Hey Jim,

How about an "Open Letter to the People of {town name}", which then proceeds to describe the ornament, the local historical angle, and the limited availability ("...only a few left! So don't miss out on this opportunity to show your support of the "Women's Club" and get one of our limited supply, Old Inn 2002 ornaments. Contact Jane now at 901-555-1212!")? You get the gist...

Obviously, you wouldn't be able to send it all over town, but perhaps a limited mailing targeting town officials and member of the Chamber of Commerce. Or, make it a space ad in the local paper? Of course, you'd have to scrape together a few bucks from somewhere. A cheaper solution might be to tack the letter to bulletin boards and ask select merchants to tape it to their registers and point it out to people. You might even be able to get a printer to donate or discount their services.

An added incentive might be to enter the name of every buyer into a drawing, with a nice prize donated by a local merchant.

With this approach, you not only avoid the desperation plee but actually add urgency with the "limited supply". They may get more requests than they can fill!

Best of luck,
Chris

> Hi Folks,

> Just got a call from the head of the local
> "womans club" here in our little
> town in the boonies. She was absolutely
> beside herself. Seems they've ordered 288
> Xmas tree ornaments, dated 2002 and
> depicting the "Old Inn" here in
> town... and so far have only sold 50 of
> them.

> She says they desperately need to move at
> least another 100 of these to just break
> even. They are already for sale at city hall
> & local banks. Had a (crummy) ad in the
> local paper, and now no money to place
> another one.

> So...

> I told her I would post this request where
> the best marketing brain trusts I know of
> reside...

> Anyone have any suggestions on some creative
> ways to MOVE these ornaments out and save
> the "womans club" budget?

> Post here!

> Best Wishes,
> Jim Erskine
> Homeway Press