How to Launch a Physical Product
Last Wednesday, we all gathered to get a glimpse behind the scenes of Jenna Stratman’s launch of her very first physical product: The Refresh Weekly Planner. This lunch + learn workshop was such a treat to hear the ins and outs of her successful (and quickly sold out!!) product. Everything from how she decided on which product to produce, the nitty gritty of finding printers, all they way to launching.
Jenna shared so many great tips, that I’m sure you will walk away inspired + encouraged to make your side project dreams happen. If that is the case, hop on over and snag the free PDF worksheet Jenna created exclusive to you guys! This worksheet provides a loose guideline to help you launch your product. I’ve already got mine printed with loads of notes + ideas for Spruce Rd.!
Here are a few notes from the video, to help guide you through the interview:
Research Your Heart Out!
- Is there a need for your idea?
- Talk to everyone you can to bounce ideas and gather feedback Make a mockup, show pictures, help people see your vision
- Test the product A focus group of one is better than none!
Dig a Little Deeper…
- Start researching vendors
- Figure out your processes, materials, etc. Start with your dream situation! Then cut back where necessary
- Determine pricing based on the above factors Use the cost/wholesale/retail method
- Keep talking! Build excitement and take others on the journey with you
- Keep moving and yourself socially accountable
What’s the Buzz About?
- Think about partnerships and influencers that can help boost awareness Locally and online!
- Share, share, share! People love a peek into the process
- Choose a platform to focus your marketing efforts on Where are your potential customers hanging out?
Plan for Pre-Orders
- If you can, make a plan for pre-orders before the official release 2–4 weeks out is a perfect cushion
- Start before you’re ready Barbara Corcoran
- Show everything: keep the info easy and clear You don’t want to confuse consumers at this stage
- Things don’t always go smoothly Last minute changes and hiccups are inevitable
Hit the Ground Running!
- Make it EXCITING
- Make it shareable
- Recognize those helping and rely on those partnerships/ambassadors
- The details matter Think packaging, notifications, follow-up, and any other customer touch points
- But don’t stop there! Continue the momentum and excitement by encouraging customers to share
Xiomara Vides
Great Lunch N’ Learn! I currently in the process of launching my first collection of soy candles and listening to someone talk about their process and experience is so inspiring and uplifting. Thanks so much for this great info!!
-Xiomara
Melinda McQueen | A Beaut Home
Thank you so much for this video, It’s helped immensely. I’m in the process of creating a ‘dream home planner’ for my design customers. Which I hope will help me define the brief and also something beautiful my clients have to show the process from concept to finish.Thanks Melinda xx
Jamie
I’m so glad it was helpful Melinda! Just getting a glimpse at someone else’s process and hangups is so impactful. Wishing you the best on the dream home planner!