Start a Custom Invitation Business
Starting a custom invitation business has the potential to be very lucrative. Invitations for weddings and corporate events can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for a modest number of invitations. Since each event is different, a "one card fits all" approach will be less effective than offering invitations that are customized or created specifically for a client's needs.
Instructions
Customer Base and Product Templates
1. Decide what kinds of products and services you are willing to offer. Will you be an "all-purpose" company that creates invitations for any and all kinds of events? Would you like to specialize in one area, such as wedding, corporate or social events? Also, think about any services you may want to offer. For example, will you address and mail your client's invitations or do calligraphy? Location is also a significant consideration that should be made during the planning stage of your business. Will you be strictly Web-based, or will you have a physical location for creating and selling your custom invitations?
2. Purchase equipment and supplies for creating invitations. Invest in a decent computer and a high-quality printer. Laser printers generally create sharper images than ink jet printers, but they are more expensive. Buy the best you can afford. You will also need image creation/editing software, such as Photoshop.
3. Research paper types and suppliers. Future clients will want to know what their options are when it comes to paper and coordinating envelopes. It is not necessary to purchase large volumes of paper up front. However, develop professional relationships with potential suppliers, and possibly work out a discount arrangement in the event that you order in large quantities on behalf of a client.
4. Research manufacturers that can provide engraving, embossing or raised ink services for your invitations. These paper manipulation options are fairly standard offerings, especially with wedding invitations, and potential clients may go elsewhere if you are unable to provide these services. A more costly alternative to using third-party services is to purchase your own professional equipment. This option may not be ideal at the outset of your business.
5. Practice creating invitations, and become an expert at using image creation/editing software. You will want to have examples of your work to show potential customers. Do not agree to provide a professional product unless you are capable of delivering it. In business, reputation is everything; it only takes one dissatisfied customer to spread the word about a sub-par product.
Marketing and Advertising Material
6. Set up a website for your product. If you aren't able to set this up yourself, hire a website designer to create one for you. Ideally, offer some products that can be purchased directly from your site such as "stock" or generic invitations. Your site should also include examples of your work and the products and a description of services that you offer.
7. Get business cards printed, and give several of them out to everyone you know. Ask friends and family to share the information with anyone they know who may need your services.
8. Drop your card off at any business that also caters to your clientele. For example, if you create wedding invitations, drop a stack of business cards off at a bridal shop. If you do invitations for corporate events, send marketing materials explaining the services that you offer to local businesses. Be creative with your marketing campaign.
Tags: business cards, corporate events, creating invitations, creation editing, creation editing software, Custom Invitation