Industry
Marketing and PR
Q: Should I work with a public relations firm to market my business?
A: While many designers do not, some find it beneficial to hire a professional, familiar with the media, to help you gain exposure through media placements and strategic events.
Sources to Learn More:
aboutpublicrelations.net
prfirms.org
The New Rules of Marketing and PR by David Meerman ScottQ: How do I market my business?
A: There is no one right answer for this question. Marketing is a very broad area, but it is crucial for your business. First, determine your target customer, what channel you will use to sell to your customer and what the identity of your brand or business looks like from the color to the font, style and what category your identity falls within. You should incorporate your identity into your lookbooks, line sheets, hangtags, website, press kit and anything else with your brand. While fashion shows and trunks shows are another way to market your line, you should not undertake these “events until you have all of your selling materials and brand identity in place.
Sources to Learn More:
fadmashion.com
sba.gov
score.org
The Fashion Designer Survival Guide by Mary GelharOnline Marketing Success Stories: Insider Secrets From the Experts Who Are Making Millions On the Internet Today by Rene Richards
Q: Should I hire someone to do my marketing?
A: Hiring a firm or individual that specializes in marketing can be beneficial in managing your time and gaining their expertise. However, this is an investment that you should plan into your budget, and interview several firms to make sure you find the right person that understands your business and is a fit for you.
Sources to Learn More:
sba.gov
score.org
The Fashion Designer Survival Guide by Mary GelharOnline Marketing Success Stories: Insider Secrets From the Experts Who Are Making Millions On the Internet Today by Rene Richards
Q: What are lookbooks and line sheets?
A: Lookbooks are “catalogues” produced by a designer each season displaying the lines they are selling to buyers or their customers. Line Sheets provide the details of each garment, color availability and suggest retail pricing among other details.