Know-How Exchange : Advertising/PR

I do some work for a gift show that sells these. I would save your money at this point and go visit the local gift shops and ask if they already have this kind of gift-cake.

See if you can find out how many they are selling and what kind of margin they have.

Visit the gift show at The Merchandise Mart (in Chicago) or whatever is your closest big city. I've been to them in Atlanta, St Louis and Kansas City.

Also, I'm not a big fan of mailing. But since you're out and about, a large postcard as a leave-behind is nice

Michael

The problem with a single postcard mailing is that the recipients are unlikely to suddenly think, "That's just the gift I'm looking for!" Since you're offering something best tied in to certain life events, target the organizations that people go to first: baby stores, party stores, florists, etc. Work with your local organizations to start with. If you don't already have a website, create one. That'll help people looking for these gifts as well.

Yeah, unfortunately it will cost you something, regardless what your efforts are. The reality is you want what ever you spend to be the most effective and grant you the max or best return. I agree with Phil and Jay.
Here are some questions to think about:
1. How long have you been doing this...
2. Who have you sold to...
3. Who has shown interest in such a product/item...
4. Have you considered a website...
5. Can you take part in local trade/industry shows ie. for hand-made novelty and gift items...
6. Are your items packaged in a way that is so different and intriguing
7. Do you have a client email list - maybe do an e-marketing campaign (if you have a list) with your latest creations or pricing....
I can continue, but I think this gives you a sense of how to think through how you can reach an interested audience in other ways. Sending 1 postcard won't cut it, I will tell you this very candidly. Direct mail in general takes more than just 1 mailing to even peek the interest of any recipient. Not to mention, if you don't have a website how does one see what you really have to offer. With the movement of technology there's so many more options to reach a target audience or a list of prospects.
Think it through and share more info on what you've done and or how you are selling your items.
Hope this helps.
csmith

I must add here that I agree with those who doubt the usage of postcards in this case.
It is one of the most expensive marketing tools.
If you have no money, don't go there.
The design cost is the smallest amount you will spend.
Add to it:
Printing,Mailing list, Postage and you can easily find yourself spending thousands of dollars.
And I still don't know where you are and who your target audience is...

Hi, info

First, you have to come up with a great design.

I would come up with a great design and do very professional shots of your "cakes". Images have to be impeccable and very clear.

Secondly, I would pick a very memorable name, for instance, Likeable Arrangements. It's just an example. Something (like Edible Arrangements) that will be remembered immediately and associated with this and only this type of gift arrangement.

Third advise - to make an irresistible offer. If you have not read this book (Irresistible Offer), I suggest you read it. It's the kind of offer which is hard to refuse. For example, completion in one day. If we are late, you get it for free. Something like that. Or free shipping. You do your math - what offer will be good enough and cost you less.

And, last, but not least (may be should have been the first) carefully mind your target audience. Create a few types of cards with different messages for different audiences, and distribute them wisely.

Whatever happens -
Good luck!
Natasha Chernyavskaya
Artographica
Los Angeles, CA