Was this a good decision

I had received a call a couple of days ago from the local Catholic Church. I though it could be a possible landscape job.
I finally got ahold of the person who called and it wasn't a job but they are putting together a business directory for the community and wanted to know if I wanted my business included.
They will be publishing weekly and the annual cost to me is $295. They had a close deadline and I went ahead with it. This will be published on April 1st (what a day to choose my advertising launch!!)
This is less expensive than other sources but the audience is much smaller too.
I've inquired into other advertising but haven't committed to any others yet.
I hope I will get some business from this advertising. I do plan on advertising in other area weekly newspapers but will have to decide on how much I want to spend yet. I also know I have to get my business name out in the public and really hope this will be a good step.
So did I do the right thing???

Since you are a brand new business, you really have to get your name out there, so I think it was a good idea. Does the church also hand out bulletins during the mass? I know a lot do and some put advertisements in them. Eileen will cringe when she reads this, but I used to read all the ads in the bulletin when the sermon went on too long!

Its a good idea.Another great way to drum up business, is to have a sign made up with your landscaping company name and phone number.When your are working at a on site job. Put the sign up near the road so people going by see your work and get your number.A add in yout local newspaper at the start of the season also helps.

If you're looking for a specific target (such as people with property that needs to be landscaped) then yes. Did you inquire about how the distribution would be handled? I.e. included in the next 2 newsletters delivered to peoples homes? Or handed out before/after the mass? This last would be ideal for you as I've been to plenty of masses in my life and always look for something to read, like the church newsletter and stuff.

If you have those local Valupaks coupons see if you can get into one of those. Also try getting into Home Improvement type of shows/exhibits. People are there for a reason as well: to improve their home and this includes landscaping!

Originally Posted by AbbysMom

Since you are a brand new business, you really have to get your name out there, so I think it was a good idea. Does the church also hand out bulletins during the mass? I know a lot do and some put advertisements in them. Eileen will cringe when she reads this, but I used to read all the ads in the bulletin when the sermon went on too long!

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I think a church bulletin is a good place to start. One good landscape job could pay for it.
I bet a lot of people look at the ads during the mass. I always felt that whatever point the pastor was trying to make, he should be able to make it in 15-20 minutes. I can and I'm not a public speaker. (sorry Eileen)

I agree, great place to start!, once you get a few clients under your belt I'm sure that the word of mouth publicity will be well worth the few bucks spent in the beginning!

Originally Posted by AbbysMom

Eileen will cringe when she reads this, but I used to read all the ads in the bulletin when the sermon went on too long!

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I'm shocked! (Okay, I've done that myself!)

Seriously, advertising in the church bulletin is a great idea because people really do read it. Also, from talking to one of my coworkers who sells advertising for our weekly paper, I know the inviduals/companies that adverstise with us definitely get some business as a result. I think it was great move on your part!

Thanks for making me feel better. I'm not sure if this is in addition to the bulletin handed out AFTER mass (they never to before mass!!) I just remember he said weekly publication. With no monies flowing in yet I don't like spending too much yet. They will bill me quarterly though which is good!!