Gift Basket Business artwork

Gift Basket Business

131 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 2 years ago -

The place to explore the triumphs, challenges, and experiences gift basket business designers face in this wildly creative industry. Hosted by Shirley George Frazier, the world's gift basket business expert, author, and chief basketologist at GiftBasketBusiness.com.

Entrepreneurship Business Leisure Crafts gift baskets gift basket business crafts home based business retail entrepreneurship
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Episodes

How Upselling Increases Sales and Satisfies Customers | Episode 50

June 28, 2021 14:00 - 12 minutes - 8.37 MB

Fast food chains ask, "Do you want fries with that?" Car dealers ask, "Do you want undercarriage cleaning before delivery?" Every industry practices upselling, and so do we. What is upselling, and how is it done when a gift basket order arrives? This episode uncovers: How to go about upselling Which products are good for the upsell, and  What triggers to listen for when talking with customers so that upselling works Upselling helps you to add thousands of dollars to your revenue and m...

Why Your Vacation is Mandatory | Episode 49

June 21, 2021 14:00 - 10 minutes - 7.44 MB

As a business owner, you not only have the right to get away, you have an obligation to enjoy time away from your business whether on your own or with family or friends. What are the steps to wind down and close your doors for a short period of time while informing customers that you will return at a later date? This episode gives you permission to enjoy your life by setting up procedural steps that ensure that you are happy go leave and return. You deserve down time. Here's the why and ho...

What to Ask Before You Exhibit | Episode 48

June 14, 2021 14:00 - 13 minutes - 9.44 MB

How do you make sure that all the bells and whistles are reviewed and ready when considering showing your gift baskets at an event? Such research is vital, because if not done properly, it can close your business or at least cripple it financially. This episode reveals five questions to ask show producers so you know about their background and experience to bring the right people who are interested in what you offer. You'll also hear questions to ask yourself before you proceed. Thank y...

Selling Gift Baskets through Amazon | Episode 47

June 07, 2021 14:00 - 15 minutes - 10.9 MB

Adding your gift baskets onto the Amazon platform can yield lucrative sales. What does it take to participate. What are the pros and cons? This episode introduces you to the possibilities of adding your gift baskets onto the world's most-recognized website. Thank you for subscribing to Gift Basket Business, and be sure to rate the podcast through your favorite listening device! Article: https://giftbasketbusiness.com/amazon-may-be-your-gift-basket-sales-partner Your No. 1 gift basket b...

7 Questions to Answer Before You Go from Hobby to Business | Episode 46

May 31, 2021 14:00 - 15 minutes - 11 MB

Why does the transition from working part time to full time or moving your business from hobby to full-time enterprise seem so long? Whether it takes months or years, your true focus is ensuring that when you do operate full time, you have done the details to ensure that you do not go back to working for someone else. What are those details? This episode uncovers seven universal steps, some you may already know and have set up, and others you might be glad to learn about here. Thank you f...

Where to Find Help When You Don’t Know Where to Go | Episode 45

May 24, 2021 14:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MB

A client just placed a huge order, and you cannot handle it alone. Your website just went offline, and you need someone to diagnose the problem. These are just two of a long list of dilemmas that can and will occur in your business. Where do you turn for help, and how do you determine if such a person can truly solve the problem? That's the subject of this episode. You'll hear real-life situations and actions you can take to make things better so your business continues to thrive. Thank ...

Your First Big Order - 10 Steps for Success | Episode 44

May 17, 2021 14:00 - 22 minutes - 15.8 MB

IMPORTANT: This episode mentions contracts. Please make sure to speak with your attorney regarding the language in your contracts. Big orders are usually, but not always, corporate-related sales. What does it take to make sure you are ready for orders that not only need organization but lots more to do it right? In this episode you'll learn: What IS a big order? What's the difference between a proposal and a contract? How much payment do you request up front? Where is the order assembl...

Five Can-Do Items that Increase Your Sales | Episode 43

May 10, 2021 14:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MB

There are lots of moving parts to a gift basket business. However, some parts are easy to complete or put on auto pilot so you profit in the long run. This episode reveals simple tasks that help you: Stay aware of potential buyers Be ready for a fabulous sale Make better decisions Find out about great items Use programs to scan the net Designing is fun, but you need insight so you design more profitably. Thank you for subscribing to Gift Basket Business, and be sure to rate the podca...

Consignment and Wholesale Selling Tips | Episode 42

May 03, 2021 14:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MB

Have you considered selling your gift baskets on consignment in a retail store? How about selling your gift baskets outright at a wholesale price to a retail store? If you don't know what either of these sales options are, this episode uncovers consignment and wholesale sales options that may be in your gift basket future. Find out: What is consignment, and what is wholesale selling How to calculate your potential income Which stores may be interested in selling your gift baskets What ...

Adding Avon, Mary Kay, and Other Brands | Episode 41

April 26, 2021 14:00 - 20 minutes - 14 MB

Our customers love certain products from particular brands, but it can be difficult to make a profit including such products. What's the formula to add products from Avon, Mary Kay, and other popular brands and still make money? This episode dives into that topic. If you are a representative of such products, this episode provides guidance to create gift basket designs that still make money. This topic is one that's been requested for a long time, so tune in! Article: https://giftbasketbu...

Create a Video Channel | Episode 40

April 19, 2021 14:00 - 29 minutes - 20.3 MB

Your prospects and customers consume information in many ways, and watching videos is one strong option you want to offer ASAP. How do you start a video channel? What equipment is needed, and which program will host the videos? These and more concerns are answered in this informative episode whether you're brand new to making videos or are ready to refresh your current video programming.  You'll hear: 12 options for creating video content Three places to consider as video hosts How to ...

An Email List You Can Create | Episode 39

April 12, 2021 14:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MB

Aside from meeting people face to face (which you may or may have be able to do) how do you keep prospects and customers updated about what you offer them for every day and occasional gifts? One solid method is by connecting with them through a marketing program that collects email addresses and delivers your news as often as you wish. Whether you currently have an email list or are thinking of starting one, the time is now to turn your ideas into action or update your process. This episo...

The Order is Complete, Now What? | Episode 38

April 05, 2021 14:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MB

How do you keep a customer buying from you after the first order is complete? You need a solid method to remind them about your gift baskets every time an occasion happens. That's the focus for this episode. Just as a hotel housekeeper has a checklist for room service, you also need a list of how to connect with the customer in a way that ensures that the customer will see your message. You have three methods available, and the one you choose must match the customer's attention span. Her...

The Cost to Start Your Business | Episode 37

March 29, 2021 14:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MB

How much do you need to start a gift basket business? The answer - it depends. Whether you make and sell gift baskets as a hobby or full-fledged business, it's important to be ready to fund this creative enterprise. In this episode you discover the true costs, from purchasing items you already know to things you may have overlooked. You will also hear approximate costs for starting a hobby or business. The cost may surprise you, or you'll already know how much to spend. This is an educat...

Container Talk - How to Buy What Sells | Episode 36

March 22, 2021 14:00 - 38 minutes - 26.7 MB

Baskets and unique containers available for gift basket making look terrific on store shelves, but will customers be able to afford what you choose? This episode both introduces and reminds you of 15+ baskets and containers available to create your gorgeous gifts. It also guides you on what to buy before investing in too many containers you may not be able to sell right away. You'll also hear: How to choose what to buy Why list keeping is essential for future purchases What to do if cer...

How to Handle Difficult Clients | Episode 35

March 15, 2021 14:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MB

Not everyone is your ideal client. Some people will be the right fit while others change your attitude from happy to not so great. What's the solution? This episode breaks down the difficulty into three parts so you know whether the client is one to keep or one to let go. At the end, you'll know how to decide what to do and, if necessary, how to end the client relationship. It's easier than you imagine and will save you from eating antacid tablets. Website: https://GiftBasketBusiness.com/...

11 Ways to Avoid Distractions | Episode 34

March 08, 2021 16:00 - 27 minutes - 19 MB

The doorbell rings.  A child wants more juice. Dirty clothes "call" you to wash them. Anything that's not gift basket related seems to want attention, compelling you to handle it during business hours. Even if the task takes five minutes, it's time away from business, and that's not good. Distractions can and will occur when you must experiment with designs, conduct marketing calls, or take care of an administrative task. How do you balance what seems to be imbalances all around you? The ...

How Many Items in Each Gift? | Episode 33

March 01, 2021 15:00 - 22 minutes - 15.3 MB

"If I put six items in a small gift basket, is that too little, too many, or just right?" That's just one of many questions I've been asked in my 30+ years in the gift basket industry about the number of goodies and gifts that are appropriate to place in each design. How many products is enough? How many is too much? This episode demystifies all of the questions and puts your mind at ease as you create each gorgeous gift. Here's where you learn: How many items is an average for small, me...

When It Makes Sense to Buy Retail | Episode 32

February 22, 2021 16:00 - 22 minutes - 15.6 MB

As a designer, you want to purchase foods. gifts, and supplies from the places offering  high-quality merchandise for the lowest-possible prices. Many times those locations will be through wholesalers, but times change. Today, you may find quality products at low prices at retail stores. Will you purchase from retailers, or will you stick with traditional wholesale sources? That's the topic for this episode. You'll hear pros and cons for buying retail versus wholesale and examples of what ...

Adding Baked Goods to Gift Baskets

February 15, 2021 16:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MB

You may be the maker of the most-delicious cookies and brownies in your geographic location, but if you add those goodies to gift baskets after making it in your home kitchen, you're in violation of the law, at least in the United States. How can you work within the rules to sell the goods you make? That's the topic of this episode which provides you with some general guidance as you research the law within your U.S. state or country. The links below, some of which are mentioned in this to...

Adding Baked Goods to Gift Baskets | Episode 31

February 15, 2021 16:00 - 17 minutes - 12.1 MB

You may be the maker of the most-delicious cookies and brownies in your geographic location, but if you add those goodies to gift baskets after making it in your home kitchen, you're in violation of the law, at least in the United States. How can you work within the rules to sell the goods you make? That's the topic of this episode which provides you with some general guidance as you research the law within your U.S. state or country. The links below, some of which are mentioned in this to...

How to Create Your Business Plan | Episode 30

February 08, 2021 16:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MB

Why keep everything you want to accomplish with gift baskets in your head? Wouldn't it be better to write or type your goals on paper or computer or even use a mind map to plot your steps? Your dreams for a successful business can happen when you create a business plan, and best of all, the plan is not difficult to put together. This episode outlines which areas of your business are most important to document for precise tracking. You'll recognize which topics are good to include and which ...

How to Create Your Business Plan

February 08, 2021 16:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MB

Why keep everything you want to accomplish with gift baskets in your head? Wouldn't it be better to write or type your goals on paper or computer or even use a mind map to plot your steps? Your dreams for a successful business can happen when you create a business plan, and best of all, the plan is not difficult to put together. This episode outlines which areas of your business are most important to document for precise tracking. You'll recognize which topics are good to include and which ...

How Much to Charge

February 01, 2021 16:00 - 20 minutes - 14.3 MB

Pricing your gift baskets incorrectly will quickly close your business. That's a situation you don't want, so knowing your pricing options and choosing the one that makes you profitable while serving your customers is mandatory. This episode reviews your three pricing options: Keystone Triple Triple Plus You'll also hear how most, if not all traditional retailers, charge for gift baskets by selecting wrapping costs for small, medium, and large designs. Now's the time to calculate how m...

How Much to Charge | Episode 29

February 01, 2021 16:00 - 20 minutes - 14.3 MB

Pricing your gift baskets incorrectly will quickly close your business. That's a situation you don't want, so knowing your pricing options and choosing the one that makes you profitable while serving your customers is mandatory. This episode reviews your three pricing options: Keystone Triple Triple Plus You'll also hear how most, if not all traditional retailers, charge for gift baskets by selecting wrapping costs for small, medium, and large designs. Now's the time to calculate how m...

A Guide to Set Up Your Photo Studio | Episode 28

January 25, 2021 16:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MB

Customers need to see visual images of gift basket designs you create. Each photo requires clarity to show what recipients receive. Without it, you won't get many sales. Setting up your own photo studio and scheduling "closeup time" with each designs is mandatory for a thriving gift basket business. Why do you need an internal photo studio ? What are reasons for capturing every design in visual format (7 reasons)? What equipment is required (7 basic items) Where do you get supplies (5 pl...

A Guide to Set Up Your Photo Studio

January 25, 2021 16:00 - 23 minutes - 16.4 MB

Customers need to see visual images of gift basket designs you create. Each photo requires clarity to show what recipients receive. Without it, you won't get many sales. Setting up your own photo studio and scheduling "closeup time" with each designs is mandatory for a thriving gift basket business. Why do you need an internal photo studio ? What are reasons for capturing every design in visual format (7 reasons)? What equipment is required (7 basic items) Where do you get supplies (5 pl...

6 Places to Find Gift Basket Products | Episode 27

January 18, 2021 16:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MB

Where do insiders go to find local products? This episode gives you secret tips to use for online searches, uncovering places that contain small and large suppliers of products perfect for gift baskets. Both beginner and seasoned designers can take advantage of what's revealed here. If you're a beginner or don't have business credentials, some of the product makers may allow you to buy in bulk while others may not. Get ready for many "why didn't I think of that?" moments while listening! ...

6 Places to Find Gift Basket Products

January 18, 2021 16:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MB

Where do insiders go to find local products? This episode gives you secret tips to use for online searches, uncovering places that contain small and large suppliers of products perfect for gift baskets. Both beginner and seasoned designers can take advantage of what's revealed here. If you're a beginner or don't have business credentials, some of the product makers may allow you to buy in bulk while others may not. Get ready for many "why didn't I think of that?" moments while listening! ...

How to Legally Add Alcohol to Gift Baskets

January 11, 2021 16:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MB

What's the result when you have no permit to add vodka in a  birthday gift basket, and still, you add it?  You'll either get lucky when safely delivering it or get tangled in a legal mess because someone reported your non-licensed activity. A photograph of you in handcuffs featured in your local newspaper is not the type of promotion you want for your business. Whether you work at home, in a retail shop, or in a commercial zone, you may or may not be able to secure a license to add liquor,...

How to Legally Add Alcohol to Gift Baskets | Episode 26

January 11, 2021 16:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MB

What's the result when you have no permit to add vodka in a  birthday gift basket, and still, you add it?  You'll either get lucky when safely delivering it or get tangled in a legal mess because someone reported your non-licensed activity. A photograph of you in handcuffs featured in your local newspaper is not the type of promotion you want for your business. Whether you work at home, in a retail shop, or in a commercial zone, you may or may not be able to secure a license to add liquor,...

9 Elements to Add to Your Website | Episode 25

January 04, 2021 16:00 - 26 minutes - 18.2 MB

Keeping your business website updated and filled with compelling reasons to buy is more important than anything you add on social media and other programs, and this episode introduces you to nine pieces of the website "puzzle" that delivers results. Find out which parts are valuable and why each one encourages sales and referrals. You may already have some of these items on your site. However, it may be time to review and update these parts. Website: https://GiftBasketBusiness.com/ Press ...

9 Elements to Add to Your Website

January 04, 2021 16:00 - 26 minutes - 18.2 MB

Keeping your business website updated and filled with compelling reasons to buy is more important than anything you add on social media and other programs, and this episode introduces you to nine pieces of the website "puzzle" that delivers results. Find out which parts are valuable and why each one encourages sales and referrals. You may already have some of these items on your site. However, it may be time to review and update these parts. Website: https://GiftBasketBusiness.com/ Press ...

Find Your Attorney, Accountant, and Insurance Agent | Episode 24

December 28, 2020 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.3 MB

Your support staff contains more than part-time and full-time gift basket designers. It also includes professionals who provide you with legal, financial, and risk management knowledge. If you don't yet have access to such people or are looking to replace current professionals, this episode shortens the time line that it takes to bring these experts into your creative world. This team is crucial no matter how long you've made and sold gift baskets. This episode uncovers: Why you need lega...

Find Your Attorney, Accountant, and Insurance Agent

December 28, 2020 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.3 MB

Your support staff contains more than part-time and full-time gift basket designers. It also includes professionals who provide you with legal, financial, and risk management knowledge. If you don't yet have access to such people or are looking to replace current professionals, this episode shortens the time line that it takes to bring these experts into your creative world. This team is crucial no matter how long you've made and sold gift baskets. This episode uncovers: Why you need lega...

How to Make $100,000 in One Year | Episode 23

December 21, 2020 16:00 - 27 minutes - 19 MB

It's easy to say you want to reach $100,000 or more in gift basket income, but what does it take to make that happen? This episode uncovers the thinking and process to prepare for this revenue goal, because reaching six figures doesn't miraculously happen. What we'll discuss includes: Income vs. expenses Sales strategy Different types of income Reinvestment decisions Whether you want to leave your current job to sell gift baskets full time or are now making gift baskets but want to in...

How to Make $100,000 in One Year

December 21, 2020 16:00 - 27 minutes - 19 MB

It's easy to say you want to reach $100,000 or more in gift basket income, but what does it take to make that happen? This episode uncovers the thinking and process to prepare for this revenue goal, because reaching six figures doesn't miraculously happen. What we'll discuss includes: Income vs. expenses Sales strategy Different types of income Reinvestment decisions Whether you want to leave your current job to sell gift baskets full time or are now making gift baskets but want to in...

Four Ways to Change Zoning to Legally Work at Home

December 14, 2020 16:00 - 26 minutes - 18 MB

Zoning is the word, used by cities in the U.S., that identifies the type of buildings permitted on each street. Some streets are zoned as residential only, while others are approved for a mix of residences and businesses. Making and selling gift baskets at home can be comfortable, but is it legal? Is the street where you live approved for business enterprises? If not, there's potential for you to receive hefty fines and written documentation stating that you must close up shop. What's the ...

Four Ways to Change Zoning to Legally Work at Home | Episode 22

December 14, 2020 16:00 - 26 minutes - 18 MB

Zoning is the word, used by cities in the U.S., that identifies the type of buildings permitted on each street. Some streets are zoned as residential only, while others are approved for a mix of residences and businesses. Making and selling gift baskets at home can be comfortable, but is it legal? Is the street where you live approved for business enterprises? If not, there's potential for you to receive hefty fines and written documentation stating that you must close up shop. What's the ...

Business Card Tips for Better Promotions and Sales

December 07, 2020 05:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MB

You cannot sell gift baskets if you don't carry easy representation with you at all times, and that representative is the business card. What does your business card look like, and where do you take it? If your cards are outdated, worn, and tattered, or if you always forget to put them in your purse or pocket, or if you don't yet have business cards, this episode is for you. You'll hear what to add to your cards and what not to include, and the five suggested tips at the end will ensure t...

Business Card Tips for Better Promotions and Sales | Episode 21

December 07, 2020 05:00 - 21 minutes - 14.9 MB

You cannot sell gift baskets if you don't carry easy representation with you at all times, and that representative is the business card. What does your business card look like, and where do you take it? If your cards are outdated, worn, and tattered, or if you always forget to put them in your purse or pocket, or if you don't yet have business cards, this episode is for you. You'll hear what to add to your cards and what not to include, and the five suggested tips at the end will ensure t...

Big Store Sales Preparation You Need to Know

November 30, 2020 16:00 - 21 minutes - 14.8 MB

Want to sell gift baskets to Walmart, Costco, and other big-named stores? This episode gives you an insider's look at how to prepare for ultra-mega sales as well as with smaller retailers. Certain in-house procedures must be done before you sign your name on the dotted line. Uncover the details here, then get help through the link below to proceed with confidence. Website: https://GiftBasketBusiness.com/ Need help? https://clarity.fm/ShirleyGeorgeFrazier Support the show (https://paypal....

Big Store Sales Preparation You Need to Know | Episode 20

November 30, 2020 16:00 - 21 minutes - 14.8 MB

Want to sell gift baskets to Walmart, Costco, and other big-named stores? This episode gives you an insider's look at how to prepare for ultra-mega sales as well as with smaller retailers. Certain in-house procedures must be done before you sign your name on the dotted line. Uncover the details here, then get help through the link below to proceed with confidence. Website: https://GiftBasketBusiness.com/ Need help? https://clarity.fm/ShirleyGeorgeFrazier Support the show

Insure Yourself Against Problems | Episode 19

November 23, 2020 16:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MB

What would you do if the building next to your business suddenly caught on fire? What if it's your building on fire or perhaps filling with water due to a flood? In most cases your insurance company is notified, but what if you have no insurance and wish you would have invested in such coverage before the catastrophe? The best protection against fire, theft, water, and other unexpected occurrences is the topic for this episode. While this isn't a topic that's as glamorous as gift basket ma...

Insure Yourself Against Problems

November 23, 2020 16:00 - 18 minutes - 12.7 MB

What would you do if the building next to your business suddenly caught on fire? What if it's your building on fire or perhaps filling with water due to a flood? In most cases your insurance company is notified, but what if you have no insurance and wish you would have invested in such coverage before the catastrophe? The best protection against fire, theft, water, and other unexpected occurrences is the topic for this episode. While this isn't a topic that's as glamorous as gift basket ma...

22 Ways to Market Your Gift Basket Shop | Episode 18

November 16, 2020 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.2 MB

Marketing your gift basket shop doesn't have to be complicated. However, between choosing options that are offline versus ways to promote online, can be overwhelming. How do you choose? Which ones will be beneficial, and which ones aren't worth your time? This episode reveals numerous methods to get the word out about your shop, and if you are a solo entrepreneur working at home or in a commercial space, these options are for you, too. Need help to be clear on how to proceed? Schedule a c...

22 Ways to Market Your Gift Basket Shop

November 16, 2020 16:00 - 19 minutes - 13.2 MB

Marketing your gift basket shop doesn't have to be complicated. However, between choosing options that are offline versus ways to promote online, can be overwhelming. How do you choose? Which ones will be beneficial, and which ones aren't worth your time? This episode reveals numerous methods to get the word out about your shop, and if you are a solo entrepreneur working at home or in a commercial space, these options are for you, too. Need help to be clear on how to proceed? Schedule a c...

10 Ways to Set Up Your Shop for Maximum Efficiency | Episode 17

November 09, 2020 16:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MB

Do you find yourself walking here and there throughout your workspace to get a basket, grab shred, and find all the other components needed to make a gift basket? If so, it's time to stop the chaos and lost time and start organizing your space to make more money in less time. This episode covers what to consider when creating a gift-basket-making section within your shop or behind the scenes where customers cannot enter. Whether you work in a retail setting or in a home-based space, you'll...

10 Ways to Set Up Your Shop for Maximum Efficiency

November 09, 2020 16:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MB

Do you find yourself walking here and there throughout your workspace to get a basket, grab shred, and find all the other components needed to make a gift basket? If so, it's time to stop the chaos and lost time and start organizing your space to make more money in less time. This episode covers what to consider when creating a gift-basket-making section within your shop or behind the scenes where customers cannot enter. Whether you work in a retail setting or in a home-based space, you'll...

How to Add Gift Baskets to Your Shop

November 02, 2020 16:00 - 33 minutes - 23 MB

If creating gift baskets in your store, using inventory currently stocked on shelves, is a revenue stream you want to add, then this episode is for you. Hear what it takes to set up a gift basket section where staff makes gift baskets for delivery and shipping while the section acts as marketing to draw customer attention and added sales. You'll find out: If gift baskets make sense as an addition Where to create space in your store How to offer premade and customized options Which staf...