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A Guide On How To Earn Revenue by Marketing Greeting Cards Online

TABLE OF CONTENTS


Why Dive into the Greeting Card Industry?

Laying the Groundwork Before Venturing into Online Greeting Card Sales

7 Tactics to Design and Retail Digital Greeting Cards

Top 5 Leading Greeting Card Companies

Bottom Line

In today's digital age, where many opt for swift ecards or short social media shout-outs, one might think traditional greeting cards have faded into history. But while the landscape of card-giving has indeed shifted, it hasn't made tangible cards obsolete. There remains a special sentiment attached to receiving a handpicked card, especially for significant events like birthdays, weddings, or simple gestures of gratitude.


Interestingly, card shoppers largely fall into two categories: those who meticulously read every word before making a purchase and those who make a quick pick based on the cover image. I find myself in the former group, often investing time to sift through cards, ensuring the message within resonates perfectly.


When people shop for cards, they're searching for that special emotional connection. They want the recipient to either burst into laughter or be moved to tears—a sentiment that's especially true for heartfelt occasions like the forthcoming Mother's Day. In this guide, we'll delve into several strategies for successfully marketing and selling greeting cards online, ensuring that in this digital era, the timeless charm of a physical card continues to touch hearts.

Why dive into the greeting card industry?

Insights into the Greeting Card Market

Crafting and marketing handmade greeting cards isn't just a hobby; it can be a lucrative avenue to boost your income or even pave the way to a thriving enterprise. While the majority of small card ventures find themselves in between these scenarios, the charm of greeting cards remains undeniable. With the greeting card market raking in an impressive $7.5 billion annually, there's ample room for newcomers.


  • As of 2022, the worldwide greeting card industry is valued at a staggering US$ 7508.8 million.

    

  • Every year, American shoppers purchase roughly 6.5 billion greeting cards.

    

  • Projections indicate that by 2028, this market will be worth $6530.4 million.

Minimal Initial Investments


Diving into the greeting card business doesn't require deep pockets. Utilising graphic design platforms like Canva, one could begin selling digital designs on platforms like Etsy with zero investment. Even if your vision leans towards luxury handmade paper cards, the initial costs remain comparatively lower than those of many other entrepreneurial ventures. Moreover, this venture is space-efficient, fits seamlessly into a home setup, and offers flexible selling avenues, be they online or at local craft events.


A Business with Heart


At its core, the greeting card business thrives on sentiment. Most often, individuals seeking that perfect card are looking to celebrate a milestone or convey heartfelt emotions. Crafting a birthday wish or curating a line for Mother's Day allows you to channel your creativity into tangible mementos that sprinkle joy in someone's day.


Expand Your Creative Horizons


In the greeting card world, the sky's the limit for creativity. Not only does it allow you to experiment with designs and messages, but it also provides a platform to showcase cultural, festive, or personal nuances, catering to a diverse audience.


In conclusion, the greeting card business isn't just about profit; it's about blending creativity with emotion, ensuring every crafted piece touches a heart.

Laying the Groundwork Before Venturing into Online Greeting Card Sales

The greeting card market, while promising, is teeming with competitors. To truly thrive, it's imperative to carve out a unique space for yourself, which entails thoughtful planning and commitment.


The Blueprint for Kickstarting Your Greeting Card Venture:


  1. Zero In On Your Sales Platform

Your very first consideration should be deciding where your cards will see the light of day. Is your vision set on an online storefront, platforms like Etsy, or perhaps local boutiques and craft festivals? While beginning with sales to acquaintances and via word of mouth can give you a foundation, sustainable success demands expanding horizons.


The rise of online platforms like Etsy, Amazon's Handmade, and Artfire presents a world of opportunity, and diving into these spaces requires little to no tech savvy. Launching an Etsy shop is fairly straightforward. However, your shop's success hinges on more than just the listing; it demands captivating product narratives, eye-catching imagery, and a good grasp of SEO. If this feels overwhelming, Etsy's comprehensive guide for sellers is a fantastic place to start.


Moreover, irrespective of your primary sales avenue, establishing a digital footprint is pivotal. And rest assured, it's simpler than it seems.


Remember, greeting cards have a vast market spectrum, from niche boutiques to everyday convenience stores. Strategic planning and a clear customer acquisition strategy are crucial before mass-producing your greeting cards.


Don't forget the digital age's magic wand: Social media. Platforms like Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram offer unparalleled reach, connecting you to potential customers globally.


  1. Dive Deep with Market Analysis

Success in any venture isn't just rooted in grit and innovation but also in understanding the market pulse.


Your mission? Unearth the kind of greeting cards that'll resonate with buyers. This is where market research steps in.


At the heart of this research is identifying your ideal buyer—your 'target market'. This group dictates your promotional endeavors, pricing strategy, and even the platforms you choose to list on. For instance, a series of cards tailored for urban millennials will differ vastly from one aimed at kids.


  1. Identify Your Specialization

What makes your card-making venture different from the numerous others out there? Why would customers choose you? If you inspect successful card artisans on platforms like Etsy, you'll see they often cater to a specific market segment. This helps you stand out in a saturated market. If a broad market intimidates you, zero in on a unique segment. This might be your ticket to distinction and your way to being a notable player in that space.


Though there's an abundance of handmade cards, to truly thrive, you must bring something different to the table. For instance, a card business emphasizing sustainability, using all recycled materials, or dedicating a part of the profits to global eco-projects could be your unique selling point. Reflect on what drives or delights you when thinking about a niche.


While it might seem wise to offer a vast range, sometimes zooming in on a niche can be more lucrative.


For a unique touch, leverage your personal strengths and skills in your card designs.


Consider launching your card business by focusing on a particular celebration or festival, like Christmas or baby showers.


Alternatively, your cards could lean towards sentimental or comedic themes.


  1. Establish Your Brand Identity

    

The greeting card industry is intensely competitive, but a fresh card line can still make its mark. Define the kind of cards you're offering and how they differ from existing ones. This is pivotal. Additionally, understand your target customers and assess the demand for your specific card designs. Ideally, find a fresh, untapped segment with a significant audience.


  1. Invest in a Quality Card Printing Service

    

The quality and production cost of your cards play a huge role in determining your business's success. Plan meticulously as a startup; neither should you overproduce and have excess stock, nor should you compromise on quality and fail to attract customers. Remember, as you scale up, the cost per card diminishes, which boosts your profit margins. Opt for top-notch paper types like eco-friendly recycled 13-point matte or 16-point gloss. Most cards come in sizes like 3.5 by 5 inches, 4.25 by 6 inches, or 5 by 7 inches. And don’t forget to get matching envelopes.


  1. Determine the Pricing

    

To cover your costs and ensure profitability, set the right price for your cards. Use a simple online profit margin calculator as an initial guide.



  1. Expand Your Digital Footprint

    

Launch a dedicated website for your cards. This gives you total control over its design and promotions.


Choose a catchy domain name. Showcase a variety of cards and offer options for visitors to buy directly or through platforms like Etsy.


Facilitating easy online purchases can be a game-changer for your business.


  1. Promote Your Card Business

    

As a newcomer, convincing retailers to stock or provide space for your cards might be tough. If that's the case, consider setting up your own display and consigning your cards.


Print marketing materials like brochures, sample packs, and more to highlight the unique features of your cards. If retailers are hesitant (or even if they're not), establish your online store to reach customers directly. Consider placing ads in local magazines and newspapers, showcasing your card designs.


Digital advertising offers numerous opportunities. Consider sponsored posts on platforms like Facebook, where you can offer discounts and link to your online platforms.


  1. Stay Dedicated to Your Card Business

    

Ensure you have the bandwidth to initiate and run a card business. Crafting a few cards for acquaintances and operating a full-scale business are poles apart.


Prompt order deliveries are vital for a successful card business. Creating cards is just a fraction of the journey.


Other aspects like promoting the brand, innovating designs, procuring materials, and handling administration will occupy a substantial part of your time. Over 50% of your time might be dedicated to non-design activities. Plan for contingencies like holidays, illness, or peak seasons. Meticulous planning is essential to preventing any unexpected challenges down the line.

7 Tactics to Design and Retail Digital Greeting Cards

In today's digital age, the allure of personalized greeting cards hasn't waned, but the methods of creation and distribution have evolved. Whether you're a budding designer or someone looking to tap into this market, here are seven innovative approaches to designing and marketing greeting cards online.


Leverage Print-on-Demand Platforms


The benefits of platforms like Zazzle include:


Minimal upfront costs: This is a great advantage for those looking to earn rather than spend.


No need to ship: They print and dispatch the product for you.


Customer queries managed: They handle all inquiries from customers. Yet, if you're open to it, customers can approach you for design modifications.


Payment made easy: They manage all transactions and compensate designers through PayPal or check, based on your region.


Residual income: Continuous sales provide a steady revenue stream.


Market Handmade Cards on Platforms like Etsy

    

There are several platforms where you can market your custom-made cards. Unlike print-on-demand platforms, there's an investment in production, but the potential profit margin is higher.


For crafting your cards, you'd need to buy materials like blank cards, embellishments, stamps, and so on.


If you're already crafting cards, Etsy can help amplify your reach. There are other platforms as well, some more familiar than others. Review their terms to pick the best fit.


Platforms for Selling Custom-Made Cards:


  • Amazon

  • eBay

  • Shopify

  • 3dcart

  • Bonanza

  • ArtFire

  • iCraft

  • ShopHandmade

  • ListingDock

Expenses When Selling on Online Platforms:


  • Materials for cards

  • Packing materials

  • Delivery charges

  • Recurring fees, listing charges, or commission on sales.

Establish an Online Store to Market your Cards

    

Kickstart by creating a shop on Shopify, suitable for both printed and handmade cards. There's the flexibility to personalize your store's look with numerous themes. Additionally, their mobile app ensures you can manage on the move.


To make sales, people need to find you. Either invest in mastering SEO or hire an expert. This might consume more time than card creation.


Offer Designs and Text to Recognized Card Brands

    

Instead of direct selling, consider pitching designs, sketches, or messages to well-known card brands. Brands like Hallmark have in-house teams, but numerous niche companies procure them from freelancers, paying for the rights.


Respond to Custom Greeting Card Requests on Freelance Platforms

    

Choosing to cater to requests on freelance platforms is another option. In this approach, rather than you reaching out, clients come to you with their specific requirements. These platforms offer a myriad of diverse services, but independent designers can thrive by creating bespoke cards for occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays.


Freelance Platforms for Greeting Card Services:


  • Fiverr

  • Upwork

  • GigBucks

  • Zeerk

  • PeoplePerHour

Team Up with Creatives like Artists or Photographers

    

  • Know any creative professionals?

  • Team up with them to integrate their creations into your cards.

  • Promote and retail the collective product.

  • Offer exclusive art or photos to customers.

Team Up with Jewelry Designers

    

Did you know that card enhancements make them more appealing? Collaborate with jewelry designers to embed their crafted pieces onto your cards.


Promoting a handmade card business demands patience. Regularly engage with fresh demographics for optimal outcomes.


Staying in tune with current trends and leveraging digital tools can also make a difference.

Top 5 Leading Greeting Card Companies

Here's a rundown of some prominent greeting card businesses that have made a mark in the industry with their distinct niches and online presence:


Greetings Island

    

This platform offers free online cards and invitations, which users can modify to their liking. Whether it's for birthdays, weddings, parties, or other special occasions, they have a vast collection of templates to choose from.


Lovepop

    

Offering their products both online and in various retail outlets across the US, Lovepop ensures a unique bond between the giver and the recipient, offering an imaginative and memorable gifting experience.


Boomf

    

Known for their distinctive, personalized cards and gifts, Boomf is the go-to for anyone wanting to stand out. From their dynamic Boomf Bomb cards to delightful personalized gifts, they guarantee a smile even from the toughest crowds.


Caspari

    

With over seven decades in the business, Caspari is known for its finely crafted paper products, showcasing artwork from celebrated artists and museums globally. They provide a wide range of elegant items for both gifting and entertainment at reasonable prices with a focus on design that draws inspiration from art, textiles, and interiors.


Cardology

Standing out with their memorable pop-up cards, Cardology provides something extra when a regular card just doesn't cut it.

Bottom Line

Embarking on a journey to run your own handcrafted greeting card business is not only a delightful avenue to channel your creativity but also a promising venture for financial gain. This unique side hustle can transform your artistic flair into tangible masterpieces, potentially becoming a significant revenue stream. Moreover, in an age where digital communication is dominant, there's a nostalgic charm to receiving a handmade card, making such a business both personally rewarding and market-relevant. Dive into this venture, and you might just find a perfect blend of passion and profit waiting for you.



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