In the process of setting up and settling down the Basar Group business, we decided to take a look at Vistaprint for the variety of exciting things that any expanding business would need. I had come across Vistaprint in the UK a few years ago and indeed ordered something from them but I forget what or why. It came as no surprise that the whole feel of the website had change very little although they offered a whole raft of services now and I was itching to have a good poke around because it did look like great fun, if you are into that sort of thing (I am).
When you first arrive at the Vistaprint website as a novice, I can imagine it may look daunting but stick with it and before long you could be creating your own invitations, personalized pens and business cards and feeling justifiably proud of your rather cool achievements. As a wannabe creative you will possibly salivate at the variety of designs they have on offer that you can change around to make your own.
I suggest you begin at the ‘Free Products’ link at the start of the ‘Home and Family’ and ‘Business’ sections. First off, as usual, I had to look at the free stuff they have on offer but eventually elected to make myself some very cheap ‘Moving Home’ cards. The designs were great and I opted for two different ones, both cute and mildly amusing. A bargain – 20 purchased, with free envelopes. Back to the free section and I made myself a pen with my name on it – for no reason other than I could. An hour later I had placed my order and although I was somewhat disappointed at the delivery times (a month) I was prepared to wait and I was not tempted to pay more for the faster delivery service nor any other upgrades that I was offered. I then waded through lots of ‘offers’ and checked out. Job done at very little cost although really, I didn’t actually need what I had just ordered, it was just a test and a bit of fun.
On a more serious note…this service really could be a bonus for new companies and sole traders trying to keep costs low as long as you don’t get too carried away with their offers as the pricing can soon mount up. However, it shouldn’t be too long before you begin to receive a fair amount of emails (verging on spam to be honest) offering you more and more for free. It is definitely worth a look for family orientated items such as wedding/party/baby shower invitations to add your personal touch to. You do not have to be a computer expert to design something pretty snazzy and as long as you watch what you are ordering and don’t expect immediate delivery, you can spend very little.
One word of warning though – to use your own designs you do need to be competent enough to upload logo designs and have them at the correct quality although it will warn you if your images are not good enough for decent print quality. If you do not feel comfortable doing that, go right ahead and use one of their own designs – there are plenty to choose from.
I have heard complaints about the print quality from Vistaprint, although I cannot say that mine was bad at all; it was absolutely fine. Then again, on the internet people do tend to complain rather loudly whilst the satisfied customers remain quietly, well, satisfied. It’s worth a try 