How do I get the word out there that I design and make children's special occassion dresses?

I design and make baptismal, christening and communion dresses. I can also make other special occasion dresses, like flower girl's, etc. Unfortunately, I am cluless when it comes to advertising myself. I don't have money to spend on traditional advertising, so I was wondering if anyone has any experience or ideas to share as to how I can start a business and get customers?

How do I get the word out there that I design and make children's special occassion dresses?
well, you just advertised it on Yahoo Answers! Also try ebay - ads in the paper. See if you can put a blurb whenever you make a dress like in the wedding program - flower girl dress made by _____. Word of mouth is always your best advertisement so tell your people that you have made dresses for to spread the word! Good luck.
Reply:Get a blog from blogger.com to start!! They are free and so easy to use and you can start advertising that way as well as linking with others who have online biz!
Reply:You can also place ads in school newsletters-usually free or inexpensive--Call schools or check their web pages. Maybe concentrate on Catholic grade schools in your area (for communions coming up in May).





For flower girl dresses, make appointments with small, high-end bridal shops, and show your best samples.





For baptismal and christening, again, try the high end children's shops.





Are there any shops or galleries that feature hand-made clothing in your area? ...you might put a few items there on consignment, to test the market.





Also, you can post on craigslist.com to spread the word about your business.





Good luck--Your new business looks like a good one!
Reply:I'm a former PR guy with two kids so take these ideas for what they're worth:


1) Share your experience with your friends. You may want to make an outfit (or two) for your very best friends. Word of mouth advertising and the outfit seen on another kid can get you business.





2) Post business cards at your local daycare, Gymboree and those sort of places- businesses that cater to kids. Don't forget your local YMCA, etc.





3) Participate in children shows or children fashion shows, if anything like that is organized in your neck of the woods. If you miss one, contact the organizers to ensure you'll have an entry in next year's event. Can't find any local shows like that? Organize one yourself or band together with others (maybe retailers) to do the same.





4) I would say pass this info along to clergy, but you probably won't get much luck there. Your best bet is probably referrals from folks who have used your services.
Reply:the only luck I had as such is with ebay.





I made up a website, and I got some hits, but my real sales came from putting up listings on ebay.





http://nemonautilus.com

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