Daveia Odoi 
If you’re an artist or brand owner hesitant to run pre-orders for your physical product launches, this is for you.
I’ve been using pre-orders for years, and I’m currently running one for my 2025 Calendar Cards. Let me break down what I’m doing, and I hope this behind-the-scenes look can help you!
1. Email Marketing Focus
I’m dedicating most of my marketing energy to my mailing list. While I don’t usually email often, I’ve increased the frequency for this launch. To avoid overwhelming loyal customers, I’ve segmented my list so those who’ve already purchased won’t get repeated prompts to buy.
It might feel intrusive, but don’t shy away from emailing your list. They signed up to hear from you! If some unsubscribe, consider it a chance to fine-tune your audience. A win is a win!
2. Setting a Pre-order Window
I’ve set a two-week window for this pre-order, sharing updates and behind-the-scenes content with those who are engaged. I’ve learned that people love seeing the process as much as the final product. As an artist, this is both comforting and nerve-wracking. 😅
Keep in mind that the ideal timeframe varies depending on the product, but the longer the pre-order, the more you’ll need to keep your audience updated.
3. Offering a Pre-order Incentive
To encourage early orders, I’m offering a 50% discount. This covers production costs, easing the financial burden, and helps me determine the right quantity to print, minimizing wasted inventory.
Cash flow can be a challenge, so pre-orders are a fantastic way to navigate a launch without the need for upfront funds.
Check out another post where I shared insightful information about the art of pre-ordering HERE.