Archive for September 2009

 
 

Using Wall Decals to Spruce Up Your Home

We’re all trying to save a little money where ever we can. Stretching that dollar as far as possible and cutting back on some of those little luxuries has quickly become a way of life for many of us so products that help us achieve maximum impact with minimal financial requirement are becoming more and more popular. One of the most versatile and clever new products that fall into this category are wall decals. Such a simple idea that can save you hundreds on professional painters and still give you the high quality look that you’re after.

 

Because wall decals come in a variety of sizes, themes, patterns and colors, there really is something for every decor, and to give even more flexibility to your design ideas, most wall decals are removable and can often be reapplied multiple times. This feature gives you the ability to try out different looks, or correct any little mistakes made when putting the decals on. It also gives you the ability to update your walls as often as you chose with little cost! Whether you want to cover an entire accent wall with an intricate design, add some flare with a few specially chosen patterns or boarder or even cover your child’s entire room in planets and stars, wall decals can let you do it without having to commit to the design for longer than you’d like!

 

Decals can be purchased at almost any retailer that carries crafts or paints and they are certainly not just limited to wall applications. You can apply most decals on any flat surface including furniture, doors or windows, mailboxes, mirrors, or even appliances!

 

Tips for Application

 

Prior to purchase or application, there are a few simple things to keep in mind. Read the packaging! It’s important to make sure the decal will adhere to your chosen surface. Some are specially designed for glass while others work best on painted surfaces. Make sure the surface area has been cleaned and dried and is free of any major bumps or flaws that may affect the look of the finished application. It is also very important to ensure you purchase a removable decal if you intend to change your design regularly. There are permanent wall decals available and they will most certainly damage your wall if you try to remove something that is intended to be permanent.

 

Wall decals are a fun and inexpensive way to turn something old or dated into something new and exciting. Play with them and let your inner decorator shine through!

Trade Show Must Haves

Tradeshows are a great way for businesses to gain visibility. The tradeshow environment allows you to sell your products or services by spending one-on-one face time with potential customers. It is also an excellent way to create network connections and give your business ‘a face’.

 

If you’ve ever been to a tradeshow or seen pictures of tradeshow displays, you’ve seen a banner. But there are plenty of ways to get your businesses name out there at a tradeshow. Whether you need information on how to successfully set up your first tradeshow, or are looking for fresh ideas to liven up your current exhibit, the top ‘tradeshow must-haves’ listed below gives an idea of where you should start.

 

Tradeshow displays are essential. They become the focal point of your product and serve to attract customers to you. You might be able to win every customer you speak with, but without tradeshow displays, they might not come to you. Make sure you have appealing, visible and eye-catching displays in your booth. They should advertise your company’s name and products or services in an appealing way. Once they’ve attracted visitors, it’s your turn to make the sale.

 

A banner will set you apart. Most tradeshow booths look the same. It might be easy for visitors to overlook your booth and walk over to the next one. Banners serve to attract, offer pertinent information at a glance, and make your booth look professional and appealing. Depending on the size and location of your booth, you may choose a smaller or larger banner. Whatever you choose to display, remember to keep it simple, clear and uncluttered.

 

Keep your business cards close at hand. There’s nothing worse than losing a client for lack of contact information. You might also be surprised at how many people call your business months after the exhibition, having remembered your card when the need for your service or product arose. Bring plenty of business cards, and make sure they clearly display your business, name, product or service and contact information.

 

Promotional items are very popular. They also serve to advertise your business and get your name displayed in many locations. If your promotional items are appealing to the eye and/or useful in everyday life, you have a better chance of promoting outside the tradeshow. Mugs, paper pads, pens and magnets are very good items to hand out. They most often end up in the office or at home, where more potential customers will see them.

 

These are some of the top tools you should bring to any tradeshow, especially when designing your trade show displays. Along with knowledgeable staff and a well prepared sales pitch, they should help make your exhibit a success.