A lot has changed since September 2008 when I started building my business. Back then I didn’t have my product fully figured out, and my vague launch plans were generic and “traditional”. I’ve spent the last few days thinking through my launch strategy, and it looks much different from my original approach.
Eco-fashion/eco-design blogs and twitter accounts have popped up left and right, so my publicity push will likely begin there. And although my products will primarily be sold online, my offline business development efforts will be focused on distribution in “green” and eco-friendly boutiques in SF, NYC, and Portland. And of course, I’ll experiment with a few traditional avenues like search marketing. I feel like my outreach plan is measurable and managable. Now I just need to figure out the boring logistics :). If anyone has any other ideas for (cost-effective) marketing or distribution, feel free to let me know. All suggestions are welcome.
Some good news: after last week I thought my manufacturer had abandoned me and scammed me out of a down payment, but it looks like he’s back from the dead now and says that the briefcases are on track to be finished this month, and the tote bags should be completed early Dec. I’m really hoping this production timing doesn’t slide: it’s already cutting it pretty close. If for some reason my manufacturer screws up and I can’t make the holiday season, please consider buying a loved one a bag to celebrate February’s Black History Month.