Posted by Tara Reed on Mar 6, 2010 in
Art Licensing "The Trade Shows are Coming! The Trade Shows are Coming!" This time of year I feel like part chicken-with-my-head-cut-off running about the studio and part Paul Revere - making sure I remember to get all the bits and pieces ready for the show. If you are or have ever exhibited at a trade show, I'm sure you know what I'm talking about and are nodding your head in agreement as you read this!
My final check has been mailed and cashed. So my bank account will recover from that before the NYC hotel and food bills are added to the credit card.
Here's what is next on my list to get ready to exhibit:
- confirm hotel and flight reservations.
- Evaluate portfolio and decide what, if any, new art I want to create between now and the show.
- Start to plan the art for my booth walls.
- Order any promotional supplies, banners, etc. Always leave time in case of error, loss in shipping, etc.
- Review and update my website so I am putting my best virtual foot forward.
- Be nice to my sister so she continues to help me each year in my booth... (I really do that but I added it to the list to see if you were still paying attention... )
I keep a calendar handy with due dates for different activities so I don't forget important pieces of the plan. The day before I travel is a "me" day... I plan to do whatever I want and not spend it frantically finishing art and packing. I like to leave rested and rejuvenated - ready for some of the most important days for my business and certainly the biggest investment days of the year!
Each year gets easier. Less frantic, less angst, less stress. I have it down to a system that is modified if need be or worked if nothing is broken or in need of improvement.
Wishing you productive planning months if you are exhibiting at a show.
– Tara Reed
P
.S. If you are and want some help - don't forget about the eBook & Teleseminar replay available - at www.ArtLicensingInfo.com/tradeshows.html. Since I wrote and spoke them, I'll let Karen and Gina's testimonials speak to the value:
"How to Maximize Your Time and Investment in Trade Shows" is another wonderful & informative new e-book written by licensed artist, Tara Reed.
This is the perfect book if you’re an artist, illustrator, photographer or designer and are seeking the knowledge and practical steps in how to best utilize your time and money exhibiting in trade shows for the purpose of licensing your work. It’s also one of the most useful guides I’ve found in providing some of the best knowledge in step-by-step techniques in setting up at the trade shows, exhibiting and following up with manufacturers after the shows.
Tara’s hands on experience exhibiting for years at many of these trade shows, her marketing savvy and her proven track record with numerous licensing deals gives her the insight necessary to share her methods of success with those of us seeking the same and how to make the most of our investment.
A sample of the variety of topics included in Tara’s e-book include everything from deciding where to exhibit, information on the specific trade shows, portfolio basics - to one of my favorite topics – the “Elevator Speech”. Once you learn about this so called “Elevator Speech”, you’ll find you will absolutely need one too…especially if you plan to exhibit at any trade show and sell yourself as well as your work! In addition, you’ll discover informative quotes and tips from other successful licensed artists included throughout the book.
Tara’s clarity and straightforward approach, including a little humor, presents all of this in a way that makes it an interesting and enjoyable read.
With sincerity I believe this book will benefit anyone attempting success in the licensing industry using Tara’s practical strategies, as she shares the honest truth of all of the “ins and outs” of how to truly “MAXIMIZE YOUR TIME AND INVESTMENT IN TRADE SHOWS”.
Karen Embry, Artist,Designer & Author
KarenEmbry.com
"Tara, I can't tell you this enough, but I REALLY think you have found your true calling!
Yes, you are a very talented artist first of all, BUT....I just think that it's even more of a perfect fit for you in the coaching arena! Your personality, professionalism and social skills combine so well for this. And I really appreciate that you are speaking as a "down to earth" creative/marketing person, ....not just another unrelated, stuffy, professional as some coaches can be.
You are perfect for this and I thoroughly enjoyed the teleseminar last evening. You also have a great relationship with your sister and she's obviously a very valuable asset to your business. ( I am envious! )
With all of the in house experience that I have working with freelancers and the business, I wasn't sure that I would really get any new information from this seminar,...but sure enough, I did!!!! I am fairly new as a full-time freelancer, so all of your tactics and extra information that you gave was very, very helpful for me."
THANK YOU SO MUCH TARA, AND CHRISTINE!
- Gina L. Wilder (from an in-house Sr.Designer / Asst. Design Manager turned Freelance Artist )
Gina Linn Designs
www.simplylicensed.com
P.P.S. If you are unfamiliar with the shows, here are the links to learn more:
www.SURTEX.com,
www.LicensingExpo.com
Tags: Art Licensing, Gina Linn Designs, Karen Embry, Licensing Expo, SURTEX, Tara Reed, trade shows
Posted by Tara Reed on Dec 4, 2009 in
Art Licensing,
marketing It's that time of year again folks! I want to mount my virtual horse and ride through the cyber-streets shouting like Paul Revere, "The art licensing trade shows are coming! The art licensing trade shows are coming!"
SO... are you going?
Here's what is coming up and links to the sites:
Atlanta Gift Show - License & Design Section Jan. 8 - 12, 2010 Atlanta, GA
CHA - License & Design January 24 - 27, 2010 Anaheim, CA
SURTEX May 16 - 18, 2010 New York, NY
Licensing Expo June 8-10, 2010 Las Vegas, NV
All four of these shows are catering to artists who license their art, at different times, in different ways and different locations. Only you can decide which will be the best fit for you and your business.
I am sticking with SURTEX again this year (this will be my 6th year here, 7th year exhibiting anywhere) and as I sent off my second payment installment this week I reflected on how scary year 1 was.
I had no idea if what I was doing was the right thing to do. There weren't any blogs (that I'm aware of) to turn to for help. My friend and I just ponied up cash, took our best guess and jumped in.
Did I make back the money I spent from deals I got at that first show? Absolutely not. But I went into it with the intention to be committed to investing in exhibiting for at least 2-3 years before deciding if I'd continue or stop. (Obviously I've continued.)
I've learned a thing or two along the way...
Like, don't put so much on the walls of your booth that a person can't see the trees for the forest. Bigger is better. The goal of your walls is to get manufacturers to pause so you can strike up a conversation.
And don't eat or talk on your cell phone in your booth if at all possible. And if you HAVE to, duck and hide and eat quickly!
If you are exhibiting at a show and want to learn more detailed information to make your investment in exhibiting pay off, check out my eBook and the Trade Show Tactics teleseminar replay from a live call I did last year. The cost is minimal compared to the cost of a booth and travel - I'm told it's well worth every penny! But just like the shows, only you can decide if it is for you... CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Here's to a successful and low-stress show season!
– Tara
Tags: AmericasMart License & Design, Art Licensing, CHA Show, Licensing Expo, SURTEX, trade show tactics, trade shows
Posted by Tara Reed on Nov 5, 2009 in
Art Licensing,
marketing I have had several questions recently about advertising and in a recent tele-seminar with Paul Brent the question was asked again. With January trade shows quickly approaching and the spring and summer not far behind, I decided today was a great day to do a little post about it.
Websites
Paul answered that he has his website, which he considers advertising, and you should too. We've talked about it before but it bears repeating: it is essential to have some sort of online presence. Blog platforms have evolved so much that at times you aren't sure if you are on a website created from scratch or a well-designed blog. (And blogs are free or very low cost.)
A fellow artist recently made me aware of a site that is free for basic web design and then you can upgrade to a paid site if you want to add features like a private login area, video, audio, etc. I haven't tried but after looking at their information it looks pretty interesting. www.Weebly.com
Print Magazines
Paul also talked about how and why he advertises in Total Art Licensing and License's Art of Licensing magazines.
For beginners to the art licensing field he recommended the Artist Gallery section of Total Art Licensing in their Spring/Summer issue since that issue is distributed both at SURTEX and the Licensing Expo. They also have a Winter issue that is distributed at the Atlanta Gift Show and CHA, as well as the Spring Fair in Birmingham and a few other locations. (The Winter issue ad deadline is December 1st.)
I have done a Gallery ad every Spring since 2005 and do agree that it helps with art and brand awareness. I can't say people come to my booth at SURTEX, ad in hand saying, "Because of this ad alone we want to license your art." But they have mentioned seeing it and it creates an awareness of your name, logo, style, etc. The more people see it, the more 'legitimate' you will appear.
License magazine's Art of Licensing has two issues that cover the same period, one for SURTEX and one for the Licensing Expo. So and artist would have to pay for ads in two issues of License magazine to get the same exposure as one ad in Total Art Licensing. Besides the Artists' Gallery section, Paul recommends the front and back covers and the inside front cover as other preferable locations for an ad if your budget allowed for the expense. (Please note: you might have to fight Paul for these front and back cover spots since his art often graces those spots!)
If memory serves, I believe Art of Licensing started offering a lower cost gallery type ad last year but I can't find the info this minute - I've put a call in and will keep you posted.
Direct Mail
I also send out promotional postcards each fall and spring to put my art, name and information in front of people in a different way. You just never know what will catch someones attention so I feel it's good to 'mix it up' a bit.
That's our recap on advertising for now. If you want to hear Paul talk about this and many other topics including trends, submitting art, keeping your art fresh and more, be sure to check out the audio replay available at www.ArtLicensingInfo.com/audio-archives.html
Here's to your creative success!
– Tara
P.S. If you will be exhibiting at the upcoming trade shows, don't forget about the industry specific information available at www.ArtLicensingInfo.com/tradeshows.html
disclosure: Paul Brent and I have no vested interest in telling you about these advertising opportunities, Weebly.com or the licensing shows.
Tags: advertising art, Art Licensing, Art of Licensing Magazine, Atlanta Gift Show, CHA Show, License! Global, Licensing Expo, Paul Brent, Spring Fair, SURTEX, Tara Reed, Total Art Licensing Magazine, Weebly.com
Posted by Tara Reed on Oct 23, 2009 in
Art Licensing This time of year often feels a bit like the famous ride of Paul Revere through the streets and countryside "The Red Coats are coming!" But for me, it's this ever growing louder voice of "The Trade Shows are coming!"
On the plane home from Las Vegas on Sunday, I started making my plans for some upcoming trade shows. I'm committed and signed up for SURTEX in May so I'm starting to make my art target wish list. (What new art I want to have to bring to the show.)
AmericasMart is in January. (Really EARLY in January - we'll practically still have New Year's champagne in our hands!) I'm not exhibiting but will be attending so I started a target wish list for that as well.
CHA is in the end of January - still deciding if I will be attending. It has a + / - list. Figuring out where to spend your $ is serious business!
And don't forget Licensing Expo in June - June may seem far, far away but I have a sneaky suspicion it will sneak right up on us! It will be in Las Vegas again this year...
Through Twitter, I found a blog post by "The Trade Show Guy" that had some good advice we could all consider. It's called, "23 Pre-Show Marketing Promotions, Tactics and Ideas" - CLICK HERE to see what he has to say.
Of course don't forget I created an eBook and there is a teleseminar replay available about "How to Maximize Your Time and Investment in Trade Shows" - specifically talking about how to do art licensing trade shows - which are a little different than your average show. You can get one or both of the products - CLICK HERE for all the details.
Regardless of whether you walk or exhibit at a show or how you prepare, I wish you much success in the coming year! It will be here before we know it!
– Tara
Tags: AmericasMart, Art Licensing, CHA, Licensing Expo, SURTEX, Tara Reed, trade shows
Posted by Tara Reed on May 26, 2009 in
Art Licensing,
inspiration You've heard it before but I think this bears repeating – ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING! The way you look at the world and filter experiences can make all the difference between a happy life and a life full of complaints.
My mom is famous for saying, "You better CHANGE your ATTITUDE!" (At least in the minds of her children she is – who knows exactly how many times she actually uttered those words...) I believe it was said with much attitude when we were trying to get away with teenager bad attitudes with her – let me tell you, that didn't fly.
Sometimes she would pull out an attitude speech when we were focusing on the negative side of things or having a little "poor-me party for one". Of course when you are having such a poor-me party, sometimes the eternal optimist isn't the most welcome guest but in the end, they are the best person to have around.
Over the weekend it really hit me that my mom truly does look at the positive side of things... no matter what. (This must be where I get my sunny disposition!) She spent Sunday in the ER (she's fine but can't eat strawberries anymore -- poor mom!). My brother and I were talking to her on Monday to see how she was and doing the usual "I'm sorry that happened. Spending the day in the ER must have been a bummer."
My mom said, "Oh no! It was a really nice facility. We were taken care of right away. I never got to have a CAT Scan before so that was really interesting. Everyone was great!" Her only complaint was that it was cold – apparently cool temps keep germs down and it is like an ice box so swine flu can't sweep through the place.
Most people would have been upset, freaked out, unhappy or some other combination of negative emotions after what she went through. Her big regret is that she can no longer fill her smoothies and salads with strawberries but she was still quite upbeat. Go mom!
Are you wondering what my point is yet?
Yes, the economy could be better. Yes, SURTEX and the Stationery Shows were smaller than last year. Yes, Licensing Expo has moved to Las Vegas. Yes, there is competition to license your art.
BUT... there were lots of great companies looking for art at SURTEX. I'll let you know about Licensing Expo - I'm going to check it out on the 2nd. There is always competition.
How are you going to choose to look at things? If you constantly worry and expect the worst, guess what, I believe that is what you will see. Focus on good things, you will find them.
Focus on what you want to accomplish and keep plugging away... you can do it! Consider this an attitude adjustment if you are in need. Otherwise, a friendly reminder to check you mood compass every so often.
Here's to your creative success!
– Tara
P.S. If you want some help with the "focus" side of things (aka - setting goals) - check out the teleseminar I'm holding on June 9th - The Goal Wheel for Artists.
Tags: Art Licensing, attitude, goals, Licensing Expo, SURTEX, Tara Reed
Posted by Tara Reed on Apr 26, 2009 in
Art Licensing,
Misc. Business Tips 
When you go to or exhibit at a trade show, you usually get a badge in one of those flimsy plastic holders with the skinny elastic string. Sometimes an exhibitor or two will be giving away nicer holders but then you are walking around looking like a big ad. (Smart on their part of course!)
I am a big fan of spending $3.99 at most office supply stores and buying a basic black ID Neck Pouch. Here are four reasons why:
- The strap is more comfortable.
- There is a zipper pouch on the back so you can safely hold some cash, a credit card or your hotel key.
- Many have a loop for you to hook your pen.
- In my opinion, it5 just looks more professional.
I have two holders and they have been serving me well for 6 years now. If I did my calculations right, I've used one of them at 18 shows and the other at 7 (the spare is used by my sister who helps me when I exhibit, that's why it is used less often.) I'm down to about 32¢ per show for they holders and I don't expect them to wear out anytime soon.
So invest $4, keep your stuff safe and look better. Just my opinion of course!
~ Tara
P.S. This was one of many tips covered in the "Trade Show Tactics Teleseminar" for artists exhibiting at art licensing trade shows. Even if you missed the live event, you can still get in on the learning – the recording is now available. So if you are exhibiting or bringing someone new to help in your booth – CLICK HERE to learn more.
Tags: AmericasMart, Art Licensing, CHA, Licensing Expo, PrintSource, SURTEX, Tara Reed, trade shows
Posted by Tara Reed on Apr 3, 2009 in
Art Licensing,
marketing Are you exhibiting at an upcoming Art Licensing Trade Show?
Do you have a booth at SURTEX in May or the Licensing Expo in June?
As the show approaches, are you getting nervous about being prepared, what to bring, what to show, what to say?
Exhibiting at an art licensing trade show is a huge investment in your business in money, time and effort. I have been successfully doing art licensing trade shows. More than 75% of my business is a direct result of meeting manufacturers at trade shows and those meetings have generated over $200,000 to date. After 6 years and exhibiting at 10 art licensing shows – I have some experience and pointers to share!
I will reveal my “Top 10 Trade Show Tactics”
on Tuesday, April 21st, at 5:30 pm PST / 8:30 pm EST.
If you are exhibiting, you should be listening.
- How to make your booth a manufacturer – magnet
- Why including licensed products or mock-ups can get you new business
- 5 tips for a low-stress setup
- How to make yourself stand out from all the other artists in the room
- How to look and sound confident, even if you are shaking in your boots!
- 3 key questions to ask anyone who stops at your booth
- 3 ways to keep track of leads during the show
- Why follow-up is 90% of the work and strategies to not let your leads slip through the cracks
- 5 trade show pitfalls and how to avoid them
- Tara's “3 P's of Success”
Click here to learn more... hope to talk to you soon!
~ Tara
P.S. In the words of artist Henri Matisse, "Creativity takes courage." to that I add: "and so does exhibiting at a trade show."
Tags: Art Licensing, Licensing Expo, SURTEX, teleseminar
