hire a web designer before you have basic website knowledge.

Use music- music does not mix with all websites. People seeking to send a gift do not want to hear music.

Allow popups- they quickly annoy website visitors.

DO'S
Register your own domain name.

Choose a web hosting company.

Write good content for your website.

Build your own site with some type of web software.

Hire a web designer- caution: If your site requires constant updates, make sure you have complete control over your site. Having access to your website files helps you avoid calling the web designer to do updates and paying maintenance fees.

Tags: online gift basket business advice sales news

Labels: advice, gift basket business, news, online, sales

                     

The key to meeting new business associates is the 30 second introduction.

The more unique it is the more likely it will grab the attention of the intended audience.

I have gone to networking events and was asked to give a 30 second introduction of my business without giving any thought to its effectiveness.

Now I've took a little time to revise my 30 second introduction when meeting new business associates. I started with these basics.

Unique selling proposition

This is what makes your business different from the competition.

What’s in it for me?

Because customers ask this all the time, let them know how your company can help their company.

Make them remember you

Leave something with them that makes you stand out from the crowd.

Tags: gift basket business advice

Labels: advice, gift basket business

                     

Administrative Professionals Week is April 20th-26th. It has become one of the largest workplace observances.

This is the week for corporations to show appreciation to their Secretaries, Receptionists and other support staff. Show them why giving a gift basket offers an alternative to the normal flowers and candy.

Present appreciation baskets based on some of the things the staff likes. We offer specialty shopping complementary for items that are not readily available. Or order a gift basket that can be shared by the entire office with a theme based on your type of business.

If your employee morale has been suffering, this is the perfect opportunity to reward them and breathe new life into your business.

Tags: Administrative Day employee gifts advice corporate gift baskets

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It's travel season. With Spring break here and Summer around the corner, now is the time to wish those many travelers Bon Voyage.

Bon Voyage gift baskets make great travel gifts. Once they were only purchased through travel agents and cruise lines.

Now you can order a gift basket based on the destination of the traveler. Here’s an idea: for a trip to the beach include sunscreen and for a ski trip; throw in some hot chocolate and a chapstick.

New Seasons brings new ideas. Because some occasions are not as popular, we forget about them. However, at The Gourmet Gift Shop, our goal is to create custom gifts that are a welcome acknowledgement for any person, for any occasion at anytime. Place your order today.

Tags: gift basket business travel gifts advice

Labels: advice, gift basket business, travel gifts

                     

What a great way to make a living- by making a gift that sells itself. You can start your own gift basket business from scratch or choose a franchise or a business opportunity.

There is no rulebook that you can follow to avoid mistakes when starting a new gift basket business from scratch. But you can play by your own rules. You get to run the business the way you want and sell in any area you choose.

To limit the hassle of researching how to begin your new venture, there are business opportunities and franchises. A business opportunity is an operating system based on setting the company up for operation. However, just like starting a company from scratch, you get to run the business the way you want. A franchise works a little bit different. With a franchise, it’s required by the franchisor that you operate the company under their name and use their operating system. You are only allowed to do business in a defined area chosen by the franchisor and required to pay on going franchise fees or royalties.

Because investing in a new business is one of the most important decisions you will ever make, take your time and research the best strategy for your personal goals.

Tags: gift basket business advice gift baskets

Labels: advice, gift basket business, gift baskets

                     

Who says the economy is bad? My sales have been at an all time high. If you think nobody is buying gift baskets, you have better think again.

My customer's budgets are limited but not to the point were they can't spend anything. During these times they are not buying $40 baskets- not even $30 baskets. So I had to think like my customers. Here are some questions I asked myself:

1. Will they be recognizing a lot of people?

2. How can I give them the most for their money?

3. How can I meet their needs and keep my own expenses low?

I had to tweak my marketing plan. In addition to my regular line of baskets, now I offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets that range from $2.50 to $20. They don't cost me a lot of money, they don't take a lot of time to make, and I still make a profit. This has been a hit with my customers. My last order was for 161 $2.50 gifts. Because they are now purchasing in volume, it averages more than selling one or two baskets at $40 or $50.

Keeping sales up in a bad economy can easily be achieved by implementing small changes. This is a great way to maintain your budget and market your business too.

P.S. If you have tried this and it has helped you, send us an email and let us know. Or if you have done something different that is working for you, we would love to hear about it.

Tags: sales gift baskets advice news

Labels: advice, gift baskets, news, sales

                     

You're probably asked by customers who make your basket deliveries. The type of delivery method you choose ultimately depends on preference and sales volume.

Your choice of delivery includes, but is not limited to, delivering your baskets yourself, hiring a contractor, a delivery service or courier.

Because no one can represent your company like you, delivering your own baskets is the obvious choice. As sales increase, time will not permit self delivery and outsourcing will be needed.

Consider a contractors agreement when hiring contractors for your protection and theirs. Because delivery services charge different rates for different area codes, price the deliveries competitively to cover the costs.

Tags: advice baskets sales gift baskets

Labels: advice, baskets, sales

                     

I recently read an article on how to build a gift basket business on referrals alone. It also stated that one referral is equal to seven cold calls. I agree that word of mouth is one of the best forms of advertising. But when done alone it can be detrimental to any business.

One reason cold calling is disliked is because of the fear of being told "no." You need a "no" in order to know. What does that mean? It means that you assume the same technique will work for everybody and that you are always right. No one is always right and everything doesn’t work on every body. Be willing to be corrected.

Another reason cold calling is disliked is because of the lack of leads. We are fortunate in the gift basket business that there are many ways to find leads without paying for them. Check the library for your local Business Journal. In Georgia, it is called the Business Chronicles or Book of List. This book has the top businesses in your state along with the decision maker's name and contact information. Visit local business's websites for contact information. Call them up, explain how your product will make their company more profitable and then ask for an appointment. You won't get an appointment if you don't ask for it!

Ask yourself- Can one form of advertising reach the market I'm seeking? Build a business by incorporating more than one form of marketing. Referrals plus cold calling is the better way to build a successful business.

Tags: advice gift basket referrals reviews news

Labels: advice, gift basket business

                     

Everybody wants to know how to increase their sales and make more money. Sales is sales no matter what product it is. You have to define your niche and know how the customer will benefit from buying what you are selling.

Just because everybody buys gift baskets, does not mean I will be able to sell to all of them. That's a battle I will definitely loose.

If you define your niche, then you can tailor a presentation just for that market. Only you know the image you want for your company and the type of customers you want to serve.

Now that the niche is out of the way, it is time to list how the product will benefit the customer. Customers don't know how the product will help them. If they knew, they would have called you instead of you contacting them. It's your job to convince them to buy.

At The Gourmet Gift Shop you will find gift ideas that companies have used to increase sales. Our gift baskets are used to open the doors to new business, express appreciation, and sending condolences.

Tags: advice sales gift baskets

Labels: advice, gift baskets, sales

                     

This weekend, I received an order for 5 teacher appreciation gift baskets. The client stated she had seen some gift baskets from other companies that were not well put together and were priced outrageously. She said she was so impressed with my work and the prices associated with it.

All too often many companies don't have a method for pricing their products and services and most over charge for an inferior product. Your profit and credibility depends on pricing your product or service accurately.

Sometimes the products I normally use for a $40 order won't fill that certain basket or container. Do you think I give my customers a half filled basket? Of course not!

Always practice exceeding your customer’s expectations. Consider their needs first. By giving just a little you will be rewarded a lot.

Tags: gift basket pricing advice news

Labels: advice, gift basket pricing, news

                     

You never have to worry about whether or not a gift that you purchased from us was delivered.

When you place an order, we practice getting at least two contact numbers for the recipient. This allows us to check the accuracy of their address and schedule a date and time that someone will be available to accept the gift basket.

In the event that all arrangements are made, and the recipient is still not home, we try to leave the basket at the door or somewhere safe near the house. Sometimes neighbors accept the gift on the recipient's behalf. The neighbor simply signs a confirmation of delivery and we leave a Sorry We Missed You note for the recipient with the exact location of where the basket was left.

Tags: advice gift basket delivery reviews news gift industry consultant

Labels: advice, gift basket delivery, news

                     

The first step in gift basket design is the filler for the baskets. Most baskets or containers will need filler in the bottom to support the products.

Although, newsprint, brown paper bags, and newspaper have been the most commonly used in the gift basket industry, they are a bad choice for filler. Not only will they not support a basket full of products, they make an unprofessional appearance for the recipient when the basket is opened.

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There are a few days left before those Easter Baskets will be flying off the shelves. Those who planned ahead should have most of your Easter orders filled.

For those of you, who are considering Easter baskets for children, don't let me discourage you. However, next year I would advise you to mustard up the courage to try new things by thinking outside the box.

Choose containers or baskets in bright spring colors, fill it with a colored coffee mug, goodies in coordinating pale colors, maybe throw in a picture frame, add some greenery then accent with a bow.

I know children will not appreciate a basket with a coffee mug, but adults that are children at heart definitely will.

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Giving a gift basket is perhaps the most convenient form of gift giving.

Since most people have a tight budget, they end up choosing the most cost effective method for acknowledging those special occasions and holidays.

The average price of a gift basket is $45 not including state taxes, local delivery or shipping charges. The Gourmet Gift Shop allows customers to set the price in an effort to appeal to all budgets.

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The Gourmet Gift Boutique is now offering gift basket workshops. Our workshops are an opportunity for you to tap into your own creativity while learning your craft from the most talented gift basket professionals in the industry.

The classes are structured to accommodate most schedules and budgets. Choose from group or private classes at your location or ours. We've designed each hands-on workshop to have a limited number of students so that our instructors can provide you with the one-on-one guidance you desire.

You can expect to learn new designs, refine your talent, and boost your confidence enough to become experimental, challenge, strengthen, and evolve your creativity. Call or email us to enroll. $100 reserves your space.

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Enclosure cards are also known as gift cards. They are used to display a personalized note from the sender to the recipient and then attached to the gift basket.

Instead of including one card in the envelope, we enclose a second one. Both cards are placed inside the envelope always with your message displayed first.

Now, the recipient has the gift card to keep and a referral card to keep or pass on to friends and family.

As a token of our appreciation, complimentary upgrades are given to referrals and new customers.

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The use of dropshippers offers another option for starting a gift basket business. With this option, there is no inventory to purchase. The dropshipper fills the orders and ships it to you.

Because the only items that would be available to you would be what the dropshipper offers, I decided against this method. You can trust that I employ the most creative gift basket designers who enjoy putting baskets together.

By not using a dropshipper, there are no limits to what I offer. You now have conveniences like…

Same day delivery, customized gift baskets, and product guarantees.

Running a gift basket business using a dropshipper can be an alternative for some people. However, The Gourmet Gift Shop enjoys offering a service to customers that they won't find anywhere else.

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Whether a business should invest in color brochures depends on the budget and financial situation.

Before electing color brochures, some companies don't examine the quality of their photos. Low resolution pictures are inappropriate for professional printed material. Some gift basket companies use templates found through the web that can be downloaded to the computer as an alternative to commercial printing.

The success of our gift baskets come from our credibility. You can trust that the pictures and descriptions of baskets used in our brochures are from work that we have done.

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Selling gift baskets online is very competitive. And because if this, the staff at The Gourmet Gift Shop took extreme measures to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable shopping experience.

You can trust that your information and credit card numbers are secure when placing an order. You will never have to worry about those annoying pop ups and graphics that load slow.

You will find this site to be easy to navigate and discover fast, convenient and secure payment options at check out.

You will get quality and value from a store you can trust. I Guarantee.


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Labels: advice, gift basket business, online sales

                     

Choosing a business name is an exciting and important step. Before deciding on a name, determine your niche market, as well as, any other direction you may consider taking the company in the future. In other words, are you starting in your home with hopes of moving into a retail space?

In the gift basket industry, corporations remain the largest buyers of gift baskets. Consider a name that conveys credibility and strength of a company that can handle anything and will be around for years to come.

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Labels: advice, baskets, corporate, news, reviews

                     

Corporate credit cards are a consideration for any business. There may be times when you need to make a quick purchase and having corporate credit will expedite that purchase.

If your venture is considered a "start-up" make sure you have a legitimate business set up before applying for credit in your corporate name. For example, have you chose a business entity or applied for a Dunn and Bradstreet number?

The first step in building corporate credit is to apply to credit card companies that are receptive to applications from new or start-up companies. American Express accepts applications from new companies that are Costco business members. And Discover accepts applications from Sam's Club business members. Applying at the actually locations will elevate your chance of approval. Other companies who have easy qualifying requirements for new corporations are Staples, Office Depot, Shell Gas and UPS.

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If you are like me and millions of other entrepreneurs and small business owners, then the need for start-up and working capital is essential for your business.

The US Small Business Administration now provides its "Community Express" Loan Program, geared primarily to minorities, women, veteran, and businesses in traditionally under-served areas. The loans are funded by two SBA approved lending institutions: Innovative Bank and Superior Financial Group .

The "Community Express" program offers qualified small business owners loans up to $50,000 with a 7 or 10 year term, no prepayment penalty, minimal paperwork and technical assistance as needed. The program is structured to ensure that the borrowers receive appropriate pre and post loan management and technical assistance to help insure a successful business experience.

Contact the banks to find out where you can receive technical assistance in your area prior to applying for the loan. These loans are expensive and should be considered as a last resort for financing. I applied and was approved for this loan in June 2007 by Innovative Bank.

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After firing my CPA, I needed my monthly sales and use taxes prepared. I contacted another industry professional for a referral. During our conversation, she stated hers are filed and paid every quarter.

The process of paying taxes need to be addressed after you have registered with your city or state to sell gift baskets. Electing to pay taxes monthly or quarterly are options offered by local government agencies.

Consult a competent CPA or visit your State Department of Revenue's website for instructions on Sales and Use Tax preparation. Filing and paying taxes on time will prevent unwanted penalties later.

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If coming up with new marketing ideas for your business is a problem, the solution is a gift basket professional.

Why a gift basket professional.

...Well, we can show you how gift baskets are a key component to opening doors between companies and clients.

Gift baskets are an integral part of the business world however, the corporate gift market is composed of much more.

We can show you how appreciable incentives such as gift certificates, engravables, travel, crystal, clocks, and other items have been used to market so many businesses.

If you are not using gift baskets now,contact us to show you how business will grow by using them.

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A friend asked me to bring samples of my baskets to her job. After putting her off for sometime, I finally decided to do it. She managed to get me one order that resulted in a cancel after I told her the order would include a delivery charge and local taxes.

A gift basket company is not something that’s run from a kitchen table. Because of their lack of respect for my company, that's one order I didn't try to save. Be very careful of people who do not view your profession as a legitimate business.

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Recently, I was contacted by a local radio station regarding a trade proposal. They wanted to give me 7 days of commercials and liners in exchange for 5 gift baskets with the value dollar for dollar to be used for give-aways for their Valentine promotion. It was left up to me to decide the dollar amount. Before accepting or declining the offer, I informed them that I would need to do some calculations and get back with them.

Well, this radio station is a local gospel station I purchased ads from during Christmas and didn't get a single phone call from. While keeping this in mind, I calculated the cost of the products going in each basket, my labor and the total value of each basket. Concluding, it would not be a wise investment.

I emailed them back stating at this time I will not be able to participate in the Valentine’s trade and to please consider me for future promotions. I never heard back from them. I didn't get a thank you for your time or thank you for even considering the offer. Which led me to question their motives; where they trying to help me or just themselves?

If you are thinking about trading your products or services, make sure you look at the big picture. If it is not in your best interest don't do it. You are responsible for making the best decisions possible for your company. Participation in give-aways other than charitable ones can be a costly mistake that can easily sink a small business.

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Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. For all of you last minute shoppers don’t stress. Consider a gift basket designed the way you want it.

Priced to fit any budget, there’s no better way to show you care than with chocolates, truffles, fondue and more elegantly packaged in a basket accented with a rose.

Statistics shows reminding anyone that you’re still the best will be easily achieved after giving a gift basket for Valentine's Day. And that’s only one of the many reasons gift baskets should be at the top of every gift givers list.

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The main website and online store of The Gourmet Gift Shop, Inc. of Stockbridge, Georgia, was completely redesigned and launched today with a new feature, this Gift Basket Expert Advice blog. We create elegant gift baskets for all occasions.

Please bookmark our site and return often for advice and tips to learn more about the features, quality, plus news and reviews of new gift basket products. All of our products are of the finest gourmet quality. Gift baskets may be purchased online using PayPal and all major credit cards. All orders ship within 24 hours.

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