My comment doesn’t have anything to do with your current post. 🙂 I was reading my Glamour magazine and saw an article about you. Very cool! That is so amazing that you had a book published, have been on TV, in magazines, etc. Congratulations on your success!

I think the placement in the magazine would be important to look at… if you are on the front or back cover, a smaller ad would do. And how often does the magazine come out?

I used to be in advertising so it always peaks my interest to see what advertising mediums people choose and why… keep us updated 🙂

If you think your hubs will generate a lot of business from the big ad–I’d say go big. Or maybe start with a small ad and see how the return on investment is. Ads can be ridiculous expensive.

Oh I’ve heard that sauce is delicious!!!
And I’d say go for somewhere in the middle, as for the ads… not too big, not too small..

I think the bigger the better for your ad, but whatever you can afford is obviously the best choice for you 😉 I really wish you tons of luck!

I personally think that the 1/2H ads work the best on me – I flip right past whole-page ads because there’s nothing I’m going to read on it, but I usually notice the 1/2H ads on pages that I’m already reading 🙂

It’s so hard to know what’s the best thing to draw people in. I say you wouldn’t need a full page ad…but something still noticeable. I think a 1/2 would be good. And color is of utmost importance in my opinion. So if you have to choose either a smaller color ad or a larger B&W I would go with the color option.

Mmm truffles! Good luck with the ad placement!

making decisions about how much to spend on advertising is SO difficult! we ran into that with my husbands law firm he opened. good luck!

I think you should go big or go home. I’m kind of an extremist though, so my opinion could be totally moot.

That dinner looks amazing… and your snacks are making me hungray!

In my opinion, Anything smaller than a 1/2 or 1/4 vertical or horizontal is pointless. I think horizontals are easier to pick out against text than verticals, but I think that’s because they’re more prevalent in magazines so readers are used to them–and they’re easier to skip over. Aside from full page ads, which are obviously ideal, I think a 1/2 horizontal still grabs attention.

From my (limited) small business ad making experience, I would say at least 1/4 page – but you definitely don’t need a full page. Also, I would say definitely go for color, its worth the extra cost in my opinion.

Also, don’t be afraid to attempt negotiation with the magazine. The economy is not good right now, and everyone knows it. Sometimes that can work to your advantage.

Good luck! 🙂

definitely go big or go home with this one… I always think the more you put yourself out there, the greater your rewards will be.

And I’ve seen that BBQ sauce in markets around here… we LOVE bbq sauce so I’ve been wondering how it is. Good to hear you like it… I just might try it soon.

🙁 I try to get Jason to go to yoga with me, but he isn’t very flexible! Ugh decisions, decisions..do what feels best for the business <–I know that's crappy adivce lol, sorry!
BTW–we have the Bone Suckin' Sauce in our house too and it totally ROCKS 😀

I’m a graphic designer… would love to help design a campaign if you’re in need. My portfolio could use something new and current so we can trade creativity for final product. Do you have any ideas as far as concept? So much can be done with holistic medicine and acupuncture. Something to help the clinic stand out right off the bat and then carry through future ads would draw interest and begin creating the recognition you’re looking for. I can email samples of past work if you like.

Hi,

You’ve got lots of comments already, but I’ll add to it. You need to have a series of ads to resonate with the consumer and to start building brand awareness. I would do color and a series of 1/3 or 1/4 page vertical. Vertical ads seem to be more effective. Keep the message simple, but compelling. Digital advertising is sometimes just as effective, and less expensive.

One last comment, the cost of treatment seems high. I am sure you competitive, but I think it’s too high for someone who’s new to this type of medicine. I would tie the ad in with some sort of doubting Thomas promotion.

I hope this helps!

Go big or go home. Do the big ad!

I’ll be interested in knowing what you decide, I am thinking of advertising in our Natural Awakenings for my holistic health coaching business. I have been reading it for years and most recently scoping it out to see what is in there and the list of holistic health coaches is nada so I could corner in on that market. But, as one of the commenters said above, I am not sure if I have that kind of money for the long haul.

http://www.kristofcreative.com/learning/advertising/magazine-ad-effectivness.shtml

^^ Interesting article on the effectiveness of print ads (including the top 10 most effective placements, sizes, and use of color). Just thought you’d like it if you haven’t already made a decision. It pays to do your homework! 🙂

Just throwing in my 2 cents worth!
I would not go smaller than 1/4 page and would definately go full colour, no clutter and website/contact numbers clearly visible. Nothing more annoying than contact details being small font and having to squint for them! Will make me turn the page very quickly.
Another thing is to bargain with the publication – what added value are they offering – all advertisers are offering deals at the moment – what are their sister publications and can they do a 2-for-1 in that publication?
Thirdly, ask them for testimonials from similar sized companies. Genuine and honest advertisers will have no problem in handing over those details (obviously from companies who have given their permission to have details shared)
THen speak to a similar startup (in a different field or speciality obviously) and ask them their experience, and rate of return from the advert.
Unfortunately, there is no golden ticket for advertising. What works one month may not the next.
Just don’t be afraid to ask and to bargain. THe worst they can say is no!
Best of luck with it all!