tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7203858989129454582011-12-19T17:43:28.996-06:00Ovation Creative's tips, ideas and brainstorms for marketing your small business on a budget, including website design, branding products, email marketing, blog customization and more.Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.comBlogger571100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-52286140051522949442011-08-15T19:06:00.001-05:002011-08-15T19:07:55.323-05:00

Today I registered Ovation Creative as a service provider on Thumbtack.com, where you can check out all the details about our affordable website design and creative services. Thumbtack will provide Ovation Creative with new client referrals and expanded exposure in our local market, and it’s the perfect choice for your small business, too. Click here to sign up for yourself.

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-1482480704738976352011-07-28T17:56:00.003-05:002011-07-29T15:59:12.379-05:00

The last couple of months offered some interesting opportunities as I stretched beyond my usual “niche” in the wedding industry and created branding materials and websites for two exciting new clients. First was Michael Page Associates, a new interior design firm in the Los Angeles area. Michael’s style is upscale, modern and minimalist ... and we created his logo, business cards, stationery and

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-53789954758086790492011-04-09T05:53:00.000-05:002011-04-09T05:53:40.355-05:00

My web design clients know they can count on me, and I love how they come to me first when they’re ready for a new look or a fresh design. Last month’s makeover was a hit for Accessible Security and Protection Services in greater Atlanta. See for yourself. Whether you’re launching your first business or looking for a makeover, Ovation Creative can develop the image you want at a price you can

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-78348106969380974612011-02-12T01:45:00.003-06:002011-03-07T08:10:04.235-06:00

I sent out a big email campaign yesterday to introduce Ovation Creative’s involvement with QR code technology, and so far the response has been amazing. Basically, we can create a free QR code for you that directs customers to any URL you choose, and then we’ll help you get started with this exciting new marketing tool by including it on any of our affordable printed promotional materials. A QR

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-56251444928730438512011-01-25T23:40:00.017-06:002011-02-11T00:14:37.895-06:00

A Quick Response (QR) code acts like a gateway, allowing anyone with a smartphone and a simple barcode scanner app to step between the digital and physical worlds, sort of a mobile-friendly way to point potential customers to online resources. Already popular in Japan, QR codes are just beginning to make headway with consumers in the United States. Time to update your marketing tools. The most

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-66451065786689438272011-01-07T00:55:00.007-06:002011-01-28T14:16:08.775-06:00

Let’s get the party started with a fabulous New Year special ... free logo design (a $175 value) when you purchase a multi-page Showcase or Power Website. And you’ll also receive a CD with your new logo in essential print- and web-ready formats. Plus, if you sign your project contract by January 15 we’ll even include an order of 500 free custom-designed business cards (an additional $75 value).

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-36030339528991500842010-12-18T23:37:00.006-06:002011-01-28T14:16:35.322-06:00

For me, projects tend to show up in spurts. All of a sudden I’ll get four clients in a row who ask for postcards. Or brochures. Or blog customization. This month Ovation Creative’s hot project has been logo design. One client was Victoria Wagner of A Splash of Elegance, who wanted to brand a special wedding promotion that begins in January. Here are the three designs I sent her. (She chose the

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-71660923691377670992010-11-16T02:22:00.004-06:002011-01-28T14:16:55.253-06:00

I need to post more often. Posting is an easy and effective way to increase traffic to my blog and my website, so I don’t understand why I tend to procrastinate about this. Better late than never, though! A couple of weeks ago I finished a major makeover for An Unforgettable Moment. Projects included logo modification, a completely revamped website, business cards, postcards and brochure-sized

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-61170690135513577642010-10-13T20:50:00.003-05:002011-01-28T14:17:09.756-06:00

I’ve had a fabulous month of makeovers! Taking center stage this time was client Michael McCants, owner of McCants Originale, a custom milliner in New Jersey who just showcased at New York Fashion Week. Michael was ready to update his brand with a new website image, new business cards and new postcards. Take a look at what we accomplished in less than a week! All pieces are designed in charcoal

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-61547964588586832112010-09-12T18:48:00.005-05:002011-01-28T14:17:48.702-06:00

Lots of you already know this; everybody else, please take notes. If you want to give your business a million-dollar look without breaking the bank, call Ovation Creative. Every day of year I’m honored to help establish small businesses like yours (and mine) with exciting logo designs, affordable branding options, low-cost websites and so much more. Here are a couple of recent projects. First, I

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-36199245903506843292010-08-11T21:08:00.007-05:002011-01-28T14:18:05.709-06:00

I just finished a website makeover for my client Theresa Collier of Trinity Weddings ... it’s a whole new look with a brighter color palette, new graphics and even business cards to match. Next I’ll redesign her trifold brochures. Theresa definitely loves her new look.If you’re interested in a business makeover, please get in touch and we’ll discuss all the exciting options Ovation Creative can

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-28821743865081360892010-07-11T03:44:00.004-05:002011-01-28T14:18:30.012-06:00

It’s been a busy month around here with blog and website makeovers. First, I expanded Tailored Events’ website from one to six pages. The new look is fresh and exciting and presents a strong image for owner Karen Moore’s growing business.Then I moved on to projects for Linda Smith Weddings and Creative Events by Design ... both involving elegant new background patterns on their websites and

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-64626339294957413002010-06-18T04:59:00.008-05:002011-01-28T14:18:52.118-06:00

Here’s another low-cost way to build your brand! I’m excited to introduce Ovation Creative’s exclusive line of affordable holiday cards in five beautiful designs … perfect for your business or family! Each design can be customized on the front with one of four holiday greetings and on the back with your choice of verse, two lines of personalization and an optional logo. Matching full-color return

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-18026848247285468082010-06-10T13:56:00.004-05:002011-01-29T17:49:46.883-06:00

Every couple of years, whether I really need to or not, I give Ovation Creative a complete head-to-toe makeover. The reason is a simple one: I’ve always loved change. In decades past it would involve rearranging some furniture or a different hair color. Today, though, I get my “fix” with a new logo, new signature colors and a redesigned website! Remodeling OvationCreative.com involved five days

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-24837803174803287882010-05-24T15:59:00.008-05:002011-01-28T14:19:25.364-06:00

And it’s also my favorite part of the design process, because it sets the tone for everything else we do. Whether you’re launching a new business or hiring us to help with a makeover, the logo comes first before any other project. And a few days ago a new client was referred to me by Letishia Jones of Milestone Event Design — a husband and wife team of wedding photographers in search of the right

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-54053072614729867572010-05-03T17:45:00.005-05:002011-01-28T14:20:04.064-06:00

Every now and then a new client will ask if I can include Flash on their website, but my response is always the same: I absolutely don’t recommend it! Read below to learn more. “Flash” is a design element developed as a way to bring motion to static websites. It was once used judiciously to give a little spice to an otherwise boring page. Now Flash is frequently used to an extent that’s

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-82986365762495169162010-03-30T16:43:00.007-05:002011-01-28T14:21:08.341-06:00

I’m really excited about Ovation Creative’s new line of affordable and chic logo products. Even though you and I may own small businesses, we can still create buzz like the major players do! Now you can promote your brand on everything from caps and tees to keychains and canvas totes. And small orders are welcome and encouraged.Our complete line includes caps in several colors, long- and

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-1182844892273301552010-03-29T23:13:00.011-05:002011-01-28T14:21:34.259-06:00

Sorry I haven’t posted for a couple of weeks ... but I’ve been busy making some exciting changes to Ovation Creative’s website. Stop by when you have a few free minutes and check out what’s new:If you need a website, our three affordable options just got more affordable. Not only did we lower our prices, now you can add custom logo design and 500 coordinating business cards for only $100 more.

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-39828659735552090172010-03-14T01:26:00.010-06:002011-01-28T14:23:05.419-06:00

Always on the lookout for affordable small business marketing solutions, Ovation Creative has teamed with a new vendor to offer an additional line of custom branding products. Check out these exciting new values ... all available with low minimums and budget-friendly pricing. We’ll help you enhance your brand with polish and panache!Custom Note Pads are 50 sheets each and measure 5½" x 4¼". 10

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-92018295613737859672010-03-05T15:24:00.006-06:002011-01-28T14:23:29.824-06:00

I love designing business cards, because I always think it’s amazing that something so small can make such a powerful statement. A good business card design should stand out and accurately reflect your brand and your business aesthetic. Trust me ... people can spot a do-it-yourself business card a mile away. It’s worth the money to hire a professional designer! Here are a few designs I’ve created

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-57527625525530612352010-02-24T10:56:00.005-06:002011-01-28T14:24:02.038-06:00

A couple of days ago Karen Moore, owner of Tailored Events, asked me to create an affordable logo design for a new business venture and wanted the colors and aesthetic to coordinate with the logo for her event-planning firm. Mission accomplished! I knew it wouldn’t be a difficult assignment, though, because I love her colors: bittersweet chocolate with aqua blue. I created a pair of companion

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-42523752663030126942010-02-23T16:19:00.005-06:002011-01-28T14:24:20.101-06:00

Launching a new business? Ready for a makeover? Our affordable solutions are better than ever! Through March 31 we’re offering free logo design (a $195 value) when you purchase any multi-page Ovation Creative website. And you’ll also receive your new logo on CD in a variety of web- and print-ready formats. Need business cards, too? Add an order of 500 for only $75 (shipping charges are additional

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-35160837033605405892010-02-12T06:15:00.006-06:002011-01-28T14:24:38.436-06:00

I’ve got a hunch that 2010 is going to be “the year of the blog.” I’m working on five concurrent blog designs for clients right now and several more are waiting in the wings. Although I love designing websites, blog design runs a very close second ... probably because blogging itself offers such an amazing, creative journey while you share your expertise, expand your business and increase traffic

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-64111843986717140742010-02-01T11:31:00.005-06:002011-01-26T07:01:00.357-06:00

For your possible interest and amusement on the first day of February I’m pleased to offer this link to the ugliest websites on the Internet. Please believe me ... these are prime examples of the worst in web design and functionality. (I’d love to know if the site owners actually paid somebody for these embarrassments.) Can you recommend others? Leave a comment!

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-77803755648887072472010-01-28T05:33:00.006-06:002011-01-28T14:25:41.355-06:00

I’ve been designing websites for a long time. And it never fails ... at least twice a year I’m approached by a new client asking for website features that I refuse to include. Even though I try to explain myself as politely and thoroughly as possible, I always suspect the client thinks I just don’t know how to do what they’re asking. (Believe me ... I know how.) And so, for your reading enjoyment

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-48301289678327214582010-01-14T17:28:00.006-06:002011-01-28T14:26:06.644-06:00

Everybody knows that Ovation Creative is the place to go for affordable websites. And we’re also well-known for affordable branding products, too ... logos, business cards, postcards, flyers and brochures. But I’m often surprised that more of my clients don’t call to ask me about ads, whether they’re for a local paper, trade show program books, an industry website, a semi-annual wedding guide or

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-21983983240078217242010-01-07T21:40:00.008-06:002011-01-28T14:27:11.230-06:00

In the last 24 hours I received thank you emails from three clients, and each left me speechless and humbled. Because nobody will share this kind of stuff with you unless I do it myself, I’ll excerpt their comments for you here.“I’m so pleased with [my new postcards] I feel speechless and numb, as though I’m in shock. You know what? You never cease to amaze me. There are no words for me to tell

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-50899970198076779042010-01-02T04:33:00.007-06:002011-01-28T14:28:38.455-06:00

With our first post of 2010 there’s no better time to think about smart ways to promote your business in the new year. Search engine marketing may be the key! Ovation Creative has partnered with the industry’s leading search marketing firm to provide all of your search engine optimization needs, including ...Local search engine listings Social media solutions Website analytics Keyword research

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-14950541456115233062009-12-23T16:46:00.007-06:002011-01-28T14:29:35.467-06:00

Don’t be nervous! Trade shows are fun and a great way to learn how to sell yourself and promote your business. Here are a few recommendations ...Bring someone with you to the show, even if he or she isn’t involved in your business. You’ll need a helper to keep brochures and business cards neat on your table or in case you need to run an errand (you can’t abandon your booth to buy coffee or go to

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-52737747951980593712009-12-17T19:44:00.005-06:002011-01-28T14:31:03.100-06:00

Thinking about new ways to grow your business in 2010? Look no further. Ovation Creative is pleased to announce our new partnership with Constant Contact®, the industry leader in email marketing! Ask the experts: email marketing is the most affordable and effective way to reach new customers and promote your business ... and Ovation Creative can help. Now in partnership with Constant Contact®, we

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-37826068791431547062009-12-11T17:12:00.017-06:002011-01-28T14:31:38.099-06:00

Your website is indexed by Google every time you add fresh content ... and a blog is considered part of your website. The more often you post to your blog, the more often your website is indexed by Google. And that equals higher search engine rankings! A blog will help your business when it’s linked to from your website and grows frequently with information relative to the keyphrases and keywords

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-38956915138528831242009-12-04T21:12:00.006-06:002011-01-28T14:31:57.496-06:00

All of my clients want breathtaking images for their websites. Although I’m always happy to provide appropriate stock photography when you don’t have photos of your own, there’s an easier way to get exactly what you need. Next time you coordinate an elaborate event, consider paying the photographer to take specific pictures for your own personal portfolio. He or she can get the shots you want

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-40793514279125524112009-11-28T10:44:00.012-06:002011-01-28T14:32:20.411-06:00

Here are nine things you should do before you hire a web designer! Speaking as an industry veteran, this makes the experience much easier for us all. Incidentally, I’d love to hear from you if you have questions or additional tips to add to this list. Just send me an email.Secure your URL/domain name. Visit a domain registry such as www.godaddy.com or www.register.com and lease your URL for a

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-73541601488459135742009-11-24T23:45:00.014-06:002011-01-28T14:32:45.477-06:00

Ovation Creative can help you get ready for your January bridal shows! This is the perfect time to think about everything you might need to introduce your business to next year’s brides:• brochures • affordable custom presentation folders • full-color logo labels or stickers • flyers for gift bag inserts • logo gifts for raffles and prizes • postcards • HTML mailers for email campaigns • ads for

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-69422093529482296382009-11-18T13:02:00.006-06:002011-01-28T14:33:13.382-06:00

It’s always been a key element of my business plan to look like a million while spending as little as possible. And I’ve found a very clever website that helps me achieve that goal ... Zazzle.com. I’ve purchased products from Zazzle in the past (photo magnets, mugs, mouse pads) and always thought they did a terrific job, so I decided to experiment and let them produce Ovation Creative’s holiday

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-46561460410776725712009-11-11T15:32:00.018-06:002011-01-28T14:34:35.187-06:00

The right image makes all the difference in the world. If you don’t have a website, or if your current website doesn’t represent you the way you want it to, Ovation Creative can change the course of your business forever! Our affordable websites are beautiful, functional and custom-designed ... with all the features you want most and the fastest turnaround time in the industry. Your new website

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-57039541804279360252009-11-08T10:10:00.019-06:002011-01-28T14:36:10.944-06:00

I know this is short notice, but ... if you act within the next four days you can save 40% on custom holiday cards at Zazzle.com. Create your own card online or choose one of their ready-made designs, adding your logo and business signature at no extra cost ... with no minimum order required. This is a terrific way to achieve a million-dollar image on a budget and send holiday cards from your 

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-22073983088919596002009-11-03T21:17:00.007-06:002011-01-28T14:36:41.975-06:00

Let’s begin with a definition. A domain name identifies an individual website on the Internet and can be any length up to 67 characters, including the 26 letters of the English alphabet, numbers 0 through 9 and hyphens (-). In addition, every domain name ends with a suffix or extension that’s based on the type of organization with which your site is associated. Common extensions include .com, .

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-91366270403206366852009-10-24T16:32:00.007-05:002010-02-13T22:14:53.952-06:00

Every now and then a client can really make my day, and Victoria Wagner, owner of A Splash of Elegance, does this frequently for me! We began working together about a year ago when she asked me to create a website for her new wedding planning business. Her only real guideline was the color palette (ecru with Tiffany blue, which has always looked more like green to me) and from there I moved

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-1755815871457790532009-10-17T01:53:00.015-05:002011-01-28T14:37:19.059-06:00

This morning we published the latest addition to our family of websites ... Trinity Rose Weddings based in Alta Loma, California. Other branding projects for this client also included logo design and coordinating business cards; we’re sure more will be on the way! Owner Stefani Carrasco told me her old website never generated much traffic or business for Trinity Rose Weddings, which really didn’

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-53238049705289996822009-10-12T21:10:00.006-05:002011-01-28T14:38:24.766-06:00

Ovation Creative has partnered with the industry’s leading search marketing firm to provide our website clients with the following search engine optimization (SEO) and marketing services ...• Local search engine listings • Local media solutions • Blog creation and management • Website analytics • Keyword research • Competitor research • Free and paid directory placement • Press release creation

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-362175420265964962009-10-09T15:30:00.012-05:002011-01-28T14:39:19.347-06:00

Here are four reasons why it pays to hire a website professional like Ovation Creative. If you’ve got a do-it-yourself website, these common mistakes could ruin your business on the Internet by repelling search engine spiders and lowering your overall rankings. Hidden text. Never try to hide text on your website with numerous keywords, such as making a large grouping of keyword text the same

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-49000883966928698142009-10-02T20:52:00.015-05:002011-01-28T14:39:34.938-06:00

It’s like a new haircut or a fresh coat of paint: a simple change can be wonderful! But updating your business image is definitely more than just window dressing. Consider this: if you generate plenty of website traffic but the phone doesn’t ring, your site probably doesn’t live up to the service you sell or the clientele you want to attract. Give me a call at 800-961-2387 or send an email ...

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-11318762006082219452009-09-30T23:04:00.015-05:002011-01-28T14:40:03.114-06:00

Okay, I admit it. I’m a nerd. My favorite shopping sites have nothing to do with shoes, fragrances or handbags. Here are the spots where I love to spend time and money in the middle of the night ... websites that offer unique and affordable options for customizing a small business on a budget! Visit Online Labels for blank laser and inkjet labels in every conceivable size and material, including

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-58843656495963310632009-09-25T03:01:00.036-05:002011-01-28T14:41:04.695-06:00

We’re excited to announce our newest menu of affordable services: Blogspot blog design and customization. A blog is the perfect complement to your website ... and with many additional advantages. A blog will expand your brand on the Internet, build client relationships, promote your reputation as a professional, increase traffic to your website and improve your search engine rankings! Just set up

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-15190694401289274382009-09-21T16:25:00.021-05:002011-01-28T14:41:51.219-06:00

News flash: you don’t need an ecommerce website or a merchant account to offer your clients a convenient way to pay you with credit cards! If you have an Ovation Creative website, ask us to add a PayPal “pay now” button that allows your clients to make payments in any amount. Funds are deposited directly into your bank account. There’s another possibility, too. If you already have a merchant

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-87743878064496856922009-09-17T17:37:00.014-05:002011-01-28T14:42:15.204-06:00

Are you a bridal consultant or event planner? Now you can offer your couples the convenience of a custom online RSVP form. It’s a low-cost way to provide a unique and valuable service ... with an easy profit for you and the opportunity to drive hundreds of new visitors and potential business to your website. Each customized form can include an engagement photo, event details, Mapquest links,

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-85394928578005786862009-09-13T15:12:00.004-05:002011-01-28T14:42:40.294-06:00

In my last post I recommended Ovation Creative’s full-color, low-cost logo stickers to brand some simple products for client gifts and promotional giveaways. Let me suggest another option, too! Pay a quick visit to CafePress.com and Zazzle.com, two award-winning websites that let you customize a wide variety of terrific products with any logo or image ... the perfect solution for your small

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-60753712400082199762009-09-10T21:31:00.005-05:002011-01-28T14:43:00.677-06:00

We’ve got a terrific source for low-cost, full-color stickers in all of your favorite shapes (ovals, squares, rectanges or rounds), hundreds of different sizes and a variety of materials for every conceivable application ... even waterproof! Best part is, we can order them in increments of 25, so you never have to buy more than you need. Stickers are perfect for customizing blank presentation

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-53338984454988981952009-09-06T02:37:00.005-05:002011-01-28T14:43:20.754-06:00

Over the years Ovation Creative has developed a “niche market.” A large number of our clients are bridal consultants and event planners. But it may surprise you to know that we actually reach far beyond the wedding industry, creating logos, marketing tools, websites and more for florists, caterers, realtors, customer service consultants, interior designers, pilates instructors, security companies

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-69636255717974383812009-09-04T19:41:00.003-05:002010-02-13T22:09:08.039-06:00

I am so pleased to introduce my three latest website creations: Two Rings, Victoria Marie Wedding Planners and Elegant Events. All were published to the Internet this week. I had a terrific time working with my three new clients and wish them wonderful success!I already received a sweet note from the owner of Victoria Marie. An excerpt follows:“I just wanted to share with you some of the

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-60961422350751626632009-09-03T14:13:00.004-05:002011-01-28T14:43:48.581-06:00

Come back often to check out Ovation Creative’s Secret Sale. Just click the icon in the left sidebar to visit a hidden page on my website ... every week you’ll discover another special offer for my blog readers ONLY, and it’s just my way of saying “thanks” for your support and continued business. In so many ways throughout the year we all contribute to each other’s success, and I appreciate each

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-49592357222347582532009-08-29T21:02:00.004-05:002011-01-28T14:44:12.141-06:00

If you own a small business, and especially if you have a website, the answer to this question is an easy one: probably not. Face it ... your website is the most effective marketing tool you’ve got. Nothing else can reach so many people with so much information about your business, and it’s easy and inexpensive to revise your services and products, change your prices and replace photos. And if

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-58950388536560565422009-08-26T00:32:00.008-05:002011-01-28T14:44:58.449-06:00

I create a lot of logos for businesses just like yours. In case you’re wondering how it’s done, I’ll share my five rules for a successful logo design! Simplicity. Always keep it simple. The more complex the logo, the more time the average viewer needs to register it in their minds. And a complex logo presents negative issues when it’s scaled to fit smaller applications. Scalability. A successful

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-44799865369573805592009-08-23T15:24:00.014-05:002011-01-28T14:45:24.865-06:00

Before I jump into my list, let me begin with some basics. First ... blogging is free, and there are a number of quality sites that can help you get started. Ours is posted here on Blogspot.com. If you’re apprehensive about finding enough content or don’t trust your own writing skills, a few Google searches can turn up some great material. (Remember to give credit to authors and photographers.)

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-22337119773084369662009-08-21T15:58:00.005-05:002010-02-13T22:05:59.248-06:00

I get so many quote requests for custom presentation folders! Everybody knows they can dazzle prospective customers and make a million-dollar impression ... but the cost has always been prohibitive. Custom folders were a complex design project and expensive to print, with minimum quantity requirements only a major corporation could afford. Drum roll, please! I finally found a source for

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-720385898912945458.post-76283769554403979362009-08-19T20:54:00.006-05:002011-01-28T14:45:56.599-06:00

Going ... going ... gone! With the recession finally starting to turn around, I know our incredibly low prices for custom websites won’t last much longer. If you’ve been thinking about an Ovation Creative website, there’s never been a better time. Now through October 31 you can still buy our one-page Start-Up Website for $350, our five-page Showcase Website for $575 and our seven-page Power

Marcyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11231205106169504443noreply@blogger.com0