Did you buy something for your store that might be a tad too expensive for your clients (perhaps it was irresistible)?  is there an item in the shop that no one is trying on for whatever reason?  Or maybe it’s been on the rack for a tad too long.

A quick way to move an item is to create a Deal of the Day.  post it on your blog, your facebook page and twitter – and have it be a significant enough discount to drive people into the shop (at least 20% off).  there are tons of deal of the day websites (flash sales like Gilt, Totsy, and a gazillion others that arrive to tempt me each day) – that create a sense of urgency to purchase (especially when a countdown clock is ticking the seconds away!).  people love the excitement of a great deal - especially one that only lasts for a day.  it’s the competition of shopping – better get it before someone else does!!

try it out and see how it works for you.  i imagine the results will be quite nice.  Mink posts deals on their fb page – so you’d be wise to be a fan!!

remember back in the day when i would do a monthly color story?  well those days are officially over!!  i decided to do something seasonally instead.

the inspiration for the Fall 2010 color story comes directly from these amazing shoes from Anthropologie (curse you Anthro – for dissing the gals who wear size 5!!).  i then built the outfit around the navy, teal and mustard yellow – because i love it!  it’s classic, vibrant and fun – all at the same time.  i love navy as a base -and the yellow brings  a nice pop to cooler, fall days.  the teal is just dreamy.  it’s a nice mix of warm, neutral and cool tones all together now.

the dress is a washed silk – i bet it feels like heaven on the body.  i’d pair it with some patterned navy tights (fishnetty – but not) – if only i could find them!!

of course i had to conjure up an outfit for my stylish 2 year old boy too – i think any boy would look rather adorable in a plaid shirt with a polka dot bow tie, don’t you?

here’s the places where i found the goods:

shoes:  Anthropologie $98
dress:  J. Crew $148
bag:  Boden $148
shades:  Modcloth $11.99
necklace:  Modcloth $19.99

kids bow-tie:  Etsy $15
kids shirt: J. Crew $44.50
kids jeans:  Gap $25
kids shoes:  gumshoe $32.76

yet another local Portland boutique is hitting the mark on easy marketing ideas for their most loyal customers – Shop Adorn is playing favorites.

Owner Nicole Whitesell recently sent personalized emails to her favorite clients letting them know just that.  she invited them to a soiree at her store and to come get a special gift just for them.  i love this – it’s very old school – but effective.  of course those clients are going to shop when they come in!

the gift doesn’t have to be elaborate – could be a gift certificate or an inexpensive item from the shop – or even a little treat (candy!).  the point is that it’s a nice, personal way to say Thank You to your best customers.

there is some smart retailing happening in my midst – and i must pass it on!  a lovely shop owner here in Portland – Carla Mink (proprietress of  Mink)  – is dazzling me with her great marketing ideas.

instead of channeling marketing dollars into ads – she’s using the best word of mouth she can:  her star customers!

using your current, loyal, clientele to help market your store by offering incentives is a winning idea on all counts.  Mink’s Ambassador Program includes discounts cards that “Ambassadors” pass on to their friends (which includes their name).  once a certain quantity of cards are submitted – -then the Ambassador gets a nice gift certificate!

smart in so many ways – everyone gets something and the love is spread further.  how are you rewarding your best clients?  and if you’re a loyal shopper, what do you like about your favorite stores rewards programs?