Fragrance & Flavor Sale

We have approved our new flavor, fragrance and essential oil blends that will be added to our line in January.

In preparation for these additions we have placed many slower selling scents on sale. They will be discontinued when current stock runs out. They are:

Crafter’s Choice™ Flavor Fragrances
35% Off - 16 oz Bottle

Banan Cream Pie Flavor Fragrance
Butter Pecan Flavor Fragrance
Caramel Flavor Fragrance
English Toffee Flavor Fragrance
Fudge Flavor Fragrance
Lucious Lemon Pie Flavor Fragrance
Maple Butter Cheesecake Flavor Fragrance
Old Fashion Banana Pudding Flavor Fragrance
Peanut Butter & Jelly Flavor Fragrance
Smores Flavor Fragrance
Vanilla Malt Milkshake Flavor Fragrance

Crafter’s Choice™ General Fragrance Oils
$19.95 - 32 oz Bottle

Apple Strudel Fragrance Oil
Baby’s Room Fragrance Oil
Caramel Apple Fragrance Oil
Cherry Berry Fragrance Oil
Cinnamon Frosting Fragrance Oil
Coconut Cream Pie Fragrance Oil
Coffee Cake & Spice Fragrance Oil
Dutch Apple Crisp Fragrance Oil
Fresh & Clean Cucumber Fragrance Oil
Harmony Fragrance Oil
Hazelnut Truffle Fragrance Oil
Irish Coffee Fragrance Oil
Old Fashion Bannana Pudding Fragrance Oil
Orange Cream Fragrance Oil
Orange Ginger Fragrance Oil
Orange Vanilla Fragrance Oil
Peppermint Breeze Fragrance Oil
Spiced Peaches Fragrance Oil
Spring Moments Fragrance Oil
Sweet Bubblegum Fragrance Oil
Sweet Dreams Fragrance Oil
Toasted Marshmallow Fragrance Oil

Crafter’s Choice™ General Fragrance Oils
$19.95 - 16 oz Bottle

Armani Mania Type Fragrance Oil
CK One Type Type Fragrance Oil
CK-1 Type Type Fragrance Oil
Curious Type Fragrance Oil
Fig Leaf & Cassis Type Fragrance Oil
Glow J Lo Type Fragrance Oil
Higher Energy for Men Type Fragrance Oil
I Biza Hippe Type Fragrance Oil
Kenneth Cole Type Fragrance Oil
Lolita Lempicka Type Fragrance Oil
Love Potion #9 Fragrance Oil
Michael Kors for Men Type Fragrance Oil
Michael Kors for Women Type Fragrance Oil
Polo Sport for Men Type Fragrance Oil
Red Delicious Type Fragrance Oil
Santos De Cartier Type Fragrance Oil
Tommy Girl Type Fragrance Oil
White Diamonds Type Fragrance Oil

Crafter’s Choice™ Standard Reed Stick Fragrances
$7.95 - 16 oz Bottle

Clean Cotton - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Coconut - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Cucumber Melon - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Fresh Cut Roses - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Gardenia- Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Grapefruit - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Lavender - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Ocean- Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Orange - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Peony - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Red Apple- Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Red Current - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil
Pineapple Coconut Lime - Standard Reed Stick Fragrance Oil

All of these have FREE SHIPPING for orders over $50 at our sister website www.FragranceAndFlavors.com

Click here for links to all of the discontinued scents and flavors on sale. Supplies are limited. Orders will be filled on a first come, first serve basis.

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/
1-800-359-0944

Make Love - Not War

I am not into having my personal picture on the internet. It is a personal thing. I am sorry!

I thought this picture might be fun for you to see. My husband and I stopped by my Mom's house before we heading to a neighbors Halloween party. For those of you who have not personally met me...I am a brunette in real life and my husband is straight as an arrow. That is what made this years costume so much fun! Our kids got a real laugh before we left home.

It felt good to kick back with friends. This time of year, it is easy to feel like a workaholic.

We are headed back to work...first thing Monday am...fresh and ready to go!

Wishing You Much Success!

Debbie May

http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Money Chimp

I recently gave a “career day” talk recently at our local high school. I was the “entrepreneur” speaker. I had two groups of about 30 kids. Most of the kids were boys. I was a little disappointed as I had hoped to encourage more girls.

One boy asked me if I was an Ohio State or University of Michigan football fan…..he quickly noticed that grew up and I went to college in Michigan. One freshman boy asked me if I could give him advice for getting into the hip/hop clothing design business. We talked about fashion merchandising degrees. We talked about setting goals. Another boy asked me if he started his own business…could he get rich. This prompted me to chuckle and then explain simple concepts such as start up costs, payroll, expansion needs, inventory…and the big boy of all….TAXES.

I did talk to them about a website called Money Chimp. I love this site and often take my daughter on the site. It has a compounding interest calculator. For my daughter, we started with $2,500 and put $2,500 in a year for 30 years at 6% interest. This equals $75,000 deposited over the 30 years. The calculator shows that at a rate of 6% interest, she would have almost $225,000.

My point is that making money takes discipline. It is something we all probably know...but is so hard to do.

Wishing You Much Success,
Debbie May
http://wholesalesuppliesplus.com/
1-800-359-0944

Croda

Croda is a large international manufacturer of specialty chemicals for the personal care industry. The Croda products WSP stocks are Polawax and Crothix. For some time, we have had Super Sterol Liquid and Refined Lanolin Oil on our discontinue list.

Croda acquired a smaller company (Uniqema) with a sophisticated distribution network. Since purchasing this smaller company, Croda has increased profits. Which is good for them…but ultimately, has turned out not so good for our industry.

Joe Pavlichko, Croda’s VP of Marketing in the USA, has decided to limit the companies that will be authorized to distribute their products. These authorized distributors will be extremely limited and will NOT include any of the internet suppliers such as WSP. None of the authorized distributors will be authorized to break product down to smaller sizes such as 1-3 pounds. Joe has also decided that Croda will no longer allow “co-op’s” on their products.

We examined all legal avenues for challenging this decision and found that since Croda owns the trademark and patent on most of these products, they are likely within their right to limit what a customer does with the product (in terms of resale). Therefore, effective tomorrow (10/29/2007), WSP will no longer carry Croda products. We will immediately begin to source replacement products.

I have been asked if larger companies such as Lush are concerned about the “Burt Bees Phenomenon” and influenced Croda’s decision. The question refers to large companies trying to stifle smaller manufacturers so they cannot grow to a significant size and provide significant competition. My answer is that I really don’t know. It is an interesting question. I know that we have customers and sources inside many of these larger companies. I will encourage them to contact us if they come across any information that supports this. It would make for a very interesting legal argument. One that we would be interested in exploring further with other distributors that have been “cut off”.

I do know that NOT using Croda products does not mean you cannot grow your business to a significant size. All formulas can be tweaked and reformulated. Croda’s products are good but they are not the end all. There are many, many wonderful products on the market. Our Emulsifying Wax has always outsold Croda’s Polawax.

Wishing You Much Success!

Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Note: I do want to emphasize, if you are an end user and currently purchase larger sizes direct from Croda, their recent distributor decision will not affect you. This decision only affects resellers and distributors.

Surplus Diffuser Bottle & Top

Due to an overwhelm amount of requests, we have added a liner and top to this frosted glass bottle surplus set. Our testing shows that your reed diffuser scents will not leak using the liner and top. Price has been adjusted to account for these additions:

50 Sets for $27.25

50 Sets Include:
50 Bottles, 50 Tops, 50 Press & Seal Liners, 250 Reed Sticks.

Due the exceptional factory packaging of these sets, we will not be offering a lower price break. Quantities are limited.

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Line of Credit - AMX

Did you know that American Express offers lines of credit to small businesses?

I spoke with a customer today that said he applied online and was approved in 15 minutes for a $100,000 business line of credit. I did a little research and found the
American Express Business Line of Credit Website.

Here is what American Express states:

As your business expands, get the financing your growing business needs with a line of credit ranging from $10,000 up to $100,000. With a competitive APR, 100% cash access to your credit line, and no collateral needed, the Business Line of Credit from American Express can give you the financial flexibility you need to help your company grow. Other advantages include:

1. Membership Rewards® points virtually every time you use your Card; use it to buy inventory and earn points faster
2. Periodic reviews to see if you've earned a line increase; your line can grow as your business grows
3. An easy application process that can be completed online

I do not know how the approval process works for American Expresses Business Lines of Credit...but thought it might be worth passing along to anyone interested.

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

A Little Prayer

If you have ever called into Wholesale Supplies Plus to place an order you have likely spoken with Karen and if you have ever emailed or used PayPal…you definitely had contact with her!
What you may not know is that Karen is my mom.

I always thought it would be cool to work with my mom and I was lucky when she retired from Merrill Lynch in 2000 and to come to work at WSP. She is not only a great friend to me but also to our staff and customers.

Today, Karen was admitted to the Cleveland Clinic for unexpected health issues. We are confident she is in the best of hands and will get the proper diagnosis and prompt treatment. We are all praying for her speedy recovery.

If you get a chance…say a little prayer? It would mean so much!

Thanks!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Note: Posts to the blog may be a little unimaginative until things get back to normal. Stick with me…I will make up for it in no time!

Listing Ingredients

Listing ingredients on a cosmetic label is not hard but it can be confusing. All of the information presented here can be found at the
FDA's Cosmetic Website.

Ingredients on a cosmetic label must be listed in order of predominance using correct INCI terminology. A few key tips for labeling a cosmetic:

1. Color additives of any concentration are listed after the listing of ingredients that are not color additives (ie: can go at the end of the label).
2. Ingredients present not exceeding 1% can be listed in any order after the listing of ingredients over 1%
3. Fragrance is listed on the label with the word "fragrance oil"
4. Fragrance that is added at 1% or more needs to be listed in the correct order on the label. If you are using a premade base, you may need to contact the manufacturer for where to properly list fragrance on the ingredient listing. It should not be added last on the label.
5. Essential oils can be stated as "fragrance" or by the appropriate botanical name. They should not be listed as the general words "essential oils"

If you are interested in further reading outside of the FDA website. I highly recommend the book:

Soap & Cosmetic Labeling How to Follow the Rules and Regs Explained in Plain English.
Author: Marie Gale

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
www.WholesaleSuppliesPlus.com

MP Soap - Label or No Label?

Melt and Pour Soap (MP Soap) is a commercially produced compound formulated for the purpose of cleansing the body. Natural vegetable oils are saponified and used as a base for the MP Soap. Additives are commonly added to the base to improve clarity, lather and craftability.

The Food and Drug Association (FDA) states that if a product is predominately comprised of fatty acids and alkalis for the purpose of cleansing the body, it does not meet the requirement of a cosmetic and does not need to be labeled as a cosmetic.

This means that instead of the FDA soap falls under the watch of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. They require the following on the label:

1. Identifying statement indicating the word "Soap"
2. Net Weight of Product
3. Name and Place of Business

If you make the claim that your MP Soap has special moisturizing properties or has specific benefits such as exfoliating, then it does fall in the FDA definition of a cosmetic and must be labeled as a cosmetic. In this case they require the following on the label:

1. Identifying statement indicating the word "Soap"
2. Net Weight of Product
3. Name and Place of Business
4. Directions for Safe Use
5. Warning and Caution Statements
6. Ingredients

The FDA Cosmetic Website has additional information for your reference.

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

New Frosted Glass Bottle

This is a one of a kind, beautiful frosted glass bottle. Included in the set are glass bottle and 5 reed sticks.

We are pre-selling full cases and pallets of this set. We expect product to arrive to our warehouse by Oct. 24th. Once product arrives to our warehouse, we will offer a 12 piece price.

50 sets $25.95
Pallet Pricing - Call

Get these while you can....it will be worth stocking up!

Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

New Lip Pot Set

This is an awesome surplus Lip Pot & White Lid Set. It is perfect for lip balms or solid perfumes!

When our current stock is gone, will cannot get more. Stock is very limited and selling quickly. If interested, order soon!

Single Set .30 each
48 Sets $9.60 (.20 each)
500 Sets $85 (.17 each)

Wishing You Much Success!

Debbie May
Wholesale Supplies Plus.com

Accepting Credit Cards

Years ago customers went to craftshows with cash in hand. Today it is more likely that your customers will have limited cash in their pockets and a wallet full of credit cards!

Accepting credit cards will not only increase the number of people that buy your products but also the average size of each sale. Accepting credit cards will cost you some money but if you are seeking business growth, it will be worth it!

Sifting through the process of accepting credit cards can be confusing. There are companies charging outrageous fees and ripping people off everyday.

Two reputable companies I recommend are:
Telecheck - First Data and Merchant E-Solutions.

I also encourage you to speak with your local bank. Often they have a program with low fees for local businesses.

Check out the First Data Mobile Credit Card System Perfect for craftshows where there are no phone lines!

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
Wholesale Supplies Plus.com

Body Lotion Parfait

This is a great recipe that tends to sell out quickly. It is very easy to make and has a wonderful appearance. My experience is that teens love the fruity layered look and adults become addicted once they experience the silky smooth after touch of their skin.

I hope you like it too!

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Raspberry Lemonade
Body Lotion Parfait


Ingredients:
16 ounces Luxury Hand and Body Cream
16 ounces Thickened Aloe Vera Gel
5 ml Raspberry Lemonade Fragrance Oil
3 drops Crafter's Choice Strawberry Red Liquid Clear

Equipment:
(2) 16 oz Pyrex cups
(4) 8 oz Basic Jars
(8) 70/400 Straigh White Lids
Droppers
Plastic Disposible Spoons

Directions:
In the first Pyrex cup and using a spoon mix Thickened Aloe Vera Gel with 3 drops of Crafter's Choice™ Clear Strawberry Red Liquid Color. Set mixture aside. In the second Pyrex cup and using a spoon mix lotion base and fragrance oil. Spoon bases into jar (alternating) to achieve parfait effect as in picture.

Note: The colors and fragrance in the recipe are as desired. You can choose any fruit fragrance and color of choice. Most body cream bases with work with this recipe. To achieve color effect in picture, only Crafter’s Choice™ Clear Color Concentrates should be used.

Warning: This recipe is not edible.

Do You Love Chicken Poop?

While browsing the net for interesting products, I came across this unique site that sells "chicken poop" lip balm, lotion bars and deodorant spray! The company website is
I Love Chicken Poop.com/

Here is the company bio that includes how the name "chicken poop" came about:

The Name....Chicken Poop comes from Jamie’s goofy grandpa replying to her complaint of having dry lips. He’d say, “I know how to fix those dry lips, I’ll rub some chicken poop on ‘em so you won’t be lickin’ ‘em.” Brilliant, don’t you think?

a brief history...How it all began..Jamie Tabor Schmidt began making Chicken Poop after her best friend Claudia took her to Sephora, a cosmetic store lined from floor to ceiling with all kinds of make up goodness. She decided then and there she would have a product line by the age of 25. Good gravy, a hair pomade,was the first product she came up with. Requests came flying in for a tube version. So, in 2000 Jamie developed Chicken Poop. She has seven other products in the making. The next to market will be Kill It Dead, a natural spray deodorant. THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS NO POOP!!

After my "Jelly Bath" experience, I am hesitant to drop a dollar on this one....sorry guys...the thought just sort of gags me. I thought of buying my 12 year old a cute "Chicken Poop T-Shirt" but she informed me that was a bit disgusting and would refuse to wear it.

Since a product name means so much, I would also like to know if you would buy this for personal use or to give as a gift.

If anyone uses Chicken Poop products....please post your comments!

Wishing You Much Success!

Debbie May

http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Craftshow Tips

The following is a culmination of material I have saved from over the years. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me personally.

Wishing You Much Success!

Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/
debbie@wholesalesuppliesplus.com


Contacting Craft Show Organizers

In preparing to sell your product at craft shows, it is a wise idea to find out which craft shows are well attended and have many booths of quality crafts. The following places are good locations for craft shows: public high schools, private high schools, public middle and elementary schools. Indoor shows tend to attract more buyers than outdoor shows. You can contact PTA Presidents about their upcoming shows in May of the prior year after the new President has been chosen. Contact the organizer early enough to fill out an application.

Things to ask the craft show organizer:

• Size of tables.
• Are tables and chairs included in price.
• Are there runners available for the crafters. Runners are used for change, food and bathroom breaks.
• Do they advertise and how do they advertise.
• What is the historical attendance. What do they expect this year.
• Is there an admission price for customers? (Free shows are better attended)
• Is it a juried show where each crafter must submit product to for acceptance and for competition. (Juried shows tend to have better products)
• What is the availability of unfilled tables and where are these tables located. Ideally, you want to be in a busy area away from others with crafts like yours.

Pricing your products

Many people make the mistake of setting their prices after they have determined their final cost. I feel this is a grave mistake. First determine how much your craft will retail for in a store. This will vary from region to region. For example, a store in a trendy part of California may successfully sell a bar of soap for $8.00 while a store in Michigan may struggle to sell the same bar of soap for $5.00. You have to spend some time and shop around. See how much money retail stores are selling soaps for and then find out if they are actually selling much soap at that price or do they have to depend on sales, such as 2 for $1.00, to move their inventory. Consider giving a price break for more than 1 bar. For example: one bar of soap for $4.00 or 3 for $10.00. If you plan on packaging your bath and skin products in baskets, the general rule of thumb is that those that sell between $5.00 and $10.00 tend to be better sellers than over $10.00.

Your Display

You will want to display your products in a way that will be appealing to the shoppers. You will need to take into consideration the size of the space that you will be renting, if you need to provide the table or if you need to be bringing your own table/displays. If you are just starting out, you may want to attend a few craft shows to look at the type of displays that other crafters have. Wood crates are an easy way to display items as you will be able to have different levels of products. One way to attract customers is to have a bright, such as red, tablecloth. Felt, which comes as wide as 72", is perfect as it will cover the top of the table as well as the front. Tables are 6-8 feet in length, so if you buy long enough for an 8 foot table, you can use it for both. Use a piece of cut lace on top to add a touch of elegance!

Amount of Product

The general rule of thumb for those starting out is to bring 10% of attendance. Therefore, if they expect 5,000 people....you would bring 500 pieces to sell.

Common Questions

How much money/change should I bring to the craft show?

• $50 in small bills and change should be enough for you to start as long as there are runners available to get change for you. Make sure you have a cash box for your change and a place to keep larger amounts of money as the day goes on.

How do you get all of your products there yourself?

• I LOVE collapsible crates. They are easy to organize and store prodcut. They collapse to flat when empty.
• I LOVE this hand dolly on wheels. It is perfect for working a craftshow alone. Getting product from car to your table will be a breeze.

Should I bring food or drink?

• It is good to bring something to drink and snack type food. If it is a good show you will have people at your booth all day. I personally think it is rude to eat in front of anyone so I eat a big breakfast. A cheese-it cracker is easy to sneak here and there. Bring breath mints for bad breath. Chewing gum can be offensive to some customers.

Should I bring a book?

• Never bring a book. Never read the paper.
• When someone approaches your table stand and ask them if they have any questions. Look interested with a SMILE on your face. Be happy. Make happy small talk and NEVER complain about anything.
• When there isn't anyone at your table, come around the front and see how it looks to a potential customer. Fidget with your display. It is amazing how customers are attracted to tables with people in front of them...even if it is you!

What do I say to people?

A very seasoned crafter once told me "Don't talk too much. It will only show that you know nothing about their wants because you have not listened." Here are quick common phrases that are good ice breakers.

• "It is not chocolate...although it smells as good.
• If you eat it you getbubbles in your mouth".
• "Come on over and take a sniffy...sniffing is free and there is not muchfree at the show."
• "Do you have kids? These make great teachers gifts...a nice way for ateacher to pamper themselves after a day of work."
• "These make great inexpensive stocking stuffers for teens....they are sointo this stuff."
• "These are great for secret Santa exchanges or last minute hostess gifts. I leave 10 or so bars in my closet with some small gift bags because you never know when you need something special."
• "This is a great gift idea. It is something that people will want toactually use and not re-gift to someone else."
• "Have you ever noticed how some retail bars lose their scent after a while?This is because the majority of fragrance is sprayed on top of the bar to help reduce costs. I make my soap with extra scent throughout the bar so even the last little nub of soap will smell outstanding."
• "This is made with shea butter. Shea butter is an outstanding moisturizerfor the skin. I then give them a small test of the goat’s milk lotion."

New & Sale Items

I am pleased to announce we have several new products that have arrived this week.

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

NEW
These new Triple Throw Reed Diffuser Scents are in stock and being offered 25% off and with free shipping for sizes over 16 oz. The Sugared Lemon is our office favorite!

Victorian Lavender – Tripe Throw Reed Diffuser Oil
Sugared Lemon – Triple Throw Reed Diffuser Oil
Ocean Marine – Triple Throw Reed Diffuser Oil

DISCONTINUED WITH DEEP DISCOUNTS
We have many items being discontinued with deep price breaks. We typically put it our discontinued items on sale in January. This year we have decided to trial it earlier so that you can take advantage and increase your fall profits!

½ oz Sophisticate Jar & Top Rim Gold
½ oz Sophisticate Jar & Top Rim Silver
1 oz Sophisticate Jar & Top Rim Silver
1 oz Sophisticate Jar & Top Rim Gold
2 oz Sophisticate Jar & Top Rim Gold
2 oz LDPE Natural Malibu
20/410 Gold Shiny Metal Top
20/410 Silver Matte Metal Top
24/410 Gold Shiny Metal Top
4 oz LDPE Natural Malibu
8.3 Clear PET Tuscany Jar
Beanie Hat Duck Toys
Bingo Duck Toys
Butterfly Toys
Candy Wafers: Mocha Milk Flavor
Candy Wafers: Irish Cream Flavor
Candy Wafers: Peanut Butter Flavor
Crystal Clear Vinyl Spa Base – 3” Economy
Crystal Clear Vinyl Spa Base – 3” Slide Close
Farm Animal Toys
Flower Power Duck Toys
Hippie Duck Toys
Kitty Cat Toys
Lanolin Oil
Mardi Gras Duck Toys
Metallic Red Clamp – 2”
Metallic Red Clamp – 5.5”
Metallic White Clamp – 5.5”
Patriotic Duck Toys
Pro Base Clear 2# Trays
Pro Base White 2# Trays
Red Scarf Duck Toys
Religious Duck Toys
Shrink Wrap Bag – Dome 20 x 20
Shrink Wrap Bag – Dome 24 x 22
Shrink Wrap Bag – Dome 26 x 24
St. Patrick Day Duck Toys
Star Student Duck Toys
Super Sterol Liquid
Turtle Toys
Window Zip Pouch: Americana
Window Zip Pouch: Blue
Window Zip Pouch: Christmas Tree
Window Zip Pouch: Easter
Window Zip Pouch: Gold
Window Zip Pouch: Green
Window Zip Pouch: Red

Fun Facts

My husband read my blog for the first time yesterday and until he read it he had no idea that I had such a busy day. He sent me a beautiful letter on how I should not work too hard and included these fun facts for the blog. I hope you like them…I found them very interesting!

Tomorrow I will publish my post on how to prepare for a craftshow.

Have a super day!
Debbie
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Fun Facts

1. Every day more money is printed for Monopoly than the U.S.Treasury.
2. Men can read smaller print than women can.
3. Women can hear better than men.
4. Coca-Cola was originally green.
5. It is impossible to lick your elbow.
6. The average number of people airborne over the U.S. in any given hour : 61,000
7. 111,111,111 x 111,111,111 = 12,345,678,987,654,321 (1-9 forward and backward)
8. If a statue in the park of a person on a horse has both front legs in the air, the person died in battle.
9. If the horse has one front leg in the air the person died as a result of wounds received in battle.
10. If the horse has all four legs on the ground, the person died of natural causes.
11. Half of all Americans live within 50 miles of their birthplace.
12. Bulletproof vests, fire escapes, windshield wipers, and laser printers were all invented by women.
13. Honey is the only food that doesn't spoil.
14. Father’s Day has more collect calls than any other day of the year.
15. “Good Night and Sleep Tight” - In Shakespeare's time, mattresses were secured on bed frames by Ropes. When you pulled on the ropes the mattress tightened, making the Bed firmer to sleep on.
16. “Honeymoon” - It was the accepted practice in Babylon 4,000 years ago that for a Month after the wedding, the bride's father would supply his son-in-law With all the mead he could drink. Mead is a honey beer and because their Calendar was lunar based, this period was called the honey month, which we know today as 'the honeymoon'.
17. “GOLF” – Gentlemen Only, Ladies Forbidden. Many years ago in Scotland , a new game was invented. It was ruled 'Gentlemen Only...Ladies Forbidden'...and thus the word GOLF entered Into the English language.

FINALLY~~ At least 75% of people who read this will try to lick their elbow!

Joke: Mother's Intuition

Today I was incredibly busy..one of those days where you blink and it is over. A good friend sent me this joke in an email. It made me smile and I hope it makes you smile too!

Debbie

Mother's Intuition

Brian invited his mother over for dinner. During the course of the meal, Brian's mother couldn't help but keep noticing how beautiful Brian's roommate, Stephanie, was. Mrs. Hester long been suspicious of a relationship between Brian and his roommate, Stephanie, and this had only made her more curious. Over the course of the evening, while watching the two react, Mrs. Heater started to wonder if there was more between Brian and his roommate, Stephanie, than met the eye.

Reading his mom's thoughts, Brian volunteered, "I know what you must be thinking, but I assure you that Stephanie and I are just roommates."

About a week later, Stephanie came to Brian saying, "Ever since your mother came to dinner, I've been unable to find the beautiful silver gravy ladle. You don't suppose she took it, do you?"

Brian said, "Well, I doubt it, but I'll send her an e-mail just to be sure." So he sat down and wrote, "Dear Mother, I'm not saying that you 'did' take the gravy ladle from the house; and I'm not saying that you 'did not' take the gravy ladle. But the fact remains that one has been missing ever since you were here for dinner. Love, Brian"

Several days later, Brian received a letter from his mother that read, "Dear Son, I'm not saying that you 'do' sleep with Stephanie, and I'm not saying that you 'do not' sleep with Stephanie. But the fact remains that if she was sleeping in her own bed, she would have found that gravy ladle by now. Love, Mom"

Product Liability Insurance

I have recently gotten a large number of emails inquiring about where to get liability insurance for both soap and candles.

For those seeking insurance, I highly recommend you check out the Handcrafted Soap Makers Guild. They offer a policy that covers both Soap and Candles.

You can find them at http://www.soapguild.org/

The link to their FAQ on insurance is http://soapguild.org/insurance.php

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Sage & Citrus Wax Melts

Wax melts are sometimes called wax tarts or wax potpourri.

Wax melts are cubes of wax that have been highly fragranced. They are melted without the use of a wick in a special tart burner. When they are melted the wax releases a wonderful fragrance. Melts are very popular in today’s retail market.

Here is a recipe:

Ingredients:
1 lb. of IGI 4794 Tart Wax
1 ½ oz. Sage & Citrus Fragrance Oil
¼ Block - French Candle Dye Block #14
4 Six Cavity Hinged Clamshells

Equipment:
Metal Melting Pot - Used Exclusively for Wax
Spoon - Used Exclusively for Fragranced Wax
Candy or High Temperature Thermometer

Directions:
In a metal pan, heat wax over direct heat until melted. Add color dye block and return to heat until fully melted. Add fragrance and allow wax to cool to 140º. While wax is melting, spread newspaper on work surface. Place clamshells on newspaper. (This allows for easy clean up of spilled wax). Pour wax into clamshells and allow to fully cool. Do not pour wax too hot or it will melt clamshell. When wax has cooled, close clamshell and package as usual. For your convenience, we offer tart/melt warning labels.

Note: Never leave wax unattended. Wax does not boil but instead can flash fire. In case of fire, remove from heat and cover with lid. Do not add water. When making this product, care should be taken to avoid splashing and skin contact with hot wax. It can burn you. Contact us for full safety precautions.

Yankee Candle has some of the most adorable wax/tart melters that I have seen in some time. They are fairly priced and available for sale online. They call them wax potpourri burners.

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Company Fish Tank

We decided to share our company fish tank with all of you. We added our fish to the homepage of our blog. If you move your mouse over the fish...they will follow...click on the tank to feed them.

Just a little mindless fun that is meant to make you smile!

Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Triple Throw Diffuser Base

The first set of our new diffuser oils have finally arrived!

Our "Triple Throw Diffuser Oils" are formulated to meet the retail standard of diffusing 4 oz of scent per month with just 10 reed sticks! Since, retail stores tend to demand clear bottles, these oils have an additive to prevent color change when exposed to store lighting.

All of these bases have been given an introductary 25% off price. All 12 and 20 pound sizes have FREE Shipping!

It has been a long time since we have been excited about a new product line. This line is absolutely outstanding. I highly encourage you to give it a try. With wax prices on the rise, this product would be a quick and easy sale for customer seeking a quality home fragrance.

Here are a few links to help with your shopping:

Triple Throw Reed Stick Diffuser Oils
8 oz Clear Glass Bottle (As seen at Pier 1 Imports)
Black, White and Silver Caps for 8 oz Clear Glass Bottle
Reed Diffuser Sticks

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

Forecasting & Inventory

On my way to work this am, I called a good friend to see if she wanted to meet for a drink after work. She couldn’t because her husband is out of town and she didn’t have a babysitter. It was a bummer because I really enjoy her company. She told me that her husband was at a week long annual forecast meeting for his business. Knowing that her husband works in the chocolate industry and I said something like, “is 2008 going to be a good year for chocolate?” That is when she told me he is forecasting inventory and sales for 2011!

It got me to thinking about today’s topic. Forecasting Sales and Holding Inventory.

Wholesale Supplies Plus, on average forecasts inventory 8 weeks out. In other words, we place an order with our manufacturers 8 weeks before we actually run out of stock. Some manufacturers have a lead time of 2 weeks, some are 12 weeks and a few are 24 weeks….but on average it is about 8 weeks.

I always feel bad when we run out of stock but it is so darn hard to forecast when new customers present themselves everyday and loyal customers land that “big account” they have been working months to land. Let me tell you, they inevitably order all of a type of a candle wax that would normally take two months to sell....and there is a four week lead time! Overall, I think our purchasing department does a pretty good job.

We have learned, from the last 10 years, that we need to increase our stock on hand by 25% in August and let it run back down in June. It is an expensive swing that causes cash flow to be incredibly tight…..but as my very wise Uncle Stan once told me, “don’t think of it as money sitting on the shelf, think of it as…you can’t sell apples with an empty apple cart!”

As our lead times lengthen with the fall season approaching, I am sure you also have to increase your inventory for your upcoming busy season. My guess is that we are both glad we are not trying to forecast for 2011!

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

New Retail Scents

We have had the pleasure of a good customer bringing in several new products from Bath and Body Works as well as Yankee Candles. It prompted me to go over our “Company’s to Watch List” for new/seasonal/holiday specials.

I know you are busy getting ready for the fall rush so I listed highlights here. Some scents below are new and a few others they are bringing back out of retirement.

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/


Bath & Body Works
Blackberry Amber, Simply Devine Cherry Pie, Pecan Passion, Twisted Peppermint, Velvet Tuberose

Harry Slatkin
Perfect Autumn Pumpkin, Perfect Autumn Pear, Perfect Autumn Apple

Yankee Candle
Cider-Web, Boo-Nilla, Pumpkin Patch, Purr-chouli, Trick or Treat Swirl, Autumn Woods, Cider Donut, Coconut Cookie Bar, Crème Brule, Fall Festival, Frosted Pumpkin, Indonesian Ginger, Mango Peach Salsa, Pomegranate Cider, Shortbread Cookie, Sicilian Orange

Aromatique
Smell of a Tree, Pumpkin Spice, Crème Caramel, Amaretto Nog, Orange & Evergreen

Colonial at Home
Holiday Cheer, Winter Pine, Amber Woods, Cranberry Mint, Fresh Fallen Snow, Indian Summer, Cinnamon Sugar

Fresh
Mangosteen

Hanna’s Candles
Christmas Cranberry, First Noel, Iced Sugar Cookie, Silver Spruce, Sweet Cinnamon

Illuminations
Mulled Wine, Roasting Chestnuts, Pumpkin Pie, Apple Cinnamon, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie, Napa Valley Harvest, Apple Cider, Spiced Orange, Bordeaux, Amber Woods, Cinnamon Bar, Bayberry Branch, Tonka Bean, Enchanted Forest, Happy Halloween, Red Ginger

Jaqua Beauty
Butter cream Frosting, Pink Butter cream, Cocoa Butter cream, Pink Champagne

L’Occtaine
Olive & Tomato, White Tea

Mistral
Cedar wood Marine, Mandarin Amber, Sandalwood Bamboo, Balinese Vanilla

Root Candles
Winterberry, Iced Cookie, Holiday Frost, Mulled Cider

Trapp Candle
Jasmine Gardenia, Vanilla Torte, Lavender de Province

Village Candle
New Kitchen: Caramelized Pear, Cinnamon French Toast, Banana Nut Bread
New Soy: Ceylon Tea & Lemon, Coconut Milk & Lime, Sugar Cane

The Must Have Customer

I just completed reading this book for the second time...it is so good! It contains everything they didn't teach you in business school. It is hands on and practical.

I highly recommend it to anyone selling products for profit. It is a very easy and quick read.

Candle Wax Price Increase

We are announcing a price increase on most candle waxes. This increase is effective 10/14/2007. The price increase varies depending on the product. New prices are:

IGI 1260 – 1 case $63.95, 1 pallet $2109 ($1.03/lb, $1.00/lb)
IGI 4625 – 1 case $59.75, 1 pallet $1962 ($.961/lb, $.930/lb)
IGI 4633 – 1 case $70.25, 1 pallet $2050 ($1.06/lb, $1.035/lb)
IGI 4641 – 1 case $57.25, 1 pallet $2157 ($1.04/lb, $.98/lb)
IGI 4794 – 1 case $60.95, 1 pallet $2004 ($.983/lb, $.95/lb)
IGI 6006 – 1 case $60.85, 1 pallet $2004 ($.981/lb, $.95/lb)
Crafter’s Choice™ SP Wax – 1 case $60.85, 1 pallet $2004 ($.981/lb, $.95/lb)
EcoSoya™ CB Advanced – 1 case “no change”, 1 pallet $1212 ($.895, $.897)
EcoSoya™ Pure Soy – 1 case “no change”, 1 pallet $1212 ($.895, $.897)
EcoSoya™ Pillar Blend – 1 case “no change”, 1 pallet $1352 ($.895, $1.00)

Be the first to know all specials...follow this blog daily!
Look for the link on our homepage at http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

New Sale Items

Several items have been given an additional discount. Prices are effective immediately.

12 oz Clear PET Oval Bottle (25% Off)
8 oz Clear PET Orange Bottle (25% Off)
¾ oz Lotion Bar Container (32-40% Off)

White Soap Boxes (15-25% Off)

Red Satin Bows (58% Off)

Be the first to know all specials...follow this blog daily!

Look for the link on our homepage at http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/

What's In a Name?

What is in a name? Quite a bit if you are in the fragrance business!

The power of suggestion with product name, color and label design will strongly impact your sales. You not only need a great product to compete in today’s market, you need to have colors that make sense and labels that compliment your line.

It is common to use favorite fragrance and change the name for the holiday season. Chose names that trigger happy memories such as Sleigh Ride, Sugar Plum Fairy, Seasons Greetings, Santa’s Hot Cocoa, Mrs. Clause Sugar Cookies, etc.

Wholesale Supplies Plus.com offers color recommendations for all of their scents. These are general guidelines. Experiment and capitalize on your successes.

If you have a scent in your line and want some ideas for seasonal fragrance names, call us…we would be happy to help you! We offer this is a free service to all of our customers.

Wishing You Much Success!
Debbie May
http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/