Sometimes a little sparkle is all you need.

It’s been a busy month around here with blog and website makeovers. First, I expanded Tailored Events’ website from one to six pages. The new look is fresh and exciting and presents a strong image for owner Karen Moore’s growing business.

Then I moved on to projects for Linda Smith Weddings and Creative Events by Design ... both involving elegant new background patterns on their websites and comprehensive blog makeovers.

I’m always amazed how a small change — like a new background pattern — can make such a big difference! If your website, blog or marketing materials are ready for a bold new look or just a mini-makeover, please get in touch with me for a quote. We offer fabulously affordable prices, lots of creative options and no-interest payment plans for blog and website projects. Just send an email or give me a call at 800-961-2387.

It's never too early for Christmas.

Here’s another low-cost way to build your brand! I’m excited to introduce Ovation Creative’s exclusive line of affordable holiday cards in five beautiful designs … perfect for your business or family! Each design can be customized on the front with one of four holiday greetings and on the back with your choice of verse, two lines of personalization and an optional logo. Matching full-color return address labels are available, too.

Cards are sold in multiples of 50 with white envelopes, measure 8½" x 5½" and are printed double-sided (like postcards) on heavyweight stock with a gloss finish on the front. Our matching return address labels are generously-sized at 2¾" x ¾" and can include up to four lines of type.

Download our PDF catalog for additional images, customization options, prices and how to order.

Incidentally, I’d really love some early feedback on this new product line, so I hope you’ll take a few minutes to post a comment, send me an email or call 800-961-2387.

A makeover is better than moving your sofa.

Every couple of years, whether I really need to or not, I give Ovation Creative a complete head-to-toe makeover. The reason is a simple one: I’ve always loved change. In decades past it would involve rearranging some furniture or a different hair color. Today, though, I get my “fix” with a new logo, new signature colors and a redesigned website!

Remodeling OvationCreative.com involved five days of intense labor. Nearly every aspect of the website changed, including: the width of the site overall; the background pattern; Ovation Creative’s logo and banner; the navigation bar links; the page title graphics, page images and dividers; the text color; the page layouts; the content. Keep in mind, my website is larger than most ... about 52 pages altogether, most of them accessible only by clicking links on the 16 primary pages you’ll find in the navigation bar. And when I was done I also created new business cards, new invoice forms and redesigned my blog. (Whew.)

Bottom line ... I’m crazy about Ovation Creative’s new look, even if I say so myself. This is way better than highlighting my hair or moving the sofa, because the entire world is looking at my business image today in a completely different light! The scope of that statement is staggering, isn’t it?

Get in touch if your business is ready for a makeover. Ovation Creative offers lots of affordable options to help redo your website or update your marketing essentials. Just give me a call at 800-961-2387, send an email or visit us online.

A sharp logo is key to creating your brand.

And it’s also my favorite part of the design process, because it sets the tone for everything else we do. Whether you’re launching a new business or hiring us to help with a makeover, the logo comes first before any other project. And a few days ago a new client was referred to me by Letishia Jones of Milestone Event Design — a husband and wife team of wedding photographers in search of the right look for their new business. After they explained their aesthetic and audience, I sent the following logo designs for their review:

They chose the third logo ... the one with “Ana Rita” in black script and the lipstick pink butterfly ornament. It was a great choice, even though I think any of these designs would have worked beautifully for their business! Other upcoming projects for Ana Rita Photography include letterhead design, business cards, postcards, an electronic PDF brochure and custom HTML emails through Constant Contact.

I invite you to check out Ovation Creative’s website and explore all the different ways we can enhance your brand and help you grow your business ... even on the tightest budget! Feel free to send an email or give me call at 800-961-2387 if you’d like to brainstorm or just need answers to a few questions. I’m always here to help.

Why we don't design Flash websites.

Every now and then a new client will ask if I can include Flash on their website, but my response is always the same: I absolutely don’t recommend it! Read below to learn more.

“Flash” is a design element developed as a way to bring motion to static websites. It was once used judiciously to give a little spice to an otherwise boring page. Now Flash is frequently used to an extent that’s thoroughly detrimental. And here’s why.

1. There are a many programs available to create Flash, but they don’t all recognize the same standards. The current version of Flash Player can’t even recognize animations that were created using earlier versions of its own software. So it’s possible that a visitor to your site could have a two-year-old computer with a version of Flash Player that can’t display your animation because it was made with a newer creator ... and vice versa.
2. The more dynamic your Flash animation is, the larger the file size will be ... and the longer it takes for your page to load. Do you really want the first impression of your website to be 30 seconds of “LOADING” with a progress bar?
3. Search engines don’t like Flash because search “spiders” can’t read anything contained in (or on the same page as) animation. When they come to index your website they’re looking for text in HTML code, not graphics. If a search spider runs into a Flash intro screen or a Flash home page, it will almost immediately leave your site and go elsewhere.
4. And finally, Flash has never been fully compatible with Macintosh computers and will not work at all with the touch-screen technology used for Apple’s popular iPhones, iPods and iPads.

The reasons against Flash websites are simple and profound. Flash slows your pages, repels search engines, distracts your customers, may not even be viewable if your visitor doesn’t have the right version of Flash Player installed and  is incompatible with Apple devices. One of the most basic rules of website design is this: just because you can do it doesn’t mean that you should.

Ovation Creative designs colorful, user-friendly and easy-to-navigate websites. And best of all, they’re affordable! Take a look at what we offer here and then give us a call at 800-961-2387, complete our Web Design Questionnaire or send an email for more information. Let’s create something beautiful together!

Showcase your business with a low-cost web video ad.

I love introducing my clients to a new opportunity! I’m pleased to announce today that Ovation Creative has partnered with TurnHere Internet Video, the industry leader in affordable online video marketing solutions for small businesses.

Video helps potential customers get to know you better and gives them confidence to choose your company over the competition. Your TurnHere video ad will be posted on your website, your blog, your Twitter and FaceBook pages and distributed throughout the Internet. I think you’ll agree that TurnHere offers a unique, low-cost marketing advantage you just can’t find anywhere else! For just $199 you’ll receive ...

• Production of a 60-second video ad at your location by a professional filmmaker
• TurnHere’s proprietary video player so we can embed your ad on your website, blog and more
• An online promotion package that includes YouTube, Facebook, Yahoo! Video, Daily Motion, MySpace, Google Local and Google Maps
• A copy of your video ad on DVD

Click here to view TurnHere’s video portfolio and and find out more about their innovative program!

Creating buzz on a budget.

I’m really excited about Ovation Creative’s new line of affordable and chic logo products. Even though you and I may own small businesses, we can still create buzz like the major players do! Now you can promote your brand on everything from caps and tees to keychains and canvas totes. And small orders are welcome and encouraged.

Our complete line includes caps in several colors, long- and short-sleeve tees, natural canvas totes, mouse pads, vinyl die-cut keychains, calendar magnets, window decals, car door magnets, pens, lawn signs for parties and events, note pads, note cards and greeting cards, versatile vinyl trade show banners in three popular sizes and spiral-bound journals.

All of these products offer countless opportunities to promote your business! Just off the top of my head, how about gift bags and giveaways for your next trade show or bridal show, a colorful logo banner for your table or booth, client appreciation and holiday gifts, and door prizes for networking events. Keep a variety of products on hand in your home office or studio for drop-ins, vendors and new clients, and make sure family, friends and associates carry your logo totes. And car door magnets will announce your business everywhere you go.

Please get in touch if I can answer questions or provide a quote. Just call 800-961-2387, send me an email or complete our convenient Quote Form.

We make it easy to save throughout the year.

Sorry I haven’t posted for a couple of weeks ... but I’ve been busy making some exciting changes to Ovation Creative’s website. Stop by when you have a few free minutes and check out what’s new:

• If you need a website, our three affordable options just got more affordable. Not only did we lower our prices, now you can add custom logo design and 500 coordinating business cards for only $100 more. Details. We have a payment plan, too!
• We’ve got some new ImageMaker Packages ... and all of them deliver fabulous savings on bundled combinations of our most popular branding products. Learn more.
• Our chic new logo products will promote your brand and create a buzz. You’ll love the fabulous variety, low minimum order requirements and affordable prices! Learn more.

As always, please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need a quick quote or want to discuss your business needs and goals. I’m always here to help! Just call 800-961-2387 or send me an email.

Introducing our new line of low-cost branding options!

Always on the lookout for affordable small business marketing solutions, Ovation Creative has teamed with a new vendor to offer an additional line of custom branding products. Check out these exciting new values ... all available with low minimums and budget-friendly pricing. We’ll help you enhance your brand with polish and panache!

• Custom Note Pads are 50 sheets each and measure 5½" x 4¼". 10 for $60, 20 for $80*. We can add magnet backing for $1.75 per pad.
• Full-Color Custom Car Door Magnets will promote your business wherever you go. Two popular sizes as low as $25.50 each with graphic design labor included.
• Vinyl Banners are affordable, durable and ideal for special events and bridal shows. Custom-designed in full color, choose from three sizes as low as $30: 3' x 1½',  4' x 3½' or 6' x 3½'. Clear adhesive hangers are sold in packs of four.
• Custom Lawn Signs of quality corrugated plastic with sturdy metal stand. Perfect for parties and special events! Choose from two sizes starting at $30 each; graphic design labor included. (Double-sided signs are slightly higher.)

• Folded Note Cards designed to your specifications. 5½" x 4¼" with matte or high-gloss finish. 10 for $12.50, 20 for $22.50, 50 for $47.50*. White envelopes are included; matching full-color envelopes are available at extra cost. 
• Folded Greeting Cards for holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and more. Custom-designed front and inside, measuring 5" x 7" with white envelopes included. 10 for $15, 20 for $25, 50 for $59*. More quantities available.
• Flat or Folded Thank You Notes measure 5½" x 4¼" with matte or linen finish; white envelopes included. Prices start at 10 for $9.75, 20 for $18, 50 for $39.50*.
• Custom Presentation Folders on high-gloss stock with two inside pockets and a die-cut business card slot. Only $1.65 each when you buy 250, graphic design labor included.
• Now featuring lower minimums for must-have full-color brochures, flyers, rack cards, letterhead and envelopes ... available in quantities as low as 50. Once we have your design on file, you can reorder small batches “on demand” whenever you need them. Contact us for a personalized quote!

*Graphic design labor is additional.

Plus ... Ovation Creative wants to be your source for chic and affordable low- or no-minimum logo products ... perfect for promotions, trade shows, door prizes and gift bags! Promote your brand and your message with our new custom mouse pads, canvas totes, die-cut vinyl keychains, repositionable window decals, calendar magnets, spiral-bound journals with custom covers, tee shirts and caps.

Please get in touch for a quote on any or all of our new products. We’re always on hand to brainstorm with you! Just call us toll-free at 800-961-2387 or send an email.

Business cards should make a powerful statement.

I love designing business cards, because I always think it’s amazing that something so small can make such a powerful statement. A good business card design should stand out and accurately reflect your brand and your business aesthetic. Trust me ... people can spot a do-it-yourself business card a mile away. It’s worth the money to hire a professional designer! Here are a few designs I’ve created for some favorite clients:

Please get in touch if you’d like a quote for an affordable custom business card design. Ovation Creative offers full-color printing, single- or double-sided on glossy UV-coated cardstock or elegant heavyweight linen ... with quantities as low as 250. Just give me a call at 800-961-2387, send an email or complete our convenient Quote Request form.

Branding a new venture for a favorite client.

A couple of days ago Karen Moore, owner of Tailored Events, asked me to create an affordable logo design for a new business venture and wanted the colors and aesthetic to coordinate with the logo for her event-planning firm. Mission accomplished! I knew it wouldn’t be a difficult assignment, though, because I love her colors: bittersweet chocolate with aqua blue. I created a pair of companion designs that Karen can use for different applications, such as product packaging, web ads, stationery and so on.  

Both logos were created with vector software (Adobe Illustrator CS4), which means they can be resized easily to look perfect on anything from a business card to a billboard. This morning I shipped Karen’s CD with her new logo files in a variety of print- and web-ready formats, including .ai, .eps, .gif, .png and high- and low-resolution .jpg.

If you need a logo for a new business or think you’re ready for makeover, get in touch with me today! You can send an email or give me a call at 800-961-2387. And incidentally, don’t forget our Spring Specials ... through March 31 we’re offering free logo design when you purchase any multi-page Ovation Creative website. And add an order of 500 business cards for an additional $75 (shipping charges are extra). Learn more.

Two spring specials you won't want to miss.

Launching a new business? Ready for a makeover? Our affordable solutions are better than ever! Through March 31 we’re offering free logo design (a $195 value) when you purchase any multi-page Ovation Creative website. And you’ll also receive your new logo on CD in a variety of web- and print-ready formats. Need business cards, too? Add an order of 500 for only $75 (shipping charges are additional).

If you’re ready to get started, just complete our convenient Web Design Questionnaire, send an email or call me at 800-961-2387. Let’s create something fabulous together!

You can be a blogger, too.

I’ve got a hunch that 2010 is going to be “the year of the blog.” I’m working on five concurrent blog designs for clients right now and several more are waiting in the wings. Although I love designing websites, blog design runs a very close second ... probably because blogging itself offers such an amazing, creative journey while you share your expertise, expand your business and increase traffic to your website. Best of all, it’s free! It costs nothing to sign up for blog on Blogspot.com, and there’s no hosting to pay, either.

Want your blog to continue your brand? That’s what I do best! Ovation Creative can customize all the features of your Blogspot blog to coordinate with your website and the “look and feel” of your business. Some of our services include custom banners and backgrounds, navigation bar links, sidebar titles and graphics, custom post signatures, wider columns and/or three-column formats, a post subscription email sign-up feature, site statistics, multi-page “blog website” designs and more.

Check out a few of our recent blog design projects: Victoria Marie Wedding Planners, A Splash of Elegance and Tailored Events.

We offer three affordable blog design packages ... or choose the options you want most and shop á la carte. If you’re ready to learn more, check out our blog design prices and services online or send me a quick email for all the details!

Disaster sightings.

For your possible interest and amusement on the first day of February I’m pleased to offer this link to the ugliest websites on the Internet. Please believe me ... these are prime examples of the worst in web design and functionality. (I’d love to know if the site owners actually paid somebody for these embarrassments.) Can you recommend others? Leave a comment!

The top three mistakes in website design.

I’ve been designing websites for a long time. And it never fails ... at least twice a year I’m approached by a new client asking for website features that I refuse to include. Even though I try to explain myself as politely and thoroughly as possible, I always suspect the client thinks I just don’t know how to do what they’re asking. (Believe me ... I know how.) And so, for your reading enjoyment, here are the top three website requests that I routinely refuse ... and the reasons why:

1. The Splash Page. In case you’re unfamiliar with the term, a splash page is a home page that makes you click to “enter” the site, but it serves absolutely no purpose other than to waste the visitor’s time. A website is not a building ... it doesn’t need a door. Jakob Nielsen, the most famous web usability expert in the world, said this back in 2000: “Splash pages were an early sin of abusive web design. Fortunately, almost all professional websites have removed this usability barrier.”
2. Blinking Graphics and/or Background Music. Simply put, both of these features are annoying and distracting ... like somebody poking you in the shoulder repeatedly while you’re trying to read the newspaper. Research shows that web visitors who are assaulted by music and blinking graphics are more likely to leave the site immediately without clicking on anything, and are far less likely to bookmark the site, return to it, link to it and recommend it.
3. Flash. Flash is slow to load, repels search engines, distracts your customers and may not even be viewable if your visitor doesn’t have the right version of Flash Player installed. One of the most basic rules of website design is this: just because you can do it doesn’t mean that you should! Do you really want the first impression of your website to be 30 seconds of “LOADING” with a progress bar? And on a more basic level, Flash is expensive to design and maintain; routine site updates and content changes take much longer and require more labor.
   

In my view, the true test of a successful website isn’t how well it pleases the owner, it’s how well it pleases the owner’s customers. Ovation Creative develops user-friendly, fast-loading HTML-based websites at affordable prices. Why not find out what we can do for your business? Feel free to give me a call at 800-961-2387 ... or complete our convenient Web Design Questionnaire and I’ll get back to you right away with a quote.