Logo Masterpiece

CafePress Holds a Patriotic Design Contest!

2008-06-17T13:41:00.000-07:00

CafePress has announced a design competition for their Shopkeepers using their new patent pending InfiniStitch(TM) embroidery process. The rules state that you can enter up to 5 times. Your design must be an American patriotic design in the spirit of 4th of July. You can read more of the rules here: Contest Rules

So, what is the prize? The grand prize is a $1,000 American Express* Gift Card. Second place will win a $100 CafePress Gift Certificate and third place is a $75 CafePress Gift Certificate.

In order to qualify you must place your design on the new military caps. The product description for these caps says:

This fun military cap has real charm (thanks in part to an unstructured design and a heavy enzyme pre-wash). Plus with modern touches like a Velcro closure and pre-curved bill, it also fits great. Made from a rugged chino twill fabric, count on years of use.

* Unstructured military-style cap
* Pre-curved bill and Velcro closure
* Chino twill fabric with heavy enzyme wash
* InfiniStitch(TM) embroidery

InfiniStitch(TM) Embroidery is a patent pending process that allows for infinite thread colors and increased image resolution over traditional embroidery. InfiniStitch(TM) Embroidered products accurately reproduce photographs, gradients, and highly detailed images. As in traditional embroidery dyed thread is used to create a long lasting and permanent InfiniStitch(TM) Embroidered product.

The following designs are my personal favorites and are not in any particular order. You can click on the hats to purchase your own!

America People of Many Colors Military Cap
I'll start off with my own entry into the contest. Show your American pride with this beautiful design that shows how diverse the United States is. A red, white and blue American flag has several smiley faces of different colors and races. I wanted to show in this design that, to me, America is about the diversity of all the beautiful and unique people. That is why our Independence is so important and why I celebrate the Fourth of July. © Ne' Metzger

America Est. 1776 (Eagle) Military Cap
This design is very pretty and the colors are not what you would expect for a patriotic design. I think they blend well with the green of the military cap. It follows the rules because the American patriotism theme is carried out by use of a bald eagle and the words America!. It is done in the spirit of Independence Day because of the subtle Est. 1776. My only concern is that the small text may not be easy to read when done as InfiniStitch(TM) embroidery.

Rock the Fourth Military Cap
The designer of this cap says "For everyone ready to Rock the Fourth, this design features a red, white, and blue electric guitar." I like this design because it is patriotic and cool at the same time. The electric guitar has the red, white and blue stars and stripes of the American flag and the text on it say "Rock the Fourth". This is a great cap for anyone in a rock band or going to a rock concert on the 4th of July or just to wear for fun. I think the design will print well.

We The People - Military Cap
This design has a beautiful bald eagle overlooking the Constitution of the United States that says We the People. The colors are very sharp and I think it will come out very nicely as an InfiniStitch(TM) product. I think this one is a real contender.

USA Freedom Dove Military Cap
The designer of this cap says "Patriotic USA military cap, perfect for Independence day and every day to show your patriotism! Features a white dove, US flag, and text reads "USA"!" I really love the beautiful blue and the dove. Well done design!

July 4th 1776 Military Cap
This design is very simple and in turn will most probably print very well. The 76 referring to July 2, 1776 when the Second Continental Congress declared our Independence and Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4th of that year.

View all the entries!
You can see all the entries to this design contest via the CafePress Marketplace

Affiliate Banners Now Available!

2008-04-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

I have just added several affiliate banners for my commercial use graphics sets. You can join our affiliate program by visiting our Affiliate Information page at LogoMasterpiece.com.

Here are a sample of some of the banners we now have available you to post on your website or blog.
Please, be sure to join the affiliate program in order to grab the correct links.

Spring Chat Transcript at CafePress

2008-04-09T17:40:00.001-07:00

[2008.04.09 19:00:42] Welcome to the CafePress Chat Room
[2008.04.09 19:00:42] Ne@1512BLVD has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:00:42] All users in this room have been allowed to talk
[2008.04.09 19:00:43] TexasFiddler: howdy
[2008.04.09 19:00:46] scarebaby has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:00:48] Kate @ LittleLizzy has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:00:58] BrittaCP: so who's the rotten egg?
[2008.04.09 19:01:01] Sag: Howdy!
[2008.04.09 19:01:03] matisse: HI!
[2008.04.09 19:01:03] NiftyGaloot has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:01:04] Kippy: hi ang, britta, everyone!
[2008.04.09 19:01:06] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Hi Everyone!
[2008.04.09 19:01:09] Dooni Designs: wasnt me!
[2008.04.09 19:01:13] matisse: not me I was first!
[2008.04.09 19:01:15] Oh Hai has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:01:21] ThE_RiPPeR has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:01:36] Karen has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:01:36] AngelaCP: happy spring to everyone
[2008.04.09 19:01:37] tshirtmaster has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:01:45] AngelaCP: though it's not feeling like spring in the bay area
[2008.04.09 19:01:47] AngelaCP: it's cold!
[2008.04.09 19:01:53] cyi: It's snowing here!
[2008.04.09 19:01:59] BrittaCP: Hi Everyone,
Thanks for hanging out with us this afternoon.
[2008.04.09 19:02:03] Carl: happy spring!
[2008.04.09 19:02:05] AngelaCP: eek! here I am complaining... it's just super windy here
[2008.04.09 19:02:11] preggoprincess has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:02:16] Sag: Got the windows opened here. Very warm.
[2008.04.09 19:02:24] BrittaCP: YEAH... BUT SUPER WINDY =SUPER COLD
[2008.04.09 19:02:24] AngelaCP: lucky you Sag!
[2008.04.09 19:02:28] BrittaCP: at least to me
[2008.04.09 19:02:30] matisse: 75 degrees here!
[2008.04.09 19:02:37] tshirtmaster: hello
[2008.04.09 19:02:40] AngelaCP: okay, definitely spring time for some of you
[2008.04.09 19:02:44] Kippy: I'm always cold, so I'll still whinge when it's sunny and warm
[2008.04.09 19:02:53] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:02:56] Ne@1512BLVD: 46 here
[2008.04.09 19:02:57] BrittaCP: me to... i'm only happy when it's 70 +
[2008.04.09 19:02:59] BrittaCP: ha
[2008.04.09 19:02:59] AngelaCP: brrrrrr
[2008.04.09 19:03:06] TexasFiddler: tornado watch in dfw area
[2008.04.09 19:03:13] AngelaCP: :(
[2008.04.09 19:03:14] The Shadow has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:03:23] AngelaCP: Okay, we're getting ready to start
[2008.04.09 19:03:24] BrittaCP: anyways.... today is a Shopkeeper Discussion and out Spring Sales… and what you can do to boost your sales this spring.
[2008.04.09 19:03:32] PhotoGirl has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:03:57] BrittaCP: Since this is a discussion, unlike our workshops, we want to hear your ideas about fun, interesting, and profitable things you can do.
[2008.04.09 19:04:22] BrittaCP: This will hopefully inspire some of you, and give you some good food for thought when return to working on your shop.
[2008.04.09 19:04:51] mordant has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:04:59] BrittaCP: Like all other chats though, this will be moderated. That means any comment you send will be put into a queue until reviewed and pushed out by a moderator.
[2008.04.09 19:05:53] Winter has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:05:58] BrittaCP: So what’s happening in spring that you can take a part of in your shop.
[2008.04.09 19:06:04] Kate @ LittleLizzy: I like the moderation. Otherwise it can get a little crazy!
[2008.04.09 19:06:07] BrittaCP: us too
[2008.04.09 19:06:43] BrittaCP: let's start with spring cleaning
[2008.04.09 19:06:55] Dooni Designs: FYI, I was featured on a cafepress email yesterday and sold 4 of the design since.. thanks CP
[2008.04.09 19:06:57] BrittaCP: congrats
[2008.04.09 19:07:04] FSG has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:07:15] matisse: ugh! working on that now!
[2008.04.09 19:07:36] BrittaCP: so i assume most of you have fully cleaned up from your holiday party?
[2008.04.09 19:07:37] AngelaCP: like spring cleaning your house... it's work now, but pay off later
[2008.04.09 19:07:48] BrittaCP: or cleaned up your shops since the holidays
[2008.04.09 19:07:52] AngelaCP: or from winter?
[2008.04.09 19:08:17] PhotoGirl: or Valentine's day
[2008.04.09 19:08:24] AngelaCP: Yes, or St Patrick's day
[2008.04.09 19:08:33] Cartwright has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:08:38] AngelaCP: We've seen shops with their V-day or St Patricks stuff right up front
[2008.04.09 19:08:46] Kippy: I think that's a year-round chore!
[2008.04.09 19:08:49] AngelaCP: Definitely
[2008.04.09 19:09:12] AngelaCP: if you're updating frequently, you probably don't need us to tell you about spring cleaning
[2008.04.09 19:09:25] Rowan has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:09:26] NiftyGaloot has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:09:30] Carl: I just finished a major shop redesign for spring - brighter colors, put short-sleeved apparel near the top, etc. I don't know if it'll help sales, but it sure made ME feel better. :)
[2008.04.09 19:09:32] AngelaCP: Though, there are a few things you can do that most seasoned SKs know all about.
[2008.04.09 19:09:54] BrittaCP: carl... that's totally the right direction to be in
[2008.04.09 19:10:34] AngelaCP: Definitely Carl. If you have your long sleeved shirts on top, move them down
[2008.04.09 19:11:04] AngelaCP: Just use the rearrange tool to do that.
[2008.04.09 19:11:07] BrittaCP: in addition to this... now is the time to think about running a "sale" on those winter items
[2008.04.09 19:11:24] chm has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:11:45] The Shadow: I keep wanting a shop redesign but my lack of time is limited... until I reach self employment is a few months
[2008.04.09 19:11:51] Cartwright: Oh man, I never thought about product placement (for seasonal purposes) inside each section...that's a chore!
[2008.04.09 19:12:12] AngelaCP: Yes, we don't have SK coupons yet... but you can still mark them down and advertise on your shop as a winter blow out or spring sale.
[2008.04.09 19:12:25] matisse: How about a bulk change season tool that moves the short sleaves and long sleaves by the relevant season!:)
[2008.04.09 19:12:31] AngelaCP: Not a bad idea...
[2008.04.09 19:12:34] BrittaCP: but it may be worth it... as the days start warming up... folkd will be looking more for t-shirts and tanks
[2008.04.09 19:12:40] Cassiopeia has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:12:49] Cartwright: awesome idea matisse...can they have that ready by the weekend?
[2008.04.09 19:13:09] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Matisse - that's such a good idea!
[2008.04.09 19:13:29] matisse: I am sure they will!^.^
[2008.04.09 19:13:38] AngelaCP has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:13:38] scarebaby: howdy doody!
[2008.04.09 19:13:38] TexasFiddler: 3rd in 6 days
[2008.04.09 19:13:38] matisse: a bi-polar spring!
[2008.04.09 19:13:38] Kippy: cpconnect would inspire us ;)
[2008.04.09 19:13:38] matisse: oh no!
[2008.04.09 19:13:38] The Shadow: I love the whirlwind of unmoderated...but I read fast...lol
[2008.04.09 19:13:38] FSG: Could CP please run a good sale soon!
[2008.04.09 19:13:39] FSG: A buy 3 get 1 shirt sale like you guys tried would be an awesome way to boost spring sales. Otherwise we just can't compete.
[2008.04.09 19:13:39] Karen: I see that you have featured odd holiday/months such as National frog month. Will we be seeing more of that sort of thing throughout the rest of the year?
[2008.04.09 19:13:39] The Shadow: SK coupons.. yet? is that a soon or later sort of thing?
[2008.04.09 19:13:42] AngelaCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:13:50] BrittaCP: has anyone here tried to do a sale in thier shop, before?
[2008.04.09 19:13:52] NiftyGaloot has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:14:00] AngelaCP: Oops,,, back in.
[2008.04.09 19:14:01] mousecrafter has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:14:43] Cartwright: I never did an in-store sale...most people never see my storefront it seems.
[2008.04.09 19:14:44] deb has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:14:57] mordant has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:14:59] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:15:02] Ne@1512BLVD: I had a sale just for other shopkeepers for one month
[2008.04.09 19:15:21] BrittaCP: Ne: would you like to share how you did... for those who may be curious?
[2008.04.09 19:15:40] mordant has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:15:46] PhotoGirl: Yes, but, I did not generate extra sales.
[2008.04.09 19:15:48] las65 has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:15:49] Kippy: I remember seeing that on the forum, Ne. How did that go?
[2008.04.09 19:15:55] Dooni Designs: same here cart.. most of my visitors go right to product pages from google/froogle
[2008.04.09 19:16:05] FSG: I have tried sales and it really doesn't seem to make a difference, however people just like to see that there is some kind of coupon or sale even if they don't use it.
[2008.04.09 19:16:14] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:16:16] mordant has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:16:29] Ne@1512BLVD: Yeah, you can make a special basic or section in a Premium and then mark it up just a little bit. I promoted it on the forums.
[2008.04.09 19:16:36] AngelaCP: sales is really more about generating interest and those that are price sensitive
[2008.04.09 19:16:49] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:16:55] Ne@1512BLVD: I sold one item, but the person came back and spent $100 on a commissioned graphic
[2008.04.09 19:17:09] deb: New to this - has anyone had any luck with their items for sale?
[2008.04.09 19:17:10] mordant has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:17:18] BrittaCP: nice... so with your sale you created some exposure
[2008.04.09 19:17:36] Carl: I offer sales constantly. My value Tees are sorted under the "discount" heading... along with the bulk products. CPshops makes it simple off-site. On-site at my cafepress shop, it can be a chore to go through and rearrange every section - but if you go into your browser advanced settings and disable the loading of images it goes MUCH faster.
[2008.04.09 19:17:45] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Wow!! Sounds like a return customer for the future too!
[2008.04.09 19:17:49] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:17:52] Ne@1512BLVD: yes
[2008.04.09 19:18:19] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:18:24] Cartwright: Nice Carl...do you freelance as personal CP advisor?
[2008.04.09 19:18:35] BrittaCP: crl can be found live onthe community forums ;)
[2008.04.09 19:18:42] Ne@1512BLVD: I plan on offering sales to customers once I get a good newsletter system going
[2008.04.09 19:18:44] Cartwright: I need an offsite store
[2008.04.09 19:18:47] AngelaCP: Using value tees as your "discount" section is a great idea
[2008.04.09 19:18:55] PhotoGirl: I have a special for newsletter readers only and chose 1 design to change price from Premium to the lowest price. In 7 months of doing that not one sale was made. Of course I only have 10 subscribers to newsletter.
[2008.04.09 19:18:56] AngelaCP: t-shirts for spring
[2008.04.09 19:20:15] deb: how would a new person get people to come to their basic site?
[2008.04.09 19:21:14] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:21:17] Ne@1512BLVD: Deb, create a blog and then link to all your basic stores
[2008.04.09 19:21:25] AngelaCP: So other than sales
[2008.04.09 19:21:35] AngelaCP: what have you guys done?
[2008.04.09 19:21:45] HG has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:21:51] deb has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:22:05] matisse: How long do you think it would take to move the short sleave t-shirts when you have over over 3,000 sections?:-(
[2008.04.09 19:22:11] AngelaCP: wow, 3000 sections?
[2008.04.09 19:22:13] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Deb, you could also send an email to your family & friends letting them know, and asking them to help spread the word
[2008.04.09 19:22:16] AngelaCP: okay, definitely not an easy task
[2008.04.09 19:22:25] Cartwright: haha...a couple minutes probably
[2008.04.09 19:22:26] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:22:30] Ne@1512BLVD: THis will be my first Spring where I actually have products and stuff. I started last year in March.
[2008.04.09 19:23:38] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:23:48] cyi: Highlight outdoor hobbies & other relevant things like graduation, mother's day, etc.
[2008.04.09 19:24:03] BrittaCP: yes... so there are lots of intersting things that are happening in the sprin
[2008.04.09 19:24:06] BrittaCP: *spring
[2008.04.09 19:24:25] matisse: gardening!
[2008.04.09 19:24:33] Sag: For starters, create designs for the beach, camping, fishing, summer sports etc and put them front and center.
[2008.04.09 19:24:48] NiftyGaloot: Gardening, Flowers blooming, trees getting leaves, green grass
[2008.04.09 19:24:55] AngelaCP: great idea sag
[2008.04.09 19:25:05] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:25:13] AngelaCP: themes associated with spring, and when you spring clean, you're also preparing for summer
[2008.04.09 19:25:21] BrittaCP: right... in a blink of an eye it will be summer
[2008.04.09 19:25:22] Ne@1512BLVD: This has been said in the past, but.... don't forget to take you Christmas decortations out of your shop...... When I started last March, I remember seeing a shop that was very heavily Christmas! lol
[2008.04.09 19:25:25] Sag: Then blog the heck out of them and get them into the social media sites.
[2008.04.09 19:25:53] matisse: If you move those sections, don't you break the links?
[2008.04.09 19:25:58] Kippy: I sell xmas stuff all year ;)
[2008.04.09 19:26:04] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:26:07] Ne@1512BLVD: not if you move them....
[2008.04.09 19:26:16] AngelaCP: Moving sections.. you retain the same URL
[2008.04.09 19:26:39] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:26:45] Sag: Then periodically run discounts on a themed set of designs that works well in the summer.
[2008.04.09 19:26:50] BrittaCP: if you're thinking about doing some spring cleaning in your shop... one thing you might want to look at is products that just don't sell as well and have been getting dusty
[2008.04.09 19:26:50] AngelaCP: You're on a roll sag :D
[2008.04.09 19:27:09] Ne@1512BLVD: Kippy, I meant promoting Christmas like Christmas colors, Christmas background... it was still up in that shop in March
[2008.04.09 19:27:18] BrittaCP: and the products that don't fit... meaning square images on round items... or adult humor on baby clothes
[2008.04.09 19:27:20] AngelaCP: correct, your shop should be festive for spring and summer, not past holidays
[2008.04.09 19:27:32] PhotoGirl: What if you hide the section? Does it keep the url?
[2008.04.09 19:27:37] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:27:42] NiftyGaloot: I don't recommend taking xmas stuff out of a shop... Just shove them off to a back corner somewhere.
[2008.04.09 19:27:45] AngelaCP: It does, but your stuff will not show up in the MP
[2008.04.09 19:27:54] Ne@1512BLVD: yes
[2008.04.09 19:28:04] matisse: I have been deleting them going on 2 weeks now ... still have not sold a "tracksuit"!
[2008.04.09 19:28:13] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:28:17] Ne@1512BLVD: Yeah, I keep my Christmas items up, but this shop had the website design still Christmas is what I am trying to say!
[2008.04.09 19:28:27] Sag: :-D Then invite people to submit stories about their favorite summer vacation and display associated designed t-shirts in the same blog, or social media site.
[2008.04.09 19:28:36] Cartwright: matisse, I heard it was a bad idea to delete products
[2008.04.09 19:28:48] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:28:53] Ne@1512BLVD: Oh, good idea Sag!
[2008.04.09 19:28:56] matisse: uh oh! too late!
[2008.04.09 19:29:06] Kippy: Just giving you a hard time, Ne :)
[2008.04.09 19:29:10] scarebaby has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:29:13] HG: Consider me a mental newbie, but if I have an UNhidden section within a HIDDEN section, will the products in the UNhidden section still show up in the MP?
[2008.04.09 19:29:22] AngelaCP has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] matisse: somebody is typing too fast again!
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] Cartwright: would love a 3 t-shirts 1 free deal...hint, hint
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] cyi: If there were better bulk price change tools I would try running sales.
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] The Shadow: i agree with FSG... we do need some good sales. I have noticed 15% coupons on some competitors... something like that would be great to have
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] matisse: are value tees still selling well?
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] Cartwright: Anyone see a recession impacting sales...anyone reducing prices (or considering it?)
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] NiftyGaloot: I like this one from FoxVox: http://www.cafepress.com/artoffoxvox.115796084
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] matisse: I have 5 stores!
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] las65: I focused on earth day & my designs have gotten lost in the what seems to be 1,000's of designs!
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] The Shadow: matisse... logn enough that it will be time to move them back in teh fall ;)
[2008.04.09 19:29:23] Ne@1512BLVD: It would be neat to have a bulk tool that would move all of one product into a section at once... of course I would use that with caution if they did have that tool...
[2008.04.09 19:29:24] Dooni Designs: this is my 5th cafepress'ed srping LOL
[2008.04.09 19:29:24] matisse: My tulips are just starting to bloom!
[2008.04.09 19:29:24] matisse: phew!
[2008.04.09 19:29:24] The Shadow: never delete... it hurts you and your affiliates
[2008.04.09 19:29:24] cyi: I sell lots of tracksuits to Ghana.
[2008.04.09 19:29:24] Cartwright: I heard that affiliates get angry
[2008.04.09 19:29:25] AngelaCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:29:28] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:29:33] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:29:51] AngelaCP: sorry everyone. Everytime I get kicked off, all the stuff in the mod queue burps out.
[2008.04.09 19:29:52] AngelaCP: :(
[2008.04.09 19:29:59] Ne@1512BLVD: I want to create a photo gallery, where people submit there photos of wearing my products.
[2008.04.09 19:30:01] Sag: Then run a Sizzling Summer Sale with rock bottom pricing for people who also sign up for your newsletter - which you can really use in the 4th quarter to your advantage.
[2008.04.09 19:30:03] The Shadow: well obviously we are moderated until Amgela gets booted
[2008.04.09 19:30:07] AngelaCP: LOL...yes
[2008.04.09 19:30:08] Dooni Designs: deleting can be bad.. especially if there are affiliates.. leave it to me though to accidentally delete a whole store with over 1000 designs.
[2008.04.09 19:30:33] AngelaCP: Deleting products aren't as bad with Affiliates.
[2008.04.09 19:30:42] matisse: I don't get much affilaite sales.
[2008.04.09 19:30:49] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:30:54] AngelaCP: Some may link directly to your product, but most will link to your shop or sections...
[2008.04.09 19:30:56] Cartwright: maybe that's why! haha
[2008.04.09 19:31:00] Ne@1512BLVD: My entire first 5-6 months was just wasted making mistake upon mistake
[2008.04.09 19:31:18] Cartwright: I think I'll trust Shadow when he says deleting = bad
[2008.04.09 19:31:22] AngelaCP: that said, there's a balance between marketing for affiliates or for your shop. Two different needs, two different requirements.
[2008.04.09 19:31:31] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:31:42] AngelaCP: You may have to do things that's good for your shop that may not be so good for affiliates and vice versa
[2008.04.09 19:31:49] AngelaCP: as long as you keep that in mind.
[2008.04.09 19:32:03] Sag: Heck, don't delete old worn out designs. Redesign them and refresh the SEO.:-D
[2008.04.09 19:32:05] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:32:05] AngelaCP: There you go Sag.
[2008.04.09 19:32:16] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Ne - it's a learning process for sure! I think we've all made mistakes along the way, especially when you just start out.
[2008.04.09 19:32:27] tshirtmaster has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:32:27] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:32:30] tshirtmaster has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:32:34] AngelaCP: It's definitely a learning process
[2008.04.09 19:32:46] Ne@1512BLVD: Sag, yeah, a lot of people do not think to just replace the image so to retain the link
[2008.04.09 19:32:52] AngelaCP: That's definitely possible.
[2008.04.09 19:33:08] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:33:34] AngelaCP: I was just suggesting to not hamper doing stuff for your shop because of how it may affect affiliates. I think some SKs are scolding for doing things that may affect affiliating... but it's right for them. It's okay.
[2008.04.09 19:33:52] matisse: Sag - that's exactly what I am doing - taking out old stuff and redoing new ones to replace.
[2008.04.09 19:33:55] Sag: Never lose ground, just re-capture it!:-D
[2008.04.09 19:33:55] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:34:05] Ne@1512BLVD: I had someone PM me for help and they told me they periodically deleted entire sections just to rearrange it! yikes
[2008.04.09 19:34:20] NiftyGaloot: But... If replacing and image, don't replace a G rated kids image with an R rated adult image!
[2008.04.09 19:34:38] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:34:51] mousecrafter: I will delete products for "Candidate Name 2008" if that candidate has withdrawn from the race
[2008.04.09 19:34:59] AngelaCP: Clean up is definitely necessary
[2008.04.09 19:35:09] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:35:15] AngelaCP: at the very least, hide sections until you can figure it out.
[2008.04.09 19:35:30] Ne@1512BLVD: I still sell candidate who is withdrawn
[2008.04.09 19:35:31] Cartwright: why, some people might want those products as collectables
[2008.04.09 19:35:38] Dooni Designs: HIDING is better than deleting
[2008.04.09 19:35:45] The Shadow: any page you have that has page rank ultimately gives your main page some rank.... every little bit helps. And if those pages are in the main Google index, you are better to keep them, since the size of the main Google index seems to be forcing more pages supplemental
[2008.04.09 19:35:51] AngelaCP: Yes, SEO
[2008.04.09 19:35:58] Cartwright: there is no upside in deleting, plain and simple
[2008.04.09 19:35:59] AngelaCP: Shadow is the SEO expert in the house :)
[2008.04.09 19:36:14] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:36:26] Ne@1512BLVD: I know that a lot of people get things mixed up, like the difference between importing and moving or hiding and deleting
[2008.04.09 19:36:35] The Shadow: takes bow
[2008.04.09 19:37:08] Karen has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:37:20] AngelaCP: Once we get cafepedia up and running, I'd love for you all to contribute with these tips. As you've mentioned, these tips were learned by the community.
[2008.04.09 19:37:22] BrittaCP: so... let's talk about spring events, leading up tot summer... the occassions and event that are happening, that may inspire a design or two... we've already had mention of Earth Day and Mother's day
[2008.04.09 19:37:32] AngelaCP: Why not start now? http://www.cafepedia.com/
[2008.04.09 19:37:42] Winter has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:37:45] BrittaCP: Earth Day: April 22
[2008.04.09 19:37:59] FSG has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:38:15] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Memorial Day, Graduations, Weddings
[2008.04.09 19:38:25] BrittaCP: yes... spring is definatly wedding season
[2008.04.09 19:38:30] mousecrafter: I did sell something last year relating to the 2000 election controversy in my political shop
[2008.04.09 19:38:46] AngelaCP: Election is hot for 2008... plain and simple. :)
[2008.04.09 19:39:04] BrittaCP: Prior to being a Community Superstar... i used to make cake toppers... and boy was April and May busy!
[2008.04.09 19:39:15] matisse: I don't see as much news coverage for Earth day as I saw last year. More coverage on the elections.
[2008.04.09 19:39:15] Winter has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:39:29] PhotoGirl: I sold a custom name wedding design last month .
[2008.04.09 19:39:38] Kate @ LittleLizzy: There seem to be a lot of baby showers happening now too
[2008.04.09 19:39:42] The Shadow: There is alot of traffic for eath day
[2008.04.09 19:39:46] AngelaCP: I think politics just took over this year
[2008.04.09 19:39:53] AngelaCP: but i have read a lot about being green. Green is the new black isn't it? ;)
[2008.04.09 19:40:06] AngelaCP: feature your totebags
[2008.04.09 19:40:10] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:40:14] BrittaCP: organic tees
[2008.04.09 19:40:18] Ne@1512BLVD: I started an Earth Day section, but I am having a hard time being creative on that topic.
[2008.04.09 19:40:20] AngelaCP: it doesn't have to have any green sayings, or earth day designs
[2008.04.09 19:40:23] Cartwright: I have a ton of green/earth day/tree hugger stuff but I have not seen a spike in sales
[2008.04.09 19:40:23] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:40:30] Dooni Designs: i threw up some quick go green animal designs in my goofkins.com shop and sold one the next day
[2008.04.09 19:40:35] AngelaCP: just using totebags in place of plastic is green.
[2008.04.09 19:40:36] Ne@1512BLVD: Angela, can I borow that> lol
[2008.04.09 19:40:47] Sag: There's also the unobvious events like class reunions, rodeo, racing, etc.
[2008.04.09 19:40:58] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:41:03] Ne@1512BLVD: I made a section just for my tote bags, so I am ahead of the game there!
[2008.04.09 19:41:05] Dooni Designs: graduations
[2008.04.09 19:41:14] Rowan has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:41:17] AngelaCP: awesome Ne!
[2008.04.09 19:41:26] BrittaCP: yes... and with single greeting cards... you can get some good designs on them for the occassion
[2008.04.09 19:41:37] The Shadow: I am probably going green this year by switching from a400hp SUV to a 360hp car...lol
[2008.04.09 19:41:39] mousecrafter: The Chinese Olympic controversy has been in the news too, but I know you have to watch for trademarks on the "Olympic" name
[2008.04.09 19:41:39] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:41:45] BrittaCP: that's a good dtep, shadow
[2008.04.09 19:41:48] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Never too early for July 4th stuff too, especially during the Election Season.
[2008.04.09 19:42:00] PhotoGirl has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:42:06] AngelaCP: Remember, olympic is a trade mark so be careful if you choose to design around this issue.
[2008.04.09 19:42:10] mordant has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:42:20] BrittaCP: and with 4th of july there's also memorial day in may... not as big (at least i don't think) but an easy way to recyle designs
[2008.04.09 19:42:31] Ne@1512BLVD: This is year round, but don't forget things like birthdays, spring birthdays, holiday birthdays
[2008.04.09 19:42:38] Cassiopeia: weight loss is a big spring issue!
[2008.04.09 19:42:59] Sag: If you think ahead, it is also time to start thinking about back to school clothing/designs and get positioned to address it.
[2008.04.09 19:43:03] mousecrafter: It is also the season for Christian/Catholic First Communions and Confirmations
[2008.04.09 19:43:17] BrittaCP: there's is also Cinco de Mayo: May 5... for anyone whos shop may fit it
[2008.04.09 19:43:22] Kate @ LittleLizzy: And BIG birthdays! I'm designing one just my own birthday, and then I'm going to wear the heck out of it!
[2008.04.09 19:43:31] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:43:47] BrittaCP: and speaking of birthdays... there's another bigone coming up...
[2008.04.09 19:43:54] BrittaCP: Britta’s Birthday: May 10th (that’s right… it’s considered a national holiday… betcha didn’t know that… I can’t guarantee that you’ll profit from it though)
[2008.04.09 19:43:57] BrittaCP: lol
[2008.04.09 19:44:09] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:44:11] AngelaCP: LOL
[2008.04.09 19:44:14] The Shadow: i think my todo list just got longer...lol
[2008.04.09 19:44:22] AngelaCP: I'm sure you guys will have a britta bday feature ;)
[2008.04.09 19:44:27] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:44:28] Ne@1512BLVD: happy early BD
[2008.04.09 19:44:30] matisse: happy birthday Britta!
[2008.04.09 19:44:30] Sag: :-D
[2008.04.09 19:44:34] The Shadow: turning 21 Britta?
[2008.04.09 19:44:48] BrittaCP: oh... i'm flattered, shadow
[2008.04.09 19:45:04] AngelaCP has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:45:16] BrittaCP: anyways... you all have a month to get your birtta's bday sectiuns up... i joke of course ;)
[2008.04.09 19:45:17] AngelaCP has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
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[2008.04.09 19:45:55] Kippy: most definitely!
[2008.04.09 19:46:02] AngelaCP: So we have 15 minutes left... we got most of the main topics out about spring sales
[2008.04.09 19:46:15] AngelaCP: anything anyone want to toss out we forgot about?
[2008.04.09 19:46:27] BrittaCP: oh... of course don't forget mom on May 11tg
[2008.04.09 19:46:30] AngelaCP: you guys have great ideas!
[2008.04.09 19:46:53] Cartwright: Can you let us know if any other CP promotions are on the horizon?
[2008.04.09 19:46:54] NiftyGaloot: Fishing opener!
[2008.04.09 19:47:10] AngelaCP: I don't know of any in the horizon... but I'm working on a contests....
[2008.04.09 19:47:21] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:47:22] AngelaCP: not a, but contests
[2008.04.09 19:47:31] Carl: Is cp planning a big mom's day push this year, and is there anything we can do to complement that in our shops?
[2008.04.09 19:47:51] AngelaCP: Yes, we had a chat about that last week. The transcript should be up this week.
[2008.04.09 19:48:03] BrittaCP: we are... you should see it in the next week or so...
[2008.04.09 19:48:25] BrittaCP: basically, we're looking at what makes mom unique
[2008.04.09 19:48:46] Ne@1512BLVD: I know there is a place in the MP where you can see all the holidays in one spot with links... forget how to get to it though, but I use it to give me ideas for the holidays to add
[2008.04.09 19:48:49] AngelaCP: this page? http://www.cafepress.com/buy/holidays
[2008.04.09 19:49:13] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:49:29] preggoprincess has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:49:32] las65: any new products coming?
[2008.04.09 19:49:49] BrittaCP: we have some surprises coming your way
[2008.04.09 19:50:01] BrittaCP: that's about all we can say
[2008.04.09 19:50:07] The Shadow: 4 holidays down....83 to go
[2008.04.09 19:50:09] las65: don't tease!
[2008.04.09 19:50:15] Kippy: my ponnnyyyy!?
[2008.04.09 19:50:17] AngelaCP has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:50:24] Kate @ LittleLizzy: I love surprises!
[2008.04.09 19:50:28] preggoprincess has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
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[2008.04.09 19:50:48] The Shadow: cutom printed ponies for kippy...lol
[2008.04.09 19:50:56] TexasFiddler: when can we expect an announcement Britta?
[2008.04.09 19:51:20] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:51:24] BrittaCP: keep your ear low to the ground... and your eyes on the announcment board
[2008.04.09 19:51:31] Carl: Kippy definitely needs a Pony On Demand service.
[2008.04.09 19:51:48] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:51:49] cyi has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:51:51] AngelaCP: We try to announce at least 2 weeks before. If we can, we try to do it sooner. It's not that we don't want to announce with more time.. it's just possible a product may not pass QC at the last minute...
[2008.04.09 19:52:00] Ne@1512BLVD: I wish I knew what the Kippy pony joke was all about! lol
[2008.04.09 19:52:10] AngelaCP: For long time SKs, they know we used to do this ;) Now we want to be sure what we're announcing will happen.
[2008.04.09 19:52:32] Sag: I am planning on running a big contest with the prize awarded prior to Christmas. It's a big prize and any info CP can help me with to make sure the t's are crossed and the i's dotted, I would appreciate.
[2008.04.09 19:52:37] cyi has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:52:44] AngelaCP: Just ping me Sag... I'll see how I can help.
[2008.04.09 19:53:02] BrittaCP: kippy has been eagerly awaiting her pony for as long as i have been doing these chats :)
[2008.04.09 19:53:09] Kippy: oooh, carl!
[2008.04.09 19:53:11] Kippy: Ne, I don't even know what the pony joke is all about
[2008.04.09 19:53:28] TexasFiddler: understand...thanks
[2008.04.09 19:53:32] Carl: ne, kippy ran for cpvoice last year under the pony in every pot platform
[2008.04.09 19:53:34] Sag: Thank you, Angela!:bow:
[2008.04.09 19:53:55] AngelaCP: Ha.
[2008.04.09 19:54:05] AngelaCP: Okay, so we're down to the last 5 minutes
[2008.04.09 19:54:19] AngelaCP: Sounds like we have a group of Sks that already know what they need to do for spring
[2008.04.09 19:54:28] AngelaCP: Yay!
[2008.04.09 19:54:28] AngelaCP: great ideas.
[2008.04.09 19:54:33] BrittaCP: oooh... one thing i was thinking about... although it's already passed
[2008.04.09 19:54:35] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:54:36] BrittaCP: Spring Break
[2008.04.09 19:54:43] hotel26 has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.09 19:55:01] BrittaCP: This would be fun for next year... especially if you have an adult themed shop
[2008.04.09 19:55:01] AngelaCP: Should the next product be "time"? I mean, we already have dating as a new product... ;)
[2008.04.09 19:55:12] Ne@1512BLVD: now, we need the time, or at least I do.
[2008.04.09 19:55:17] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Now it's just a matter of doing everything!!
[2008.04.09 19:55:18] AngelaCP: Oopps, in response to Ne here....
[2008.04.09 19:55:26] Cartwright: noboday wears shirts on spring break. ha
[2008.04.09 19:55:33] BrittaCP: but they wear boxers and thongs!
[2008.04.09 19:55:37] The Shadow: Angela...for those that don't like surprises, should they pm too? ;)
[2008.04.09 19:55:43] The Shadow: hey I will buy all the time you have in stock!!!
[2008.04.09 19:55:44] hotel26: x
[2008.04.09 19:55:49] hotel26: I need more traffic, any of you pros have any good advice you can give to a novice?
[2008.04.09 19:55:55] Oh Hai has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:55:57] BrittaCP: hotel...i'll open up the lobby in a few
[2008.04.09 19:56:00] AngelaCP: Shadow, what are you referencing? about the PM?
[2008.04.09 19:56:10] BrittaCP: i'm sure some the SK's here would be happy to give some tips
[2008.04.09 19:56:10] matisse: I have atarted a CP version of "whack the mole" contest! I call it "whack the t-shirt". It's for gamers and if you are a winner(fat chance) you get free shipping!^.^
[2008.04.09 19:56:13] AngelaCP: funny!
[2008.04.09 19:56:22] Carl: if it's an adult shop... i suggest a mattress-spring break theme.
[2008.04.09 19:56:27] matisse: not where I went for Spring Break!
[2008.04.09 19:56:29] The Shadow: hotel...rank well in google ;)
[2008.04.09 19:56:35] Kippy: hotel26 it's all about the seo, unless you're super lucky
[2008.04.09 19:56:35] AngelaCP: next year, spring break themes. what a great idea.
[2008.04.09 19:56:47] AngelaCP: Definitely college/adult humor stuff.
[2008.04.09 19:57:13] hotel26: thats the thing, I am not sure how to get the seo and my ranking better
[2008.04.09 19:57:13] tshirtmaster has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 19:57:41] BrittaCP: there's also tax day next week... again something to think about for next year
[2008.04.09 19:57:41] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:57:44] AngelaCP: Hotel, check out the Learning Center for some SEO tutorials. They're basic, but should be helpful if you're starting out. http://www.cafepress.com/cp/learn/
[2008.04.09 19:57:49] The Shadow: the upcoming surprise Angela... I was just joking
[2008.04.09 19:58:04] AngelaCP: ahhh, i'm slow ;)
[2008.04.09 19:58:08] Ne@1512BLVD: hotel, read the foums and google it... I recently found Lynda.com to be great they may have an SEO tutorial
[2008.04.09 19:58:12] BrittaCP: and speaking of tax day.... if you haven't seen it, there's a new area in the community Forums.... Slideshows
[2008.04.09 19:58:18] hotel26: Thanks Angela
[2008.04.09 19:58:27] BrittaCP: Show us what you think of tax day
[2008.04.09 19:58:52] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:58:57] Kippy: oh, the "sideshows" forum
[2008.04.09 19:59:01] AngelaCP: Yes, you simply add photos/images in the slideshow
[2008.04.09 19:59:04] BrittaCP: http://forums.cafepress.com/eve/forums/a/frm/f/603105422
[2008.04.09 19:59:08] AngelaCP: it's topic based
[2008.04.09 19:59:09] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:59:09] BrittaCP: get creative
[2008.04.09 19:59:22] AngelaCP: we wanted to get to know you more
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[2008.04.09 19:59:29] AngelaCP: britta's example cracked me up
[2008.04.09 19:59:32] BrittaCP: we'll be tossing out different themes every couple of weeks
[2008.04.09 19:59:34] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 19:59:42] Ne@1512BLVD: I don't get the slideshows yet, but I do like the Meet& Greet photos
[2008.04.09 19:59:45] Ne@1512BLVD: yeah, I put my sideshow post in.
[2008.04.09 19:59:47] matisse: ah!
[2008.04.09 19:59:50] Ne@1512BLVD: I am afraid about copycatters if we post in the slideshwo
[2008.04.09 19:59:54] AngelaCP: We'll toss a topic out and you simply post a photo or a design
[2008.04.09 19:59:58] BrittaCP: you don't have to have designs
[2008.04.09 20:00:08] AngelaCP: It's just for fun
[2008.04.09 20:00:13] Carl: hotel26, use the google webmaster tools to your full advantage. add the webmaster gadgets to your google homepage... and pay attention when it reports problems with metadata or content. Start using google analytics and learn the ropes. You need feedback, and those tools give it to you.
[2008.04.09 20:00:15] BrittaCP: min is my calendar in mube... remninding me to nbot be lazy and just do it
[2008.04.09 20:00:19] The Shadow: I don't think what I think for tax day would eb suitable for that...lol
[2008.04.09 20:00:21] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 20:00:21] BrittaCP: of course... i haven't done it yet
[2008.04.09 20:00:25] AngelaCP: LOL, i have an idea....
[2008.04.09 20:00:33] Ne@1512BLVD: So we can post something that is not a design
[2008.04.09 20:00:48] las65 has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 20:00:50] BrittaCP: well the challange is to somehow use a product
[2008.04.09 20:01:12] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 20:01:28] Ne@1512BLVD: You should take the sideshow topic someone created and make that a topic for the slideshow! lol
[2008.04.09 20:01:40] AngelaCP: We'll see how it works out.
[2008.04.09 20:01:53] AngelaCP: It should be fun
[2008.04.09 20:02:05] AngelaCP: but we'll use it for the MG photos and such
[2008.04.09 20:02:10] BrittaCP: yup.... that's the idea... it's new... we hope you guys have fun with it
[2008.04.09 20:02:21] AngelaCP: okay, looks like the hour is up
[2008.04.09 20:02:40] AngelaCP: you guys were doing a great job collaborating on spring ideas...
[2008.04.09 20:02:48] AngelaCP: you guys can continue doing that in the Lobby
[2008.04.09 20:02:55] BrittaCP: it has been opened
[2008.04.09 20:02:56] AngelaCP: Britta just opened it back up
[2008.04.09 20:03:03] AngelaCP: If you guys have ideas for chat topics, continue to send it to community team
[2008.04.09 20:03:04] matisse: uh oh back to work for me
[2008.04.09 20:03:05] matisse: Thanks!^.^
[2008.04.09 20:03:09] AngelaCP: we'd love to hear your ideas.
[2008.04.09 20:03:12] The Shadow: as always, thanks Angela & Britta!
[2008.04.09 20:03:19] hotel26: THanks Carl
[2008.04.09 20:03:28] AngelaCP: Thanks everyone
[2008.04.09 20:03:34] Sag has left the room
[2008.04.09 20:03:35] Kate @ LittleLizzy: Thanks Angela & Britta! Thanks to everyone else for the great chat!
[2008.04.09 20:03:36] AngelaCP: and happy spring time to you!
[2008.04.09 20:03:40] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.09 20:03:41] BrittaCP: enjoy the rest of your evening
[2008.04.09 20:03:44] Ne@1512BLVD: Have a safe trip home you guys
[2008.04.09 20:03:56] AngelaCP: bye everyone
[2008.04.09 20:04:05] mousecrafter has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 20:04:08] matisse has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.09 20:04:18] Kippy: byebye!
[2008.04.09 20:04:23] The room has been closed by the system

Mother's Day Chat Transcript at CafePress

2008-04-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

Please be aware that this is not the whole chat. I got in on the end of it.

[2008.04.02 19:07:53] Welcome to the CafePress Chat Room
[2008.04.02 19:07:53] Ne1512BLVD has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:07:53] All users in this room have been allowed to talk
[2008.04.02 19:07:56] BrittaCP: We try to get all questions and comments, however some may be missed since many come in. So if you don’t see your comment right away, that’s why.
[2008.04.02 19:08:00] Syzygy has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:08:08] BrittaCP: We’ll also have a transcript up by early next week.
[2008.04.02 19:08:20] BrittaCP: Alright… moving on, I’ll give you the agenda.
[2008.04.02 19:08:30] BrittaCP: • Shopper factoids
[2008.04.02 19:08:37] BrittaCP: • Mother’s Day themes
[2008.04.02 19:08:42] BrittaCP: • Items to stock
[2008.04.02 19:08:51] BrittaCP: • Other Moms
[2008.04.02 19:08:53] NiftyGaloot: Don't forget about Grandma and Godmom
[2008.04.02 19:08:54] kab has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:09:10] BrittaCP: of course not... we'll get to that a little later
[2008.04.02 19:09:36] BrittaCP: Let’s start with a couple of interesting points about Mother’s Day Shoppers.
[2008.04.02 19:10:00] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:10:13] BrittaCP: these are just a few things to think about
[2008.04.02 19:10:22] BrittaCP: • Gifters are usually between the ages 35 – 40.
[2008.04.02 19:11:09] BrittaCP: wait a sec... letme double check that one
[2008.04.02 19:11:44] Sue D has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:11:49] BrittaCP: correction.... 35 - 50
[2008.04.02 19:12:03] BrittaCP: i thought that was a tiny gap
[2008.04.02 19:12:10] BrittaCP: :-c
[2008.04.02 19:12:21] BrittaCP: • 59% are female, 41% are male – it’s a pretty close divide between the sexes. This makes sense, because both genders have moms.
[2008.04.02 19:12:42] BrittaCP: or someone to celebrate as mom
[2008.04.02 19:12:59] BrittaCP: • Shoppers are looking for a unique and creative way to express their relationship with mom, or anyone who is important to them. Shoppers take pride in finding that perfect gift.
[2008.04.02 19:13:15] Ne1512BLVD: Friends and family who just had a baby celebrating their first Mother Day.... that is a great one not to forget... under Other Moms.
[2008.04.02 19:13:16] Sue D has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:13:23] BrittaCP: of course not ;)
[2008.04.02 19:13:31] BrittaCP: So what kinds of unique and creative messages/ themes are shoppers looking for during Mother’s Day?
[2008.04.02 19:13:52] BrittaCP: Shoppers are looking for something emotional and genuine.
[2008.04.02 19:14:05] BrittaCP: While humor sells as well, tapping into the sentimental side of your relationship with mom is widely received.
[2008.04.02 19:14:22] BrittaCP: Also, think about the uniqueness of mom.
[2008.04.02 19:14:39] BrittaCP: Aside from her role as a mom, what makes her an individual?
[2008.04.02 19:14:48] BrittaCP: What’s mom into?
[2008.04.02 19:14:54] BrittaCP: What’s her passion?
[2008.04.02 19:15:13] BrittaCP: Has anyone heard the word "otaku?"
[2008.04.02 19:15:31] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:15:33] Ne1512BLVD: nope
[2008.04.02 19:15:41] donkeymart has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:16:12] TexasFiddler: obsession
[2008.04.02 19:16:46] BrittaCP: right... it's alao a word we've been tossing around here to describe that kind of passion
[2008.04.02 19:16:52] BrittaCP: for something
[2008.04.02 19:17:03] BrittaCP: My mom loves knitting and sewing, fitness and Egyptian art.
[2008.04.02 19:17:11] BrittaCP: That’s her otaku, and what I would look for.
[2008.04.02 19:17:26] BrittaCP: Last year I gave her a knitting themed tote bag, and slipped in a GC to her favorite yarn store.
[2008.04.02 19:17:54] kab: Karaoke Mama
[2008.04.02 19:17:58] BrittaCP: there you go!
[2008.04.02 19:18:10] TexasFiddler: so, a knitted mummy-wrapping shaped like a jogging suit?
[2008.04.02 19:18:22] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:18:38] BrittaCP: lol... something like that... actually i like it... i could take care of mday, xamas, and her birthday with that!
[2008.04.02 19:18:45] yoop: But don't tag a knitting design with "mother's day".
[2008.04.02 19:18:47] BrittaCP: correct
[2008.04.02 19:19:21] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:19:31] BrittaCP: but you can add a section to your shop for M-day and place your knitting design in it
[2008.04.02 19:19:35] Kippy has left the room
[2008.04.02 19:19:37] Kippy has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:20:14] Kippy has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:20:31] BrittaCP: or... you can turn your knitting design into an M-Day image by making it specific to mothers... like a card... Happy Mother's Day, to a knitty mom
[2008.04.02 19:20:37] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:20:38] Kippy has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:20:42] BrittaCP: something like that... only not as cheesy
[2008.04.02 19:20:55] PeggyWvB has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:20:57] Ne1512BLVD: OMG, I see lots of MP spam on this one... people putting Mother's Day on all their hobby stuff... people please don't! lol.
[2008.04.02 19:21:01] BrittaCP: right... so there is a line
[2008.04.02 19:21:15] TexasFiddler: okay, really personalized stuff...we just gotta figure out what those personalized otaku-targets are for our niche markets
[2008.04.02 19:21:26] BrittaCP: well you can also make it work for your shop... if you already have a theme
[2008.04.02 19:21:35] kab: Obama Mama !
[2008.04.02 19:22:00] BrittaCP: perfect for political shopsbut is it a mother's day image? that one to think about before tagging
[2008.04.02 19:22:30] Ne1512BLVD: I would just make links to all your hobbies at the top of the section... to direct them to all things moms are interested in. Not all moms like sewing. Some are into football and boyish things
[2008.04.02 19:22:34] BrittaCP: good point
[2008.04.02 19:22:47] BrittaCP: Now, what kind of items do you want to make sure your M-Day items are on, and upfront?
[2008.04.02 19:22:55] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:22:58] Ne1512BLVD: cards foremost
[2008.04.02 19:23:18] TexasFiddler: how are card sales going?
[2008.04.02 19:23:35] BrittaCP: for occasions and such, they are good... because now you can sell single cards
[2008.04.02 19:23:43] BOO'S MOM MOM has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:24:03] BrittaCP: this is perfect for something like mother's day... because not to many people have a need for packs of MDay cards
[2008.04.02 19:24:05] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:24:18] Ne1512BLVD: Yeah! I loved that we can do that now... Made no sense before to put a personal message like I love you mom on the packs!
[2008.04.02 19:24:54] BrittaCP: alogn with cards... women’s apparel of course! Make sure that your designs are available on a full assortment of women’s apparel.
[2008.04.02 19:25:22] BrittaCP: This includes Maternity Shirts, dark and light. Mom–to-be deserves to be celebrated.
[2008.04.02 19:26:36] BrittaCP: There are other items such as Tote bags, coffee mugs, tile coasters, pillows, keepsake boxes… these are all very appropriate gifts for mom.
[2008.04.02 19:27:17] BrittaCP: Create a section just for mom gifts, and make sure that your shoppers know they can find perfect gifts and cards for any mom in your shop!
[2008.04.02 19:27:52] TexasFiddler: and are most of the cards being sold with blank insides or some sort of sentiment
[2008.04.02 19:27:56] BrittaCP: that i don't have information on
[2008.04.02 19:28:02] BrittaCP: but it would be interesint to know
[2008.04.02 19:28:09] BrittaCP: *interesting
[2008.04.02 19:29:19] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:29:31] Ne1512BLVD: Whenever I buy a card for my mom, it has to have a make me cry message inside... so you could offer both!
[2008.04.02 19:31:21] BrittaCP: one easy thing to do is add words to already blank card... if you have a really nice imagy... make it an MDay card by adding some text about mom
[2008.04.02 19:31:24] kab: many guys are lazy and won't write their own note to mom
[2008.04.02 19:31:58] tshirtfort: How do you get mother's day shoppers to find the non mothers day tagged items in the marketplace? A lot of shoppers don't go into individual stores.
[2008.04.02 19:32:44] BrittaCP: that's where the otaku comes in... shoppers will also be looking for something that is about thier mom... so in the example I gave earlier... i would look for knitting... and knitting image would pop up
[2008.04.02 19:33:55] BrittaCP: Shoppers will also be looking for "Mom" stuff... so if you have an image that is "Mom" specific... that's what you want to tag with with appropriate words
[2008.04.02 19:34:11] TexasFiddler: Is there a way to set up a single product so that it appears in two different sections...so having the ability to place a product in the Mother's Day Section as well as keep it where it was before...or do we need to create two separate pages with the same product displayed on both?
[2008.04.02 19:34:40] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:35:15] BrittaCP: hmmm... i don't think so... i think you would have to make a new product that would have a different number... if i'm understanding your question
[2008.04.02 19:35:19] Ne1512BLVD: You can import, but it will create a duplicate
[2008.04.02 19:35:20] peon_pro has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:35:27] yoop: You can create a section with a redirect
[2008.04.02 19:35:46] TexasFiddler: Well, we should be looking at the otaku angle all year round, not just holidays
[2008.04.02 19:36:20] BrittaCP: and this is true as well... but for mother's day... make sure you've got those items that are great for mom up front in the shop
[2008.04.02 19:36:48] BOO'S MOM MOM has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:37:05] BrittaCP: alright... let's look at other mom's
[2008.04.02 19:37:31] BrittaCP: Mother’s Day goes beyond the lady who gave birth to you. Think about the different roles and types of moms.
[2008.04.02 19:37:52] BrittaCP: Grandma, Aunt, Step-Mom, Mother-in-law, and even sister.
[2008.04.02 19:38:07] TexasFiddler: Adoptive Moms
[2008.04.02 19:38:16] BrittaCP: oooh... that's a good one
[2008.04.02 19:38:45] BrittaCP: There’s also new mom, mom-to-be (remember we mentioned those maternity t’s).
[2008.04.02 19:38:50] TexasFiddler: Having an adopted daughter, that comes to mind immediately
[2008.04.02 19:39:11] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:39:21] Ne1512BLVD: I get Mother's Day cards from my FIL and my sister-in-law as well as my mom and own sister. So, remember in-laws like the daughter-in-law that made someone a grandma or grandpa for the first time... Cards that tell the DIL how the FIl or MIL feel about that!
[2008.04.02 19:39:42] NiftyGaloot: Day-care moms, pre-school moms
[2008.04.02 19:39:54] BrittaCP: And don’t leave out Military mom… if you have a military themed shop, proudly promote those army, navy, marine (etc.) mom items.
[2008.04.02 19:40:19] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:40:33] NiftyGaloot: Pet moms
[2008.04.02 19:40:39] Ne1512BLVD: a mentor who is like a mom to you...
[2008.04.02 19:40:50] TexasFiddler: Actually, Nifty, that's where you market the packs of Mother's Day Cards. Teachers, day cares, etc so they can have their kids personalize the insides
[2008.04.02 19:41:11] BrittaCP: oooh... brainstorming... i love it
[2008.04.02 19:41:34] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:41:41] Ne1512BLVD: Texas, that could be a whole new section within your MD section! lol...
[2008.04.02 19:41:45] BrittaCP: Husbands like to tell their wives they are great mom’s too.
[2008.04.02 19:41:51] TexasFiddler: I do the same thing for Christmas magnets and stuff like that
[2008.04.02 19:42:37] BrittaCP: This year, Mother’s day is May 11, so you have time to get those items up and promoted.
[2008.04.02 19:42:55] BrittaCP: You’ll also be seeing our Mother’s Day portal by next week.
[2008.04.02 19:43:20] BrittaCP: correction... the week after... duch i'm still looking at marhc
[2008.04.02 19:43:21] Winter has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:43:23] BrittaCP: *march
[2008.04.02 19:43:48] Cthulhu For President has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:43:49] TexasFiddler: Ne...it's not a separate section...it's already mentioned in the descriptions...."Great for Teachers, Orchestra Directors and Suzuki Violin Studios. Give 'em to your kids." or something like that
[2008.04.02 19:44:27] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:44:50] BrittaCP: so that's pretty much it for our plans and focus... it's allbout promoting the uniquness of mom
[2008.04.02 19:45:05] BrittaCP: with unique gifts
[2008.04.02 19:45:17] BrittaCP: celebrating what makes mom a special person
[2008.04.02 19:45:20] Ne1512BLVD: No I mean to make designs specifically for teachers to give to kids to decorate.
[2008.04.02 19:45:35] TexasFiddler: And I keep the mark-ups on those pretty low, trying to make the bigger base price sale and pick up the volume bonus from those sales
[2008.04.02 19:46:12] TexasFiddler: You've given us lists in the past of specific products that have sold well for specific holidays...I think you did that for Valentine's Day. Got anything like that for Mother's Day.
[2008.04.02 19:46:56] BrittaCP: Not this time around... but again, make sure that you have your designs for mom on the women's apparal, and cards
[2008.04.02 19:47:43] BrittaCP: does anyone have unique ideas/ uses for Mom Day products?
[2008.04.02 19:47:50] BrittaCP: that they might want ot share
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[2008.04.02 19:47:59] TexasFiddler: That's who buys em, Ne, and they give them to the kids.
[2008.04.02 19:48:00] TexasFiddler: The kids take them home. It's good pr for the orchestra programs at the schools.
[2008.04.02 19:48:35] BrittaCP: I'm asking... 'cause i need to start looking for something ha!
[2008.04.02 19:48:43] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:48:53] Shopaholic Chick has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:48:55] Ne1512BLVD: Coffee Mugs that they can fill with mom's fave candy or special coffee or tea
[2008.04.02 19:49:16] BrittaCP: somethign for the java loving mom
[2008.04.02 19:49:22] Dooni Designs has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:49:24] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:49:44] Shopaholic Chick has entered the room "CafePress Chat Room"
[2008.04.02 19:50:10] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:50:28] Ne1512BLVD: Can the clocks be opened for the customer to place pictures inside ont he design?
[2008.04.02 19:50:40] BrittaCP: they're pretty tough to crack open
[2008.04.02 19:50:50] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:50:53] Shopaholic Chick has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:52:05] BrittaCP: So... since we didn't really go over the "how-to's" of prepping... I will offer you a link to a previous chat we had
[2008.04.02 19:52:06] BrittaCP: http://www.cafepress.com/cp/community/workshop_vdayprep2
[2008.04.02 19:52:25] tshirtfort: I am still confused on the special temporary section for mothers day. Is redirect something anyone can do? I don't tend to do that much html in my shop. (I am waiting for cuter templates.) I usually use import but I don't want to confuse affiliates.
[2008.04.02 19:52:47] BrittaCP: can anyone clarify?
[2008.04.02 19:52:52] hi has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:53:36] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:53:43] Ne1512BLVD: tshirtfort... there are plenty of people that offer cuter templates if you check the forums... I don't know about redirects though.
[2008.04.02 19:54:09] BrittaCP: oooh... one thing that i just thought of... speaking of pet moms... is gifts fromt he dog
[2008.04.02 19:54:12] BrittaCP: or cat
[2008.04.02 19:54:52] BrittaCP: May be wort trying out if you have an pet/ animal shop
[2008.04.02 19:54:53] Winter has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:55:21] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:55:42] Ne1512BLVD: oooh, a card that daddy gives the mommy to be, that is from the expected baby! That would be neat... sorry random thought. :)
[2008.04.02 19:55:46] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:55:52] Ne1512BLVD: I know people who have gotten cards from their pets
[2008.04.02 19:56:13] BrittaCP: alright gang... i hear the sounds of carpool buddies... ready to hit rush hourr
[2008.04.02 19:56:36] BrittaCP: i hope some ideas were genereated
[2008.04.02 19:56:41] NiftyGaloot: Thanks Britta! :)
[2008.04.02 19:56:41] tshirtfort has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:56:55] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:57:02] BrittaCP: really quick... how many people actually fell for the april fools joke?
[2008.04.02 19:57:15] Message sent to moderator(s)
[2008.04.02 19:57:18] Ne1512BLVD: bye. have a safe drive home. It was a great chat! Lots of ideas rolling around in my head.
[2008.04.02 19:57:32] Ne1512BLVD: I did until I saw the picture of the first guy
[2008.04.02 19:57:40] NiftyGaloot: What! You mean it ain't true? ;)
[2008.04.02 19:58:01] yoop: The redirect info is in this thread: http://forums.cafepress.com/eve/a/tpc/f/84310838/m/934106912
[2008.04.02 19:58:10] BrittaCP: thanks for finding that
[2008.04.02 19:58:23] BrittaCP: i shall open the lobby up now
[2008.04.02 19:58:31] TexasFiddler: Didn't get it. Found it through Great Gear. I don't get most e-mails from CP. I was concerned about the one sent out about monkeying around with the kid who wasn't wearing a CP shirt as the big design, though
[2008.04.02 19:58:54] BrittaCP: we have the jole on our blog, which is now up and running
[2008.04.02 19:58:57] BrittaCP: agin
[2008.04.02 19:59:22] BrittaCP: http://cafepress.typepad.com/cafepress/
[2008.04.02 19:59:27] yoop: Thanks!
[2008.04.02 19:59:31] BrittaCP: g'night all
[2008.04.02 19:59:45] TexasFiddler: Thanx ladies! See ya next week!
[2008.04.02 19:59:54] char has left the room (logged out)
[2008.04.02 19:59:59] BrittaCP: lobby is opem
[2008.04.02 20:00:01] BrittaCP: *open
[2008.04.02 20:00:05] The room has been closed by the system

Switch is partially completed!

2008-04-04T14:33:00.001-07:00

My site LogoMasterpiece.com is now switched to Linux. But, I have not gotten all of the pictures and screenshots uploaded yet. So, there will still be some broke image links for a few days in various places. If you have had a site designed by me, the logo at the bottom of you site design may not be fixed yet. Even once I get the correct image uploaded, it may take some time for the image to appear again. I apologize for this inconvenience.

The affiliate program in now back on the site if you wanted to sign up for that. And cliaprt downloads are once again up and ready to be purchased. Thank you for your patience.

For those at the CafePress forums, I will probably keep my signature to link to this blog until I get the new site created in DreamWeaver.

Switching Servers at LogoMasterpiece.com

2008-04-04T13:39:00.001-07:00

I just purchased Adobe DreamWeaver in order to get my website completed. I have been designing this site manually using html and decided that I need to take the plunge and get a professional web design program to bring my graphic design skills and vision to reality. Some of you have may have seen the preview. That is what I hope it looks like once I learn how to use DreamWeaver. In the meantime, my site will be unavailable for awhile. Once I get the site switched to the Linux server, then I will put the temporarily site design back up, where you can still join the affiliate program and purchase clipart downloads. And, hopefully, with the help of my new DreamWeaver, I will be able to finally launch my new site design sooner than I would have been able to by doing it all manually!

In case anyone is wondering what exactly does buying DreamWeaver have to do with switching to a Linux server... it doesn't. I am just doing them at the same time. I purchased Linux hosting for another site, and still have Windows for most of my sites. I am really not wanting to pay two hosting fees, which is coming up soon. So, I am trying to get all of my sites switched over to my new hosting plan, so that I can cancel the old one. Also, it should be noted that a lot of my pictures and screenshots for this site will be missing until I get them switched over. Thanks for reading and thanks for your patience.

All Animal Tees Web Design

2008-03-08T16:20:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was hired, by Barb of All Animal Tees Funny Animal T-Shirts, to create a custom web design that she could easily switch out products features and designs. She wanted a bright design using green and blue colors and a right side bar. I created this design with a fun bright green background with diamond shapes. The tables are fully expandable as she adds more designs and text to her site. I created a fun and engaging design that is sure to keep her customers clicking on her site.

Art Parfait Storefront Redesign

2008-03-08T15:45:00.000-08:00

Before Christmas, I did a project for Becky of Art Parfait Humorous T-Shirts. She wanted something fun, using the colors of ice cream and yummy treats. The name, Art Parfait, was a huge help in coming up with a brilliant idea for a custom logo, which in this case, makes the whole design. The logo has an ice cream parfait framed within an art frame. The side bar is decorated with cherries.

Click on this screenshot to see the design in use:

Commercial Use Graphics and Clipart Download Available

2008-03-08T15:18:00.000-08:00

While we are performing maintenance on our website www.LogoMasterpiece.com, we have made our first clipart download available for sale. This set includes over 60 high resolution graphics in JPG and PNG file format. They are for personal and commercial use. You may use them on your CafePress products. You only need to purchase a separate commercial license if you employ 5 or more people. This is a great Easter set that will liven up your spring projects. Please be sure to read the terms of use and check the frequently asked questions before purchasing. I hope you enjoy this set, and be sure to bookmark the site for more sets and services to come.

Logo Design Website To Be Launched Soon!

2008-03-08T15:14:00.000-08:00

In the past, the domain name www.LogoMasterpiece.com has linked directly to this blog. We are now in the process of launching the website for its original purpose, logo design. When the site is launched, we will be offering professional graphic design services, such as, custom logo design, web design, custom CafePress templates and commercial use graphics and clipart. The site should be launched within a few weeks or up to a couple months. Please, be patient as we undergo this maintenance.

Ron Paul Website Makeover

2008-01-29T21:45:00.000-08:00

I just finished my site design for my Ron Paul For President online store selling unique Ron Paul products. I wanted it to have the join the revolution feel to it without it looking too political. I wanted it to look for grassroots and more revolutionary than just the traditional red, white and blue look. I have the store stocked with some great Ron Paul products like unique campaign t-shirt, Ron Paul signs and buttons and even some stuff for the babies of Dr. Paul supporters.

Here is the screenshot of the webdesign.

A Winner Is Announced

2008-01-28T12:46:00.000-08:00

Before the holidays, I announced a contest where the winner would receive a custom website makeover for their CafePress store. I had several entries to this contest. It was a spur of the moment contest and very informal. Out of the handful of entries, I had a hard time deciding who was going to be the winner. I talked it over with several family members, as I said I would do in the contest details. And finally, we were able to get to 3 possibilities. Then down to two. It was the hardest deciding between the two finalists. But, finally, I was able to break the tie and make a decision.

So, who is the winner? The winner is Kiersten and Cindi, two sisters who go under the pseudynom of CYI at the CafePress forums. Their main website is Moon Hunter Designs. But, the website that will be designed, is a new store they will be creating together, called, All Five Stones.

"The title is from the story of David & Goliath & how David had five smooth stones but only needed to use one. Even though we might be successful in our first attempts, we need to be prepared to persevere through difficult circumstances." ~Kiersten

Well, I am excited to begin work on this site for them.

Ne'

Going On Vacation

2007-12-07T19:44:00.000-08:00

Today is my last day working online until January. Please still send your entries for my CafePress template contest to the email found in that post. The link is to the right. I am not physically leaving anywhere, but will not be online for a month.

I will be using this time to reconnect with my family and friends, get Christmas shopping done and wrapped and spending quality time with my husband and children. I have been working really hard since March on my own CafePress stores. I am a little worried about losing some valuable time that I could be adding designs for the next holidays, but it is more important for me to be present with my family.

I will be coming back, hopefully refreshed, in January. I will be resuming my template design service and begin working on my stores again. I will be working on a new schedule that will work better for my family and I will be implementing new packages and prices. I look forward to seeing you then.

Have a Merry Christmas and a great holiday season.

In Christ,
Ne'

My Christmas Gift To You... Free Website Design Contest!!!

2007-11-30T21:51:00.001-08:00

I am running a very informal contest, where the winner will receive a custom website redesign! Must be a CafePress Premium shop. To be considered you need to write a few paragraphs telling me why you need your site redesigned. Also include what look you hope to achieve. Send this, along with your shop ID, to my email listed below.

This is very informal and the winner will be chosen at my sole discretion. Contest begins Dec 1 and ends Dec. 31st. You must submit your entry by the 31st of December. Winner will be chosen by me, maybe with a little help from my friends and family, by the end of Jamuary. Template design will be started in the spring.

This is a good contest for anyone who doesn't have the time, money or ability to get their CafePress store redesigned. Winner will receive a custom storefront design, complete with header, sidebar images (browse designs, products, etc.), simple section thumbnails and more. This does not include subsection graphics, special coding or other services, or an elaborate design beyond my ability. You will be happy with your results, and I will give you the same customer service a paying customer would get.

To enter, please send me an Email with your shopID you wish to be redesigned, what you hope could be achieved, and why you need me to choose you over everyone else.
Thanks and have a Merry Christmas!
Ne' Metzger

Don't have a CafePress store yet?
No problem, just click on this banner and sign up.

NOTE: A free basic shop will not qualify for my contest, but it a good way to make a little extra cash. You must open or already have a Premium shop for my contest, only because CafePress will not allow html in a basic shop, so I can't design it.

Mama Diggs Web Graphics ReDesign

2007-11-16T18:55:00.000-08:00

Mama Diggs is a CafePress store that specializes in hip and trendy t-shirts and gifts for mom and baby. I was asked to redesign the website graphics for her to place into her template on her own. My instructions were to create a design that appealed to all sorts of mothers. We came up with the idea of having a mommy holding her newborn baby in her arms, but the mom and baby needed to look mixed, "both white and black race" because she needed it to represent herself and the other mothers in her area she was promoting the store to. She also loved turquoise, pink and chocolate. I came up with these graphics for her to place in her store.

The Mama Diggs header:
This has been created with a transparent background so that the top part will show the light brown background I created. The bottom part is white to match up with the main storefront background which is white.

The section Thumbnails:

Here I used the pink. turquois and chocolate colors, as well as the golds and creams I used in the header for accent colors. I made the 6 top thumbnails round to go with the circular theme we had going, but chose to make the bottom three thumbnails stand out and add contrast to break up the circular feel. The rectangles ground the image, while adding elegance and sophistication with its striped layered look.

The Background:

This background was created to add a fun flair to the look. It needed to look like a fun place for moms to shop. Other color combinations were tried, but in the end this one is the one I showed to the client, because it made the bright turquoise and pink pop off the page.

Sidebar links and other graphics:

These individual graphics were designed to be placed on a chocolate brown sidebar. Each graphic was designed to be used as headers and links for the different sections in her sidebar. The shopping bag was originally designed with the two shades of brown, but later was redone in the turquoise and pink so that it could be placed in the sidebar.

All of these images are being implemented into the Mama Diggs CafePress store and her off CP site. I will update with a screenshot of her finished website once she has it installed correctly.

Even though her package did not include the actual html and template instructions, I am helping her to make sure she gets it installed correctly to the best of my ability. I offer 2 packages, as you can see by clicking on the packages and pricing link to the right, but please be sure to know which package you need. This design was done for the cheaper package, with a few add-ons. This package is an affordable package for anyone who knows enough html to place the images into their existing template.

I had a lot of fun working on this design and hope it brings her lots of sales. :)

Important Info For Affiliate Sites

2007-11-16T18:18:00.000-08:00

When I design your CafePress store, I will automatically affiliate you on this site. So, what if your site I design is an affiliate site, such as, 4th Click? You obviously wouldn't want a link on your site to this site, because, my code could replace yours if they click my logo and then click the links on my site. So, because of this, I am offering you options. You do not have to link to this site just because I design your web page, but you must put some credit to me in your footer or elsewhere.

Here are some options for affiliate sites and CafePress sites:
1. My logo linking to this site
2. A text link to this site
3. My Logo w/a link to my email... no linking to this site
4. A text link to my email
5. Link to one of my CafePress stores w/your affiliate code. (Only avail. for non CafePress stores.

I will give you the html code you will need, depending on what method you choose. All options will end up saying something like "This storefront designed by Ne' Metzger" And will have my LogoMasterpiece logo after that, if you choose the logo option, either linked to this site or just there with no link. My name will link to my email in all cases.

If I create web graphics, but not the whole store design, please place just a text credit at the bottom, saying "Some web graphics designed by Ne' Metzger" w/ or w/o a link to my email or this site.

Ali's Alley Gets a Face Lift!

2007-11-07T03:33:00.000-08:00

I just had the joy of working with Alley from Ali's Alley to redesign her online store's whole look and feel. Her old design was created by using one of the CafePress templates to which she added her own section thumbnails.

After a few messages back and forth and a few initial mockups, she had the brainstorm that she would really love to see her shop design play off the alley part of her shop name and create a back alley theme. She wanted brick and graffiti. And here is what I came up with:

Here you can see that I created a custom brick background that looks like the side of a brick wall down a back alley. The graffiti logo appears as though it has been spray-painted directly on the brick. I created green street signs for headers in the sidebar to elaborate on the theme. At the top we decided to go with a grid of her bestsellers. This will allow the customers to easily see her wide variety of unique and fun t-shirts and gifts.

For the section thumbnails, I created simple white road signs. This ideas came when I thought about back alleys having dead end signs. So, these were done it that style. She also really wanted to link to her other stores in a unique way. That is when the idea came to place a sign with an arrow that says "This Way To:" and then green street signs linking to each of her other shops, like Forever Pets, Wedding World and Just 4 Grandma. Here is a screenshot of the bottom half:

The bottom navigation and top navigation links were done in a dark blue to add color and contrast to the red, beiges, and greens throughout the rest of the design.

For comparison, I would like to show you a before shot of her old template:

Although, this design was very clean looking and organized, it did not let customers know what her store was all about. It did not showcase her designs at all. And did not have the edgy look that her designs had.

It was an absolute pleasure creating this custom CafePress website design for her.

Ne'

Custom template design for CafePress stores

2007-11-04T17:32:00.001-08:00

Now is the best time to make your shop look it's best for the holidays. When people go online this Christmas season to shop for family and friends, they want a nice shopping experience.
First, even if they don't realize it themselves, they want to see attractive web pages. If they find your store through a Google, Yahoo, MSN or other search engine query, business cards, word of mouth or your advertising efforts, they are not going to stay in your store if it looks plain or boring. They will want to see a professional logo and store design that represents the products you sell.
Now is the best time to makeover your store to convert your traffic to buyers. If your site is plain or hard to navigate, potential customers may just click in and click out. Turn them into paying customers.

I offer two packages:
(Please, scroll down to see a screenshots of two of my own shops I designed)

Basic: $75 - Includes:
1. basic background tile, pattern or texture unique to your store
2. basic header that defines the theme of your shop
3. matching 'browse products', 'browse designs' etc. (up to 5 and can include any text you want, such as 'email' or 'our catalog' whatever you choose)
This package does not include any html help or installation. You will receive the graphic files and be responsible for implementing them into your website.

Premium Service: $150 - Includes:
1. Custom design of background, header, store front layout.
2. tables of featured designs or sections, etc.
3. One product collage if needed
4. Section thumbnails for main page if needed (no product collages for these)
5. html help and installation if needed
I cannot do CSS or really fancy navigation or graphic frames. I will work hard with you to make sure that you are happy with your final design.

Add Ons: Prices Vary - Examples:
1. Slideshows
2. Mouseovers
3. Installation
4. Holiday Decorations
5. Subsection Thumbnails
6. Logo design
7. Banners
8. Product collages
9. etc. etc.

Please look at some of the websites I have done for myself and family in my signature.

Please, Email me for more information or to start your project.

Ne'

The Holiday Boutique CafePress Custom Web Design

2007-11-04T17:08:00.000-08:00

The Village at 1512 Boulevard Holiday Boutique is a website that I own with the help of CafePress. I designed the site myself. Here is a screenshot:

The store specializes in all holidays and special occasions. I needed a design that looked festive and Christmasy for this time of year, but also let's customers know right off the bat, that they can get their special occasion and holiday t-shirts and gifts for year round, like Easter, Fourth of July and Thanksgiving. The plan is to make subtle changes for each holiday. Right now I am running a Christmas portal, Thanksgiving portal and specials of hoodies. The links to the other holidays are in stylish circles below the logo and above the portals. They include Spring, Summer, Autumn and Christmas, plus Weddings, Family Celebrations, Awareness and Support Our Troops. The colors have been chosen very carefully to not only work well together, but easily be recognizable for the holidays it represents.

TeesForBaby.com CafePress Custom Web Design

2007-11-04T16:46:00.001-08:00

This is one of my own CafePress stores. TeesForBaby.com sells cute baby t-shirts and unique pregnancy announcements. I designed the entire site myself. Here is a screenshot:

I created a fun logo that represents that the site is for cute babies. I used two sidebars for easy navigation and to keep more of the important items above the fold. The drawing of the boutique storefront lets customers know this is a boutique. I used nested tables to highlight some of our featured sections and items, such as our bestseller princess frog t-shirt.