Teach Soap

Ok - just under a week to the first Farmer's Market and I think I have everything under control! I spent the last 2 days labeling over 250 bars of soap. My DH came home yesterday and saw all the soap piled all over the kitchen counters and asks, "What are you doing?" well...DUH! Anyway he wants to know how much soap I think I need to take to the market. I reply "the ladies on the soap forum said I should take as much as I can." "oh...I thought you would take like 10 or 12 bars and be done."

I'll be working on my display this week; got my banner and business cards all printed. I'm going to have a sign-up sheet available for people to put their email addresses so they can be notified of new scents and special deals a few days before each market time. Does anyone else do this? I'm also thinking about offering a rewards card where if they buy X number of soaps, they can get a bar free or something like that. Do you think that's a good idea?

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

I prefer the buy 10, get 1 free punch cards - our local coffee shop does that. The only thing is that I would keep a recipe box with the punch cards alphabetized otherwise you might get people taking the cards and punching them out themselves and shorting you. It has been known to happen But a lot of people won't go to the trouble so its more personal preference. One way to combat it would be to buy a specially shaped punch from a craft store for your cards.

If you sell more than soap, you could always do a 10 punch, one punch for every 5 or 10 dollars they spend. Full 10 punches gets them 5 or 10 dollars off their next purchase.

Sounds like you have everything under control. Good luck on your market!

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Irena
Closed minds are like faulty parachutes; they refuse to open.

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

Sounds like you've been super busy getting ready for the Farmer's Market! I hope you have a great time and sell lots of soap!

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- Jenny -
My soapy blog:
Follow me on my

Thank you, jrose! I'm looking forward to it.

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

Be sure to bring snacks and water for yourself! I know that's usually the last thing I think of, and then half way through doing something I realize the error of my ways.

Linda, I like your idea of punch cards. I have a pocket in each of my purses reserved for them. Most of the time a business will either punch or stamp but most will also initial them as well. I suppose someone could copy your initials, but then that type of person would always find a way around what ever you decide on. The other option would be to have a reduced rate for a certain number of bars.
I wish you the best on your experience... looks like you are well prepared. And yes, your DH's comment on 10-12 bars made me smile!

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Susie
Sometimes A Mistake is so much fun, You just have to do it again!

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

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- Stacey -

Anyone's life truly consists of work, sunshine, exercise, soap, plenty of fresh air, and a happy contented spirit. - Lillie Langtry

Had a great time at the Farmer's Market today! There were about 15 vendors (and live music) since this was the kick-off market. My booth was next to another CP soapmaker, who will be there alternate weekends from me. I'm looking forward to next week!

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

Glad to hear that the market went well, Linda! I hope you have a great season!

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- Jenny -
My soapy blog:
Follow me on my

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Linda
I know the voices in my head aren't real, but they sure have some great ideas!

Questions: Did you sell very much? Did you learn anything? 2 soapmakers, is that because of the kickoff day? Not that you could not have two, but being right next to each other might not be the best. What was your favorite part of the experience. Since I do not sell I have to live the experience through you!

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Susie
Sometimes A Mistake is so much fun, You just have to do it again!