This month we’re spotlighting Rustic Ruffles, a boutique located in Lafayette, TN. Rustic Ruffles partnered with CloseBy® shortly after opening in 2016 and has been leveraging the text program to promote fresh inventory and keep the store busy all year round. The owner, Hannah Hollis, has been steadily growing her text list by promoting CloseBy® every chance she gets. In ten years their text list has grown to an impressive 831 loyal VIP shoppers, including some who shop from out of state! Find out her secrets to success below.

Read Our Exclusive Interview with Rustic Ruffles Boutique

Q: Have you found the program easy to use?

It’s incredibly simple and user-friendly. Customers can either scan a QR code to join or text your keyword to your phone number, making the sign-up process quick and easy.
One of my favorite features is the flexibility when it comes to sending messages. I can send a text in real time through the online system, or I can schedule messages days, weeks, or even months in advance. It makes planning promotions and staying consistent so much easier.
There’s also a “Text from Cell” feature that I love. It allows me to send messages right from my phone, just like I would text friends or employees, but the message goes directly to my customers—and my personal cell number isn’t shared in the process.
Another huge benefit is having a dedicated Account Manager. I’ve actually had the same one for the past 10 years, and there’s nothing better than working with someone you trust and have built a relationship with. My Account Manager helps with everything from sharing ideas that are working for businesses similar to mine, to suggesting fun upcoming holidays to promote. They can even send texts out for me if I need the help!

Q: What has the text program done for your business?

Our text program has been instrumental in keeping our business top of mind with our customers. It gives us a direct and effective way to communicate with them and keep Rustic Ruffles on their radar day in and day out.
When I recently reviewed my account for the year, I looked at the results from our opt-in offer. When customers sign up for our text club, they receive a code for 20% off their online purchase. In just 10 months, that code was used 90 times, generating $3,890 in sales. That alone is enough to pay for the text program for the next three years!
What’s even more impressive is that those numbers are only from the initial opt-in message—that doesn’t include any of the additional texts and promotions I send out throughout the year. It really shows the value and return the program brings to the business.

Q: What do you think has been the best way to promote the program for your type of business?

The biggest key to building and growing your VIP text list is simply getting the code in front of as many people as possible. Talk to every customer about it, post it on social media frequently, and make sure it’s visible on your website. Most importantly, your staff should mention it to every single customer who comes through the door, calls on the phone, or messages you on social / emails you.
Offering an incentive also makes a huge difference. Giving people a reason to join right away is one of the easiest ways to grow your list. For example, I offer 20% off an entire purchase when customers sign up. They can use it either in-store or online, which helps me market to both my local customers and those who shop from out of state.
People love instant gratification – when they join the text list, they immediately receive a deal they can use. That quick reward encourages sign-ups and keeps the list growing. I get them on my text list today and can get them back in store over and over again with my follow up texts!

 

Check Out the Messages Behind Rustic Ruffles Boutique’s Success!

“Lucky, Blessed & Cutely Dressed Show text instore for $17 OFF $75+ purchase! Online Code GREEN17 http://a-m-p.us/fcftrr-5d TODAY ONLY” “Save BENJAMIN’S this President’s Day! EXTRA 10% OFF Sale Rack! Check FB for additional SALES all day! Info http://a-m-p.us/fcfhah-ff”
“Touchdown Deals!! All graphic tees are 30% OFF through midnight! Use code SUPER30 at checkout & score big > http://a-m-p.us/fcfchh-b7” “SNOW DAY SALE ❄️ Shop all items from this tab for 40% OFF! No code needed — just add to cart. > http://a-m-p.us/fcctkk-e5”
“Big news! Embroidery items are now available!! Enjoy 10% off until midnight. No code needed just add to cart > http://a-m-p.us/fcctan-07” “Open today 9-7! 1st 10 customers in store & online get a $10 gift card! $20 doorbusters, 25% off shoes + more! http://a-m-p.us/fcatan-0f”