Maria and I have both spent some time researching the feasibility of our doing a 2019 Bedlam Farm calendar using photos from both of us. We both like the idea and were hoping to do it.
So far, though, it seems doubtful.
For us to make the kind of calendar we would like to make – good paper, high quality photo and reproduction – it would cost at least $18 to $25 apiece to make the kind of calendar we’d want to make, or at least $400 for 25 calendars.
It just seems too high.
Yes, some online printing outfits are cheaper that this, but so is the quality of their work and reproduction. To make even a small profit, we’d have to charge about $30 plus shipping for the right calendar, that’s too much for us, too much for you.
Most store calendars sell for $15, some for $20. We would not be comfortable asking people to pay about $30 plus shipping. As it is, I’m uncomfortable getting into the stationery business.
We’re going to keep sniffing around tonight and perhaps tomorrow, but so far, we’re leaning against it. It’s a wonderful idea, and perhaps one day we can figure out a way to do it.
I got an awful let of messages last night and today expressing enthusiasm for the calendar but that was before we figured out the price. We haven’t given up yet, but I wanted to provide an honest update because there was so much interest.
Again, we’ll do some more investigating, but it doesn’t seem like a good idea this year, and thanks so much for your enthusiasm. It’s just too much money.
If that changes, I’ll let everyone know, and thanks again.
Hi Jon. My husband has been following you for years, and I would pay $50 for a calendar of your and Maria’s work as a holiday gift for him. My only suggestion is to make sure the space for each date has plenty of room. This would blend practicality and beauty. Hope you can work this out. Count me in.
Thanks so much and give your hug for me please. I don’t think we can work it out in a way that would work for us and be fair to people. But I appreciate your good thoughts.
what about putting up a calendar that people could print themselves? Or can too few people do that? Or do the pictures’ resolution leave too much to be desired?
Interesting, not something I would choose to do.
Our local Animal Shelter did a calendar and calendar contest again this year. Last year, @20 each, they were giving them away by April. This year they were ONLY available by pre-order (and pre-payment) which made a difference, I am sure.
Jon, my family shares picture and projects (that is what a calendar is) on sites like shutterfly and snapfish. You create the calendar and publish the link. Those of us who want it order it and pay shipping. There is no cost to you, but those who want calendars get them. You can even load up a couple to chose from, animals, scenes, etc.
I hope you consider it.
Hi Jon and Maria,
I would love the calendar and would buy it every year. If you go forward, please leave space on each day for me to write in all the activities going on in our house. Our paper calendar is our lifeline at home.
Pre-order and pre-payment may ease you mind.
Hope you are enjoying your fall!