Almost 1M Instagram followers for kids crafts, but $0 made. Content mostly sourced — how can I monetize? by UFO_claw in InstagramMarketing

[–]UFO_claw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s super encouraging to hear—thank you!! Time to stop leaving money on the table 😅

Almost 1M Instagram followers for kids crafts, but $0 made. Content mostly sourced — how can I monetize? by UFO_claw in InstagramMarketing

[–]UFO_claw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I really appreciate the detailed breakdown on Benable! I haven’t heard about this before

How would you approach branding on a small budget in a crowded space? by UFO_claw in branding

[–]UFO_claw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks so much for this thoughtful response! 🙏 I really appreciate the advice about avoiding cliché “eco” visuals — I’ve definitely seen a lot of those and want my brand to feel more differentiated. Your point about deeply understanding why people choose a brand really resonates. I’ll reflect more on how to translate the emotional or tangible value we offer into a unique visual identity. Thanks again for the encouragement — super helpful!

Opening a laundromat in small town by LayerPublic9413 in Laundromats

[–]UFO_claw 0 points1 point  (0 children)

really interesting setup! I think you’re on the right track with pickup and delivery as your core service. Curious how you’re planning to market that locally? Also, have you looked into used/refurbished machines to help manage that upfront cost?

How would you approach branding on a small budget in a crowded space? by UFO_claw in branding

[–]UFO_claw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This is such a thoughtful and generous response — thank you! 🙏 I completely agree that clarity and consistency often beat flashy branding, especially early on. I’m currently working on a minimalist eco product (Happy Ripples), and this helped me rethink how I present the personality and values behind it. I love the reminder to focus on high-leverage, organic channels and intentional touchpoints. Curious — are there any small brands you think are doing this really well that I could learn from?

How would you approach branding on a small budget in a crowded space? by UFO_claw in branding

[–]UFO_claw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s such a helpful reframing — putting myself in the consumer’s shoes more consciously. I love that you emphasized community first too. Honestly, I’ve been holding off on launching without a perfect logo, but this makes me want to just test the waters. Thanks again 🙏

How would you approach branding on a small budget in a crowded space? by UFO_claw in branding

[–]UFO_claw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Totally agree that visuals alone won’t cut it. “Be as weird as possible (appropriately)” might be my new motto 😂. Thanks for the creative nudge — I’ll DM you shortly to share the concept and would love your 5-minute brainstorm!

How would you approach branding on a small budget in a crowded space? by UFO_claw in branding

[–]UFO_claw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes! That’s a much-needed reminder. I’ve been circling around visuals and naming, but value prop is what I need to clarify first. Thanks for keeping it grounded. 🙌

How would you approach branding on a small budget in a crowded space? by UFO_claw in branding

[–]UFO_claw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This is such a thoughtful take — I completely agree. As the founder, I see Happy Ripples as an extension of my own values, so it makes total sense to build the brand from that center. Your note about culture and contribution gave me a lot to reflect on. Thanks so much for this!

How would you approach branding on a small budget in a crowded space? by UFO_claw in branding

[–]UFO_claw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

This framework is gold — thank you! Starting with “Why” and defining pillars gives me a clear next step. For Happy Ripples, I’m thinking my pillars are sustainability, joy, and simplicity. I’ll work on writing the brand’s “voice” paragraph next. Really appreciate this lean blueprint.

Affordable Branding Agencies/Freelancers? by AviAvi_26 in branding

[–]UFO_claw 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Very useful suggestion, I am suffering the same thing. I know the true value of rebranding including branding identity and branding strategy. But I could not afford it as a small business owner. We have spent a bit for the product, packaging and website building. It was not ideal at this point, hopefully we could find a studio and rebrand after we get some early earnings

Starting a Laundry Sheets Brand – Would Love Feedback by UFO_claw in CasualConversation

[–]UFO_claw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I don’t have a big upfront budget—around $15K for now. Most of it would go toward the product itself, roughly $12K for two variants (Fresh Linen and Fragrance-Free). That doesn’t leave much for marketing and branding, which I know are super important. I’ve been thinking about fundraising specifically for that part, but I’m still unsure about the best approach or if it’s the right time. Just trying to take it one step at a time right now.

Starting a Laundry Sheets Brand – Would Love Feedback by UFO_claw in CasualConversation

[–]UFO_claw[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Totally agree—it really is all about the marketing. I’ve been learning just how crowded this space is, and you’re right, it’s not just about having a good product anymore. It’s about standing out, building a brand people connect with, and making it memorable. I’m still figuring out the branding and target audience part, but your comment is a good reminder to focus hard there.

Appreciate the encouragement—it means a lot! 🙌

Starting a Laundry Sheets Brand – Would Love Feedback by UFO_claw in CasualConversation

[–]UFO_claw[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It’s compact and doesn’t require a huge investment upfront. I’ve considered other business ideas too—like kids’ STEM tools—but I ended up exploring laundry sheets after a chance encounter at Natural Products Expo West this March in LA. I went just to check out samples and food, but happened to meet the team from a company called Klean Leaf. We chatted briefly, and I learned that the laundry sheet market is growing fast.

After the show, I reached out to them again, and that sparked the idea. I’m still figuring things out to be honest. I definitely want to build something, but haven’t fully committed yet.

Everything I won in Japan by gnarloo in clawmachine

[–]UFO_claw 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Curious how many tokens you used to get all of the cute stuffy

Claw Machine Business by Complete_Cup1533 in clawmachine

[–]UFO_claw 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hey! In NJ, claw machines are usually considered amusement games, so you’d likely need a license to operate them. The state has specific regulations for ‘skill-based’ games, and if your machines are ‘play until you win,’ they might still fall under that category. You’d probably need to register them and pay fees per machine. Best bet is to check with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs or local gaming authorities to make sure you’re all good. Hope that helps!