Hello! First and foremost, I wasn't sure where this topic was most appropriate, and thought I'd start here. Moderators, please feel free to move as a needed.

My question is this...as I'm putting all of the pieces together (developing my brand, coordinating the legal paperwork, etc.) I wasn't sure if any of you have standard "Welcome Packets" that you provide your new clients or anyone interested in your services? If so, what do you provide in these packets? Do you have printed Marketing materials?

I think packaging can be just a very important part of your branding..and although we don't always deliver physical "product", we do, at times have to submit items to a client in a non-virtual way (mail, in-person, etc.). Do you take time to package these deliverables in your branding? (Labels, folders, etc.)

Do you use Stationery? Do you send written thank you notes?

I guess for me, I'm trying to decide what will appeal to my "market", so-to-speak. And, since I'm focusing in on Wedding Professionals, I happen to believe that by providing aesthetically pleasing "packaging" -- it can be a plus, especially if they wish to take me up on some of my creative services. So, I'm trying to balance the fine line between old-fashioned correspondence versus all virtual. I'm finding that it truly is a fine balance.

Also...do you ever provide thank-you gifts to your clients? If so, when is an appropriate instance to do so? Initially? After a certain milestone?

I'm just thinking all of this through, and I'd love to know your thoughts or if you would share what you do for your clients right now with regards to packaging/presentation, correspondence and gifts.

Thank you in advance!

- Isabel

Hi Isabel Great questions!

I don't have a standard welcome packet, but I do send along a list of services and in house programs, as well as info on some of what we offer that the client may not be aware of. The document includes pricing info, a list of our planned yearly holidays, notes on how far in advance we notify for unplanned holidays, etc. Just the basics, really.

But I'm pretty big on thank you's and gifts and send them at each client's yearly anniversary, for any special event (I had a client doing a book reading/signing and sent flowers...that kind of thing), and in thank you for a contracted referral. We also keep track of client birthdays and send cards as well as personalized gifts. For newer clients that I may not know as well I will at least send a 'coupon' for X% off their next invoice.

I think thoughtful gifts are a great touch and are a somewhat forgotten tradition between close business associates and would make a great addition to your business/branding plan

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Isabel,

I have a branded Welcome Package that I send to new clients. It includes a variety of documents such as - Policies and Procedures, How I Assist Clients, etc. These are all electronic which I can easily print or email.

As for gifts, I usually do Christmas gifts and birthday/anniversary cards through SendOutCards.