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  1. Social Media

    Haven't really tried to crack the social media side. We rely (80%) of our call-ins from our websites and use Google Analytics to track our organic search results. I'm still not really sold on why so many companies are directing people to Facebook. Maybe I'll figure it out someday! Good luck!
  2. What am I doing wrong with Coreldraw X5? Please help!

    We use Adobe products. I was a die-hard Corel user, but have found that most of our clients use Adobe products which we've learned how to properly import into Flexi. I can't remember the last time a client sent a Corel file, which is too bad, because I really like Corel products. But we do...
  3. Banner hemming, sewing machine or heat hemming?

    We use hem tape. We follow a pattern around the table (wearing a side-pouch with grommets and knife) then follow the pattern "back around" grabbing the grommet machine and do it again. We can usually get a 3x8 done in under 5 to 7 minutes. + Packaging, invoicing, etc, under 10 minutes.
  4. This is how these things get started

    Prince Planet will rescue us.
  5. Too Many options!

    Our GBC rocks. Make sure you check Craigslist and ebay for used-machines if you're ok with used machines!
  6. If you could start over what would you buy and why

    I've only been in the sign/banner/graphics industry for 3 years (but was in the printing industry for 17 years). I have to say, I wouldn't do anything differently. Here's our set-up: 1) Mutoh vj1204 2) GBC 38 inch cold/hot lam 3) Q Series 24 inch plotter/cutter with optical sensor 4) Xerox...
  7. "Hallo" from Maastricht, the Netherlands

    Hallo! Congrat's on your success! My only advice is to pick-up a copy of the "E-Myth Revisited". It will change your life! Good luck, Chris
  8. Critique my Card

    Looks awesome. Your colors and content rock! The only thing I would add is a "call to action" meaning an offer for people to call or contact you. Place somewhere on your card: "20% OFF your first order" (with disclaimers) or "FREE Marketing Consultation If You Mention This Reference Number"...
  9. Ugh, another day with a supplier that is failing.

    Anyone have any experience with suppliers shipping to Hawaii? Chris
  10. Exit Strategy for Sign Business

    Be careful if you choose to use a business broker. I've dealt with many who were clueless. We used www.bizbuysell.com to sell our company (got a letter of intent the same day it was listed.) Be careful not to under-value your business. Cash flow, annual revenues, and p&l are what most...
  11. big squeegee

    Can't go wrong with any of them. As mentioned earlier on Signs101, pound for pound, the best investment you can make. We still get a "smile on our faces" when we lay vinyl with one of Dale's BS's.
  12. Newbie looking for experts advise and suggestions on Printers

    9k is tough, even for a Mutoh vj1204. We purchased the 1204 3 years ago and are getting ready to buy a second. We do mostly banners, vinyl printing/stickers, etc, and are doing more and more wraps. If it's a big job, we often sub to Lowen, but have been really happy with our VJ. Also, bought...
  13. Cold-calling and gaining new clients.

    We started our first business when I was 24 (wife was 23) and we decided to not mention we were the owners. We did not use our last name in the business name, and approached businesses more as "sales reps." Of course, if asked, we were always honest about being the owners, but you'd be amazed...
  14. Tsunami Warning - Guam, Hawaii and beyond...

    Thanks for the warning!
  15. Today is not my day.

    dude, some days, things JUST don't go right. I can't even wish to boar you with an example, because you obviously know what I mean. But I think the one salvation, the one and ONLY salvation, is to have enough systems in place, and (hopefully) a decent staff, where you can just "go away" for a...
  16. Greetings from Austin, TX

    Welcome from the Big Island of Hawaii! We were fortunate to have an office in Round Rock and Irving! I LOVE TEXAS! I lived in San Marcos for a summer, one of the best times of my life. Is "Maggie May's" still around on 6 Street?
  17. Banner Rentals

    Great vision and thought! Anytime you can "rent" a banner or sign, go for it (if the market demands it!) Our company has thought about this many times but failed to take action. You're motivating me to try it. We're in a heavy tourism area, so I'm sure we could rent banner stands, trade show...
  18. How much for that wrap?!?!?

    We've had two similar experiences in the past two weeks. Summary: Our price: (in the range of) $2000 Their price (in the range of $700) We said, thanks, but no thanks. If this industry is becoming "priced" with companies REALLY able to undercut our professional fees by 70% to 90%, then I...
  19. What do you do with your vinyl??

    Thank you for bringing up this thread, seems fellow sign-shop folks have similar issues. When we lived in the mid west (land and space were cheap) we could build racks and place things anywhere we wanted. But after relocating to Hawaii, every single square inch is expensive and worth...
  20. Strong odors from printers

    Please be careful. You get used to odors so fast, you wouldn't believe it. If you're getting complaints or comments from unbiased people, take heed. I'm sure you would like a safe environment for you and your staff, and so please consider getting testing done or researching better ventilation...
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