I remember as a kid being enthralled by the brown paper grab bags often found at gift shops. You never knew what you were going to get (no fair peeking), but for sure it would be a deal and a little thrill to open once purchased. I don’t see them as much any more, but the Sampler kind of reminds me of that. If you’re not familiar, the Sampler is a super fun marketing and promotional tool for indie businesses. Each month, independent crafters, artists, shops, zines and record labels who run web-based businesses send samples and promotional materials to a contribution pool. All the samples are photographed, posted to the site, put in little packages and sent off to Sampler Subscribers, Sampler Contributors and members of the Media all over the world. You’re not guaranteed to get a sample from everyone who contributes, but you are guaranteed to get a certain amount of samples depending on the size Sampler you order. Right now Samplers are on sale (peek over there quick!) I guarantee that you’ll be waiting anxiously for this package. Not only is it the most fun thing to open and go through during the doldrums of winter…it’s a great way to discover and then support indie businesses. It also makes a unique gift for that person in your life who has everything. Plus, if you are an indie business, it’s one more inexpensive way to get the word out.
extra credit: I was a contributor last month…can you spot my sample?! : )
