Like a lot of first-time moms-to-be, I’ve already signed up for various samples and freebies that are available to me and my expected little one.
Years ago I worked at a small boutique PR agency in Toronto that sent lots of beauty products to journalists, beauty writers, and beauty bloggers… so I know that there’s a market out there for samples and the desire for brands to get their products in our homes and hopefully in regular home purchasing rotation.
I’m someone who enjoys the P&G Sampler through Costco, so why not sign up for things that are baby related?
As they arrive, I’ll give a run down on what I receive and thoughts around the marketing, the pitch for the products(s), and the product itself.
Something fun to do that can give other moms-to-be insight into what they’ll receive when they sign up.
Let’s get started with the Shoppers v.i.b. program.On Aug. 1, I signed up online for Shoppers v.i.b. (very important baby).
I received an email with the following info:
As a new mom-to-be, you probably have a lot of questions. Don’t worry–we know what you’re going through, and we’re here to help. We’ll tell you about foods you need for a healthy pregnancy and, if you’re struggling with morning sickness or fighting fatigue, we’ve got expert tips to help you cope.
The rest of the email gave some tips on topics related to health, wellness and nutrition.
On Monday, Sept. 24 I received a package from v.i.b.
I have to say, the bib is pretty cute and no doubt will get used. It’s not overly thick, but will cover a little one enough. Love the sample-sized items and I see them going in the diaper bag (once we have one) right away.
The Huggies wipes have eight wipes in the pack and the Pure and Natural diapers are a three pack (won’t last long, but nice that they gave more than just one). And of course the Johnson’s nursing pads will be handy too.
I’ve used Aveeno before and am hoping to primarily use Aveeno baby products on our little one. the Johnson shampoo will probably be used at the summer home or as a quick grab-n-go option. I’m not familiar with Mustela products at all, but it has a very mild fragrance, so it receives my approval for trying once the little one is here.
There was also a coupon booklet to receive bonus Shoppers Optimum Points on certain baby products and two coupons (one for you and one for a friend) to receive bonus points if you spend $15 or more on baby products). Smart choices that cost them very little in the long run. And if I’m going to buy any of those products, you bet it’ll probably be at Shoppers since I have coupons for bonus points.
I’m a flyer and coupon kind of shopper and that’s who they want to target with that type of promo.
Finally, I was pleasantly surprised by the coupon for a free 20-page softcover photobook. Smart from a marketing/selling perspective because if we like the free one, it seems likely that we will want to get more than one (because you can never have too many grandparent brag books created).
So kudos to Shoppers. The packaging was well done, the marketing wasn’t too strong or smothering or cheesy. The products are very useful and things most people will generally be able to use or want to use. I’m not sure if they’ll send anything else, but as a free sign up, I like what I’ve received at this point.
I’ll keep an eye on both my mail box and inbox to see if I receive more communications from v.i.b.
Next product review: Similac Mom