3 Ideas for Creating Impactful Direct Mail Visuals

Direct mail is a form of advertising and communication that has been used for years. Postcards, business cards, letters, flyers, magazines, coupons, and newsletters are all examples of direct mail, and the success rate for these forms of business advertising might be higher than you’d expect.

When done well, direct mail is a tangible, engaging way to interact with existing and potential customers. More than 70% of Gen X consumers believe physical mail is more personal than online digital communications and say they are more likely to read it than email.

So, how can you maximize your direct mail campaigns? One of the most important factors to consider is your pieces' aesthetic appeal and design. A powerful image will grab your viewer’s attention and make them more likely to read the rest of your message.

3 Ideas for Creating Impactful Direct Mail Visuals

With the right strategies, you can ensure your direct mail captures attention, conveys your message effectively, and drives engagement. Read on to learn how to make your direct mail visuals truly impactful.

1. Properly Place Your Images

The placement of images on your direct mail is crucial in ensuring that your recipient absorbs the rest of the information on the piece.

Which area of the design, or which specific words, do you want the viewer’s eye to be drawn to first? One psychological trick many graphic designers utilize is having the subject in the image (person) looking in the direction of, or even pointing to, the text to draw the reader’s eye in that direction.

Leave some white space around your images to avoid a cluttered or distracting layout. Allow the format of your mail piece (tri-fold brochure, postcard, etc.) to guide the placement of your images. Well-placed images will be much more striking and engaging for your viewers.

2. The Role of Color

When choosing the right images to include in your direct mail, don’t forget the importance of color!

While you may have already incorporated your signature company colors through the logo, header/footer, and font color, use images with the same color tones to create consistency and an even more compelling aesthetic appeal.

For instance, if people are in your chosen image, what color is their clothing? What color is the primary background of the photo? What feelings do those colors evoke, and how will that impact the overall message you’re portraying? Keep these considerations in mind when choosing the images for your direct mail.

3. Test the Effectiveness

Ultimately, the best way to know which images connect best with your customer base is by analyzing how they respond to different designs!

One way to do this is by conducting A/B testing, which involves sending two mail designs (each identical except for the image) to an equal number of people and then adding a URL or QR code that recipients can use to get more information. You'll see which image generated a higher response rate by tracking the number of people who utilized each code. This way, you can decide which pictures to include in future mail pieces and maximize your marketing budget.

Contact our Print It! today for high-impact, quality direct mail pieces and all your other printing needs! www.PrintitinColor.com 864-882-3609

A Quick Guide to Innovative Die-Cut Packaging Solutions

When it comes to the success of your company and the products you sell, packaging matters! 72% of Americans say that packaging design influences their decision to purchase a product, and 67% agree that the materials used in the packaging affect their decision.

For this reason, it’s essential that your packaging incorporates unique elements to stand out to customers. In fact, "64% of consumers will share a product on social media if it has unique and creative packaging,” which can enhance brand recognition.

One process that can elevate your printed products is die-cutting. Read on to learn more about this option, which can help you create consistent, precise, creative, and unique designs!

Essentials of Die-Cutting for Unique Packaging

Whether you're new to the concept or looking to enhance your understanding, this guide will cover three essentials of die-cutting.

1. What is Die-Cutting?

Die-cutting is a process commonly used in printing and packaging products across various industries.

At its simplest, die-cutting refers to using a die (a sharp-edged object resembling a cookie cutter in a specific shape) to cut out different designs on a raw material. Due to its precision and accuracy, this method is popular for creating product packaging.

You can set a die-cut machine to cut specific dimensions each time, quickly producing a large quantity. This precision and efficiency make it an excellent choice for producing commercial materials, such as labels or packaging, that look consistent and neat.

2. Types of Die-Cut Processes

There are multiple methods of die-cutting, each providing different outcomes depending on your project's needs. Some common types are:

• Blanking: Slices material from the outside edge to create flat, uniform pieces.


• Forming: Uses a curved surface to wrap your design around cylindrical parts of a package.


• Drawing: Feeds the material through the machine to be cut at a specific length, ideal for thin or long products.


• Broaching: Uses multiple rows of “teeth” to cut through thicker materials that traditional steel dies cannot.


• Coining: Punches tiny holes in the material by applying pressure and force.

In addition to these common types, there are also two primary die-cutting services:

• Flatbed/Steel Rule Die-Cutting: This method uses custom-made dies to create shapes on a flatbed-style press. It is best for thicker materials or smaller production volumes.


• Rotary Die-Cutting: This method uses cylindrical dies, ideal for producing larger quantities of products with flexible materials and ensuring high accuracy.

3. Tips for Creating Die-Cut Labels or Packages

Incorporating die-cutting into your packaging or labels is a great practice with many options and benefits. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when creating your designs:

• Include a bleed area that extends your artwork by at least 1/16" past the label's boundaries to prevent unintentional white spaces.


• Add an outline overlay mimicking the cut shape to your digital design file to ensure the edges of your design aren’t cut off or obscured after printing.


• Avoid acute angles or sharp corners in your design, as these can tear when the matrix is removed after die-cutting.


• Get creative! Experiment with new shapes and visuals to keep your packaging and labels visually appealing to customers.

Contact our company today for assistance creating high-quality die-cut printed products or for any of your other printing needs!

Maximizing Your Print Marketing Budget: 3 Tips for Small Businesses

Despite living in a digital age, printed marketing materials still hold a place of importance and lucrative return on investment. Your small business can still benefit exponentially from printed marketing, even on a conservative budget.

Consumers respond better to printed materials than digital ones and even prefer printed ones. According to Finance Online, 77% of consumers say that print marketing drives higher levels of brand recall. 

How to Maximize Your Print Marketing Budget as a Small Business

1. Grand Entrance Printing

Grab your next customer's attention with vivid and engaging print marketing materials. People are naturally drawn to exciting, well-marked areas. 

According to research done by FedEx, 76% of American consumers enter a store they have never visited before based on its signs. And 68% of American consumers have purchased a product or service because a sign caught their eye.

Ensure your entrance, store, event, and more are the best looking they can be with strategic and professional signage. Spark interest from nearby traffic and crowds with the following:

• Banners


• A-frame signs


• Window clings


• Floor graphics


• Large posters

2. Utilize Print Brochures

While the traditional brochure has its place and is classic with the trifold, consider deviating from the standard and play with the size, shape, paper, and fold to create something new and refreshing.

Think of your website as a novel and the brochure as a book review. Write your brochure with the intent of creating interest and a strong drive for the reader to look up your company website. Think of it as a breadcrumb trail that leaves the reader wanting more.

Small But Mighty:

• Though the brochure is a smaller-sized investment, it can pack a punch in information and graphics


• Share about your company’s latest promotions, sales, inventory, and upcoming events


• Highlight employees and business leaders within your company


• Showcase information about your website, including a tip that online offers a promotional discount. This will encourage readers to pivot from reading the brochure to logging onto your website.

3. Postcards

Postcards are perhaps the most cost-effective mailer option today. According to the DMA Response Rate Report (2018), direct mail outperforms all digital channels combined by 600%.

Compact in size, easily read, and with the cheapest cost in postage, postcards are a must-try for your small business marketing needs! Need we say more? Postcards are powerful because:

• High response rates: Postcards have the highest response rate of all direct mail formats because they are simple and don't require recipients to open an envelope.


• Non-intrusive: Mailing postcards is an established method for getting the word out in a non-intrusive way.

From grand entrance signage to brochures to postcards, these powerful but cost-effective print marketing strategies can bloom your small business.

Connect with our local print marketing experts today to begin creating one-of-a-kind materials for your thriving small business and making a significant economic impact.

Print Marketing Analytics: Measuring the Success of Your Campaigns

Traditional print marketing might seem outdated, but it remains a powerhouse in successful marketing campaigns.

Direct mail, brochures, and flyers effectively reach and engage target audiences.

But how can you measure the success of your print marketing efforts?

Print Marketing Analytics: Your Blueprint for Victory 

Why Measure Print Marketing Analytics?

Like any other form of marketing, measuring the success of your print campaigns is crucial. To truly maximize the impact of print materials, you need reliable metrics—this is where print marketing analytics shines.

Delve into the data to elevate your strategies!

Print marketing analytics involves collecting and analyzing data from various print efforts to assess effectiveness. Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) allows you to gain valuable insights into your campaigns, enabling data-driven decisions for future strategies.

It's hard to gauge if your print marketing is hitting the mark without proper measurement. Analytics help you identify what's working and what's not, permitting you to optimize your efforts for a better ROI. Embrace the power of data and transform your print marketing success!

Choosing the Right Metrics

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to assessing the success of print marketing campaigns. The metrics you track depend on your specific goals and objectives.

However, here are some common KPIs that can give you valuable insights:

• Response rate: This measures how many recipients responded to a call-to-action (CTA) in your print material. It indicates how well your message resonates with your target audience.


• Conversion rate: This metric tracks the number of responses that turned into actual conversions, such as sales or sign-ups. It helps determine how effective your print materials are at driving action.


• Cost per acquisition (CPA): This measures the cost of acquiring a new customer through your print marketing efforts. It can help you understand if the return on investment (ROI) is worth the price.


• Customer lifetime value (CLV): This metric calculates the predicted revenue a potential customer will generate throughout their relationship with your company. It can help determine if your print campaigns effectively reach and retain valuable customers.

Tracking and Analyzing Data

To effectively measure the success of your print campaigns, you need to have accurate data.

Here are some ways to track and analyze data for print marketing analytics:

• Unique URLs or QR codes: Including a unique URL or QR code in your print material can help you track responses and conversions.


• Coupon codes: If you offer discounts or promotions through your print marketing, unique coupon codes can help you track their success.


• Landing pages: By crafting dedicated landing pages for each print campaign, you can measure traffic and conversion rates specific to that campaign.

In addition to tracking data, it's important to analyze this information regularly. Look for patterns and trends to determine which strategies yield results and where improvements are needed.

The Benefits of Print Marketing Analytics

Utilizing print marketing analytics offers several benefits for businesses:

• Data-driven decision-making: Print marketing analytics allows you to make informed decisions based on measurable data rather than relying on assumptions or intuition.


• Cost-effectiveness: By tracking metrics such as CPA, you can determine the most efficient and cost-effective ways to reach and acquire customers through print marketing.


• Targeting and personalization: By tracking responses and conversions, you can better comprehend the preferences of your target audience and tailor your messaging accordingly.

Don't overlook the power of print in your overall marketing strategy. And with print marketing analytics, you can ensure that your efforts are effective and efficient. Contact us today to learn more about how print marketing analytics can benefit your business. Start measuring the success of your campaigns and see firsthand the impact it can have on your ROI.  

Creating Impactful Signage for Your Business

Establishing a strong visual presence is critical for distinguishing your brand.

Impactful signage emerges as a crucial element in this strategy. It serves multiple purposes; not only does it help guide customers directly to your doorstep, but it also functions as a powerful marketing instrument.

Well-designed signage can significantly enhance brand visibility and recognition by drawing in and captivating potential customers' attention.

Effective signage communicates your brand's identity and values at a glance, creating an immediate impression that can attract and retain customer interest. It's an investment that goes beyond mere directionality, acting as a silent salesperson who works around the clock to promote your business.

Consider the Importance of Impactful Signage

Imagine walking down a bustling street, your eyes darting from one storefront to the next.

What catches your attention most? The signage often calls out to you, inviting you into a story or experience beyond the doors, like the first handshake between a customer and your business.

It's more than a nameplate; it's the face of your brand, a silent ambassador that can leave a deep and lasting impression on potential customers.

A well-crafted sign does wonders. It whispers your brand's story, reflects its values, and showcases its personality, all without saying a word. This silent communication builds an invisible thread of trust and loyalty with your customers, even before they step foot inside. The promise of quality, service, and experience awaits them.

But let's delve a bit deeper.

Striking and memorable signage has a greater impact than just making a good first impression. It's a key player in driving foot traffic to your business, and the allure of your sign could sway your potential new customer base.

Why?

Because humans are visual creatures, they're drawn to beauty, to things that stand out and spark curiosity. An attractive, eye-catching sign acts like a magnet, pulling people closer and making them choose your doorway over an unmarked one.

Investing time, creativity, and thought into your signage can be a game-changer. It's not just about being seen; it's about being remembered, creating a feeling, and starting a relationship before exchanging a word.

Follow These Top Tips for Creating Impactful Signage

Keep it Simple

Your signage should be easy to read and understand.

Both consumers and businesses choose legibility as the most important characteristic of a sign. Use concise messaging and avoid cluttering the sign with too much information or graphics.

Be Consistent with Branding

Your signage should align with your brand's identity, using consistent colors, fonts, and logos. This approach helps to strengthen your brand's image and make it more recognizable to customers.

Choose the Right Location

The placement of your signage is crucial in ensuring maximum impact. Place it in a visible location where it can easily catch the attention of potential customers.

Use High-Quality Materials

Your signage reflects the quality of your business, so it's essential to use high-quality materials that can withstand inclement weather elements and maintain their appearance over time.

Make it Stand Out

Yours should stand out in a sea of signs. Use bold colors, unique shapes, or creative designs to make your signage eye-catching.

Keep it Relevant

Your signage should be relevant to your business and its offerings. For example, a bakery could use images of freshly baked goods on their sign to entice customers.

Keep it Legible

Your signage should be legible from a distance, so choose fonts and sizes that are easy to read. Employ contrasting colors to help the text pop.

Use Call-to-Actions

A strong call to action on your signage can encourage customers to take action, such as visiting your store or trying a new product.

Ready to make an impact with your business signage? Contact us and let our team help you create impactful and memorable signage to elevate your brand's visual presence. Let's stand out from the crowd together!

Using Social Media to Amplify Your Print Marketing Efforts

Social media is now an integral part of our daily lives. 

From sharing photos and updates with friends and family to promoting businesses and products, social media has revolutionized the way we connect and communicate with others, including how we consume information and make purchasing decisions.

Understanding the power of social media to amplify print marketing efforts is crucial to all business owners. Integrating these two marketing channels dramatically enhances the effectiveness of your overall marketing strategy.

Let's examine the unbeatable advantages of traditional print marketing and see how it can complement social media! 

Unlocking the Power of Print Marketing

Imagine holding a sleek flyer, a vibrant brochure, or a professional business card. That's the magic of print media - it's tangible and memorable and forges a strong emotional bond between the customer and the brand.

Print marketing isn't just about making an impression; it's about precision. It targets who and where you want, whether spreading the word in your local community with eye-catching posters or reaching out through carefully placed brochures. 

Younger generations actually find direct mail exciting and more personal than digital communications, the USPS 2020-2021 Generational Research Report found. Unlike digital ads that vanish with a click, print materials have a lasting presence in homes and offices, serving as a constant reminder of your brand.

Combining Print Marketing with Social Media for Maximum Impact

The importance of print marketing is often underestimated, yet its advantages are clear. 

Let's explore how combining it with social media can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your print marketing campaigns.

Harness the Power of QR Codes

QR codes are a clever way to link the print and digital worlds.

Adding a QR code to flyers, posters, or business cards lets potential customers connect with your brand online. A quick scan can direct them to your social media or website, boosting engagement and making it more straightforward for them to discover what you offer.

Enhance Engagement with Contests

Social media is perfect for hosting contests.

Use your print materials to promote them, encouraging more social media followers and interaction to boost your visibility and encourage audience participation, offering them a chance to win exciting prizes.

Extend Reach with Hashtags

Hashtags bridge your print and social media efforts.

Including relevant hashtags on print materials encourages your audience to share their brand experiences on social media. This practice builds community and makes tracking your campaign's engagement easier, helping you adjust strategies on the fly.

Display Your Creativity

Don't forget to showcase your print materials on social media.

Posting photos or videos of your well-designed brochures, business cards, or posters shows off your creativity and shares your print marketing with a broader online audience. This approach tells a fuller story of your brand and values, inviting followers to engage with the tangible side of your business.

By creatively integrating print marketing with your social media efforts, you can achieve a powerful synergy that elevates your brand's visibility, engagement, and overall impact. 

Remember, it's not just about choosing between digital and print; it's about leveraging each to complement the other in this ever-evolving marketing landscape.

Tracking Triumphs 

Are you taking the plunge into the world of marketing? Remember, it's all about gauging the impact of your print and social media blitz! 

Get creative—think unique QR codes or catchy hashtags for each print piece. Monitor how your social channels drive clicks and buzz, and crunch those sales numbers before and after the marketing master plan. 

Ready to take your marketing strategy to the next level? Contact us for a free consultation, and let's work together to amplify your brand through the powerful combination of print and social media. 

Spark Summer Sales with Creative July Marketing

When school is out, baseball is on, and summer parties abound, you know it's July.

This vibrant month, a favorite of sunshine enthusiasts, marks the peak of summer. With spring storms behind us and vacations and beaches beckoning, there are countless reasons to celebrate. With its 31 beautiful days, July offers many marketing opportunities for your business, including using direct mail to reach out to your audience in a tangible, personal way.

Plan your summer sales and print marketing promotions now with these fun and engaging ideas, and you can start the month with a bang. 

4 Imaginative Marketing Ideas for July

1. Run July 4th Promotions

Tap into the patriotic spirit with themed red, white, and blue campaigns. Offer discounts or special deals tied to Independence Day. Consider slogans like:

• "Let Savings Ring!"


• "Celebrate America's Birthday with $17.76 Off ________"


• "Start the 4th with a Blast!"


• "Land of the Free Savings: Complimentary ____ with Purchase of _____"


• "Explosive Fun for the Whole Family!"

People love this holiday, so run patriotic promotions featuring red/white/blue collections, America-themed packaging (like this cheerful Pringles can), or direct mail highlighting Independence Day events or promotions.

Other ideas include an online "Test Your American History IQ" quiz, linking each fun fact to a specific promotion, and running a "4 Days to the 4th" contest with valuable daily prizes from June 30th to July 3rd.

2. Food-Based Themes

July is Ice Cream Month and Grilling Month, and it features unique days like "Pick Blueberries Day" on July 10th and "National Avocado Day" on July 31st.

Incorporate food into your promotions to evoke joy and community. Consider campaigns tied to backyard barbecues, vibrant food graphics on postcards, or a "mom’s/dad’s best" recipe competition on social media.

3. Christmas in July

Christmas brings great joy, so why wouldn’t we replicate it in summer?

Christmas in July is a July 25th celebration aiming to get the public in the “Christmas spirit” during the northern hemisphere’s summer. To boost summer sales, create marketing campaigns around Christmas-themed activities, entertainment, or "12 Days of Savings" promos.

4. Celebrate "Everybody Deserves a Massage" Week

Recognize "Everybody Deserves a Massage Week" from  July 4th to 14th by promoting self-care and indulgence. Even if your business doesn't offer massages, you can tie into the theme with concepts like self-care splurge coupons or wellness pampering packages. Consider slogans like:

• "Life is Hard. Let Us Take Care of the Knots."


• "Refresh Your Body, Revitalize Your Soul."


• "Spoil Yourself with _______ During Our July 4-14th Special."

July is a month worth celebrating, from picnics and parades to fireworks and sunsets. For all your print marketing needs, contact us to create eye-catching materials that will make your brand shine bright all month!