Yard Cards and Lawn Displays

ROLES and GOALS --Starting 2012

2012-01-16T14:51:00.002-07:00

ROLES and GOALS

A good way to start the new year is to define your Roles and set your Goals.

Take a sheet of paper and make a small column for ROLES and a larger area for GOALS.

In the ROLES column put things relating to you such as Mother, Husband, Business Person, Volunteer

In the GOALS area put Short Term (maybe a week or month) and Long term ( maybe 6 months or a year)

Examples:
ROLE: Mother
GOAL: Spend 1/2 hr. with each child individually each day.

ROLE: Spouse
GOAL: Plan at least one "couple" activity per week

ROLE: Business Owner
GOAL: 20% more sales or rentals for the month, send Thank You Notes, check Inventory
Start an Advisory Board, keep better records. Join Business Clubs, Leads Clubs, Start your own group of business owners, whether you are a large or small business.

ROLE: YOU
GOAL: Spend 1/2 hr. each day reading, praying, excercising, Relaxing--something just for YOU!

These are all things for TIME MANAGEMENT and for LIFE BALANCE. Each person's sheet will be different. This is helpful in creating in putting your priorities in order. Things can change, so you may need to review monthly.

The following site has some great articles and insight into daily living. http://www.spiritualwealth.com/

Hope this help in the start of your new year! Please comment!

AND--there will always be things that prevent you from accomplishing your goals. I broke my Femur in late Aug and my husband and I moved to AZ in December, which has put me way behind in business, but life goes on and Roles and Goals do change!

"Life is not the way it's supposed to be. It's the way it is.
The way you cope with it is what makes the difference."

Marty Miller; Business Owner, Artist, Writer
http://www.homeandhealthtips.com/ (which is in need of updating)

Selling Your Business

2011-08-01T15:15:00.000-06:00

"You can’t be a success in any business without believing it is the greatest business in the world. You have to put your heart in the business and the business in your heart." Thomas Watson, Sr

SELLING YOUR BUSINESS

When it comes time to sell your business, it is hard in so many ways. Some of the things that need to be done to sell your business are:

Come up with a marketable, fair price
Decide if you want to sell your name and your website
Decide how and where to advertise
Come up with a training or consulting plan
Find a buyer you feel can represent your Company
Find something you enjoy doing to fill the temporary void following the sale

It can be done. I just sold my “Lawn Expressions” business of 21 years. This business was something I loved and a social expression that made people happy-- putting up celebration signs as a Lawn Display for special occasions. Each time I created and painted a new yard card, it was such a joy to rent these to my customers. It was time for me to sell and retire from this business, even though selling the business that I started and enjoyed for so many years is difficult. Luckily I found the perfect family to continue making Lawn Expressions a very unique and special business.

The new Owners AMY & DEREK were recent customers of mine and loved the idea of this type of business. Both of them and their young family will continue to make others happy with this business in the Denver area.

The new Lawn Expressions contact information is Phone # is 720-556-1250
Email: amy@lawnexpressions.com
Website: www.lawnexpressions.com/
I will continue writing this Business Blog and hope that others in this business or ANY business will benefit from the different Blog about Business!
"There are exactly as many special occasions in life as we choose to celebrate." ~Robert Brault

Sincerely,
Marty Miller; Entrepreneur, Business Consultant, Artist & Blogger
www.homeandhealthtips.com/

ADVERTISING & MARKETING your Business

2011-07-09T12:46:00.000-06:00

ADVERTISING and MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS

"You can’t be a success in any business without believing it is the greatest business in the world. You have to put your heart in the business and the business in your heart." Thomas Watson, Sr

Summer is a GREAT time to market your business. Advertising and Marketing are two different ways of promoting your business, along with Networking.

Advertising is things like is usually done in: Newspapers, magazines, television, radio, telephone book or promotionals. Donating a Sign or Display for a large event can be both advertising and marketing, particularly if you are present at the event "marketing" your product or services.

Marketing is usually where YOU are physically present like: LEADS Groups, Chamber of Commerce groups, Local Business Clubs, School or Church clubs, Business forums and Advisory Boards. (small group of business people who share Accomplishmetnsanother subject we will address later). The advantage to MARKETING is that you are socializing and selling yourself along with your product/service. People who Market their product or service will do much better in business. People like to do business with someone they know. You will also get support from others who run small businesses if you are in a business group environment.

The INTERNET is now the BEST way of both advertising and marketing, even though you are not physically present. People want the convenience of getting things instantly, so more consumers use the Internet, rather than phone books or print media. However there is still a segment of society that do not use the Internet and rely on Print media.

The best advise is to try different ways of advertising and marketing and find which works best for you and your particular business.

Marty Miller, Business Owner, Entrepreneur http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcarddirectory.com/
www.homeandhealthtips.com/

"You are never fully dressed until you wear a smile!"

SUMMER SALE for Yard Card Business

2011-06-20T16:24:00.003-06:00

"Ambition is the path to success. Persistance is the vehicle you arrive in". William Eardley

If this is your first visit to this blogsite, please peruse the many business issues that have been featured for those who are serious about making their business a SUCCESS!

For Great business advice and ideas on blogging, websites and creating a succesful business visit www.2createawebsite.com/

"Doing business without advertising is like winking at a someone in the dark. YOU know what you are doing, but no one else does." Stewart Britt

Marty Miller http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

SUMMER STRESS or SUCCESS?

2011-06-15T16:34:00.000-06:00

SUMMER BUSINESS SUCCESS or STRESS?

“ If you find it in your heart to care for somebody else, you will have succeeded”
Mayo Angelo on Success
How you THINK can make the difference between being Successful or just Stressed.

Be positive. Think Success, not failure. Do not stay in a negative place either mentally or physically. Let your customers and people around you know what your business or product will do to enhance their life, rather than telling them “about” your business. Customers ultimately care about what your business will “do for them”. See Features and Benefits.
If you think you can do things to help your business grow, get on it. “Habit is like a soft bed, easy to get into, but hard to get out of”. (anonymous) Refresh your thinking—set new goals—not huge ones, just little goals. When you reach the little goals, start making bigger goals. Write down your goals each day, maybe even just one. Writing it down really does help—when you succeed in that goal "celebrate" and cross it off of your list.
“Ideas won’t keep; something must be done about them”
Alfred North Whitehead (mathematician, philosopher)

YARD CARD and LAWN DISPLAY BUSINESS

For those of us in the Yard Card and Lawn Display business, summer is a good time for us as the weather is nice, people are happy, the sun is out (usually) and our business brings smiles.

Even if your business has taken a hit in this economy, as most have, don’t stop now, keep doing the things that work well. One of those is being present on the Internet. As has been stressed numerous times, you need your State and important information on your Home Page of your website. If you have not done this—do it now. Then join as many Directories as you can. Put in a few relevant search terms and see which companies and Directories come up on top. Join them—you must spend a little money to make money.
“Don’t pray when it rains if you don’t pray when the sun shines”. Satchel Paige

Marty Miller http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ http://www.homeandhealthtips.com/

COMPETITION and COLLABORATION in BUSINESS

2011-05-23T10:52:00.002-06:00

"You can't use up creativity. the more you use the more you have" Maya Angelou

Competition and Collaboration in the Business World

COMPETITION: (Rivalry, match, contest) Good, healthy competition is great, as it makes us grow and get better at what we do. We need competition to make us stretch ourselves; also it is imperative for the economy and gives the consumer "choices". However if we get stuck on always being competitive, it can be counterproductive. "Remember the banana--when it left the bunch, it got skinned."

Do be courteous about copying others' work or ideas without getting written permission. THERE IS PLENTY OF BUSINESS FOR ALL OF US!

COLLABORATION: (To work jointly with others) In most businesses, collaborating is very good. You can share ideas, benefit from each other's knowledge, increase the market knowledge of your product and gain more visibility. Many companies worry too much about having other companies in their area. I always liken it to the city corners that have 3-4 gas stations. Who in town has the most business? ---the same type businesses close together, so people have options.

In our particular business of Lawn Greetings; if consumers see a lot of signs or yard card displays out there--it starts to imprint the idea in their minds for future celebrations. If people rarely see yard signs or lawn displays then the concept does not become popular. With several companies in your area that makes each company "work smarter, not harder". We are each advertising for each other with consumer product knowledge just by having people see the idea in a yard. Also our ultimate goal is to service customers wanting this type of celebration recognition in their yard and if we cannot help them out, we can refer them to another company.

If your do your industry's research you will find the most sucfessful areas of the country are those with more than one or two of the same type of industry.

For other Great Business ideas Visit this Great Website.
Visit the Yard Card Directory for your state. This is a new site of mine to get great ideas on Home, Health, Kids games, crafts and recipe and Fun for Seniors.

"Put your heart, mind, intellect and soul even to your smallest acts. This is the secret of success."
Swami Sivanada

Marty Miller, Business Owner for 35 yrs. http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.homeandhealthtips.com/

SPRING BUSINESS-APPRECIATING YOUR CUSTOMER

2011-04-23T12:27:00.002-06:00

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome. ~Anne Bradstreet

SPRING is the BEST time to promote your business and appreciate your customers. Spring is like a "new awakening". People spend more time outdoors; gardening, watching their children play, their grass become green and flowers blooming.

For us in the Yard Card Business we have Mother's Day, Graduations and Father's Day, along with the usual Baby's births for "Stork Sign" Rentals and Birthday Signs like "Over the Hill, Flamingos, Buzzards and Celebrations Signs. It is a great time to send postcards or Thank-yous to your customers to remind them that you are available to help them with thier very special occasions!

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION

One way to keep customers coming back is good service and appreciating them for using your services. It is wonderful when a customer says to you” I love what you do and you really do a good job.” We all like to feel we are doing a good job. Sometimes, because of night deliveries, we do not get much feedback, so it is nice to give the person who ordered the Lawn Display a courtesy call to see how the recipient enjoyed their special gift.
Some other great ideas we can use for Customer Appreciation are:

* First and foremost –Answer calls and emails promptly!
* Send out Thank You Cards that can be made inexpensively with your company name, phone number, email and website on the cards--as mentioned above.
* For repeat customers or a larger order, add something extra.
(i.e.) I make a certificate for framing or baby book for a Stork that is rented more than 4 days. I use parchment and put it in a plastic sleeve. I also take a free balloon to an older sibling on a baby rental.
* Keep a database of your customers and pick several that have not ordered in awhile and send them postcards.

*Congratulate the new Mom’s or Grandma’s on their baby or grand-baby.
Make sure your calls sound friendly and upbeat. You appreciate your customer!

Spring is nature's way of saying, "Let's party!" ~Robin Williams

Marty Miller, www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcarddirectory.com/
Need Health & Home Tips or Kid's Ideas

Start a SPRING BUSINESS

2011-03-16T19:57:00.018-06:00

Starting a new business in the Spring can be a great time to start! Just do some checking prior to starting your new business. The economy is especially tight right now, so you must research before throwing yourself into a new endeavor.

In the Yard Card Business, at least in my 21 yrs. of experience, I have found that Spring is probably the best time of the year for Celebration Sign Rentals. There is Mother's Day, Graduation, lots of babies born and of course the Birthdays. Even with the tight economy, people want to celebrate their special moments.

Spring is a popular time for Yard Cards & Lawn Displays, particularily in the States that have had snow, cold and storms during the winter months. People want to do fun, happy things & spring brings out the best in attitudes.

If you wish to Start a Lawn Display Business, start looking into some of the various ones that are for Sale. There are companies that provide Kits to make your own signs, ones that are pre-made for you or ones you can design yourself. Make sure you have a Manual to help you get started. Research different types of displays and businesses before making a decision. By purchasing a franchise or an establsihed "Business for Sale", you will at least know that there is some history and experience that has been put into that business.
Most people learn from their business mistakes or know what has worked well for them. If you work with someone who has been in business, you will gain knowledge from their experiences.

Websites I would recommend regarding business help of any kind is your local www.SBA.gov/ Also look into small business organizations in your area, Leads Groups, NAWBO, or Chamber of Commerce.

If you are interested in the Yard Card Business visit Entrepreneur Website or www.yardcards-business.com/

"An optimist is the human personification of spring."-- Susan J. Bissonette
Marty Miller, http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ www.homeandhealthtips.com/ www.lawnexpressions.com/

BUSINESS ADVISORY BOARDS

2011-02-26T18:33:00.000-07:00

Start a BUSINESS ADVISORY BOARD

Over a year ago I did a blog on starting a Business Advisory Board. It seemed to be a popular blog, so I thought we would revisit the subject.

ADVISORY BOARDS

An Advisory Board is a group of people (can be as small as 4) with diversified interests and opinions and different types of businesses. The group can meet once a month or maybe every other month for about 2 hrs. ea. meeting. Each person has a chance to speak and should prepare something like the previous month's *Accomplishments, Challenges & Goals. *(these will be reviewed in a future Post). A Moderator for each meeting can be chosen to manage the division of time. When you start your Advisory Board set down some rules to begin, so that the purpose is clear to the members. Limit the number in your group so that each member will have enough time to address the issues to be discussed. I would say as small as 4 to no larger than 10 members. Make it a commitment for each member to attend.

BENEFITS:

Talking with others in business who can:
* be supportive
* give unbiased ideas and help
* share your successes & celebrate your accomplishments
* understand your strengths and weaknesses
* bring fresh, new ideas to the table
* give you socialization with others in business
* help expand your business and meet personal goals
* keep you updated on other businesses or New business ideas
* give YOU the opportunity to help others with your good ideas and support

The Group becomes your Business Family. You come back to your business energized and with a new perspective and creative ideas. I have been in a group for over 17 years and find it one of the least expensive, most helpful things I have done for ME and for my Yard Card business development. Our group has met in business rooms, our homes, library private rooms and now with 4 of us we meet in a centerally located restaurant that is not very busy and we each purchase a meal and take turns talking about our business and presonal life, following the Accomplishments, Challenges and Goals format.

Form a Group of dedicated people who will be honest with you about their business and yours. STAY on TRACK at the meetings and again make it a commitment. Please comment if you need more help with this idea!

"You don't get any rewards out of this life unless you make an investment"

Sincerely,

Marty Miller www.yardcarddirectory.com/ www.homeandhealthtips.com/

Websites and Blogging about Your Interests

2011-02-15T16:38:00.000-07:00

BLOGGING About Your Interests

When you start a website you must first make sure that you have a passion, product or service that will be interesting to people. Research the other websites in your area of interest. If you are unsure of what you might want to start as a website, try blogging until you decide what you are truly passionate about. You might set up a www.blogger.com/ account, which is free. Start blogging about some of your passions; whether it be art, music, health, people or a business you already have or one you wish to start. As you blog, you may find a certain subject, product or service that is really interesting to you or one that you already have that consumers find interesting.

Make a list of domain names that you would like to use. They should be relevant to the subject of your Website. (i.e.) www.yardcarddirectory.com/ refers to a US and Canada Directory for those in the Lawn Display and Yard Sign business. You can easily search for domain names by typing in "domain name search" in the search area. You have several options of registering your website name – either as a dot.com, a dot. net or a dot. org. The dot.com is the most common, dot.net is more for business and dot .org is for organizations, profit or non-profits. If you are able to secure the website name you wish in a dot.com, that is best for the average website.

One of the best Sites to visit if you are learning is Lisa's website at: www.2createawebsite.com/ Read more about Lisa and why she is a great resource and teacher at my Favorite Links.

Once you decide that you are headed in the right direction, then you need to research how to start a website.
There are many possibilites. You may have a hosting company that sets everything up for you, or you may wish to try something like www.snapmonkey.com/ where you can make changes or updates whenever you wish for the same monthly charge. You may also just keep on Blogging and keep that as your website.

"The more places you are seen, the better you are recognized."
Sincerely,
Marty Miller, www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcarddirectory.com/

SPECIAL GIFTS for VALENTINE'S DAY

2011-02-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

UNIQUE Valentine gift that WILL be remembered! Rent a Yard Card for the Lawn with your sentiments and recognize the ones you love! Lawn Displays are great for this type of Holiday!

"To love and be loved is to feel the sun on both sides"

It has been a rough winter, so far, for many of us in the United States. We have had some unusual weather in so many of the States. When watching much of the rest of the World's situations, I guess bad weather can be tolerated. It certainly does make the Yard Card and Lawn Display business much more difficult to mangage. Many businesses which do things requiring outdoor activity have been a challenge.
SO let's get going for Valentine's Day and hope the weather cooperates!

See www.yardcarddirectory.com/ for your choice of State for the Delivery!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!
( for Valentine recipes and craft ideas, see www.homeandhealthtips.com/)

Marty Miller http://www.lawnexpressions.com/

VALENTINE'S DAY

2011-01-26T18:57:00.000-07:00

It seems the year has barely begun and Valentine’s day is quickly approaching.
If you would like to know a little history of Valentines Day, along with some great ideas, visit this website: Valentine's Day or Ideas for Valentine's Day

If you would like some great Kid’s Games or Easy Recipes for Valentines Day visit:
www.homeandhealthtips.com/.

Be UNIQUE and do something VERY special for your spouse, children, boyfriend, girlfriend or anyone that you care about by ordering a Yard Card or Lawn Display.

The excitement will last all day with that special person being recognized in his/her Own Front Yard. What a surprise! The neighbors will also enjoy it.
Visit www.yardcarddirectory.com/ to find a Yard Card/Lawn Display company near you!

"To love and be loved is to feel the sun on both sides"

HAPPY VALENTINE's DAY!

Marty Miller, Owner www.lawnexpressions.com/

GET STARTED ON YOUR 2011 BUSINESS!

2011-01-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

ORGANIZE FOR THE NEW YEAR

* Clean out old files ----hard to do, not a fun job, but gratifying once you rid yourself of unneccessary papers and things you have collected.
* Update your database--very important.
* Think of new ways to create business and NEW customers.
* Thank your repeat customers---send a postcard letting them know you are still in business.
* Inventory your products to see if you need to purchase new things, refresh or refurbish them, or add new products or delete those that are not working for you.
* Start the year with a GOOD method of filing, not only for tax purposes, but for keeping you "on track".
* Get on new Yard Card Directories and improve your Internet visibility. See a SUPER special for joining in Jan. at: http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/join.html
* Join business clubs or Chamber of Commerce--great way to meet people and get your service known.
* Refresh your website with new content & photos--put the name of your STATE on your website Home Page! Customers often search by State.
* Start an Advisory Board with 3-8 other business people so that you can share experiences, support each other.
* Start the New Year with a positive attitude!
* Take Care of Yourself and Stay Healthy    www.healthandhometips.com/

"Your outcome has much to do with your attitude."

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Marty Miller    www.yardcarddirectory.com/ www.lawnexpressions.com/

A COOL, CALM CHRISTMAS

2010-12-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Well, It is that time of year--where we pull our hair out with so much to do-- working, shopping, cooking, decorating, wrapping, entertaining and always feeling tired--ah, we forgot "resting".

It is difficult this time of year to feel calm and collected, not to mention the fact that in many states there is bad weather with which to contend. This make it particularily hard for those who must work outdoors like those of us delivering Lawn Displays and Yard Cards this time of year.

Some suggestions to make the Holidays calmer; especially if you have children.

* Make home-made gifts—they are usually treasured more than store-bought items.
(this year I made tie-tyed shirts for the younger set).
* If you must shop, do it early in the morning or late at night if you have stores that stay open late or all night. (Less people, less lines at check-out)
* Find a charity and make it a family event to take presents, clothes or whatever the charity needs. Take it TO the charity. It is a great teaching tool for children and putstheir life and "needs" instead of "wants" into perspective.
*Plan a special Christmas Craft that you can do with your children or neighbor children.
* Make Christmas cookies while listening to Christmas music.
* Take some Christmas cookies to the neighbors.
* Find some Hallmark Christmas CD's, such as “The Dog Named Christmas” or watch Christmas TV Specials, as a family.
* And most importantly remember the reason for Christmas or Hanukkah. It is to be a peaceful time, not hectic.
* Discuss the importance of caring for and sharing with others during this season.
* Take some time for quiet without TV or cell phones to be together as a family.
* Make Home-made decorations.

AND for those of us in business--we must be courteous to our customers, despite our state of mind.

Have a Healthy, Happy, Calm Holiday Season!

Marty Miller http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.homeandhealthtips.com/

THANKSGIVING DAY 2010

2010-11-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with family and friends and share memories. As with many families, we always have each person at the table, including children, say something for which they are thankful.
An excellent website having to do with the origin of Thanksgiving, traditions, recipes, stories & jokes is www.thanksgiving-day.org/ Great website! For the Thanksgiving story visit http://www.2020tech.com/thanks/

I would like to do a little "Turkey Talk" regarding turkey preparation. Although this has nothing to do with the Yard Card-Lawn Display Industry--cooking is another passion of mine. Proper cooking of a turkey is imperative if you do not wish to spend the evening or the next day in the ER with food poisoning.

1. Cook a fresh turkey within 3 days.
2. Thaw a turkey in a refrigerator or for quicker thawing use a chest cooler with ice or frozen cold packs. (It should be started in the fridge about 4 days ahead of the day you wish to cook it and spend no more than 2 days in a COLD cooler.)
3. Do NOT thaw a turkey at room temp as bacteria will grow.
4. If you stuff your turkey, place an unpeeled apple in the opening rather than sewing it closed. The dressing will pick up a nice apple flavor and the apple will absorb extra grease. (APPLE NOT EDIBLE--altho' it WILL lookl like a baked apple, after removing from turkey)
5. I rub the turkey with mayonaise and salt and pepper it. After putting in a roasting pan, I tent the turkey with aluminum foil and place it in a 425 degree oven for 1/2-1 hr., depending on size of turkey. I then turn it down to 325 degrees for the duration.
6. I remove the foil about 1-2 hrs. before I think it is done. It will brown the skin.
7. DO NOT overcook or undercook a turkey. If it does not have a pop-up timer or meat thermometer, move the turkey leg back & forth to see if it is a little loose.
Then cut into the breast mid turkey--you do not want to see pink meat.

"We may give without loving, but we cannot love without giving." author unknown

Have a good Thankful Holiday! Marty Miller

For those looking for yard cards or lawn displays for special occasions during the Holidays please find companies listed at www.yardcarddirectory.com/

BUSINESS ATTITUDE IN THE FALL MONTHS

2010-10-25T17:58:00.000-06:00

With Fall here and cooler weather starting in many states, it is sometimes difficult to keep up the good attitude. In the Yard Card & Lawn Display business, in many areas of the country, rain and snowstorms are in the near future. It may not seem as fun putting up a Yard Display either early in the morning or late at night, both with more cold and physical discomfort than the rest of the day. It is important to keep in mind how happy the recipient of your display will be when they see your work! A new mother coming home from the hospital with her baby sees the STORK in the yard and it brings her a smile. A person who has a birthday comes out to get their newspaper and sees a "Happy Birthday Sign" knows someone cares!

Attitude is most important. It is more important than circumstances. Each day we have a choice regarding our attitude for the day or the day's work. We cannot change the inevitable, but we can change our attitude towards it. It is a small percentage as to what happens to us in relation to how we view, handle or react to what is happening. Put a smile on your face, meet the day with gratitude and caring and you will be happier doing your job.

If you have ideas regarding the Yard Card Business during the colder months, please share them below in the "comments" section.

FIND a Yard Card or Lawn Display company near you. www.yardcarddirectory.com/

"Cheerfulness is the atmosphere under which all things thrive" Jean Paul Richter
"Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine." ~Anthony J. D'Angelo, The College Blue Book

Enjoy the beauty of the Fall!

Marty Miller http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ www.lawnexpressions.com/

Marketing and Advertisng you Fall Business

2010-10-12T11:16:00.000-06:00

ADVERTISING and MARKETING YOUR BUSINESS

Advertising and Marketing are two different ways of promoting your business.

Advertising is things like print media: Newspapers, magazines, television, radio, telephone book or promotionals. Donating a Sign or Display for a large event can be both advertising & marketing particularly if you are present at the event "marketing" your product or services.

Marketing is usually where YOU are physically present like: LEADS Groups, Chamber of Commerce groups, Local Business Clubs, School or Church clubs, Business forums & Advisory Boards. (another subject we will address later). The advantage to MARKETING is that you are socializing and selling yourself along with your product/service. People who Market their product or service will do much better in business. People like to do business with someone they know. You will also get support from others who run small businesses if you are in a business group environment.

The INTERNET is now the BEST way of both advertising and marketing, even though you are not physically present. People want the convenience of getting things instantly, so more consumers use the internet, rather than phone books. The best advise is to try different ways of getting your business noticed.
http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcarddirectory.com/

"You are never fully dressed until you wear a smile!"

Have a successful FALL and read some of the previous blogs!
Marty Miller

HALLOWEEN YARD SIGN KIT

2010-09-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

HALLOWEEN Yard GHOSTS and MORE

Patterns Include: 23 " GHOST, 23" TOMBSTONE, 15" Ghost Crossing Sign (point to sidewalk), small designs for Bat, Cat, Trick or Treat Bag, Ghost with pumpkin and baby ghost.
FUN and EASY to Make!
Instructions and colored photos of extra sample Ghosts included.

$18--Includes shipping ORDER
Your Kit will be sent within 2 days of order receipt.
Visa and MC are accepted. Questions: call Marty at 303-979-6551 (owner of Lawn Expressions, CO)

START A YARD CARD BUSINESS

2010-09-20T18:16:00.000-06:00

With Fall upon us and the kids back in school you might be considering a Home –Based business that is rewarding fun and doesn’t take a lot of time.

The Yard Card Business is a great venue. Questions you should think about before starting a this type of business:
       * Do I have a large enough vehicle to carry signs or yard display items?
       * Am I willing to deliver the signs/displays after dark or early morning?
       * Do I want to make signs from a start-up Kit or do I want to use the pre-made or plastic props?
       * Do I have artistic ability and would I like to paint signs?
       * Do I have a plan to market, network or advertise my business?
       * Am I good at speaking to people on the phone?
       * Do I have a computer? Email?
       * Can I keep good business records?

If you can answer “Yes” to these questions than this may be the business for you.

If you enjoy celebrations this is a great “social expressions” business. If you have a young family, having a business like this helps teach children about responsiblity and advantages of being your own boss. Having a business is a great teacher and motivator for children & they usually love to help. (Depending on your children’s ages you might not want younger ones actually doing the sign painting—you might end of with something you don’t want. (smile).

It is a fun business and a way to make a little extra money.

One of the places to look for a reputable company that is selling start-up Kits or Franchises is Yard Card Start-ups   These companies had to apply and be approved by Entrepreneur Magazine. I sell a Start up KIT which is detailed on www.yardcards-business.com/ and is on
Entrepreneur.com website.

" Although no one can go back in time and make a brand-new start,
anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending." Author unknown

Get your new Business started and be prepared for a Great Spring!

Marty Miller www.lawnexpressions.com/

Copyrighting your Designs or Artwork

2010-08-10T14:38:00.000-06:00

When we spend the time to create our own designs, we want to make sure that they stay our own and are not copied by others. It is important in the Yard Card Business to copyright your designs. I have given some information below, regarding copyright process and laws.

COPYRIGHT LAWS (resource) www.copyright.gov/ The following are exact excerpts from the Copyright Publication. This is a very large document, so I will summarize and you can go to the site for more information. What is Copyright: Copyright is a form of protection provided by the laws of the United States to authors of "original works of authorship, "including literary, dramatic, musical, artistic, and certain intellectual works.

How to secure Copyright: The way in which copyright is secured is frequently misunderstood. No publication or registration or other action in the Copyright Office is required to secure copyright. Copyright is secured automatically when the work is created. The use of copyright notice is the responsibility of the copyright owner and does not require advance permission from, or registration with the Copyright Office.

Form of notice for Visually Perceptible Copies

The notice for visually perceptible copies should contain the following three elements:
1. The symbol for copyright (the letter C in a circle), or the word "Copyright", or the abbreviation "Copr"
2. The year of first publication of the work. (there is more description here about different types of materials in the publication)

3. The name of the owner of copyright in the work or an abbreviation by which the name can be recognized, or generally known alternative designation of the owner. (company name)

SO here is what I do: *Each pencil design that I make is dated. *When the design is made into a sign, I date the sign with the same month/year as the original design. With the copyright symbol on the FRONT of the sign so that it is large enough to see.*I take a dated photo of the sign and attach it to the original design. With the above info. displayed you have exclusive rights to the designs & may take legal action if your designs are copied in any form.

If you have comments regarding "copyright" of your materials, please be sure to comment.

JOIN THE YARD CARD DIRECTORY for GREAT VISABILITY!

Sincerely,
Marty Miller http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcarddirectory.com/
"Your outcome has much to do with your attitude" author unknown

ETIQUETTE in responding to EMAILS and PHONE CALLS

2010-08-06T12:32:00.000-06:00

ANSWERING EMAILS & PHONE CALLS, PROMPTLY

Not geting a prompt response to a phone call or email is probably the # 1 complaint among customers; when it comes to Customer Service. I have experienced this "lack of response", even with Companies within this industry. I send emails requesting an answer and do not hear back. Sometimes there may be a valid reason, but without that information you waste your time trying to contact the person or company. I consider it my "Pet Peeve" in business.

Communication is one of the most important parts of any business and the old saying applies here. "Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you". PLEASE RESPOND to other companies and customers in a timely manner.

Since so much is done via email or mobile devices, we sometimes do not realize the value of a personal phone call.

From "Business Quotes" "Anyone who thinks the customer isn't important should try doing without them"

Enjoy the remainder of your summer!

Sincerely,

Marty Miller, www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcarddirectory.com/

Features & Benefits of Your Business

2010-07-25T12:40:00.000-06:00

BENEFITS and FEATURES of your Lawn Display Business

Make sure your website & marketing materials contain Benefits more than Features. What is the difference between benefits and features? Features are a description of your product-- (ie) 5-6 ft. colorful Yard Signs, Personalized message sign, 30-40 pink flamingos, many critters or props from which to choose.

Benefits would be-- what is the benefit to your customer in using your business? (ie) "Make a friend happy with a unique early morning surprise", "Let the whole neighborhood know of your Graduate's Big Day!”,“Surprise a new Mom with a Stork in the Yard” Announce the New Baby” “Celebrate that BIG birthday with a Yard Card”

People are more interested in the benefit to them & the recipient than a long description of your product. In the Celebration Lawn Greetings business, it is all about recognizing people!

"A simple act of kindness has a beauty of it’s own".

Hope your summer is going well!

Marty Miller www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcarddirectory.com/

Preparing a BUSINESS PLAN

2010-07-12T11:11:00.000-06:00

BUSINESS PLAN:

Do YOU have a Business Plan? Although there is SO much on this issue, I am taking quotes from a seminar I attended several years ago given by Courtney Price, Director of the Institute of Entrepreneurship and Creativity at Metro College in Denver, CO.

Entrepreneurs frequently delay writing business plans because they are uncertain how to write and prepare the planning documents essential to a successful venture.

A business plan forces you to consider every facet of your proposed business and places funding decisions on paper where they can be evaluated and considered by all involved.

The outline should include: summary and executive overview; concept; management and organization; product/service; production plan; competition; pricing; marketing plan; financial plan; operating and control system; schedule; growth plan and a contingency plan.

The Best news about developing and writing your own business plan: once you have been through the process, additional plans take half of the time to write and you discover you lave learned valuable planning skills that will be critical to your success.
*******
From Marty: I considered doing a business plan as a daunting project for my Corporation & my d/b/a "Lawn Expressions YardCard Business", but I did add things to my business as I went through the process of preparing the Business Plan and found it fun and enlightening. My Business Plan was simple and was only 5 typed pages long, but was acceptable to get a "Line of Credit". If you plan to get Financial help at any time during your business, you WILL need a business plan.

Reference Book : "How to Write a Business Plan" by Mike McKeever.
I am sure there is an updated version.
Please leave a comment if this has helped you.

Sincerely,
Marty Miller http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

Starting a Website or Blog

2010-06-21T20:23:00.000-06:00

When you start a website you must first make sure that you have a passion, product or service that will be interesting to people. Research the other websites in your area of interest. If you are unsure of what you might want to start as a website, try blogging www.blogger.com until you decide what you are truly passionate about. You might set up a blogger.com account, which is free. Start blogging about some of your passions; whether it be art, music, health, people or a business you already have or one you wish to start. As you blog, you may find a certain subject, product or service that is really interesting to you or one that you already have that consumers find interesting.

Make a list of domain names that you would like to use. They should be relevant to the subject of your Website. (i.e.) www.yardcarddirectory.com/ refers to a US and Canada Directory for those in the Lawn Display and Yard Card business. You can easily search for domain names by typing in "domain name search" in the search area. You have several options of registering your website name – try for a .com unless you are an organization and then .org would be best. Profits and non Profits typically use.org.

Once you decide that you are headed in the right direction, then you need to research how to start a website. An excellent website to view is http://www.2createawebsite.com/ Lisa is very knowledgable in many areas of websites, blogging, U-tube and so much more.
You may have a hosting company that sets everything up for you, or you may wish to try something like www.snapmonkey.com/ where you can make changes for one price.
Another great learning website is www.visionofsuccess.com/

Questions or comments are always welcome. marty@lawnexpressions.com

Sincerely,

Marty Miller, www.lawnexpressions.com/ or http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

WEBSITE SPRUCE UP

2010-06-07T18:08:00.000-06:00

1. How often do you look at your website?
2. How often do you make changes?
3. Do you check to see what position your website is on the search engines?
4. Do you ask customers how they found you?

These are all very important for your business. You MUST stay on top of these things and not let your information become outdated. Your service and pricing should be easy to find. No one likes to call to find out prices.

Websites should also have your Contact Information displayed on the HOME page or a link to your information. Consumers do not like to have to spend time finding where this information is located.

In the Yard Card & Lawn Display business, your State should be listed on the Home Page. If someone is looking for a display in a certain State and you only have counties listed on your Home Page, the customer will probably move on to another website. Also if the comsumer types in "Yard Cards, CO" and your State is not listed, your website will not be seen---business lost.

If you are purchasing a product or service on the web be sure that there is an "https" the "s" meaning secure. The site may also have a "lock' displayed on the website, but still must have the "https".

Spruce up your website today! This is your main instrument for good advertising.

"You don't get any rewards out of this life unless you make an investment"

Sincerely,

Marty Miller, http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

YARD CARD COMPANY RECOGNITION

2010-05-12T10:46:00.000-06:00

How do YOU get noticed on the Internet? With so many websites on so many different subjects and with numerous search terms, it seems an impossible endeavor.

Check common search terms for your industry in the search bar. The Lawn Display industry would have search terms such as: yard cards, lawn displays, yard displays, stork signs, lawn flamingoes —the list goes on. Look up the ones that you think customers use most. If you have an analytics program it will also give you this information. With Google or Bing, you will find that National Directories come up for most of these terms.

You will find that some Directories are Free to Join, some charge a Fee. What is important is which ones come up for the relevant search terms you think your potential customers use! Even if there is a Fee and the website is reputable, just one rental would pay for Joining that Directory. My experience is that you should be on ALL Directories but definitely on the ones that come up high. The 2 highest Directories are typically (on Google’s 1st page) http://www.flamingoed.com/ and http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ . Your company should be on both of these Directories and often it will also pull your website up higher in the search engines.

If you want business, you need to pay attention to what is happening in the over-all Industry. Just waiting for rentals or referrals does not work that well.

"Doing business without advertising is like winking at a someone in the dark. YOU know what you are doing, but no one else does." Stewart Britt

Comments ALWAYS welcome!

Marty Miller

GRADUATION YARD CARDS

2010-05-04T20:06:00.000-06:00

Remember your Graduate with a Large Card in the Yard or Lawn Display on his/her Graduation Day! If you are having a party it helps those attending find your home.

Your Graduate will be so surprised and pleased with a Grad Display!

Check out companies in your state at www.yardcarddirectory.com/

Marty Miller

LIFE CAN CHANGE--Accidents Happen

2010-05-01T14:16:00.000-06:00

Live Each Day--Accidents Happen

So where have I been since March? Life can change in an instant and mine did. We were in MI on March 25th for a Surprise party for my sister. I got to a relative's home and opened a door that I thought was the bathroom. The door opened in and I had stepped into a stairwell to a basement. My last memory was “Oh my God,what can I hold unto”.
Family heard what sounded like a 20 lb. sack of potatoes going down the 14 stairs, no utterance from me. They immediately came down to find me knocked out in an increasing pool of blood from a head wound. (As my niece descibed it--A CSI moment).

I was whisked off by ambulance to a great hospital (so thankful for that) where I spent 2 solid weeks, with 10 rib breaks, a shattered left wrist and forearm, head laceration and a dislocated and fractured clavicle. Head was stitched during surgery to operate on wrist/arm. A fixator was put on my wrist with pins down into my wrist. 2nd surgery was a chest tube for fluid in the lung. I had much therapy. You never go to a hospital for rest as someone is checking you every hour or 2, even at night.
Here is the miracle---neither knee replacement was damaged, my neck was not broken and my spinal fusion from my teen years, remained intact.
We remained in MI for 1 month and returned home to CO on 4/21. I was back in hospital here for Vertigo on 4/23-24.

Things can happen in life that change our focus and slow us down—obviously there was no business done on my part, for the month of April. I am starting slowly to get back to business in May. I have one more surgery to remove the fixator and pins from my wrist. I will remain on oxygen for a few weeks--remember this is higher altitude.
Never take Life for Granted! Following are a couple of quotes worth thinking about!
If you have a life changing event, please share it with us!

Being alive is loving being alive!   Judith Alligim
Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out."
Art Linkletter

Your outcome has much to do with your attitude.

Life is made up of many changes; and no state, be it bright or clouded , will always continue. Spurgeon

OK –now it is back to business. Don’t forget those Lawn Displays for Graduation.

Have a Good Spring!

Marty Miller, business owner, author, artist
http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/   http://www.lawnexpressions.com/

Weekly and Daily Goals

2010-03-23T18:52:00.000-06:00

WEEKLY and DAILY GOALS:

DAILY GOALS: (Personally, I find these to be the most effective. I also do what I call " Project" lists which are more like Weekly or Monthly Goals)

DO:
*Each morning make a list of things you would like to accomplish that day.
*Put them in order of importance or prioritize
*As you complete a task--cross it off.
*At the end of the day--move the things to the next day's list that have not been done.
*Remember yourself: exercise, meditate, pray, read or just sit down for 10 minutes each day.
*Reward yourself if you have REALLY had a good day
*Pick a certain day of the week to always do the same thing
(ie. office work, make calls, market your business, network, excercise, etc.)

* Mon. mornings is when I to do my weekly goals, I then send notes to friends, family or business associates.
A personal note, actually sent through the mail, has a bit more meaning to the recipient, so I pick 2 or 3 people to write each Monday.

" Although no one can go back in time and make a brand-new start,
anyone can start from now and make a brand-new ending."
"Strive for Progress, not Perfection."

Be back in April. Get going on your Goals! Your thoughts and comments are always welcome!

Marty Miller, http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ http://www.lawnexpressions.com/

Internet Directories for your Business

2010-03-19T15:38:00.000-06:00

Now is the time to start planning your Spring Business Goals. People are ready to "start fresh" and celebrate life. For those of us in the Yard Card and Lawn Display business; Spring offers many opportunities. There are the Stork signs for newborns and Birthdays but also Mother's Day and Graduations.

It is time to start marketing and planning for these events. I recommend sending post cards to current customers or advertising in a small local periodical, such as neighborhood Newspapers. Also Join all of the available Directories that list Yard Cards. There are many Free ones--but as is always said "you get what you pay for".
Most of those charging fees such as www.yardcarddirectory.com/ are updating often and keeping the Directory higher on the search engines. It is a good idea to be on as many Directories as possible & realize that if you pay a fee it will proably pay for itself with the first couple of rentals that come from it.

Even during tough financial times you must invest some money to make money. Business rarely just falls into your lap. Make some Goals for yourself, your family and your business! Goals will be the next blog!

"Doing business without advertising is like winking at a someone in the dark. YOU know what you are doing, but no one else does." Stewart Britt

Sincerely,

Marty Miller

CELL PHONE COURTESY BLOG

2010-03-09T12:13:00.000-07:00

"Do you Hear what I Hear?" By Marty Miller

This is from an article I wrote in 2002 that was printed in two business magazines. Because of the length of the article and the change in cell phone activity, I will only summarize and "tone down" some of the contents as cell phone useage is standard communication in 2010.
     Almost everyone has a cell phone these days and I am sure that we have all experienced an uncomfortable feeling when either our cell phone or someone else's goes off at an inappropriate time or place. What prompted me to write the article was during a business meeting with a captivating speaker, the ring of a cell phone could be heard at which time the "thoughts" of the speaker were interrupted, along with much scuffling through purses and briefcases of people trying to find if their phone was the offender. It was embarrassing for ALL of us and very rude to the Speaker.
    I remember a personal situation where I entered a bathroom and someone said "Hi, how are you?" Not seeing anyone right there, I thought out of courtesy I would answer and said "Fine, Thanks" at which time a person in a stall said "Just a moment"---"Lady I'm not talking to you". I was embarrassed, but "who woulda thunk it--in the bathroom stall?" At that time it seemed unusual, but now it seems to be the norm. Talk about "multi-tasking!"

Places that I find cell phones offensive (remember I am a bit old fashioned)
#1 Church I heard cell phones go off in 2 funerals---not good!
#2 Nice restaurants---people don't go to listen to someone else's loud cell phone conversation--step outside.
#3 Museums, Stores and places of business--unless you are in an aisle by yourself
#4 Sitting at a table with other people-- (ie., meeting, luncheon, out for a meal with friends or others) It looks like those we are with aren't as important as the person on the phone.
#5 DRIVING! It is scary how many people you see driving with a phone to their ear.

   There are Always exceptions--if someone is "on call" then they probably need to have their phone on vibrate and leave the area to talk when necessary.
SAFETY: Lack of courtesy is not the only problem when it comes to cell phone use. Many people give out personal information. In Portland, OR a woman talking over her cell phone while eating in a chain restaurant was talking about her upcoming vacation for the next week. An unscrupulous person nearby overheard the conversation, and followed the woman home. When she left for her vacation he burglarized her home. A neighbor took down the unfamiliar car's license number. The burglar came clean on how he knew she was not at home. Consider the information that others may overhear while we are absorbed in our phone call, giving out addresses, credit card and personal situations.

Communication is certainly not as much "face to face" anymore, but courtesy and safety should still be a consideration for each of us, even with the increasing use of changing technologies.

"Real Integrity is doing the right thing, knowing that nobody's going to know whether you did it or not."

Have a Great week!

Marty Miller , writer, artist, business owner   www.yardcarddirectory.com/
http://www.lawnexpressions.com/

ATTITUDE IN LIFE & IN BUSINESS

2010-02-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

As mentioned in 2/18 blog ATTITUDE has much to do with our success in life and business. We cannot change some of the circumstances, but we can change the way we think about them and how we react. Just having a good laugh with friends or family can boost your attitude. Sometimes forcing yourself to smile at others,when you really don't feel like it, can also change your mood.
                                      "Laughter is an instant vacation".
We are in some difficult times for many and businesses are suffering. Start something new like an Advisory Board 12/31. Add something to your business that you think will help the business. Don't wait for things to happen, make them happen!

ATTITUDE by Charles Swindoll ( thought this was a nice piece)
"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude to me is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company....a church...a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past...we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it."

"Your outcome has much to do with your attitude"
                              Please make comments! See you in March!

Sincerely,

Marty Miller, http://www.lawnexpressions.com/      http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

Start a Yard Card Business

2010-02-18T17:17:00.000-07:00

Spring is a popular time for Yard Cards & Lawn Displays, particularily in the States that have had snow, cold and storms during the winter months. People want to do fun, happy things & spring brings out the best in attitudes. I have found that Mother's Day and Graduation are great times for renting signs and displays. Even with the tight economy, people want to celebrate.

If you wish to Start a Lawn Display Business, start looking into some of the various ones that are for Sale. There are companies that provide Kits to make your own signs, ones that are pre-made for you or ones you can design yourself. Make sure you have a Manual to help you get started. Research different types of displays and businesses before making a decision.
Websites I would recommend are www.entrepreneur.com/bizopportunities/categories/svcyard.html or www.yardcards-business.com/

"When Spring is dancing among the hills, one should not stay in a little dark corner" Kahlil Gibran

Marty Miller, http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ www.lawnexpressions.com/

CREATING A NEW WEBSITE

2010-02-13T17:15:00.000-07:00

While perusing the internet a few days ago, I came across a website with U-Tube videos and easy to follow instructions on many topics. Lisa has topics such as; Website Creation Steps, Registering Domains, Adding AdSense, Blogging and several tutorials and U-tube video instructions. http://www.2createawebsite.com/ is the website and the many topics are listed on the left. Her videos are fun, informative and very useful for newbies building websites, along with the more experienced webmaster.

Let me know what you think about this recommended website. I am trying very hard to find things that would be interesting to anyone in business, starting a business or in the targeted Yard Cards and Lawn Display business.

"Hard Work is the Yeast that Raises the Dough."

Sincerely,

Marty Miller, Entrepreneur, Artist, Writer http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ http://www.lawnexpressions.com/

LAWN DISPLAY COMPANIES UNITE

2010-01-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

LAWN DISPLAY COMPANIES UNITE

With 2009 behind us, it is time to start fresh by sharing our ideas, our Accomplishments, Goals and Challenges. * (1/13/10 post) * ( Dated posts relate to the previous subject matter).

We all have thoughts and ideas to share and staying inspired and challenged is part of any business. If you are not in an organization or do not have an Advisory Board *(12/31/09 post) it is imperative that you watch not only the Yard Card and Lawn Display industry and what is current; but you also need to keep a pulse on business in general.

Competition may put fire in your belly, but Collaboration will work far better in business. *(11/14/09 post) Get to know other companies in your area. Let us all collaborate *(11/11/09) by sharing and caring about what others are doing in business and what avenues are being used by the consumer to find those of us in this business, like Directories. *(12/2/09 post) Other Special Occasion companies like Flower Shops, Party Stores & Baby Stores are often willing to refer your business if you can refer them when someone needs their services.

Please Join-in with comments and become a follower of this Blog. You may contribute by emailing us.
Your contribution is appreciated!
“When you help someone up a hill, you’re that much nearer the top yourself”

Marty Miller, Yard Card Business Owner, Artist & Writer
http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcardirectory.com/

LAWN DISPLAYS---SAY IT WITH A SIGN

2010-01-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

SPECIAL OCCASION CARDS for YARDS

It is so much fun for someone to get up in the morning, look out their window and see a large sign in their yard or a grouping of flamingos, hearts, smilies, penguins or other yard decor. It is also wonderful for a new mom to come home with her newborn to find a Stork in her Yard with her Baby's name and maybe other display items, such as baby bottles. Some companies add balloons, banners or other baby or celebration items.

There are companies across the United States & Canada who provide this service and deliver and set-up your display either during the late evening or early morning. To find some of these companies quickly--type in something in the Goggle search box like "Yard Cards" and add the State in which you need delivery. There are many Directories which list many States and may include Canada. Think of this Special Occasion Industry along with flowers, candy and balloons. It provides a unique and special option for consumers.

"The course of human history is determined, not by what happens in the skies, but by what takes place in our hearts" Sir Arthur Keith Don't forget Valentines Day!

Thinking about starting a Yard Card Business? Watch for future posts. See previous posts about "business in general".

Marty Miller CO
http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

Yard Card and Lawn Display Company Comments

2010-01-18T11:53:00.000-07:00

Card in-the Yard said...

After being in the Yard Card business for over 18 years you would think that we have it all figured out. No.

It's a constant challenge, especially with the state of the economy. Staying focused gets difficult sometimes when times are slow and the weather is so bad.

My strength and motivation comes everyday after morning prayer. Dedicating a few moments to being thankful for the blessings that we do have does wonders.

Dawn Coolahan
http://www.cardintheyard.com/

Dawn is a Member of www.yardcarddirectory.com/

Yard Card Company Canada

2010-01-14T16:05:00.000-07:00

The following is a posting by a Birthday Lawn Card Company in Canada who has been on www.yardcarddirectory.com/ for several years and services Alberta, Edmonton and surrounding areas.

In my opinion life is quality when you take time to worship, take time to spend with your family, take time to work and take time to rest. This to me is a fulfilling life. I believe everyone deserves to have a well balanced and quality life. I wish for everyone to have a quality life for 2010 onwards. Gary with Birthday Lawn Cards.
http://lawn-cards.com/

*****************
On this day our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Haiti after the devastating earthquake.
Countries all over the world are there to assist, but so much is broken--lives, hearts, families, homes and buildings. These kind of events leave us feeling helpless.

Even with this harsh, blustery weather that many of the States have endured this past month or more, we are still very fortunate to be where we are.

"The harshest winter finds an invincible summer in us."

Marty Miller www.lawnexpressions.com/
Colorado

ACCOMPLISHMENTS, CHALLENGES & GOALS IN BUSINESS

2010-01-13T17:58:00.000-07:00

The following can help keep you "on task" for 2010 & increase and enhance your business & personal life.
If you are starting an Advisory Board for your business (refer to past post 12/31), each person can prepare this information prior to your Advisory Board Meetings. If you do not have an Advisory Board, this process is helpful to do weekly and/or monthly to see your business progress.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS -- Write down your accomplishments for the previous month. ie-rentals, sales, new brochure, a good business contact, whatever you feel made your month better. Brag some! It can be something that has improved or added to your business or something that has added to your personal life.
CHALLENGES: --write down things that became a challenge for you during your previous month. ie. weather, a difficult customer, something you need help figuring out like a new idea or concept. Maybe ity is problems with children, another business or YOU just not keeping on task. Admit your shortcomings and work on them and share your challenges---others can give you some help & support. You would be amazed at how others will brainstorm for you. That is how www.yardcarddirectory.com was initiated--through advice from my Adivsory Board partners.
GOALS: These should be specific, attainable goals for the upcoming week, month or quarter. It is best if your group can meet once a month. Again if you are doing this "on your own", designate a particular time to do this weekly and/or monthly to help you assess your business strategies.

Sometimes it is good to also work on personal goals; ie. spend 20 minutes each day with each child individually, spend 30 minutes reading, plan a date with your spouse or friend, etc.

If you are in the Yard Card Business, pay attention to others in your industry. What are they doing that make them successful? What can I do to improve my bottom line? Am I a good business owner?
Do I respond to customers and other business owners' phone calls and emails promptly?

"Everyone is important and deserves your attention and respect" (author unknown)

The following website has some very good advice for business and on living life.

http://www.spiritualwealth.com/
Comments on these postings are appreciated!

Marty Miller, Business Owner, Artist, Writer

YARD CARDS/LAWN GREETING- 2010

2010-01-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

CELEBRATION LAWN DISPLAY BUSINESS 2010

Happy 2010 to all of you!

We have done a lot of postings on business, in general, since Oct. 2009.

Today Jan 1st, 2010, I am going to target Yard Card & Lawn Greeting businesses. It is such a Fun way to celebrate all special occasions. Lawn Cards, Yard Signs & Inflatables can be rented for New Babies, Adoptions, Birthdays, Graduations, Valentine's Day, Anniversaries, Trade Shows and just about any event you wish to celebrate.

A Yard Card or Lawn Display is such a good way to annouce your special occasion to your friends & neighbors. It is fun to rent for a friend for his/her special birthday or Stork for a new baby. Many companies have actual character figures, others have sign boards with various critters or smaller items in the yard. This gives the consumer the choice of a unique way to celebrate an occasion. Most companies deliver at night or early in the morning. The recipients get their memorable yard display when they get up in the morning!

Since the inception of www.lawnexpressions.com/ in 1990 we have watched people all over the US and Canada start Lawn Greeting businesses. I enjoy watching other companies grow and love to help & support all companies in this particular industry.

We started www.yardcarddirectory.com/ in 2003 and hope to get many more companies involved in as many on-line Directories as possible. If you are on this Directory you may write posts for this blog, which will help your company's internet visibility. Most consumers find it easier to find a product or service on the internet than to try to find it in a phonebook.

Hurray for FUN! Let us flourish in 2010! Please read some of the postings that might be helpful to you in any business endeavor. Comments are appreciated!

"You don't get any rewards out of this life unless you make an investment"

Best Regards for a Great Year!

Marty Miller--Business Owner, Artist, Writer

BUSINESS ADVISORY BOARDS

2009-12-31T16:35:00.000-07:00

ADVISORY BOARDS
An Advisory Board is a group of people (can be as small as 4) with diversified interests and opinions. The group can meet once a month or maybe every other month for about 2 hrs. ea. meeting. Each person has a chance to speak and should prepare something like the previous month's *Accomplishments, Challenges & Goals. *(these will be discussed in a future Post). A Moderator for each meeting can be chosen to manage the division of time.

BENEFITS:

Talking with others in business who can:
* be supportive
* give unbiased ideas & help
* share your successes & celebrate your accomplishments
* understand your strengths & weaknesses
* bring fresh, new ideas to the table
* give you socialization with others in business
* help expand your business & personal goals
* keep you updated on other businesses or New business ideas
* give YOU the opportunity to help others with your good ideas and support

The Group becomes your Business Family. You come back to your business energized and with a new perspective and creative ideas. I have been in a group for over 15 years and find it one of the cheapest, most helpful things I have done for ME and for my Yard Card business devolopment.

To set one up costs nothing unless you get speakers or go to dinner together.

Form a Group of dedicated people who will be honest with you about their business and yours. Donot make it larger than 8 people or time for each person will be limited. STAY on TRACK at the meetings and make it a commitment. Please comment if you need more help with this idea!

"The New Year lies before you like a spotless track of snow. Be careful how you tread it, for every track will show".

Marty Miller http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ www.lawnexpressions.com/

ORGANIZE YOUR BUSINESS for 2010

2009-12-29T17:55:00.000-07:00

ORGANIZE FOR THE NEW YEAR

* Clean out old files ----hard to do, not a fun job, but gratifying once you rid yourself of unneccsary papers & STUFF
* Update your database--very important
* Think of new ways to create business & NEW customers
* Thank your repeat customers--maybe for New Years or Valentines Day
* Inventory your products to see if you need to purchase new things, refresh them, or add new products or delete those that are not working for you.
* Start the year with a GOOD method of filing, not only for tax purposes, but for keeping you "on track".
* Get on new Yard Card Directories and improve your Internet visibility
* Join business clubs or Chamber of Commerce--great way to meet people and get your service known
* Refresh your website with new content & photos--put your STATE on the Home Page!
* Start an Advisory Board with 3-8 other business people so that you can share experiences, support each other. (more on Advisory Boards in future posts)

* Start the New Year with a positive attitude!

"Your outcome has much to do with your attitude."

Marty Miller www.yardcarddirectory.com/

DIRECTORIES (Lawn Displays) for Interent Visibility

2009-12-02T13:52:00.000-07:00

There are many new Celebration Yard Card/Display Directories on the Internet; some for specific companies & their products, and others more general. This gives you many choices as to where to place your listings. It is advisable to list on as many Directories as possible as that is often where the consumer will look to save time.

What Directories should you be on?
You can judge the criteria of each Directory by: What does it offer me? Is it a site easily found by search engine placement? Is it feasible in my advertising budget? How many rentals/sales do I need to pay for the listing? If it is less than 4 rentals/sales, than I would say it is a good deal. If you have no way to monitor which sites are bringing you business--ASK YOUR CUSTOMER. I send callers to a Directory almost every day, even if it is not my Directory www.yardcarddriectory.com/ People do searches using different search terms and I like to refer them to a Directory website that will be useful for them. The bottom line is visibility for your Business and accessibility for potential customers. Also, being on a popular Directory will give your personal website higher rankings in the serach engines. Put a link on your website to the Directory.

Marty Miller http://www.lawnexpressions.com/

THANKSGIVING DAY BLOG

2009-11-22T15:52:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with family and friends and share memories. As with many families, we always have each person at the table, including children, say something for which they are thankful.

An excellent website having to do with the origin of Thanksgiving, traditions, recipes, stories & jokes is http://www.thanksgiving-day.org/. Great website!

I would like to do a little "Turkey Talk" regarding turkey preparation. Although this has nothing to do with the Yard Card-Lawn Display Industry--cooking is another passion of mine.

Proper cooking of a turkey is imperative if you do not wish to spend the evening or the next day in the ER with food poisoning.

1. Cook a fresh turkey within 3 days.
2. Thaw a turkey in a refrigerator or for quicker thawing use a chest cooler with ice or frozen cold packs. (It should be started in the fridge about 4 days ahead of the day you wish to cook it and spend no more than 2 days in a COLD cooler.)
3. Do NOT thaw a turkey at room temp as bacteria will grow.
4. If you stuff your turkey, place an unpeeled apple in the opening rather than sewing it closed. The dressing will pick up a nice apple flavor and the apple will absorb extra grease. (APPLE NOT EDIBLE--altho' it WILL lookl like a baked apple, after removing from turkey)
5. I rub the turkey with mayonaise and salt and pepper it. After putting in a roasting pan, I tent the turkey with aluminum foil and place it in a 425 degree oven for 1/2-1 hr., depending on size of turkey. I then turn it down to 325 degrees for the duration.
6. I remove the foil about 1-2 hrs. before I think it is done. It will brown the skin.
6. DO NOT overcook or undercook a turkey. If it does not have a pop-up timer or meat thermometer, move the turkey leg back & forth to see if it is a little loose.
Then cut into the breast mid turkey--you do not want to see pink meat.
"We may give without loving, but we cannot love without giving." author unknown

Have a good Thankful Holiday! Marty Miller http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ Denver

BENEFITS & FEATURES of your Business

2009-11-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

BENEFITS and FEATURES of your Lawn Display Business

Make sure your website & marketing materials contain Benefits more than Features. What is the difference between benefits and features? Features are a description of your product-- (ie) 5-6 ft. colorful Yard Signs, Personalized message sign, 30-40 pink flamingos, many critters or props from which to choose.

Benefits would be-- what is the benefit to your customer in using your business? (ie) "Make a friend happy with a unique early morning surprise", "Let the whole neighborhood know of your Graduate's Big Day!”,“Surprise a new Mom with a Stork in the Yard” Announce the New Baby” “Celebrate that BIG birthday with a Yard Card”

People are more interested in the benefit to them & the recipient than a long description of your product. In the Celebration Lawn Greetings business, it is all about recognizing people!

"Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out"
Art Linkletter

Marty Miller http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

Work at Home Moms

2009-11-17T17:32:00.000-07:00

As a follow up on Jane's Blog (Phoenix Storks--Yard Cards) about working from home with young children, I am going to give you my favorite website that went on-line in 1995. It is http://www.hbwm.com/ . The website was one of the first, if not the first, to address the subject of Mom's working from home. As a Member of HBWM, I was able to have a featured article about my www.lawnexpressions.com Yard Card business which I had started in 1990. If you are a "Work at Home Mother", check out this website--it has really grown.

Marty Miller http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

MOMMY & YARD CARD BUSINESS BLOG

2009-11-15T11:15:00.000-07:00

Since I believe it is important to have others in this type of business blog about their situations in running a business, Jane Dixon of www.phoenixstorks.com has written about combining Motherhood and her Yard Display Business. She is a Member of www.yardcarddirectory.com/. THANKS Jane! Marty

As the owner of a Lawn Greeting business, and a mother of 3 small children, I often get asked how I run the business around my young family. That's the beauty of this business, you can choose to run it in a way that works for your situation.

For us, since my children are all under 7, and only 1 is in school full-time, we choose to do all of our deliveries and pickups during the evening and night hours. Stork and baby displays are put up with my husband's help after he comes home from work, and bringing all 3 kids with us in the Minivan. The surprise displays I do myself, in the middle of the night after the kids and my husband are asleep. I need to be back home by 4:00 am so that my husband can get to work on time, so on busy nights I may ask my sister to help with the setups.

Currently, we are comfortable with the amount of income the business is making at this time. Most of our customers find us through the web, either our website or one of the directories and of course we have alot of repeat clients. When our family is older, and all my kids are in school, I plan on ramping up the business with additional advertising and joint-venture partnerships with other local businesses that target the same markets I do.
Jane Dixon
http://www.phoenixstorks.com/

COMPETITION in BUSINESS--LAWN DISPLAYS

2009-11-14T16:20:00.000-07:00

COMPETITION: (Rivalry, match, contest) Good, healthy competition is good, as it makes us grow and get better at what we do. We need competition to make us stretch ourselves; also it is imperative for the economy and gives the consumer "choices".
However if we get stuck on always being competitive, it can be counterproductive. "Remember the banana--when it left the bunch, it got skinned."
Do be courteous about copying others' work or ideas without getting written permission. THERE IS PLENTY OF BUSINESS FOR ALL OF US!

Marty Miller http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/ http://www.lawnexpressions.com/

COLLABORATION in the Yard Display Industry

2009-11-11T11:45:00.000-07:00

COLLABORATION : (To work jointly with others) In most businesses, collaborating is very good. You can share ideas, benefit from each other's knowledge, increase the market knowledge of your product and gain more visibility. Many companies worry too much about having other companies in their area. I always liken it to the city corners that have 3-4 gas stations. Who in town has the most business? The businesses close together, so people have options.

In our particular business of Lawn Greetings; if consumers see a lot of signs or yard displays out there--it starts to imprint the idea in their minds for future celebrations. If people rarely see signs or displays then the concept does not become popular. With several companies in your area that makes each company "work smarter, not harder". We are each advertising for each other with consumer product knowledge just by having people see the idea in a yard. Also our ultimate goal is to service customers wanting this type of celebration recognition in their yard and if we cannot help them out, we can refer them to another company. I would welcome several more companies in my area so that I didn't have to work so hard to get the Yard Card idea known. There is plenty of business for everyone, especially when we all work together to help each other. (I don't mean giving away trade secrets or copyrighted materials--just visibility of the social expressions of signs and displays).
"Life is hard by the yard, but inch by inch, life's a cinch"

NEXT BLOG: COMPETITION Marty Miller http://www.lawnexpressions.com/
http://www.yardcardirectory.com/

NETWORKING YOUR BUSINESS

2009-11-07T12:17:00.000-07:00

NETWORKING:Since Networking is so important to ANY business, here are a few tips when going to a business meeting, luncheon or just an informal gathering.
Prepared by Marty Miller, past President of 2 large business organizations in the Denver Metro area, who has delivered presentations on this subject.
1. Arrive early--that gives you a chance to move around and talk with several people.
2. ALWAYS ask about the other person and repeat their name back to them such as "Susan, what you do sounds so interesting" It helps you remember the person's name by repeating it & gives a compliment.
3. If there are name tags--wear it on the right, so it seen when shaking hands.
4. Concentrate on one person at a time and wrap up conversation graciously, so you may move on to another.
5. Work on a "tag line" or "memory hook" which tells about your business in the fewest words, but has an impressive impact.
6. Drop a note or postcard to those you have met or make a quick phone call saying how nice it was to meet them.
7. Be consistent about attendance at the organizations you have chosen. Usually people must become well acquainted with you before they are interested in your product or service.
8. Always send Thank You postcards to customers and also to anyone who has given you a referral. Referrals can be thanked by email although receiving actual mail is nice.

In the Yard Card/Lawn Display Business we have less interaction with our customers, since most contact is done by phone. However a follow-up phone call, Thank You postcard or spending a few minutes with the customer on the phone is good customer service. This could make the difference in this customer using you for future special occasions.
"Wringing your hands only stops you from rolling up your sleeves". James Rollins
http://www.lawnexpressions.com/ http://www.yardcarddirectory.com/

History of Yard Cards & Lawn Displays

2009-10-28T11:57:00.000-06:00

History of Yard Cards & Lawn Displays

When I started business in 1990 there were just about 3 companies that could be found on the internet for this specialized, social expression industry. The first company that I was aware of was in the mid 1980's and it was a company that was started by 2 MI teachers with signs about 3-4 ft. tall. I found it in a feature article in a small newspaper. I thought "Wow, what a great idea." Then I started seeing a few Stork Sign Rental companies.

Since I had always had an interest in Parties & celebrating people's special events this seemed like something really fun, thus I started working on a business plan. (something we can discuss in future blogs).

I started renting with 5 signs in late 1990 and choose Valentine's Day, 1991 as my roll-out date. I knew I would remember that date and made sure I had some free publicity near Valentine's Day, 1991.

Now in 2009, there are many companies offering diversified options; including large 4-7 ft. signs, banners, A-Frames with messages, yards full of smaller flamingos, buzzards, cows and so many other items referred to as “Props”. This trend has caught on all across the United States and in Canada & the industry is growing.

Most of the companies offer their Rental Signs or Displays in certain areas as they are delivered either late in the evening or early morning for the “wake-up” surprise for the recipient. This type of social expression gives the consumer options to the more traditional flowers, balloons and candy.

The growing number of companies is a testimonial to the popularity of this type of celebration or special event recognition.

My hope, in future blogs, is to provide helpful information to those either in the business or those thinking of starting in this business. I would enjoy this being “interactive” with posts from other companies with ideas, helpful hints, ideas and links that would be helpful.

We will be touching on many other subjects in future blogs.

STAY TUNED!

"Your dreams come true when you act to turn them into realities"

(author unknown)

Marty Miller www.lawnexpressions.com/ www.yardcarddirectory.com/