I recently completed a project I had been working on the last few months. It was a great opportunity to flex my photoshop skills and learn about the world of publishing – or shall we say digital print.
I had the pleasure of working with Donna Maria of Indie Business Network on a 32 page Holiday Gift Guide. It was a long haul and I probably did more wrong then I did right. I have many ideas about how to do things different next time, not only visually, but layout as well as the over all process. However, the end result turned out really nice, if I do say so myself.
Open publication – Free publishing – More aromatherapy
There are several reasons I wanted to share this particular project with my readers.
First, and most obvious this is a great way to deliver content to your clients in a digital format and skip the paper. You will see we linked every page to the advertisers website and social networks for a seamless, interactive shopping experience. This offers immediate gratification, if your readers like a product they can go straight to the source. How many times have you seen something in a magazine you LOVE, but by the time you get to a computer, it’s long forgotten? Problem solved!
Second, the products in the catalog are handmade goodness, many of them are natural and better for you, too! Some of them are from my own awesome clients like Naturally Good Soaps, Sweet & Woodsy & Kayla Fioravanti. This catalog is a great way to support small businesses while buying high quality products for your loved ones this holiday season.
Finally, if you own a small business that makes handmade products including but not limited to bath & body, jewelry, art and too much more to list them all, Indie Business Network is a valuable resource for you. Membership offers networking with other members in your line of business, coaching, insurance, events, twitter chats, and suppliers. This is a wonderful group, I have had the pleasure of working and connecting with many of them over the years.
I hope you enjoy the guide, please share it with your networks if you do, and help promote small business. I’d love to hear any constructive criticism you may have on how to make it even better next time!
Eco-Office Gals says
Always been great working with you too Donna! I look forward to many more fun projects!
Donna Maria Coles Johnson says
Such a pleasure to work with you, Jennifer. Thanks for sharing IBN’s 2012 Handmade Holiday Gift Guide!