PROMOTION COMMOTION

Michelin Hotel & Restaurant Guide - The PERFECT Gift

A new supplier to the promotional / ad specialty industry (did I miss them in previous shows?) - the THE MICHELIN GUIDE has been called by USA TODAY as the ''gastronomic bible for international travelers''. I have the San Francisco Bay Area & Wine Country Guide and  just went through it.  If I may say so, I am really motivated to check out these restaurants that are so close by!  The Michelin hotel and restaurant reviewers have done a fantastic job. The guide reflects a variety of culinary establishments and hotel scenes, all rated by Michelin (yes, the Michelin Man is on the front cover!). The reviews were done anonymously so you can't get any more real than that!   Culinary establishments were rated and classified accoring to decor, ambience, table settings and quality of service.  They're rated from Good to Exceptional; Modest to Luxurious; and price ranges for all budgets. Maps of San Francisco and the surrounding cities are on the front (street map) and back cover (city map) Both fold out, you won't need another map.   

These guides are available now for corporate branding and imprinting in the front cover. It makes a PERFECT gift for out of town guests. If you're hosting out of town or international visitors, hand them a guide to your city as a WELCOME gift when they check into their hotel room, or when they visit you at headquarters. The guide cover can also be customized with your own story. This guide should be a corporate staple. It is absolutely the most useful gift you can give to an out of town or foreign guest.  It has just the right amount of information a traveler can digest in a short amount of time -- and information that will entice them to return.

For more information, please contact sales(at)webbmar.com or visit WEBBMAR PROMO.

Typepad - My Service Provider

I have been blogging for almost four years now, beginning with a personal blog on another service provider. At that time, I was writing for posterity's sake, journaling my daily diary 'life as a madwoman (joke), life as was then' - knowing that I could one day look back upon and say 'gollee gee, what were you thinking of!'.  I still keep that journal, but I think I'll keep that 'diary' in that part of blogworld. It never ceases to amaze me how powerful the internet is and how much it has changed in the last ten years. 

Recently, I begun this blog which is more business service related on Typepad.  After due diligence and research, it felt the most 'professional'  of service providers- which was where I wanted to take my journaling and writing. I am more than pleasantly amazed at the difference - in features, service and support, ease of use, effectiveness and most importantly the REAL feel and effects of social media networking.  This has real 'legs'. I've been able to reach out to people I never would have virtually connected with, and vice versa. I am already a proponent for business networking, but this is a plus. Through Typepad, I've been able to reach into worlds and ideas which are interesting, mind-enriching and helpful.   I am grateful for the service and highly recommend it - for the serious bloggers who (really) have something to offer and those who want to be in the pinnacle of social media networking.

The difference?  For one, my other blog gave me options as to who I wanted coming or going, reading or not. That was it. It didn't offer a lot of tools for me to expand in the way I wanted to.  I blogged and I logged off. It never compelled me  to read articles by people with varied intelligent interesting worlds who really had something to offer, be it an opinion, an expertise or true artistic talent.  I enjoy reading Typepads Featured Blogs and the blogs by chosen Categories  (past featured blogs sorted so I can choose which ones I might spend some precious time reading).  There's good advise out there, worlds to explore and minds to pick.

On a day before we Spring Forward, when I want to take it easy (because I'm soon going to lose one whole hour in my day), and since I'm in the business of promoting (via the ever growing medium of promotional products, plug, plug!) - I would like to take my logo'd hat off to my service provider, TYPEPAD. Hip, hip!! I highly recommend it!  Take it from me...I weed out a lot of junk and save people trouble.

Tervis Tumber Review

At the recent PPAI convention in Vegas, I stopped to visit the display and products from TERVIS TUMBLER.  I was informed by the reps at the show that the company was established in 1946 and their product called the Tervis Tumbler was made from high grade polycarbonate, virtually shatterproof and kept drinks colder/hotter for longer periods.  They were already in some colleges (can't verify that)...and were now coming into the promotional industry.

So we got our samples last Friday.  Mugs, tumblers of various sizes.  I've had my coffee in my mug for about 45 minutes, and its still hot.  The coffee in my ceramic mug, is cold.  I've had ice water in two different tumblers and the Tervis tumber has no condensation and the ice is not melting as fast.  We will be conducting our rigid testing later on to see how it withstands our knocking it around

The product quality seems very top rate, it is made in the USA.  We noticed, however that it didnt have the recycle code under the mug, but from conducting some research, we believe that it must be a #7 high grade polycarbonate.  There's some controversy about BPA and heat...so keep that in mind.  For ice cold drinks, however, this seems like a good product. (There is a lifetime guarantee under the mug).

We would be happier if the company came out with a safety statement, though.  Until then, we're just passing on what we know and what we don't know. 

UPDATE: 2/28/08  Well, i had a few people try the samples I had and so far received positive feedback. It's especially good for cold, iced drinks.  Reviewers liked the fact that there was no condensation.  Those that tested the mugs were happy that the mug was easy to hold (doesn't get hot) but their coffee stayed hot/warm longer.

Stress Relief-ERS

Who isn't stressed these days.  WWW  (dub dub dub) might now come to mean Wild Wireless World with all of us attached to cell phones, mobile computing, wireless gadmos  and gizgets.  Don't you sometimes wish we could Rewind and Unwind?  Whatever your degree of internal or external 'pressure', we hope that you always remember to sometimes disconnect yourself from your electronic leashes.  And Breath.  Yes, those cool, high tech devices that you 'think' you can't live without!  I think there's a movement out there and a motto you can use right now?  Yes We Can? 

The promotional product industy has an arsenal of small non-wireless gadgets and  gift ideas to relieve workers from their daily dillemna.  Foam stress balls, scented candles, aromatheraphy lotions and potions, excercise equipment are the first things that might come to mind when 'S-relief' if your campaign's motto.  There is a foamed stress ball in every shape, size and color, if not, it can be made to your precise specs.  We like to think that there are more imaginative ways to stamp out stress, and we'd like to suggest a few.

PEDOMETERS - Encourage stress reduction and health by walking at least 30 minutes a day especially during a work day.  If you feel tight and edgy at work, get up, walk around for 15 minutes and stretch. It is good for your hearth, gets your blood flowing and your mind a little more relaxed.  Pedometers can come with light and alarm for those who might need to walk at night. 

GOLF PUTTERS - An at-work golf putter will allow for some fun and relaxation for a few minutes.  Perhaps taking a break with a co-worker and challenging each other to a 15 minute distraction, a little bit of laughter and a pat in the back to the winner will make for a overall pleasant work day.

PULLY PALS - This is a fun item that might make it's way to your recipient's home.  Pully pals measure 6" sitting and extends to 14". They are poseable so you can get really creative with them.  The plush little animal comes with an imprinted teeshirt. Additional accessories are availalbe from IT'S ALL GREEK TO ME.  We LOVE this idea and can assure you that this will be a much sought after gift or giveaway.  Allow your distributor to work with you for a fully customized plush gift to deliver your complete message!

Imagine these little advertising messengers!!  No Stress Here!

note: we tested this item (giraffe) with a 6 month old little boy. It's makes a really awesome interactive, portable, poseable favorite buddy.

Emergency Kit & Components

We received our samples today for some flashlights we wanted to review for an emergency kit we are putting together. I'm really thrilled with one of them, a 4 in 1 handy tool which is not bulky at all. Look at these features!

Safe & Sound! When the electricity goes out there’s no need to panic. This item never needs batteries!

1 minute of cranking provides 90 minutes lighting for 1 LED

Handheld battery free dynamo flashlight

FM auto scan radio with earphone port

Use 1 or 3 white extra bright LED

Features alarm & cell phone charger

Batteries included; 6V, 80mAh, rechargeable

I love this tool!  And I want to give it to everyone I know!   I absolutely think the radio feature and the alarm is so handy, I would leave one beside my bed, in my travel bag and my car.  I have a silver and yellow (pictured).

A smaller flashlight which is also hand cranked and has a cell phone charger.

Description:
Give them the tools they need with this self-charging safety light!

Hand-crank, ergonomic design with soft touch grips

Self-charge, weather resistant flashlight

Use 1 or 3 white extra bright LED's or 2 red flashling LED's

Features cell-phone charger

Certifications: RoHS, CE

Batteries included; 6V, 80mAh never needs replacing

Just add this multi tool to customizable kits and you'll have your kit handy.  Attention: Californians ...  have you updated your earthquake kits recently? 

Complete Tradeshow Source

We discuss a lot of promotional gifts and giveaways in our previous entries.  It's a good time to remind you that your distributor is also your complete source for everthing TRADESHOW, not just the gimmes and giveaways. Booth and tradeshow planning is a learned science.  It takes skill, long term planning, perfected marketing knowledge and an excellent product provider to pull off a successful event.  From show concept, measurements, design, art, drayage, who and what goes where and when, show flow and tear downs, not to mention attending the event - one can truly be exhausted at show's end.

When your booth or display is professional looking, clean lines and evident of all your planning, you will surely breathe a sigh of relief when it is successful and you receive  kudos from your associates and colleagues.

We've attended many shows and conventions.  Lighting is always key to attracting visitors and curiosity.  Aside from staffing your booth with your pro-active marketing personnel, it is always best practice to ensure the flow is smooth and efficient.  Show booth tools, kits and display racks, banners, table covers, chairs and signage -are some of the items that will help to ensure  you encourage a visit.  Your goal  is to promote INFORMATION - your newly launched product or new offerings of service to your current and future customers. 

It the end, Marketing and Advertising is a fun adventure.  It's never a dull moment and for sure it has it's peaks and valleys.  Working with the right partners will ensure you get the best bang for your investment dollar and objective.

Have fun while you're at it!

Big Sound and Light

Now available with bright flashing light and a programmed custom 10 second voice message! This is exclusively from our supplier CLEGG - sound, light and innovation specialists.

Talking business and greeting cards, audio and visual promotions are among the product offerings from this supplier.  Most are quite innovative and unique, which will add a special edge to promotions and events that are out of this world!  For some fun, check out their sound library and let your imagination run fun and wild!

For more product info and for more branding ideas, please contact PROMO and inquire about light and sound promotions. 

Green Campaign Season?

We're always searching for companies and articles in favor of recycling and adding extra ooomph to life's many disposable items.  Check out THE GREEN GUIDE  and see these cool canvas totes that were recently sold during the California primaries that just happened.  While you're on that site, check out their other eco-cool articles.

Elections are going to be a very active advertising season and everyone (and their brother) will have their opinion - and most will want to wear it.  Hopefully, the election season will see a lot of very verde paraphernalia and not too many trees having to be sacrificed.  Some of these ideas just show that all you need is a bright and creative idea and turn your design into something people will love. 

Verde Verde First Impressions

We are really liking and seeing green everywhere. There is no lack of product if you're on a Campana Verde (green campaign).

A company called UniKeep  has excellent recycled presentation material  and mail packaging which are extremely professional looking.  Companies MUST insist on obtaining a sample kit from your distributor because you have to consider it. It makes for a well put together sales binder. You may check out their product here UNIKEEP and then discuss what you will be needing.  WEBBMAR can help you if you require assistance.  Just send us your information and we will get in touch with you and find the right solution.

Featured here is one package that is great for presentations, proposals and reports. Tints™ feature lightly tinted overlays on clear cases for an effective way to add a little extra color to black only presentations or for achieving unique visual effects. Easy to customize with cover inserts that users print themselves. Slim case protects the contents, transports easily in a briefcase or tote, and will not tear, wrinkle or warp.  Extremely great first impression.  How professional!

What Went On In Vegas

This was another highly successful year for our industry.  There were over 14,000 distributors from all over the world in attendance who visited approximately 3000 booths.  The Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino where the convention was held was awash with people, carts, rollers, scooters.  The   two days were devoted to learning seminars and the show began on day three.  There were people everywhere, eager in the morning and in zombie state at the end of the day.

It was definitely a challenge trying to find the "IT" product. The new and unique gadget or item that my clientele would be impressed with and wow'd.  I was impressed with some new eco-friendly totes that were offered by several suppliers.  There were solar powered gadgets and water powered desk accessories. I noticed a lot of overseas suppliers; but basically, I tried to stay within my comfort zone and stick to the suppliers I was already familiar with and who I knew had a 4 star or more rating.

I received a summary of the booths I visited.  Total 223 booths!  That's how hard it is now to impress me!!

My comments:

On tradeshows in general.  MUST HAVE GOOD SHOES.  I remember last year suffering from body aches and pains after day one.  You must realize that a distributor's convention day entails walking for eight hours, straight...stopping only for a brief meal, hopefully sitting with someone that shares your pain. This year I afforded myself to a pair of Finn Comfort shoes and it was probably the best decision I made for myself. Zero backache. None at all.  I was so impressed that I had to order another pair when I returned.

More on tradeshows.  MUST HAVE CAMERA AND NOTEPAD.  Preferrably a notepad and pen hanging around your neck while you hang on to your cart.  A camera to take pictures while you wait for the samples to be shipped to you...and a notepad to remind yourself what you asked from whom. It's so easy to forget.

HOTEL REVIEW - On Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino. TRADESHOW venue.  After a grueling day at the floor,  they announced the closing of the show. I could have sworn a million people walked out at the same time. I literally felt like a cow being herded out of the convention center through the casino.  It took about an hour to get to my room as people swarmed the little elevator hallway.  By the time I got to the room, I was tired.  Room service was difficult  (change that to impossible) to reach. 

After 45 minutes on hold on the phone, I contacted the Room Service Supervisor and requested that my order be taken. (my apologies now to the Lady Supervisor..I was really tired!!) I thought that since I paid good money for the room, the least they could do was have enough personnel to handle the amount of people who might be requesting food at the same time.  You'd think they'd be better than what I experienced!  So..for fear of having to call Room Service again...I just ordered food to last all night!!  And it was a full table!! 

See my food!!

On the CASINO.  Twently minutes and $345 winnings.  Not too bad, at least someone played with house money.

Overall...the event was a MUST and I did meet some new suppliers and did find new and improved items. It's not an event for the weak of body, or for someone with only a hint of patience.  I could have easily just walked around like a robot..but I had all my clients and potential clients in mind. It is something we will continue to do, it is how we will begin each new year.

And now, our work begins.