I collect business cards. Yes, for the contact information (us chicas need to stay connected), but also for the look, style, creativity and originality they convey. Business cards are truly a tangible extension of ourselves. There is something so magical and powerful about having fresh busines. In need of some new extensions of yourself? Here are some ideas to squeeze your creative juices and give you printing resources.

Oh, and never leave home without them (make sure you have some in time for next month’s networking night at Plush Denver). Since your cards express who you are as a business woman (or man), make sure they are sharp!

A business card can say “I made this card an hour ago and don’t take myself/my business seriously”, “I’m a go getter and won’t let you down”, “I’m sure you need my services and you’ll  remember me when you do” and much more!

COOL CARD INSPIRATION

Totally Creative Cards

Really Unique Cards

Oh So Cool Cards

TRENDS & TIPS
Here are some things to think about as far as what to include on your card:

Kids Can Speak Volumes: Adding a cute little shot of your little ones is not just for mom/playdate cards anymore. Mom entrepreneurs are adding this touch to the back of their business cards becaues it gives them a personal connection to the people they are handing their cards to. This is especially nice if your business focus is on family or children and/or if your target is other moms. If being a mom qualifies you or gives you more creditbility for what you do, even consider reflecting it in your title (i.e. “Mom & Owner/Founder”).

Social Media Pages: Be sure to include your Twitter handle, Facebook, LinkedIn, MySpace, etc. These methods of communication are so common now days and may be used much more than your actual telephone number or email address. Keep this short and sweet, and add only the site or two you use most.

Include a Website: Whatever you do, include a site! Even if you don’t have a website yet or if you don’t even have a business, include a website that will give people more info about you and a way to connect. Sometimes people just want to take a quick peek into who you are and what you have to offer without picking up the phone or sending an email. If they can’t do this they may just move on or even toss the card. Many people are using their Twitter or LinkedIn pages for this. Just include something!

PRINTING

VistaPrint - The place everyone recommends for printing. Cheap and decent quality. Great customer service. Never pay full price here, search online for discounts. While the cards are inexpensive, they could cost you a fortune in shipping if you want to see your cards any day soon.

Next Day Flyers - Excellent quality with thicker cardstock and very affortable. If you need postcards too, this is the place to go…bundle and save on shipping. I personally use them ALL the time. They even have rounded corners (thanks Val)!

Moo Cards - Really cute mini cards. Each one can feature a different picture on them. I know lots of people that use these for business cards, mom cards, hang tags for products and more. Love them!

illBuzz - MyCards look like a MySpace page. Also offers rounded corners.

Overnight Prints - Do NOT use this company (take it from me - it took me 3 times to learn my lesson)! They also offer rounded corners, but very poor order accuracy and customer service. They will end up costing you money.