Meet the Producer - Online!

If you've visited Pike Place Market, you may have noticed the large sign saying "Meet the Producer" at the main entrance. The Market boasts a long-standing tradition of offering goods for sale direct to the public from the source. I'm proud to be part of that tradition, selling my handcrafted products in the daystalls in the North Arcade weekly.

However, many of my customers don't live in the Puget Sound region and can't make regular trips to the Market, making it difficult for us to get to know one another beyond our initial meeting. Early on in my business, I received many inquiries via email about shipping my products out of state. My next step was to create a website for online ordering to streamline that process. Now that's established, and I'm interested in finding new ways to communicate and develop relationships with my customers, both in person and from afar.

If you are reading this, I know you are linked in to at least one line of communication with me - you "Like" me on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, or subscribe to this blog. If you're new to reading my blog, I'd encourage you to go back and read through the archives for the answers to such burning questions as "Why couldn't I find you last Wednesday?" "Is making soap really like they show it in Fight Club?" and "What do I do with the last sliver of soap?"  Let me know what you think in the comments. Likewise, I love to see your comments and questions on my Facebook page. Or tweet at me: @rainwatersoap.

In the coming weeks and months, I will be rolling out some special contests and promotions for my social media followers (that's you!). My first order of business concerns Foursquare: I've added my Pike Place Market location as a venue. Next time you stop by and see me, check in and introduce yourself! Hope to hear from you soon!