I just got back from the Tree of Life Customer Appreciation Weekend in St. Augustine Florida after having a terrific time seeing everyone. I love the shows. They are like one big family reunion. You get business accomplished PLUS you get to enjoy your friends and community!

I had retailers come up to me after my presentation and while I was in my booth and ask me "how do I start a  promotional calendar?" I am as you may know one of my favorite classes is my "90 Days Out: Merchandising & Marketing TIPS" where I teach retailers to work in advance with themes, end caps, and a real storewide synergy. I encourage a yearlong calendar. There are so many benefits. Working in advance takes a little time to prepare, but the results can save you, your staff, and your broker/reps a ton of time. The store answer is let me show you know...

Knowing where to start can seem a bit overwhelming I know but I have helped retailers for years... learn how to take those beginning steps. Once you have accomplished a few... then you're well on your way. Now is the time to be planning your 2009 calendar... really. So I decided to add some TeleTraining this month to help you get started. The presentation runs about 30 minutes and I promise you if you've never had a planner before... this session will help so much!!

When making a planner you can create just “one category” (example: Gluten Free) or a complete storewide program. So with all this said, please consider attending one of the classes and let me share my tips on how to get started. I'll review how to: 1) obtain industry "trend" resources, 2) utilize editorial "theme" content, 3) create yearlong vendor programs, and 4) create a “simple” working plan.

My TeleTrainings are FREE to Independent Natural Product Retailers and all you have to do to get started is to register for one of the classes by going to the "TeleTraining Tab" on www.askDebby.com and click on the date & time of the session that's convenient for you.

You'll receive a confirmation via email with details for connecting into the TeleTraining. Not even a toll call... view the presentation from your computer (connected to the internet) and listen through your computer speakers.  Simple. I hope to see you soon! It's time to start your 2009 planner and it couldn't be easier then a 30 minute, no-strings-attached lesson from askDebby.com.

Okay... what's in it for me? I get to make a difference.

Until next time, I'll be wishing you great days, Debby