Nowadays, running a small business requires more than old-school marketing and promotional techniques. Aside from being active on social media and knowing the ins and outs of digital marketing, finding creative ways to gain exposure for your brand is ideal.

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One way to do this is by utilizing custom event badges as a marketing and branding tool. These promotional tools are relatively inexpensive and can ensure that your business stands out amongst new and existing customers as well as competing brands.

A key advantage of custom event badges is that they are the perfect marketing tool due to their quick production time and versatility. Whether you need them for a concert that is taking place two months from now, or a last-minute sales rally, you can have them produced in a short period of time to meet any deadline.

Not only will you be able to use them to motivate your staff and build pride in your company culture, but your clients will receive a good impression and will most likely keep their event badge as a souvenir or keepsake that will last in their memory for years to come.

In this article, we discuss a few benefits of custom event badges for your small business.

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No. 1

Gain Customer Loyalty

According to Bag Tags, Inc., custom event badges are typically utilized at events to identify staff, VIPs, and other relevant personnel. However, by tweaking these badges, you can also use them to gain customer loyalty and encourage clients to support your products or services.

Consider marketing these tools to your clients as loyalty rewards badges, and add a barcode or QR code to track your customers’ spending at your store. Instruct your clients to present their badges at the counter when making a payment. Each purchase will have an equivalent number of points, which they can use to buy more items once they have accumulated a certain number of points.

You can also create different badges to identify your customers. For instance, clients who have regularly purchased your products or availed of services for over three years may be given gold badges and are called VIP clients. Silver badges could be issued to those who have been your loyal customers for one year, and blue badges to relatively new customers. Gold badge holders may be entitled to greater privileges, such as additional discounts, first access to new products, and invites to special events.

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No. 2

Identify and Empower Your Staff

Having your staff wear custom badges at company events makes it easier for clients and prospective partners to identify the people who work with you. It is also a great way to enhance credibility and brand recognition, so take the time to create badges that reflect your company’s image. Ensure that your brand name and logo are prominently featured on the event badges, as well as your brand colors and unique mascots or characters if there are any. 

Meanwhile, your staff’s badges can double as privilege cards through networking and collaboration with other businesses. Partner with local cafes, restaurants, grocery stores, clothing and footwear stores in your area, and instruct your employees to present their badge whenever they buy from these businesses. If your partnerships result in certain privileges for your employees, such as discounts and freebies on their birthdays, you will empower your workers and get to do your part to boost your local economy. 

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No. 3

Attract New Customers

Give away specially designed custom event badges at large-scale events, conferences, or product launches to entice prospective customers to check out your business. For example, if you operate a food truck or stall, consider handing out promotional badges with a one-time discount code at music festivals.

If you have a cosmetics or skin care startup, give out badges at a beauty expo or a public place, like a mall. You can also exchange the badges for a small freebie once they visit your physical store.

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Takeaways

Custom event badges can be the perfect tool to grow your small business. With so many ways to incorporate them into your marketing initiatives, they are a simple yet effective marketing tool that can elevate your efforts and impress your customers. Consider utilizing custom event badges for your next event. They are sure to boost your branding success.

Tech is unquestionably the core of modern life; without it, many conveniences would not exist as we know it today. With that being said, what if we could combine a number of these technologies to make our lives simpler?

Imagine being able to use two devices at the same time to optimize daily tasks or automate chores with ease. In this article, we detail 13 tech combinations that, when applied will revolutionize your everyday living.

No. 1

Smartphone and Smartwatch

Staying organized at all times with this dynamic duo provides endless advantages. Reminders, notifications, and alerts can all come directly to your wrist while still enabling full access to all capabilities of your phone. Additionally, you can boost productivity by syncing your calendar events, tracking your fitness goals, as well as customizing your watch display.

No. 2

Smart Camera and Cloud Storage

This combination eliminates the need for physical photo albums or storage devices, since with a smart camera, you can upload your photos directly into the cloud while labeling them with dates, locations, or any other pertinent details. Plus, they can be accessed and viewed from any device with internet connectivity.

No. 3

Home Automation Systems and Security Cameras

Home automation systems allow you to remotely control lighting, temperature, security alarms, and more from your smartphone or tablet. Meanwhile, when coupled with motion-detecting security cameras, you can ensure added peace of mind. Plus, alerts can even be set up so that when motion is detected in your house, you are immediately informed.

No. 4

Music Streaming Services and Bluetooth Speakers

With streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music, you have instantaneous access to a vast library of music on your device. Pair it up with a Bluetooth speaker to maximize sound quality and elevate the listening experience even further. The best part: take it with you wherever you go.

No. 5

Virtual Reality Headset and Drones

Virtual reality headsets offer an immersive experience, allowing you to travel the globe from the comfort of your home. Paired with drones, this unique combination gives you access to travel at a fraction of its original cost; plus, aerial photography allows you to capture moments you couldn’t normally be able to access on foot.

No. 6

Smartphone and Voice Activated Personal Assistant

Combining these technologies gives you hands-free control over everyday tasks such as making phone calls, checking calendar appointments, or setting reminders. Likewise, utilizing voice-activated personal assistants makes automation and getting common tasks done simpler than ever before.

No. 7

Digital Projector and Streaming Device

Digital projectors are ideal for entertaining guests or watching movies while streaming devices like an Apple TV provide easy access to on-demand content right in the comfort of your home.

No. 8

Smart Appliances and Voice Command Technology

Voice Command Technologies make your home smarter by enabling you to control appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, and ovens with just the sound of your voice. Remotely set timers or adjust temperatures from anywhere within your home using voice control. Furthermore, control lights and sound systems with ease using this amazing technology.

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No. 9

Fitness Tracker and Health App

Fitness trackers enable you to monitor your physical activity and give real-time feedback and suggestions on how you can enhance it. When combined with a health app, fitness trackers also allow real-time advice and coaching from professional experts as you strive towards reaching your fitness goals. Furthermore, many apps even make it easy for users to track diet and nutrition—making healthy living much simpler.

No. 10

Smart Lighting and Home Automation Systems

Lighting up your home no longer needs to be an inconvenience with smart lighting systems that are easily managed from anywhere with just the press of a button. By synching with a home automation system, you can also manage security cameras, thermostats, and other connected devices remotely. Set times where certain temperatures or lights turn on automatically at specific points throughout the day to create the illusion that someone is home even when no one actually is.

No. 11

3D Printer and Robotics Kit

3D printers offer you an affordable way to bring any idea into the physical realm. Similarly, robotics kits make your own personal factory at home, perfect for DIY projects or small-scale production. When combined, 3D printing and robotics enable you to produce complex parts otherwise impossible to manufacture.

No. 12

Hearing Aids and ADLs

Hearing aids are designed to improve hearing impairment, while Assistive Devices for Living (ADLs) assist elderly or disabled individuals in performing everyday tasks easily and independently. Combining tech advances with hearing aids results in an improved quality of life for those in need.

No. 13

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Virtual and augmented reality technologies are among the most exciting developments in tech today, enabling people to explore virtual worlds like never before, while AR superimposes digital objects onto physical environments for an entirely unique experience.

Takeaways

Technology today presents many exciting possibilities, ranging from smart home systems that make life simpler to VR/AR experiences that take us further than ever before. Tech enthusiasts are certainly experiencing an exciting era; tech gadgets are readily available at our fingertips, so there is no limit to what can be accomplished when utilized effectively.

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Real estate investment in Las Vegas and other residential growth markets is on the rise, and seeking the right property to add to your portfolio is more lucrative than ever. If you are looking for new build homes Surrey is also an option to consider adding to your portfolio.

In this article, we provide the most sought-after options on the market. The real estate market of 2023 has an impressive array of residential properties that cater to different lifestyles and preferences.

Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a savvy investor, or a renter seeking your dream space, understanding the most sought-after property types can be your ticket to making a wise decision. From sprawling single-family homes that are spacious to trendy studio apartments, let's dive into seven of the hottest residential property types that are desirable in 2023.

No. 1

Single-Family Homes

Amidst the ever-changing real estate landscape, single-family homes are timeless investments, captivating families and individuals alike with their allure of privacy, abundant space, and a sense of ownership. These cherished abodes beckon with the promise of a personal oasis, complete with a sprawling yard, a welcoming driveway, and endless opportunities for customization, allowing homeowners to weave their dreams into reality.

No. 2

Townhomes

Striking the perfect balance between apartment living and single-family homes, townhouses have gracefully won the hearts of first-time homebuyers and those seeking a warm sense of community. Nestled within shared walls, these cozy abodes foster a neighborly spirit, creating a tapestry of camaraderie. To add to the allure, some townhomes surprise with private yards, offering residents the ideal blend of personal retreat and shared serenity.

No. 3

Studio Apartments

As urban landscapes continue to evolve, the popularity of studio apartments has soared, capturing the interest of young professionals and urbanites seeking a chic, yet affordable dwelling. These compact living spaces offer a world of possibilities, proving that less can indeed be more. If you are looking to find a studio for rent, it would be best to approach an agency that knows the location and market to show you the best properties. Innovative storage solutions, multifunctional furniture, and smart design choices hold the key to making the most of your studio apartment, transforming it into a harmonious haven that reflects your personal style and meets your everyday needs.

No. 4

Luxury Homes

In the realm of opulence and exclusivity, luxury homes reign supreme, enchanting affluent buyers with their grandeur and refinement. Every facet of these majestic residences is meticulously designed to embody sophistication and extravagance, from exclusive features to cutting-edge amenities. Nestled in prime locations that embrace nature's beauty or the city's glittering lights, luxury homes stand as paragons of modern living, where every nuance reflects a masterpiece of craftsmanship and taste.

No. 5

Condominiums

A vibrant trend in urban living, condominiums beckon urban dwellers with their chic appeal and contemporary charm. In these sleek havens, shared amenities reign supreme, offering residents an exclusive taste of luxury living, free from mundane maintenance worries. With the city's heartbeat just minutes away, condominiums grant convenient access to cultural hotspots and a plethora of entertainment options, making them a coveted choice for those craving a dynamic and cosmopolitan lifestyle.

No. 6

Duplexes and Multiplexes

Duplexes and multiplexes have carved their niche in the real estate world, alluring both savvy investors and multigenerational families with their enticing benefits. For investors, these properties present an enticing opportunity for rental income, with multiple units under one roof yielding a diverse pool of tenants. On the other hand, multigenerational families revel in the convenience of living close yet independently, fostering a close-knit dynamic within the home. With the potential for rental income and the allure of affordable housing, these properties are a win-win for both investors and tenants seeking a comfortable place to call home. With the flexibility to adapt to various living arrangements, duplexes and multiplexes prove to be versatile gems in the real estate market.

No. 7

Co-Living Spaces

In the modern quest for connection and affordability, co-living spaces have emerged as a novel solution that resonates with young professionals and individuals in search of a vibrant community experience. These dynamic living spaces blur the lines between shared and private living, encouraging meaningful connections and fostering a sense of belonging. Enjoy the best of both worlds as you revel in private quarters while relishing communal spaces for collaboration and socializing. Embrace the spirit of co-living, where like-minded souls come together to weave unforgettable memories and make a home that truly feels like family.

Takeaways

In the exciting world of real estate in 2023, a wide range of residential properties awaits your exploration. From the spacious havens of single-family homes to the chic allure of studio apartments, you will find a property type that perfectly suits your desires and needs. By delving into the popular types of residential properties, you can confidently embark on the search for your dream investment property. Explore these enticing options, and discover the property type that will form the foundation of the next chapter of your real estate portfolio in 2023.

Regular readers of this blog will understand that how you approach your business on a psychological level can make a huge difference in how successful it is likely to be, as well as how much you will enjoy running it.

Unfortunately, there are a few common and outdated ways of thinking that are both very likely to make things more challenging for any entrepreneur.

It is beneficial to identify these harmful thinking habits and to upgrade them in some way or another to create healthier internal dialogues, in effect creating more peace and abundance in your life and business.

Here are a few examples of the kinds of changes in thinking you might want to aim for and adopt to achieve this.

No. 1

Cultivate More Positivity

It can be all too easy to get overwhelmed by our thinking that there is a limit to what we feel we can accomplish. However, the truth is that if you would like to cultivate a better mindset, one of the elements that you will want to consider is to aim for creating more positivity in your thinking.

This is not something that you should force, but rather intentionally develop gently over time. It is quite essential and will prove to be very useful when it comes to growing your business, so ensure that you are developing this skill daily if you want your business to consistently succeed.

Our thoughts become tangible, so when we focus on positive outcomes and higher-frequency emotions, we are creating more of those very things in our life. The more intentional you become with your thoughts, the better you will get at creating more of the things you want to see manifest and come to reality in your life and business versus the ones you want to avoid.

No. 2

Avoiding All-Or-Nothing Thinking

Another very common way of thinking falls in classifying goals in terms of all-or-nothing results. For example, this is likely when you think that you must achieve a certain ideal number of sales results in any given timeframe, otherwise, you are feeling unaccomplished or that your business is going nowhere.

In this thought process, all you are accomplishing is putting a huge amount of pressure on yourself and setting yourself up for immediate failure in your mind. Over time this will have a profoundly damaging effect on you and your business itself simply because you are focused more on an exact outcome in determining your self-worth.

Instead of focusing on the how, you are focused on the when, and this creates stress and uncertainty that you will try to rectify regardless of how much productive effort you put out. You will feel burnt out and miss the opportunity to enjoy the process.

If you would like to learn more about this debilitating thought process, Joshua Shuman Psychologist understands this concept and can help you uproot some of these ideas if you do find yourself thinking in this way.

No. 3

Focus On Providing Value

Instead of focusing all of your energy on profit and loss, instead, try switching that around and focusing more on providing value to customers. This, in many ways, takes the pressure off of you to reach the numbers, and you will find that ironically, it will naturally lead to more profit simply as an effect of your providing value.

In fact, you will find that the profit and loss obsession is quite an outdated way of thinking which does not really serve your greater need to fulfill your purpose. We are learning that there are universal laws that govern our lives, and by being in tune with them, you can see the results flow rather than coming at the expense of something else.

By tuning into more of how you can provide unquestionable value to others that will in turn bless you and further drive you, you will naturally become more in alignment within a healthier heart space of giving. You will nurture that need and desire of wanting to give something to others, and you will naturally be rewarded for it—not having to force results that do not align with your output.

No. 4

Experimentation Above All

Finally, consider what it could be like if you approach your business–and each day working within it–in a mode of experimentation to discover and learn new things. This is the kind of approach that you might want to think about, something that can help you to really unlock the greater potential of your business, while also providing an enjoyable way to run it with less pressure and more grace.

After all, the process of running a business is all about learning, growing, and being open to all of the ups and downs that come with that process. If you detach yourself from the need to be perfect and to have everything all figured out, you can achieve a greater amount of freedom. In this newfound space, the answers will come to you naturally and without force.

By opening yourself up to the unlimited possibilities that exist and leaving the need to control everything behind, you will find that so much more opportunity opens up to you. It is in this place of the unknown where all new things are created and birthed.

This is something you might want to consider trying out at the very least, as it can help you get in tune with an abundant source that is unlimited and not bound by our often limited human constraints and understanding.

Takeaways

As we as a society learn more and more about the power of mindset and perspective, there is a greater urge to apply these concepts to begin to see the changes that take place in our lives for the greater good.

The old way of thinking in terms of capitalist and corporatist limitations will no longer work in the coming, more evolved world where we are in tune with our innate abilities, which make all things possible.

We no longer need to exist in a state of stress or illusion, and by simply changing our thinking, we can begin to walk in our purpose more authentically and aligned with our greater selves and natural gifts. 

Entrepreneurship is full of twists and turns that you least expect. The ups and downs can cause your energy to drain very quickly if you do not set up healthy boundaries and create harmony within your business and life. Your business is reliant on your being full of ideas and motivated to get things done. So, how can you protect your creative energy and prevent yourself from burning out?

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@hellolovelyliving at the Hoover Dam, Nevada. Stina: “I find a balance between business and life by connecting with nature.”

Protecting your energy as an entrepreneur will ultimately create more balance in your work and personal life, as it will give you more time in your schedule to do the tasks that you enjoy. With this in mind, here are a handful of useful methods you might want to use if you are hoping to create more space in your working day as a business owner.

01

Outsource Logistical Tasks

As a creative person at heart, you may find that logistical or administrative tasks suck the artistic energy out of your soul. Perhaps the idea of taking inventory or packing up products makes you want to hide out in a hole somewhere and never surface again. If this is the case, then you may want to look into logistics help for your business. If fulfilling orders is taking away valuable time from your business, then this is certainly a strategy you should look into right away.

02

Get Outside in Nature

There is truly no better way to get your creative juice flowing than being outside in nature. There are so many ways to get your mind into a positive headspace. One of these is breathing in the fresh air and surrounding yourself with beautiful nature. The next time you are feeling low on creative energy, try this out and see how quickly it can transform you.

03

Be intentional About time Management

When it comes to managing your schedule, make sure you plan your creative tasks on the same day so that you are always in the right headspace. Try to schedule phone calls, video conferences, and finance meetings on similar days too—this way your mind can stick with the same train of thought for as long as possible.

04

Take Regular Breaks

If you do not take time out for regular breaks during your working day, you will not be able to stay as creative as you would like to be. Forcing yourself to be creative will only slow down the process and make you feel frustrated, too. Allow yourself time to breathe, make a coffee, or do menial tasks such as doing the dishes. These small, but important breaks away from your business will bring your best ideas to the table quicker than you might think.

Takeaways

Taking a step back and allowing your creative energy to recharge is a priceless activity you can do for yourself. Although you may feel as though you have to work constantly to achieve your goals, you will actually start to achieve more if you give yourself some grace. Giving yourself some time out throughout the day and making smart decisions with regard to your schedule will ultimately give you more energy as a creative so that you can make your business as successful as you want it to be.

As online shopping and e-commerce become the norm, converting spaces into warehouses has become an increasingly popular trend. But before stocking it with inventory or moving boxes around, there are certain steps you need to take when turning an empty space into a functional warehouse.

In this article, we will outline 10 essential considerations when creating an efficient yet practical warehouse space; from logistics solutions to storage solutions, these key factors can help maximize available warehouse space.

01

Location

To design the perfect warehouse, the first step should be selecting an ideal location. Be sure to consider such factors as accessibility, proximity to customers, and cost of land when selecting your chosen spot. In addition, consider expansion plans when making this important decision.

02

Layout

Once you have identified an ideal location for your facility, the next step in designing your warehouse space should be planning its layout. This involves selecting which sections will be dedicated to receiving, storing, and shipping goods, as well as how much room should be set aside for each activity. Be sure to leave enough room between sections and optimize storage solutions according to product size/shape needs.

03

Safety Ergonomics

Safety must always be the top priority when designing a warehouse, both for employees and visitors alike. Ensure steps are taken to prevent accidents by installing appropriate lighting supplies and signage, using durable flooring materials, implementing regular inspection protocols of equipment, as well as taking into consideration ergonomic solutions that enable workers to carry out their duties safely and efficiently.

04

Material Handling Equipment

From forklifts and pallet jacks to conveyors, material handling equipment is key for optimizing the flow of goods through your warehouse facility. When purchasing quality products from reliable vendors, long-term maintenance costs will decrease substantially.

05

Logistics

To maximize efficiency in any warehouse environment, working with a logistics specialist or consultant to develop an optimal system that fits both your unique requirements and will save both time and money is key to its success.

06

Storage Solutions

A warehouse must utilize efficient storage solutions to maximize available space, so when selecting products suited for storage, consider shelving units, mobile racks, mezzanine systems, or vertical carousels depending on product shapes and sizes.

07

Packaging Equipment

Investing in quality packaging equipment such as shrink wrappers and case sealers can speed up the packing process while guaranteeing those products remain well protected during transport.

08

Security Systems

Warehouse security should always be of top importance; investing in an all-inclusive security system such as cameras, motion detectors, access control systems, or similar technologies is vital in protecting goods from theft or damage.

09

Labeling

A proper labeling system is critical to quickly and accurately shipping products from your warehouse facility and inventory management. Consider investing in dedicated software if you plan on handling large volumes of shipments and orders.

10

Automation

Automating processes such as picking and packing can have a tremendously positive impact on productivity and cost savings in your warehouse. Consider automating pick and pack processes using robots or automated storage solutions to increase efficiencies while decreasing labor costs.

Takeaways

By keeping these 10 tips in mind when designing a warehouse, you can ensure its maximum efficiency and profitability. By having the appropriate layout, equipment, and security measures in place, you will soon be making use of every available square inch in your facility.

The excitement is there and you cannot wait to introduce your new business to the world, but you are hesitant about whether you will make it.  This blog post is here to assist you toward success.  Whether you are developing a personal brand or offering a product or service, no matter what line of business it is, stay here for your guide to success.

It is important to develop cohesive branding for your business, especially at the earliest stages. Using ready-made templates allows you to save time and money. You can also hire an experienced designer to help you with editing the content of the template when needed.

01

Don’t be hasty

It is easy to perhaps feel afraid, anxious, or overwhelmed when jumping into the unknown, especially as an entrepreneur. However, it is important to take your time and be thoughtful about your decisions. Consider researching the market, meeting with potential partners and investors, and understanding your competitive landscape before moving forward.

Do not forget to understand the financial side of things. Have a budget calculated, and plan out how you will fund any unexpected expenses that may arise. By taking a careful approach to launching your business, you can set yourself up for success in the long term.

02

Talk to the old guns in the business

As you consider launching your business, it can be of high value to speak with experienced businessmen and women who have been in the trenches. Connecting with these industry veterans is a great way to gain insight into the business world and understand what it takes to build a successful venture.

Ask questions about their successes, failures, lessons learned, and best practices they have discovered throughout their journey. Doing so will provide insight that can help you make more informed decisions when starting your own company. Additionally, many seasoned entrepreneurs are willing to offer advice and mentorship as you get off the ground. Take advantage of these opportunities whenever possible.

Get as much help as you can while saving valuable time and money. Services for your business that you will need like graphic and web design and digital marketing can be outsourced now more than ever at a fraction of the cost.

03

Have a product

Having a product or service that meets customer needs is essential for a successful business. It is important to identify who your target customers are and then determine what type of products or services would be useful to them. Once you have identified the product or service, develop a pricing strategy and create a marketing plan to promote it.

For instance, if you are in the market with titanium piercing jewelry, consider ways to differentiate yourself in the marketplace such as offering special discounts or exclusive services. You will want to take into account any legal considerations such as filing for trademarks or patents if necessary. Taking the time to ensure your product or service is well thought out and desirable in the marketplace can set up your business for success.

04

Be positive and excited

The most important piece of advice for new entrepreneurs is to stay positive and excited about the journey ahead. Although there will be bumps in the road, it is essential to remain focused on success despite any difficulties that arise. Be willing to take risks and learn from your mistakes. Be teachable and accept good advice.

In addition, do not forget to enjoy the process of building your business. This can often be forgotten when starting something new, but it is important to remember why you started in the first place. It may be helpful to write down what got you started so that you may reflect on your plan and dreams, and by doing that, keep you motivated throughout your journey.

Takeaways

In conclusion,  starting a successful business is no easy feat. However, if you take the time to plan ahead and have a well-thought-out strategy in place, you can confidently jump into the deep end of entrepreneurship with success.

Marianna Hewitt celebrating International Women’s Day with Oak and Fort, a modern lifestyle brand which is not only woman-founded but also led by women. Since the launch of her flagship product, the Jet Lag Mask, she has been a great force in the wellness and self-care movement, inspiring others with her success.

Operating a new business can be an exciting, but daunting adventure, with several factors to consider before leaping. Statistics show that more than 50% of all small businesses collapse before their fifth anniversary.

Before opening your doors for business, there are various critical stages, from drafting a business strategy and collecting money to building a brand and establishing operations. A detailed checklist ensures you cover all the crucial bases and set yourself up for success.

01

Knowledge or ability

Obtain the required skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in your chosen industry once you decide on the type of business you want to establish. Although it will take time and work, you will have all the information you need to launch your business idea from scratch.

Since it is critical to have a business plan, gathering all of the pertinent reseach will make it that much easier to compile all of the data you need. By creating a business plan, you will determine if your service is in demand and if it is worthwhile to pursue the idea in the first place.

If you have the appropriate expertise, create a business plan independently. Alternatively, you can always seek the assistance of an experienced business consultant.

02

Staffing

Your staff can either grow or destroy your business. Without competent human resources, no company can thrive. Therefore, you must enlist a team of knowledgeable staff who plan to attract the right talent for you company.

Additionally, consider collaborating with a recruiting agency to fill your openings with competent people. Furthermore, several websites make it easier to find the right type of candidates you are looking for.

Enlisting help from a staffing agency might ease your work and save you money. So, it is worth the extra step. You must also factor in training in addition to hiring the right people, so keep this in mind, too.

03

Start-up costs

Estimating your start-up costs is one of the most important variables when starting a new business. It would help if you calculated the whole cost of starting and running your business. For instance, the start-up costs for a manufacturing unit you want to create might be high.

Consider the cost of the land or building, the industrial setup, the acquisition of machinery and equipment, the investment in furniture and office supplies, and a variety of other assets that will require funding. Similarly, a retail business will have start-up costs for construction, interior remodeling, and showroom design.

Once your business is formed, you must consider the operating capital needed to keep it running. You must examine the inventory you maintain on hand, the credit you can provide your customers, and the credit you may receive from suppliers.

However, you should not constantly rely on credit from suppliers, especially if you are a newcomer to the sector. Avoid company debt in excess when you start funding your business as this may hinder your growth in the future.

04

Legal licenses, permits, and insurance

Addressing the legalities of running a business is not the most enjoyable aspect of beginning a retail business, but it is necessary. You must decide on your business structure, ranging from single proprietorship to corporation.

It is typical for merchants to form limited liability corporations to reduce personal risk, but make sure you receive legal counsel before deciding on the best business structure for your specific circumstances.

Before opening a retail business, you should also extensively investigate what licenses and permissions are necessary for your area. Verify federal, state, and municipal government requirements because regulations vary. Some applications take a long process, so start as soon as possible.

05

Competitors

Look into the companies that provide comparable goods or services. You may learn about their target markets and the places they serve.

If they serve a comparable demographic, consider opening stores further away from them or focusing on a different market. You might also join a local chamber of commerce or entrepreneurial group to meet individuals working on similar projects.

06

record-Keeping

Before establishing your company, devise a method for tracking your sales, income, expenditures, and operational costs. With the help of an organization, you may track your expenditures and file your taxes. Consider hiring an accountant or studying software options that can automate some tasks to help you with this.

07

Payment processing systems

Installing payment processing hardware is essential. Buy payment processing equipment such as credit card readers, POS systems, or mobile card readers. Be certain that the equipment is compatible with your payment processor.

There are numerous types of credit card machines, each with its advantages. Countertop, mobile, virtual, and integrated point-of-sale (POS) systems are some of the most frequent credit card terminals. Mobile terminals are ideal for companies that sell on the move, such as during trade exhibits or events.

Takeaways

Starting a new business can be challenging but achievable by implementing the right strategies from the beginning of its inception. Consider adopting this checklist to achieve the best results for your particular venture.

With so many resources available online, you are sure to gather the best tools and resources available. Take advantage of the many advances in technology that will allow you to automate common tasks and processes. This will allow you to free up your time to focus on your business strategy, growth, and expansion.

Likewise, Hello Lovely Living is here to support you with your business endeavors, so feel free to reach out to us for a free consultation on the many graphic, web, and digital marketing services available.

Working your social media marketing business from here—wouldn’t it be lovely? @hellolovelyliving

Before we dive into the world of online digital marketing classes, we should first start with a few questions:

What is digital marketing?

Simply put, digital marketing is any marketing done electronically, be it online or even a digital poster on a sign in a store to reach consumers. Most digital marketing happens on the internet.

What types of digital marketing are there?

There are several types of digital marketing. One familiar type of digital marketing is SEO, or "search engine optimization". This is why when you enter a search query in the google search bar, the first few results are usually advertisements. Another type of digital marketing that people are most familiar with is social media marketing. We have all seen the "sponsored" posts as we scroll through our online news feeds. This is the use of social media platforms to promote a product or service.

there are classes I can take that teach me how to digitally market a particular product or service?

Yes. Traditionally, classes were taken on campus, but as mankind is ever-evolving into a digital world, classes can be taken more commonly online. Additionally, with the ongoing global pandemic where social distancing is not only recommended but mandated in most places, online digital marketing classes are progressively becoming more desirable versus taking a class on campus or through a local public library.

Another amazing benefit of online classes is flexibility

These days, the world is busier than ever. From an economic standpoint, it takes two incomes to financially support a family comfortably. By taking classes online, you are able to set a schedule that works for you to accommodate your daily demands. This allows flexibility in how you manage your time between any lectures that need to be watched, workshops and homework that need to be done, and exams that need to be taken.

Another big benefit that is huge in terms of the decision of whether to take classes online or on campus in a classroom setting is you can work on assignments and read on the go. Say you are on your lunch break at work; by taking your classes online, you can tote your device with you and do your work while you are on your breaks. The point is online classes not only allow for flexibility in scheduling but in how and where you work.

Now, this last point is crucial

Being that we are discussing online digital marketing classes, by taking them online, you are literally able to transfer what you have learned from the classroom to the practical application in real time. You are able to take things learned through the course of your classes and apply them right then to see how they apply as you go. Now, apps like Canva also enable you to create content such as social media posts and videos on the go making it easy to be efficient with your time.

Say you already have a business or something else that requires marketing of some type. By taking digital marketing classes online, you could theoretically plug in your real-life company or whatever you are marketing into the space where an example is used in the lesson. Then, you tackle two birds with one stone. You gain positive lesson experience for the class and promote the business that you are actively marketing.

Takeaways

It is easy to see how taking digital marketing classes online rather than in a traditional campus setting is the right approach to effectively gain knowledge and experience concurrently. With all of life’s distractions and the business of daily life in a fast-paced world, finding flexibility and something more suited to your individual lifestyle is essential in avoiding burnout. Thankfully, in an environment that is constantly evolving, there is a space for everyone to achieve work-life balance.

@hellolovelyliving in central California where land is abundant and the opportunity for solar farming is a lucrative business

A solar farm is a great investment opportunity as it can generate regular income and appreciate value over the years. Moreover, it aligns with a sustainable mindset by creating clean energy from a renewable source. You can easily start a solar farm if you have land and a basic understanding of a few key concepts. But you must invest time and effort into planning and preparation before starting the project. Let us explain a few things a novice should know about setting up a solar farm.

Understand the concept

If you are a sustainability advocate, you will probably know the significance of using renewable resources to produce energy for residential and commercial use. A solar farm generates and supplies clean power to the electricity grid. It consists of a photovoltaic system that operates like a power plant. The system has ground-mounted solar panels installed across a large area of land. Besides producing clean energy, the system creates a steady income stream that lasts for a lifetime.

Know the types

Another factor you must understand is that there are two types of solar plants. In fact, it is a key piece of information to get when you want to know how to start a solar farm on your land. The utility-scale version refers to installing multiple panels to absorb energy from the sun, convert it into an electric current, and distribute the current on high-voltage power lines to homes. The second option is a community-scale solar farm, which serves as a small-scale facility for a local community comprising homes and businesses. The participants share the power as a group benefit, which reduces their energy bills and carbon footprint in the long run.

Consider the land factor

Setting up a solar farm is a great use of spare land, so you must definitely consider the idea. It enables you to do your bit for clean energy goals and healthier communities. You may even lease out the lot for the purpose if you do not want to set it up yourself because it still gets you lease income while supporting the planet. Check the land feasibility to implement one of these options sooner than later. Typically, 6 to 8 acres of land can generate 1 MW of solar energy, so ensure you have at least the minimum space for the project.

Check the timelines and costs

Planning a solar farm is a great idea, but you must know that it is a long-term commitment. The timelines for the project depend on its size and the number of people you employ for it. Although the installation takes a few months, getting the necessary environmental permits is the tricky part. It may take years to get the approvals and contracts. The cost of a 1 MW installation can be around 1 million dollars, but it promises an excellent ROI as it can power 200 households in the area.

Takeaways

Knowing the factors involved in starting a solar farm empowers you to make a smooth launch for your sustainable farm project. It prepares you with clear expectations regarding land feasibility, timelines, and cost. You want to ensure that you identify your long-term goals and choose a plan that will generate the most desirable outcome for you. You will be happy you made the choice early to invest in something that will contribute positively to creating sustainable energy for our planet. Your returns will far outweigh the costs, and you could even consider more farm projects in the future to grow your sustainable business further.

Photo by Mathilde Langevin on Unsplash

A business can benefit a lot from compelling content. And it’s no secret; almost 90% of non- and for-profit organizations use content to market. With it, they can effectively showcase their products and services. They can also use it to attract customers and make them more interested in their brands. Or they can simply use it to improve their online presence.

If you’re having trouble creating compelling content for your business website, you may want to know these brainstorming tips.

01

Clearly define the purpose of your content

While you know that you need compelling content, you should also determine why you need it. Is it to improve your rankings on search engine results pages? Is it to improve the time visitors spend on your website? Is it to advertise and promote new products and services? Is it to complement the new convenient functionalities of a business app, like Jobber, that you’re using or going to use?

Even if your content is great, it doesn’t matter if it can’t help you achieve the goal you have in mind. For example, 82% of customers do business with companies because of their content marketing efforts. If you don’t clearly define your content’s purpose as content marketing, you can’t hope to experience that same benefit many businesses experience from their content.

02

Scour social media platforms to see what’s trending

There’s no denying that the top social media platforms are where most of your target audience will always be present. Before, these platforms were only exclusive to allow people to reconnect. However, nowadays, it’s become a place where people get their news, entertain themselves, and even do business in. You need to take advantage of that when creating new and compelling content.

Scour social media platforms to see what’s trending. Know what your target audience is looking for and what they want to see. Even if those things aren’t related to your business, you can always try to exploit them and incorporate them into your content. 

For example, if cryptocurrency is a hot topic right now, you can try to create content discussing if using cryptocurrency to pay for services and products you offer might or might not be a good idea. Or, if digitization is trendy, you may go for a topic that discusses how an invoice template helps your business.

03

Pick and research the topics you need for your content

As soon as you establish the purpose of your content, the next step is to pick and research the topics you want to write or create videos about. Suppose that you have a property maintenance company, and you decided to make compelling content for more people to hire you to get their properties maintained. 

With those things in mind, you may want to create content about topics such as the following:

• Why properties need to be maintained

• Why you should maintain your property while you’re on a family-friendly vacation

• How property maintenance can improve your property’s value

• Why you should let professionals deal with their property’s maintenance

Doing those things can narrow the ideas you need to bounce off during your brainstorming session. And it will allow you to be laser-focused on topics that can help you achieve your goal by creating compelling content.

04

Revisit your old content

Before you think of new ideas for your site or social media account’s new content, you may want to revisit your old content. Try to find the pieces that worked before and build on them. On the other hand, you can try to re-explore topics that your old content may have failed to cover completely. 

Revisiting old content can help you find inspiration without looking beyond what you already have.

05

Check your competitor’s content

Aside from checking your old content and social media platforms, you can also observe your competitors' websites. Imitating your rivals, and how they produce, and create content for their website would be a great idea as it saves the business’s time and effort.  

For example, if they primarily post videos as their content, you might also want to focus on creating videos. And that’s a good idea. After all, more than 62% of customers often say they love video content. So, if your competitors use video and they’re experiencing success, there’s no harm in imitating their content strategy. 

06

Keep an eye out for news related to your industry

If you’ve already exhausted most of the sources of inspiration and ideas listed in the previous sections, you may want to try sourcing content ideas from the news. The only limitation with this one is that the usefulness of news to your content depends on what kind of business you have.

For example, if your business is highly niche, the news coverage in your industry may be far fewer. However, it doesn’t mean it’s the end for you. Instead of waiting for news to happen, you may want to create one for yourself. Be always on the lookout for any newsworthy events in your business, and use those events as topics for your content.

Takeaways

Those are some tips on how you can brainstorm ideas to create compelling content for your website. Thankfully, they’re not exactly difficult to pull off, so go ahead now and start brainstorming for the new pieces of content you’ll post on your website.

Needing more assistance and support with content creation? Stina at Hello Lovely Living can help you define your goals and come up with a content creation strategy that works for you. Get in touch with Stina here.

References:

1. Demand Metric. “Content Marketing Infographic.” Content Marketing Infographic | Demand Metric. Accessed August 10, 2022. https://www.demandmetric.com/content/content-marketing-infographic

2. Zimmerman, David, Simki Dutta, and Leigh-Anne Truitt. “How Content Marketing Benefits Businesses.” How Content Marketing Benefits Businesses | Clutch.co. Accessed August 10, 2022. https://clutch.co/seo-firms/resources/how-content-marketing-benefits-businesses 

3. McCoy, Julia. “5 Big Content Trends You Need to Know Now.” Search Engine Journal, April 14, 2021. https://www.searchenginejournal.com/content-trends/329253 

4. Murray Hunter. “How to Build a Business By Copying and Improving Other Businesses.” MIC. September 22, 2012. https://www.mic.com/articles/15176/how-to-build-a-business-by-copying-and-improving-other-businesses

@hellolovelyliving at Coffee Dose in Costa Mesa, CA

The success of any business has always rested on building a brand and creating appealing designs that can spark the interest of buyers and start trends in the market. 

If there's one thing we've learned as a naming agency providing catchy and creative names for businesses, it's that the perfect brand name can make or break your business.

Take Coffee Dose in Costa Mesa, CA, for example. What started as Jeni Castro laying in bed with her husband blurting out a casual, "I want to open a coffee shop." has resulted in multiple locations across Orange County along with a cult-like following.

“It really comes down to her branding,” says Stina, Hello Lovely Living Founder. She started with a catchy name with a personality to match, and it took on a life of its own. “Visit the cafe and you will see branded mugs that say “Karen Tears” and Anti-Bitch blend coffee. You get where she’s going with her message, and that is memorable. It’s all about creating an experience.”

So, if you're looking for inspiration and are unsure of the most lucrative name to give your company, this article can help you find the best one.

@hellolovelyliving

@hellolovelyliving

Three important steps

in choosing the best business name

01

Study your brand

Besides developing an excellent product, your business’s brand is the most important component you should focus on fine-tuning and perfecting since it affects how you want your business to be seen. Crafting a trusted brand identity is one thing you cannot afford to ignore while naming your brand.

Consider the consulting firm Accenture. What strong ideas come to mind when you see, read, or hear the name? For starters, it boasts a smooth, sophisticated, and high-end tone. For one of the world's premier consulting organizations, this works quite well.

A normal digital gadget, such as the Alexa or iPhone, would not be named in the same manner. And that’s because these kinds of names would be inappropriate for their identity and what they are seeking to achieve.

02

Consider various name concepts

This is the exciting part! Gather your naming group (if you have any at this point), get some markers, a notepad, and a whiteboard, and let your imagination run wild! Remember, the brainstorming phase is not an analytical stage. You do not need to assess names right now. Simply step up your creativity and let your imagination flow.

Don't be hesitant to jot down bad names. In fact, we strongly advise you to compile a list of names that make you feel uncertain. You never know what you’d be able to make out of them. 

That said, here are some easy tools to help you with naming:

• Thesauruses

• Visual names, sometimes with a color component

• Industry jargons

• Words that rhyme

If you eventually wind up with 200 potential names at the conclusion of the brainstorming session, that's a good thing since the next stage is we’d be focusing on reducing this list.

03

Validate & Test

We all agree that your top choice from the list of names is the perfect business name for you! But before you can cheer, you must first pass a few crucial assessments. A thorough evaluation procedure will assist you in determining whether your preferred business name(s) are viable and available.

So make sure you get:

• Customer feedback: This is essential when it comes to validating your business name. And it can be done by gathering honest feedback from friends, family, or even random people you meet at a bar or cafe. Don't hesitate to tell them why you require their help.

• A Good Domain Name: A good website is essential for every company, and so you must determine whether your desired name has an accessible domain name. In an ideal world, you would have immediate access to nameofyourbusiness.com. However, this is not always the case, and you’ll have to visit a domain marketplace and pick one of the premium domain names for sale that aligns with your brand. 

• Trademark: You may despise this method because of the procedures it requires, but it can save you a lot of legal troubles along the way, as most modern words have already been trademarked in some fashion. You must therefore determine if the name of your firm satisfies the trademark standards or is encroaching on someone else's trademark. Ensure you consult with a legal professional, as failure to register a trademark could result in cease and desist letters in the future.

@hellolovelyliving

@hellolovelyliving

Takeaways

Brand names may increase sales and financial performance for your company, making it the game changer that is required to surpass the competition. Creating a business name that resonates with your company's identity is a fantastic way to pique the interest of your target clients.

Grant Polachek is the head of branding for Squadhelp.com, 3X Inc 5000 startup and disruptive naming agency. Squadhelp has reviewed more than 1 million names and curated a collection of the best available names on the web today. We are also the world's leading crowdsource naming platform, supporting clients from early-stage startups to Fortune 500 companies.

@hellolovelyliving

When setting up and maintaining your boutique enterprise, buying from wholesale clothing vendors will undoubtedly be the most cost-efficient and profitable method of sourcing items to fill your shop with. Buying in bulk almost always allows purchases to be made at a lower cost per item, so you can turn your attention to growing the choice of clothing available at your shop instead of worrying about the financial side. 

Another great thing about purchasing wholesale women’s clothing is that there is a huge range of choices. Dear-Lover, a leading online wholesale fashion marketplace, sources fabrics for its clothing from over 650 vendors, so each piece is unique and of a bespoke style. 

That said, an extensive collection can make it difficult to decide what to place an order for. Even if you’ve been working in the industry for years, it’s always tricky judging what will sell. This is where it’s paramount to truly understand your customer and their needs. Below are a few top tips to help judge what your consumer wants. 

Choosing the Best Wholesale Women’s Clothes According to the Customer 

There are several factors to consider when making a bulk purchase of boutique clothing, and properly thinking about each one will ultimately help you source the very best selection for your business. 

No.1

Clothing Trends 

Consumers of fashion are largely led by what they see each other wearing, with particular emphasis on the current style of celebrities and others on social media. If you take a walk around your city and see hundreds of people all wearing, for instance, denim shorts or skater dresses, you might feel tempted to follow suit. This is how trends emerge and spread across the population - it’s important to stay attuned to these clothing fads! 

No. 2

Seasonal Dress

Part of selling successfully in your boutique is choosing to source, dependent on the season. You don't want to buy a surplus of cozy, knitted jumpers just as the weather starts getting warmer. Customers tend to buy according to their current desires, as opposed to thinking about their future wardrobe, so you should really maximize your efforts to select clothing that is optimal for the appropriate season and weather.

No. 3

Quality Materials 

When buying wholesale women’s clothes, it’s important to assess the fabrics and materials used in creating the final product. Customers look for clothing that will last—they want to wear and enjoy pieces for several years to come, particularly those hoping to save money. 

No. 4

Versatility 

Customers love buying clothing that can be worn for different occasions and events. To cater to this, try procuring styles that could be dressed up or down such as lace blouses or long skirts. With different shoes, jewelry, and a change of hairstyle, a whole new outfit can be made from the same few clothing items.

Takeaways

Choosing boutique women's clothing can be a time-consuming task, but put yourself in the customer's shoes, and the rest will come easily. It is with a comprehensive understanding of your consumer base and clear knowledge of what wholesale clothing vendors have to offer that your business will have the opportunity to flourish. 

In 2015, the cannabis market was valued at $90 million. According to Grand View Research Inc, that number will jump to $22 billion within the next year - and a staggering $146.6 billion by 2025. A combination of widespread legalization, significant investment and increased research has resulted in a complete shift in the way consumers look at cannabis.

It’s safe to say that CBD is indeed much more than just another trend. But what does this mean for you? Is there some kind of untapped potential that’s worth making a business venture out of, or is it too late? Let’s take a look at the future of the CBD industry and what has made it such a compelling product.

Image Source

Vast Potential

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As you may already know, cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is one of the most well-documented compounds of hemp, which is a type of cannabis plant. It is free from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is what the media and general public usually associate with cannabis due to its psychoactive properties.

A legal limit of 0.3% THC content applies to CBD products in the United States, but most of them contain none at all. As more and more consumers learn this fact, the stigma around cannabis continues to dwindle.

This, combined with an increase in the publication of scientific research around its health benefits, is putting CBD under a positive new light in the eyes of the general public. Its ability to treat an ever-growing list of conditions makes it a compelling health supplement for many people.

This goes a long way in speaking for its potential, as there’s a clear demand for cannabis products. While there are many entrepreneurs who have already capitalized on this, the cannabis industry is far from oversaturated.

Health Benefits

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To better understand why the demand for CBD products is something that will continue to increase, let’s run through some of its better-known and more well-researched health benefits. Keep in mind that we’re far from done when it comes to researching its effects on the human body, so there’s still much to be unraveled.

So far, we know that CBD oil is capable of reducing our risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, bone disease and much more. Its anti-inflammatory properties help protect our skin and reduce signs of aging, in addition to treating acne. This alone means there’s a significant potential for CBD in the skincare industry.

Another major concern that general consumers have today is stress and anxiety. Popular treatments usually involve the use of pharmaceutical drugs with undesirable side-effects. Numerous studies have shown that CBD oil is highly capable of treating anxiety and stress, but without all the negative side-effects.

There’s also depression, something that over 16 million Americans suffer from. Unsurprisingly, we’ve found that CBD oil positively affects our serotonin levels, thus making it capable of reducing depression and other mood disorders. This list can quite frankly go on forever, as CBD oil is also capable of treating sleep disorders and chronic pain, among others issues.

Cashing in

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This exhaustive list of health benefits means there are countless people who can benefit from CBD, which is great news for someone who wants to cash in on this industry while it’s still in its relative infancy. If you’re interested, be sure to check out this post on becoming a CBD oil distributor, which explains in further detail what you can expect.

It should be very clear at this point that now is the best time to enter the CBD industry. With enough persistence and a bit of creativity, you can easily become a key player in helping the world enjoy the benefits of cannabis products.

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Disclosure: The content in this article is from a trusted Hello Lovely Living contributor.