Orca Communications Unlimited, LLC is proud to represent individuals who make up the backbone of our economy - entrepreneurs. Innovative, motivated and fearless are just a few words that begin to describe these individuals who are forward thinking, creating the next big thing or solving everyday problems at home and in the workplace.
As we’ve entered the 21st century, there’s a growing group of entrepreneurs who are emerging and paving the way to create more and more businesses that not only turn a profit, but improve lives. At Orca Communications, we like to call them “Fabulous Female Entrepreneurs.” Each have intriguing and inspiring stories worthy of sharing with the world….
*Lesley Pyle sympathized with the plight of women choosing between family and career. She knew there had to be a better way for women who need to juggle work and family life. Pyle create www.HireMyMom.com, a website that offers a simple one-stop shop for women and companies allowing moms across the nation to market their skills, experience, and education to companies needing to outsource work. Businesses benefit by hiring these professionals at a fraction of the cost of hiring traditional employees or contractors. This valuable resource has helped countless moms balance work and family with flexible jobs that allow them to work out of the home, while businesses’ are better able to preserve their bottom line. A win-win solution!
*Breaking down stereotypes and motivating girls and women is meaningful business for Gretchen Cawthon. She created Girls Can’t What? (www.girlscantwhat.com), an online community and shop where girls and women are working together to tear down stereotypes and pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacle. From being one of the only girls to make it on the 6th grade boys basketball team to learning to walk again at 14 after being hit by a drunk driver, Cawthon is used to achieving goals and overcoming obstacles she was told couldn’t be done. She created “Girls Can’t What?” to share these personal experiences along with amazing stories and interviews from truly inspirational women to help motivate girls to succeed at doing anything. Cawthon also creates fun and hip t-shirts, hoodies and other items that feature girls breaking down stereotypes - everything from taking on the role as a football player to working as a construction worker. 20% of proceeds from the sales of the online store are being donated until $1 million is raised to support women’s nonprofit organizations.
*Jodi Albertini enjoys the sweet smell of success with Scentsy, an innovative company that creates a wickless and flameless alternative to traditional candles with over 80 amazing scents to safely enjoy in any indoor environment. It wasn’t that long ago that Albertini lay in bed depressed with debilitating pain from a connective tissue disease when a friend introduced her to Scentsy. Unemployed at the time, she quickly realized this was a not only a golden opportunity to help herself earn a sizable income for her family but to help other women find financial independence. Within a year, Albertini had skyrocketed to the top sales position in the company, making a six figure income. Even more rewarding to her has been the opportunity to help hundreds of other women create their own successful and flexible home-based businesses. www.safecandle.net
Spring is here! It’s time to celebrate with more good stuff, less guilt.
What is it about spring time that makes us crave anything sweet, salty and just plain unhealthy? Somewhere deep down in our psyches we are preparing for the inevitable summer which means less clothing and…dare I say it…the swimsuit. Health-conscious companies know that it’s necessary to nip into something deliciously decadent here and there and are offering snack alternatives.
Orca Communications embraces the new healthy lifestyle trend. Our client NaturallySavvy.com helps take the guesswork out of eating healthy and living our best lives. Created by nutrition experts Andrea Donsky and Randy Boyer, NaturallySavvy.com is a one stop shop for a healthy body and mind. In a nutshell, they have done all the work for us…so let’s eat!
Andrea and Randy know that sometimes we just need to have cookies, chips and cupcakes. Here are some junk food alternatives that allow all of us to nibble (or nosh) with guiltless glee:
Delectable chocolate -
Endangered Species offers delicious dark chocolate with health benefits thanks to 70% cocoa.
Crispy crackers -
Blue Diamond® NUT•THINS® are made from rice flour and nuts — with no added wheat or gluten — and available in six delicious flavors.
Sweet pudding –
Nasoya Silken Creations are a line of creamy and delicious non-dairy alternatives to jump start your favorite recipes or to eat on its own.
Satisfying Chocolate Milk -
Almond Breeze® Almond Milk by Blue Diamond Growers are delicious non-dairy beverages made from real almonds and has a delicious creamy taste.
Chewy cookies -
Pamela’s cookies are decadent and are gluten-free too. http://www.pamelasproducts.com/Products_frames.html
Soft and moist cupcakes -
Naturally Nora’s cakes taste amazing and even have sprinkles to delight the kids.
Crunchy chips -
Hippie Chips are delicious and don’t pack a fat-filled punch. http://www.naturallysavvy.com/savvy-reviews/product-reviews/1996-a-rockin-good-snack
Sweet lollipops and candy –
PureFun candies are made naturally, the organic way. http://www.purefun.ca/products_purePops.html
Cheesy, savory goodness -
Barbara’s Bakery makes crunchy, yet healthy, cheese snacks. http://www.worldpantry.com/cgibin/ncommerce3/CategoryDisplay?cgmenbr=587770&cgrfnbr=881913
Hot and toasty breakfast -
Nature’s Path Toaster Pastries are made with whole grains. http://www.naturespath.com/products/snack_foods
For more tips on healthy living and eating, please visit NaturallySavvy.com
Green Living is more than a trend, it’s here to stay.
No offense to Kermit the Frog, but it actually IS easy being green! These days, with so many incredible green products and services on the market, living an eco-friendly lifestyle is easier than ever. As more and more consumers are looking for green alternatives, Orca Communications is proud to represent the latest and greatest eco-friendly products for a cleaner, greener lifestyle…
ECHOage is a unique web-based service that plans eco-friendly, charitable birthday parties for kids. ECHOage was started by two moms who wanted to help create a generation of GIVING kids. Instead of guests bringing wrapped and packaged presents, they are asked to give a secure donation online to the birthday child’s charity of choice. Contributions are pooled with half going to purchase a gift for the child and half being donated to this special charity. ECHOage arranges everything, so no need for guests to drive, shop, wrap or even pick up the phone to make a donation. www.echoage.com
Top media coverage to date includes Better Connecticut (Market #28), ABC News Now (44 million viewers/cable), Pregnancy Magazine (225,627), CNN Television (National), Denver Post (456,890), VanityFair.com, Green Living Magazine (150,000).
LEHR, an innovator in the development of eco-friendly consumer products, is introducing the world’s first energy efficient, propane-powered lawn and garden tools. The premier product from the Eco Series line – the LEHR Eco Trimmer – premiers this spring at retailers nationwide. Using a standard propane canister as its fuel source, the Eco Trimmer has all the power and performance of its gasoline counterpart – minus the harmful effects to our earth, our families and users. Plus, with patented “Twist ‘n’ Go” fueling, the LEHR Eco Trimmer couldn’t be simpler to use! www.golehr.com
Top media to date includes Popular Science (1,350,562), This Old House Magazine (969,563), HANDY Magazine (1,017,386), KNTV-TV NBC (San Francisco, Market #5), WKMG-TV (Orlando, Market #19)
Orca client Laundry Alternative Wonder Wash
As homeowners look for ways to ‘cut back’, there’s an appliance innovation that will save money AND the environment. Laundry-Alternative introduces the Wonder Wash and Spin Dryer. These revolutionary products are small enough for countertop use, easy and safe to use, and cut down on water and electricity usage. Especially ideal for small families, apartments, dorm rooms and RV’s. Functioning similar to a traditional washing machine and dryer, the Wonder Wash and Spin Dryer will clean and dry clothing thoroughly in compact, portable and affordable machines. The innovative machines save consumers money, as much as $150-250 per year. In an effort to conserve water, The Wonder Wash uses 90% less water and detergent than conventional washing machines and fits easily on any countertop. www.laundry-alternative.com
Top media coverage to date includes BobVila.com (922,000), CrunchGear.com (online media – 1,300,000), RV Trade Digest Magazine (16,002), News Journal (102,171), and Virginian-Pilot Newspaper (174,573).
Orca client Robin Wilson Cabinetry
Robin Wilson Home, the national eco-friendly design firm, has introduced a brand new line of eco-friendly kitchen cabinets. The cabinetry has over 100 door styles in varying materials from bamboo, coconut, wenge, stainless steel, plus hardwood in cherry, maple, oak with low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) finishes. This frameless, custom-cabinetry line has over 10% more usable space maximizing storage, cleaning and functionality, compared to framed cabinetry. Distinguishing features include European design, look and feel with unique styles - from classic to trendsetting and unique interior storage accessories for all drawers and cabinets. www.rwhcollection.com
Scheduled media coverage to date includes Signature Kitchens & Baths (61,620), Atlanta Home Improvement (75,000), New England Home (60,000), Kitchen & Bath Business (55,342), and KTBC-TV (FOX, Austin, Market #52)
Orca client Lorie Marrero on Better TV.
Public relations is a vital service to building a business or launching a new product. If PR is a new concept for you, there may be a lot of questions. What needs to be in a press release? How do I prepare for an interview? Is PR the same as advertising? Before jumping into something you don’t understand, consider some important PR tips from the professionals at Orca Communications Unlimited, LLC.
Understanding the difference between public relations and advertising is the first step. Advertising is paid placement while PR is editorial coverage in news stories, feature articles and interviews. Commercials and full page magazine ads allow you to say what you want about your company. Public relations professionals work closely with editors and producers on feature stories, which implies a third party endorsement. PR pros value their relationships with members of the press and maintain those contacts.
Before gaining the interest of a newspaper editor or television producer, you will need to come up with som
ething catchy and to the point. Press releases are formal announcements and are rarely read thoroughly by the media. A simple paragraph about your product could generate a television segment at your local station or grab the attention of a national magazine looking to feature gifts in a round-up for Valentine’s Day. When a press release is necessary, media outlets look for the appropriate Associated Press format. The headline is the most important part of the release and should grab the reader. The body of the release should answer who, what, when, where, why and how. Correct grammar and spelling are imperative. There are various online resources with free press release templates including, Prnewswire and PRWeb.
When working with media outlets think of the big picture. The media loves trends! Do your research and find out what’s going on in the news right now and how you can tie in your product or service. Attaching your company to a bigger story gives you better chances for immediate coverage. Another great way to generate coverage is through hometown stories. Don’t underestimate the value of news features in your local market as well as small regional magazines, trade publications and even online editorials can drive sales.
Once you have sent your pitch and get booked on a local radio or television show, you must prepare for the interview. Make a list of three points that you want to cover in the interview. Don’t forget to mention your product and company name don’t just say ‘my company’ say the name of the company as much as possible, without sounding like a commercial. Remember the segment is part of a news story; you aren’t there to sell your product on television. It’s also important to respect deadlines. If a newspaper requests a product sample or photo of the product, it’s in your best interest to respond quickly. Also, tell the reporter if you can’t meet their deadline. But remember to snatch the opportunity while the interest is fresh.
Reporters prefer to cover successful companies. A small start-up is less newsworthy than a company that’s booming. Keep this in mind when questioned about sales numbers. You might use ‘projected sales numbers’ or an increase in distribution and retail outlets to showcase success.
Media outlets say their number one complaint is when guests ask for a copy of the segment. Set up a recording beforehand or have a friend tape the segment. There are also media clipping services where you can purchase a tape.
It’s important to use the power of PR! Many companies display media features in a ‘press’ link on their websites. This adds credibility to your brand. The media interest and coverage can increase your product distribution and retail presence. It’s an excellent selling tool!
Orca is diving into social media with a big splash! Check out our latest hits below and be sure to visit us on Facebook!
Clover Holder (Orca’s Media Guide Client), MomAgenda (Orca’s Full Service Client), and Mommy Track’d (Orca’s Media Guide Client) were featured on SheKnows in a Clutter Busters article on 1/7/2009. View the Link: http://www.sheknows.com/articles/807196.htm
Gracie’s Gear (Orca’s Shared Spotlight Client) was featured on SheFinds on 1/6/2009. View the Link: http://www.shefinds.com/blog/index.php/cheapworkoutgear/
The SeatSnug (Orca’s Full Service Client) was featured in a segment with the Safety Mom on Better TV on 1/5/2009. View the Link: http://better.tv/bettertv/?cid=507869917&lid=1631239495&tid=4951560001
The Clutter Diet (Orca’s Shared Spotlight Client) was featured as part of the cover story in the January 2009 issue of Family Circle Magazine (3,896,088). View the Link: http://www.clutterdiet.com/news_detail.php?nid=77
ECHOage (Orca’s Full Service Client) was featured on A Greener Tomorrow TV (Toronto, ON) on 1/2/09.
Organic Diva (Orca’s Shared Spotlight Client) was featured on KPNX-TV Arizona Midday (NBC/ Phoenix #13) in “New Year, New You” segment on 1/2/2009.
Veeple (Orca’s Full Service Client) was featured on Advanced Radio Network (syndicated) on their radio show, “Into Tomorrow” on 12/30/2008.
Life Learning Devices (Orca’s Media Guide Client) was featured on WTTE-TV (Columbus, OH Market #32) Good on 12/18/2008.
Care.com (Orca’s Full Service Client) was featured on WOIO-TV (CBS) Market #17 on 12/17/2008.
Bralief (Orca’s Full Service Client) was featured on InStyle.com (Circ.: 2,224,708) on 12/17/2008.
Orca Communications Unlimited, LLC was featured on Voice America Radio Network (online radio). Station interviewed Valery Hodes & Stacey Escalante for a one hour that focused on the economy being a “marketers market” on 12/16/2008.
Chic¹z on the Go! (Orca’s Shared Spotlight Client) was featured in LA Splash Magazine (25 million monthly hits) in holiday gift guide.
One Click Butter Cutter was featured on Imcooked.com (Online Media) in video holiday gift guide. View the Link:
http://www.imcooked.com/view_video.phpviewkey=568808b8497e28275c7c
The Indo Board Balance Trainer (Orca’s Shared Spotlight Client) was featured on the Today Show.
Ergo Chef (Orca’s Media Guide Client) was featured on SheKnows.com (Online Media) in Gourmet Gifts article. View the Link: http://www.sheknows.com/articles/806916.htm
Play Golf Designs (Orca’s Shared Spotlight Client) was featured on the Playboy Morning Radio Show (National/Sirrius Radio - 6 million listeners) on 12/5/2008.
Erin Baker’s Olympia Breakfast Blitz (Orca’s Shared Spotlight Client) was featured on KING-TV (NBC/ Seattle-Tacoma #14) during their Deals segment on 12/4/2008.
