I use direct mail - actually "lumpy mail" - to promote my catering services. It works AMAZINGLY WELL!

I send a "smoothie in a box" package and I immediately get 1 out of 3 to book an event. And I get 2 out of 3 within 3 months. It's like printing money!

Direct mail works, but it's got to be done right. Think of how you go through your mail. The A pile is your bills & anything you will keep. B pile is "maybe read later" but that never happens. C pile goes right in the trash. The majority of direct mail is C pile mail. Your goal is to create A pile mail and actually have people EXCITED to get mail from you.

I'm not a big proponent of mailing coupons. That just discounts your services. I love premiums/freemiums and upgrades - anything that can make the customer feel extra special and it really doesn't cost you anything.

Good luck and let us know what you decide to do.

"Small Business Stacey"