Creating a multi-business promotion...

[ChristopherCoy]

I've been speaking with the owner of a local dog grooming salon about setting up a joint promotion. Today I got word that she is interested in moving forward and wants to meet on Thursday morning to discuss it further, which is awesome. However, I also learned that she has spoken to the owner of a veterinary clinic which is in the same shopping center, and they are interested in teaming up as well.

So this will be a three way project between the Vets office, the grooming salon, and my pet photog business. I've thought long and hard about what kind of promotions I could offer, such as the 'wall of fame' kinda thing where the business owner gives out 'free sessions' to their best clients, I shoot them, and a free 5x7 or 8x10 goes on the wall of the business owners establishment, and then the pet owner can purchase prints for a discounted rate.

However, I've not thought far enough about how to make a multi-business promotion profitable for all three involved parties. Suggestions?

I have an inkling that they are wanting to do some sort of Christmas Card promotion, and set it up like a doggie healthcare/spa/portrait day.

[CaptainTom]

Thinking "out loud" or asking for input ?

I've done the "free pet portrait" thing and nothing came from it except a check from the sponsor.
I don't specialize in pet portraits, so YMMV.

[HotHolly]

Originally Posted by ChristopherCoy

I have an inkling that they are wanting to do some sort of Christmas Card promotion, and set it up like a doggie healthcare/spa/portrait day.

That sounds like it will pan out better than your other idea. Dont give stuff away for free that people are willing to pay for.

[bondarnes]

How about bringing in a fourth partner? For a donation of $XX.00 or more to the Denton County Humane Society, you will receive a complimentary session and some piddly little print from your favorite pose. Additional products available at regular prices. This Project is underwritten by Doggy Spa, Dr. Woof DVM and Coy Photographics, Inc. Sound like a win,win,win,win to me.

[J Eddington]

What about a doggie calendar. You take the photo, photos go up on web. People vote for their favorite dog (costs 1.00 per vote) Top 13 dogs receiving votes get in the calendar and then the Vet and groomer (they can cover the cost of the calendars) can sell them with proceeds going to your local shelter?
Don't forget to give your new clients a referral card with their dogs photo and with your information on the back.

[toverman]

Originally Posted by J Eddington

What about a doggie calendar. You take the photo, photos go up on web. People vote for their favorite dog (costs 1.00 per vote) Top 13 dogs receiving votes get in the calendar and then the Vet and groomer (they can cover the cost of the calendars) can sell them with proceeds going to your local shelter?
Don't forget to give your new clients a referral card with their dogs photo and with your information on the back.

There was an article in Professional Photographer not too long ago about that method working well with humans. The photog secured sponsorships to cover the cost of printing the calendars. That might take a little more planning.