i’m sure many retailers out there send out communication via e-newsletters – it’s inexpensive, easy, and aligned with the current mode of communication.

but how do you stand out from a sea of subject lines invading everyones email inbox on a daily basis?   the key is to be catchy, relevant and specific.  You only have a couple of words to convey your message – so don’t waste them being vague or stating the obvious (like your name – which should be apparent right next door – at the “from” column). 

Vertical Response put out a great list of the top 50 Great Subject Lines - read them all to get inspired – but here are a few of my personal favorites from the list:

 - Online only:  25% off for friends and family

i like that the offer feels special (for friends and family), it provides a nice discount and it’s only available online (which means you’d want to open and click the link!).

 - Top 10 under $10

This is an easy one.  you know you’ll see 10 items for less than $10?  that fits in everyone’s budget!  you’d want to at least take a peek and see what was on the list….

 - Take your pick:  Our 9 favorite dresses

this one intrigues  – makes you want to know what the favorite dresses are.  and the call to action is to pick one of them!  simple, direct and catchy.

i’d love to hear from you about great email subject lines!

for November – i’m thinking bold color.  i think it’s time to make a statement.  it’s getting cooler – but there is no reason to dip into drab.  it might be the scorpio in me that is attracted to the deep red, majestic purple, and perfect black.  plus – the Kate Spade coat was too fabulous!  it was the inspiration for the palette.  that – and i’m feeling that a certain modern Mad Men style is wonderful for Fall.

other things i’m loving together:

 - Taryn Rose hot red pumps(comfy, sexy – and on sale!) $266
 - Hobo International Morgan bag (ladylike & demure):  $264
 - Saks purple cashmere sweater (love the ruffly collar!):  $238
 - Stella & Dot cocktail ring (love the art deco!):  $39
 - Tattoo Socks (oh how sexy – will make the outfit!):  $23

Hope you find inspiration in this sensual palette – whether for wardrobe, home or shop!

xoxo

just ran across this super cool idea on Mod Cloth.  It’s called “Be the Buyer” – it’s where they showcase several sample designs for consideration.  the general public then votes on whether to Pick it or Skip it.  i LOVE this idea.  imagine how much fun it would be to get your customers involved in the buying process!  Brilliant.

i see this as a great blog entry upon returning from whatever trade show you attend.  whether it be a choice of 3 handbags, 3 calendars or 3 dresses – what a great way to help you narrow a difficult choice while providing the thrill of a sneak peak at an upcoming season.

this idea works great for designers as well.  send your retailers three designs you’re considering and let them vote on which they’d buy!  i’m sure they’d enjoy being a part of the process and this could save a lot of time and energy in terms of production.  you could also request comments to see how the design might be improved – a little democratic process in action. 

i would implement this idea in a nano-heartbeat if i still owned my shop.  what do you think?

i just had to pass along this amazing offer from Simply Sarah Shaw.  rarely do i see an actual Money Back Guarantee!  what a vote of confidence in your product  – and a nice thing to do for squirmy retailers not sure about a new product.

i sold hundreds of the Handy Hold Alls at ooma.  they are a great item for displaying handbags – and they make outstanding gifts.  i highly recommend them.

here’s the deal:

order 24 Handy Hold Alls by November 7th (this is a quick promo!) and you’ll get:

 - money back guarantee (yes – actual CASH BACK for any items unsold after January 31st)

 - free black mesh holding bags (value $30)

 - ability to re-order in any quantity for the holidays (yes – even just one!)

check out the video for all the details and order page.  Order quickly!  it’s over by Saturday.

she’s SO creative indeed!  you know i adore stationery and can get lost in a a greeting card store for HOURS – hootin’ and gigglin’ and gettin’ sentimental over the amazing words of greeting card writers.   and i get especially giddy when i find something that’s super clever and fun.  behold the Salad Dressing Card.

she’s so clever too!  and the illustrations are fun and sweet.  kinda snarky, snicker-worthy-fun, and all whimsy.  and the font choices are winning….i love the one word in script.  i’ve always been drawn to that particular style.    plus there are cards for every conceivable occasion – and i really think this holiday card is awesome.

want to bring cheer and a smile to your friends, family and customers??  then order up some She’s SO Creative cards today!

buyers:  mention the proprietress for FREE SHIPPING now through November 15th.  Minimum order is a scant $120.  contact stephanie for details:  info@shesocreative.com

shoppers:  shop the etsy store for a whole variety of fun!  cards $4.50 and sets of six are $13.50