Last week was delivery week for the October magazine. Between Dave and I we delivered over 9,000 books in one day. We do alot of traveling throughout the month, but it's pretty hurried during the delivery process. It's not too hurried though to enjoy chatting with our family of advertisers along the way. I'm constantly saying 'it takes a village' to get things done - and it definitely takes a village to publish All Things Country Magazine each month. We literally couldn't do it without our advertisers and the many friends and relatives that also take the magazine around with them to other locations.
We really do count our many advertisers and friends along the way as family. We care about your business, whether you've had a good or bad month. It seems way too many people are having bad months now. We lost three 'family' members this past month with the closing of Pizza Palace, Conrad Motors and South Irvine Market. Sure, it hurts losing them as advertisers, but we also feel for them as people who can no longer survive the struggles of running a locally-owned small business.
There are many times that the Dave person and I consider whether to continue on - in both of our businesses. There are so many avenues for advertising out there, and it seems like many of them use ATC to sell their ads. I know this because business owners have told me. "Such and such came in last week with a copy of your magazine, wanting me to buy an ad with them." We hear it every month. But, there is a difference when you take out an ad with us. We continue to push your business in all aspects of our lives.
When we have get-togethers at the farm, your brochures and business cars are displayed. During our travels we recommend our advertisers to other business owners. Because we care. If your business doesn't do well, our business doesn't do well. Dave and I are true believers in shopping locally. With small, locally owned businesses. Where you know the owner. Kind of like us when we deliver. The owner of the business is most often delivering you your copies of the magazine. And I appreciate each and every hug I get each month too!
I also try to share your updates on our Facebook page - and will even include your events in my weekly emails. It's a full circle type of thing. I'm helping you out as you are helping me out.
Our November book is going to be full of recipes from our readers. It's a great edition, one that is saved by most everyone! So if you are considering an ad with us, this is the best one of the year to try us out. And you too can become one of our family.
Have a Blessed Monday everyone. I'll try to keep this blog going on a more regular basis!
