Name : Dashawn Gables

Email Address : bklynfavors@gmail.com

What kind of Business do you run? Party and Print Company

When did you start it? 2006

Why did you start it? I love decorating and creating personal memorabilia.

What was your inspiration? My sister's baby shower.

How much capital in terms of resources did you invest to start up your business? $600.00

Do you have a website for your business? If yes please provide it  http://www.bklynfavors.com

Who are your main customers? What demographic are they mostly from? Parents, teachers, about to be newly weds, parents to be, and small to mid size businesses. As of right now, NY, NJ and CT. Depending on distance and services required.

What do you feel are the basic goals that a business such as yours should reach in
the first year? Consistent and strategic marketing. Acquiring a substantial customer base and turning them into repeat customers. Providing multiple services and products under one roof.

For anyone who wishes to start their own WAH business in the same industry as yours what are your top 3 pieces of advice?

Be creative.
Be determined.
Love what you do.

Has this business venture allowed you to spend more time or less time with your family? More time, since we work together.

What are the top three marketing strategies that you employed to achieve success for your business?

Weekly flyer distribution.
Internet.
Word of mouth.

What goals are next for your business? To provide a place where customers can have their celebrations, as well as purchase custom products and event services.

Where do you see your business in another 10 years? One of the most creative one stop, one shop party and print suppliers with at least three locations; New York, South Carolina and Pennsylvania.

Name the top 3 products and/or services your business provides and their respective benefits to the customer/consumer :

Custom favor pins.
Custom gift favors.
Party decorations.

We provide custom items with a match set system; With access to most children themed items providing a packaged set children enjoy and parents can afford.

Has your business been recognized in any way by the media or any awards organization? If so please state how you were chosen and what kind of recognition your business has achieved. CUNY Graduate School of Journalism Anna Limontas-Salsibury of The CUNY School of Journalism interviewed me on April 4th of 2008. Her story was about Copias (Favor Pins) and how they are made. I was chosen since I was the only party supply business willing to interview and discuss the party supply business and the development of a Copia.

How many times a year do you offer special discounts on your products or services? When? Discounts are offered seasonally. However, return customers receive discount when they purchase in high quanities.

Share with us two positive feedback comments your customers have said about your product and/or service. My first praise was of a baby shower gone bad. Four days before the shower date a frantic customer came to me in tears. Her favors, which she had ordered online were not what she had ordered. The printed ribbon had mispelled her name and the item she ordered was smaller than what it appeard. I took the small occasion piece and glued it to styrofoam with flowers and trinkets, and printed new ribbons. She was so happy and amazed she grabbed me and kissed me on the cheek. I was not prepared for that one. It was 50 favors done in 72 hours, and she is still my customer.

A customer with two weeks before the first birthday of her son. She initially was not going to have a party for him. She came to me with an idea and finances were not on her side. He toddler loved Elmo and she didn't know were to start. I sold her all the decor for Elmo in a package that I have implemented; Party of 8 for one low price. This had everthing from invitations, decorations, favors, pins, balloons, and more. She spent less than $250.00 for everthing and I gave her the address for an excellent bakery right in the neighborhood. All she had to do is give out the invitations, pick up the cake and sing happy birhtday. She told me I was the best and that everything she bought was magnificent. She told all her family memebers and now they too are repeat customers. Specatcular!!