San Francisco International Gift Fair 2009

Well we came we saw and we took business cards. Yes, SendOutCards made it's assault on sfigf 2009 and I'm happy to report that the response to our business was positive. By far the most popular response to our booth was

"Wow, this is a great idea"

The most important part of the show was what we learned about doing shows. When doing shows it's important to understand that your there to help retails sell things to their clients. So in some regards SendOutCards could be in direct competition to what some of these vendor are already selling in their store.

For example, take Mary who visited us and owns a craft store in Truckee.

Mary had this to say about our service:

While I like your service, it will take away from the cards that I already sell in my store. I think the idea of keeping in touch with people is great, that's why I sell cards. However, if I start using this service, then I can't markup those cards in my store. Plus a lot of people in my community still like to touch cards.

To this, I have to say Mary, your right. SendOutCards is not a complete replacement for those who still appreciate the art of a handwritten note. And we aren't a business that you will replace selling cards in your store. However, Mary is right that keeping track of relationships is important and that's the void we are here to fill.

Although we appreciate Mary giving it to us straight, there were other great comments, but the idea of being able to send a card quicker, easier and cheaper was the real "WOW" factor. There was a lot of interest in being able to resell our service for those retailers that managed their clients contact list.

Over the next few days I'll discuss some of the lessons that we learned while at the show. So check back and leave your comments.