Small Biz Tip #3 – Packaging

Sometimes with promoting and advertising, it’s about letting your customers do that for you. And that’s exactly what I see the most on Instagram and Twitter. People posting photos or tweets of the wonderful packaging their item/s has arrived in. And this is not only a positive tick against your business, but extra exposure that you haven’t had to do. See where I’m going with this…

The un-packing experience is almost as exciting as receiving what’s inside. A bit like pass the parcel, but small business style. And clearly you want to create a memorable experience. With this being the first thing customers see, it’s important to wow them right from the word go. So, let’s go…

Safe Delivery

First and foremost, you want to ensure that your items are received safely by your customers. There is nothing worse than a part crushed box or bent prints. Obviously, this often happens in transit, but at least if they are shipped in the most protective and appropriate packaging possible, you can stay on the good side of people. Think about reusing cardboard boxes, of various sizes, for a start. Which leads me nicely onto the global topic of being environmentally friendly…

Promotional Material

Again, this can cost absolutely nothing. You could hand write on a piece of paper and personalise a code for customers to use on their next order. Perhaps a free gift if they spent over a certain amount or 10% off your next order. Otherwise you could do a ‘Meet the Maker’ style note which is what Angela Chick does.

Environmentally Friendly

Be sustainable. Think about the environment. Use recyclable paper and materials and ensure you highlight this to your customers. Lots of small businesses are already taking steps to becoming more environmentally friendly (or plastic-free) which is brilliant. Ellis, owner of Pastel Elixir uses paper bags, recycled boxes and biodegradable plastic sleeves where necessary. The Urban Vintage Affair use paper shred ribbons, no bubble wrap or sellotape and that’s even with fragile items! Good going guys!

Little Touches

It could be as simple as a brand/logo sticker or some tissue paper. I’m not talking gold crested jiffy bags or diamond sequined wrapping paper. But just small touches that make customers feel special and that they can see that your business cares about making customers happy. Twine to hold the package together or some handmade stickers to brand the packaging can always make that extra bit of difference!

• Bee Happy Gifts – The box was wrapped in twine, had a personalised name tag, and a branded sticker on the outside. Simple, but helps with brand image and adds that special touch.
• Sandwick Bay Candles – The candles were wrapped in brown paper, then sealed with some twine and their very own business card. Again, simple, but especially if you are giving as a gift, the recipient can appreciate the thought that has gone in.

As a blogger, I’ve received many items from small businesses and packaging is definitely something you guys are smashing! I’ve seen so many variations and inspiring creativity it’s fab, so keep it up!

What are you favourite packaging tips? Have you received something that has created a memorable experience for you?