2009 Media Kit l Contents For general and media inquires contact: Kathy de Jong, Co-Founder, President Ecorations, LLC P.O. Box 297 Clemmons, NC 27012 336-712-1899 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Company Profile Fact Sheet Needs Identification Background Founders Press Release Products Gift Pouches Apparel Wraps Gift Sacks Wine Bags Mixed Bag Collections Markets Consumers Wholesale & Retailers Contact Information Company Profile Fact Sheet Mission Statement: Ecorations, LLC. is dedicated to promoting planet stewardship by offering environmentally friendly gift wrap and accessories and aiding consumers to reduce landfill waste. We strive to grow our business into a nationally recognized brand associated with first quality products for gift giving and celebrations that are stylish, economically savvy and kind to the earth. Product innovation, conservationism and a dedication to providing superior goods and services for the environmentally conscious consumer are the cornerstones of our business. Overview: The company was founded in April 2008 as an Internet-based business offering fabric gift wrap and bags – all original designs. In addition to e-commerce, Ecorations currently offers select products on a wholesale basis. The company plans to venture into other sales channels as well as offering customized products for select business needs. Founders, Kathy de Jong and Debora Owens, voluntarily left six figure income careers to pursue the Ecorations dream. Ecorations brought its first gift bags to the market at the Southern Christmas Show in Charlotte, NC as well as on the Internet in November 2008, just over 6 months after incorporating the business. Ecorations offers one of the greatest varieties of original designs in the fabric gift wrap market. Ecorations offers 4 gift wrap options: Gift Pouches, Apparel Box Wraps, Gift Sacks and Wine Bags. The company strives to make its high quality products affordable for consumers to make a positive impact on the environment. As a cost-saving alternative, Ecorations offers “Mixed Bags” - 4 different value packs offering 17%-39% off the retail price of the individual bags. Future expansions under development include bags made from organic materials, bag accessories, and innovative bag designs. No release dates have been set. Ecorations will continuously incorporate a wider variety of fabrics to fit specific occasions such as birthdays, weddings, baby showers, etc. Ecorations is a member of 1% For The Planet. 1% of gross revenues will be donated to The Alliance for Climate Protection. Company Profile Needs Identification The average household throws away 13,000 separate pieces of paper each year. Most is packaging and junk mail. 85,000,000 tons of paper is used per year (about 680 pounds per person) in the US alone. The amount of wood and paper we throw away each year is enough to heat 50,000,000 homes for 20 years. With paper waste at an all time high, it is important that consumers are given alternatives that decrease waste and support environmental efforts. Therefore, as gift wrapping paper and bags account for nearly 4 million tons of trash annually in the US, offering alternatives to gift wrap and decorating products is vital to maintaining and improving the health of our environment. Consumers spend nearly $1.3 million on gift wrap, bows and wrapping accessories each year. Because gift-giving is done all year round, consumers are constantly adding to the world's paper waste while wasting sometimes hundreds of dollars a year per household. However, gift-giving is as much about the gift as it is the presentation of the gift from the consumer's point of view. Many consumers often go to great lengths to purchase expensive gift wrap & accessories, particularly for special events such as weddings, as a way to ensure the most beautiful presentation so that their gifts are fully remembered. Even if every piece of gift wrap and/or packaging was recycled each year, it would only reduce the amount of total paper waste by about half. However, it is unrealistic to assume that all gift wrap and packaging is recycled. Introducing reusable, non paper-based gift wrapping products to the consumer market can address the issues of paper waste and unnecessary consumer spending, particularly in troubled economic times. Two of the biggest factors in the success of waste reduction efforts will likely be the ease of the process and the amount of money spent per consumer to reduce waste as opposed to the amount of money spent on traditional paper gift wrap and wrapping accessories. Having gift-wrapping options that encourage eco-friendly efforts while being affordable will probably be among the most successful tools in this process. Yet only a small portion of the US population are using or have used gift-wrapping alternatives in recent years, as few to no retailers carry such items all year. Ecorations is offering consumers stylish, affordable and easy to use gift-wrapping alternatives to encourage reduction of paper waste and unnecessary spending. Our intent is to assist with waste reduction efforts by encouraging consumers to completely replace traditional paper gift wrap with reusable fabric alternatives, and to help consumers save on gift-giving costs. We also intend to show the avid gift-giver that going green can also be stylish, offering a sophisticated and fashionable yet fun presentation. Consumers can now have the beauty and chic style of more modern wrapping paper, gift bags and accessories while being good to their wallets and the environment. Company Profile Background Ecorations, LLC. is a small business dedicated to innovating the way people give gifts so it is done in a stylish, yet more environmentally friendly manner. We believe that waste does not have to be a part of the gift-giving equation. We also believe that minimizing our impact on the environment through our manufacturing, our use of natural materials and by implementing environmentally conscious business practices in practical, cost-effective ways, is our company responsibility. As a small business, these are lofty goals, and we strive to continuously improve on these efforts each and every day. The company is committed to environmental stewardship and making a difference in various ways including: Membership in 1% For The Planet. 1% of our proceeds are donated to benefit The Alliance for Climate Protection. Powering our website with a vendor that uses renewable energy. Extending our product offering to include an organic fabric line of bags. Utilizing, within our office, recycled paper and participating in a paper recycling program. Commercial printing that is done on recycled paper and sourcing many of our needs with an FSC certified printer. Selecting a US manufacturer less than 3 hours from our headquarters in Clemmons, NC to minimize the transportation and energy impacts on the environment. Offering a recycling program for our bags. Bags can be returned for a credit, and the bags or the fabric are reused. The Story Ecorations was formed in April 2008 by Kathy de Jong and Debora Owens, but its conception stems from Kathy's marriage and first Christmas with her new in-laws in 2000. A native of the Netherlands, Mrs. de Jong presented Kathy with her first gift – in a well-used yet cherished natural burlap tote that had Santa screen-printed on the front. Mrs. de Jong explained in her Dutch accent that these bags had been in the family for years, and she “needed it back.” She said with a chuckle, “You'll see it again next year.” Both Kathy and Debora share a passion for travel and in their travels noted that despite the many differences in cultures and traditions around the world, one of the most universal customs is the act of gift-giving. It's with this sense of global appeal, Dutch practicality and environmental conservatism that Ecorations was formed. Kathy enlisted the help of long-time friend and one-time co-worker Debora Owens to work on this venture. Company Profile Founders Kathy (Hain) de Jong, PMP, President and Co-founder of Ecorations Kathy has spent her career working in a variety of different fields as an internal and external consultant, primarily in the areas of business program implementation, re-engineering and project management. Kathy began her career working in mass transit for Tri-Rail in South Florida as the Manager of Quality Service and Administration. Kathy later met Debora Owens in 1997 as new associates for Kepner-Tregoe, a management consulting company based in Princeton, NJ. Most recently she worked at Republic Mortgage Insurance Company in Winston-Salem, NC as an Information Systems Account Manager. Kathy is a native of Erie, PA. She attended the University of Miami (The “U”) and received a BS degree in Communications and a Master of Science degree with a concentration in Quality Management. She is married with three children. Debora (Torres) Owens, Vice-President and Co-founder of Ecorations Debora is a marketing specialist and has spent the last 6 years of her career working as a brand manager, product manager and marketing consultant at Kimberly Clark and MeadWestvaco. Debora also has a finance background and worked in NYC for various investment management boutiques. A native of Bogotá , Colombia, she returned to her homeland early in her career to start a telecommunications business. She earned a BS degree in Finance from Baruch College, part of the City University of New York and an MBA in marketing from the Goizueta Business School at Emory University in Atlanta, GA. Debora enjoys running, dancing and traveling. She is married and has a daughter. Company Profile New NC Based Retailer Offers Eco-Friendly Solutions for Year-Round Gift Giving FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Ecorations, LLC announces the release of its NEW line of eco-friendly fabric gift wraps and bags. Clemmons, NC – May 1, 2009 - In time for summer weddings, birthdays and holiday celebrations, a newer online retailer is setting the standard for environmentally conscious gift-giving. Ecorations, LLC, a womenowned, web-based business founded in April 2008, announces the release of its first line of eco-friendly fabric gift bags. These sensibly chic bags sport original designs that offer both a reusable and recyclable alternative to paper gift wrap and bags. Ecorations President, Kathy de Jong, believes that there will continue to be a growing trend toward products that can show a positive economical as well as environmental impact. “As the economy remains in a recession, people are seeing the value of economic and lifestyle conservatism that makes reusable fabric gift bags and wraps a sensible and attractive choice over disposable paper gift wrap,” states de Jong. “Using a beautiful, quality fabric gift wrap 10, 20 or even 50 times is less expensive and automatically creates a family heirloom to be treasured. While doing so, we get a sense of joy out of giving to others and the peace of mind that we're not “giving” more paper to the local landfill.” Ecorations gift wraps and bags, which retail in price from $9.99 to $19.99, become even more practical when you consider that most of its four original designs are reversible. This offers the gift-giver more flexibility depending on the occasion. The bag designs include gift pouches in three sizes for smaller items like jewelry, CD's, DVD's and books; apparel box wraps in three sizes for clothing items; gift sacks in five sizes for just about any item, and wine bags. In prototype sales, the largest gift sack was a hit as a “Santa sack,” while the wine bottle sack was also a popular choice. Debora Owens, Vice President of Ecorations, is confident that the eco-friendly consumer will lead the way using fabric gift wrap. “We know that these bags are going to require a paradigm shift on the part of the consumer, as they are quite different from traditional methods of wrapping and gift-giving. We're on a mission to show the public that our bags are not only beautiful and green, but incredibly useful and versatile. Giving a gift doesn't necessarily mean giving up the bag in which it was delivered.” Although Ecorations does most of its sales on line, they will be participating in the Green Festival in Chicago, May 16th and 17th. The Ecorations entire new line is now available on its website at www.ecorations.com Digital photos of the new line, along with the Media Kit, are available for download via the website. Ecorations, based in Clemmons, NC, is an online business specializing in reusable fabric gift wraps and bags. Founders Kathy de Jong and Debora Owens both left six-figure income jobs to pursue this eco-friendly business and be part of the new green economy. Ecorations bags are available at www.ecorations.com. ### Contact: Kathy de Jong, President, Ecorations 336-712-1899 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Product Specifications Ecorations wraps & bags are thoughtfully designed with a sense of style, tradition and eco-consciousness. Most of the bags are reversible and are offered in an assortment of chic fabric combinations, delivering flexibility, functionality and exceptional value. We use top quality, durable cotton fabrics for most of our bags and will be offering an organic fabric option in the near future. Our product is offered in 4 original designs, a variety of sizes and terrific bundles to maximize value. Gift Pouches The Pouch is ideal for smaller, more geometrically shaped gifts, such as DVD's, CD's, books and jewelry boxes. With its easy to close decorative ribbon, the Pouch really takes the hassle out of wrapping. This elegantly designed bag not only makes your gift more attractive, but it also offers a variety of alternative uses! Options Small $10.99 Dimensions 6” W x 5.25” H x .75” D What Fits CD's Jewelry Gift Cards Video Games DVD's Small Books Book/Bible Picture Frame Small Electronics Other Ideas Event Tickets Chocolates Nintendo DS Games Medium $12.99 Large $13.99 8” W x 6” H x 1” D 10.25” W x 8.75” H x 1.5” D Infant Clothing/Items Product Specifications Apparel Wraps The Apparel bag is ideal for clothing and boxed items. The unique design delivers a traditional gift presentation. Its easy to seal, nickel-free snaps and versatile tie allow you to wrap your gift quickly and beautifully, eliminating the need for scissors, tape and bows! Options Small $14.99 Dimensions 12” W x 8.75” H x 1.75” D (Avg. Lingerie Box) What Fits Children's Clothing Lingerie Boxers Men's Dress Shirts Large Picture Frames Adult Clothing Sweaters Board Games Jeans Other Ideas Small Board Games Picture Albums Kitchen Towels/Items Medium $16.99 Large $18.99 15.25” W x 9.75” H x 2.25” D (Avg. Shirt Box) 17.25” W x 11.25” H x 2.75” D (Avg. Sweater Box) Bath Towels Product Specifications Gift Sacks The Sack is our most versatile bag. Wrapping has never been easier! It works well with just about any shape or size gift. Its unique ring closure makes it very easy to simply put your gift in and cinch for a beautiful look. Options X-Small $12.99 Dimensions 10.5” H x 6.75” Diameter What Fits Small Children's Toys Bath & Body Products Candles Small Shoe Box Soccer/Volley Ball Board Games Adult Shoe Box Pottery Several Smaller Gifts/Toys Large Toys Kitchen Appliances Other Ideas Large Liquor Bottle Small $14.99 Medium $17.99 Large $19.99 14.75” H x 9” Diameter Stuffed Animal 14.75” H x 9” Diameter Throws/Towels Several Smaller GIfts 22.75” H x 15.5” Diameter Product Specifications Wine Bags The wine bag delicately wraps your average wine bottle, making any vintage that much more attractive! This bag also has the unique ring closure to easily cinch it closed. Options One Size $9.99 Dimensions 13” H x 3.25” Diameter What Fits Avg. Size Wine Bottle Tennis Balls Kitchen Oils Other Ideas Product Specifications Mixed Bag Collections For savings and convenience, we have put together practical packages that will ensure you have just what you need on hand. The pictures shown are representative of the bag styles, however consumers can select their favorite fabric for each bag based on available collections. Mixed Bag Collection Description & Pricing Wine Sampler Have a wine bag on hand for the next occasion. This Wine Mixed Bag Collection comes with 3 stylish wine bags, each with a different fabric combo. Cost as individually priced: $29.99. Value Price: $24.99 (a savings of 17%)! Wine Celebrations This complete wine bag set features one of each of our seven fabric combinations. Cost as individually priced: $69.93. Value Price: $49.99 (a savings of 29%)! The Mixed Bag Essentials Collection Included are a few of our most versatile pieces. Just enough to get your feet wet with fabric bags and save a bundle on wrapping paper. Included are 5 bags, one of each of the following: 1 Small Pouch, 1 Large Pouch, 1 Medium Apparel Wrap, 1 XS Sack and 1 Small Sack. Cost as individually priced: $68.95. Value Price: $49.99 (a savings of 27%)! The Mixed Bag Basics Collection The value of this grouping of reusable bags is undeniable. Having these basics around will fill most of your wrapping needs – no more paper! Included are 8 bags, one of each of the following: Small Pouch, Medium Pouch, Large Pouch, Small Apparel, Medium Apparel, XS Sack, Small Sack and Medium Sack. Cost as individually priced: $115.92. Value Price: $74.99 (a savings of 35%)! The Mixed Bag Full Collection This Mixed Bag Collection has you covered. You will rarely need another paper gift wrap! This fabulously priced set of bags includes all 11 of our bags/wraps, one of each of the following: Small Pouch, Medium Pouch, Large Pouch, Small Apparel, Medium Apparel, Large Apparel, XS Small Sack, Small Sack, Medium Sack, and Large Sack. Cost as individually priced: $164.89. Value Price: $99.99 (a savings of 39%)! Our Markets Consumers At Ecorations, we understand that consumers today are looking for more ways to do their part to be more eco-friendly. We also understand that gift-wrapping needs to be beautiful, yet convenient and easy. Ecorations fabric gift wraps and bags bring an air of elegance to any gift giving occasion. Our product is ideal for the educated woman that values herself, the environment, and the presentation of a gift. The Ecorations consumer uses our unique, stylish and chic gift wraps to represent her sophisticated identity; all the while knowing that she is doing a good thing for the earth. She may use a bag as the gift itself, as part of the gift - a little something extra, or adopt a green approach with family and likeminded environmentally conscious friends, and save the bag for the next gift giving occasion. In the end, she stands out and makes a difference. Prior to Ecorations coming out in the market, consumers were faced with few eco-friendly gift wrapping choices. They either used recyclable paper gift wrap and bags, or fabric bags that offered little in terms of sturdiness, durability, variety or style. Today, Ecorations has changed the playing field by delivering the new standard in chic eco-friendly gift giving. Consumers now have the option of top quality fabric gift wrap, offered in reversible styles, with a great selection of colors and sizes that incorporates the ecofriendly aspect consumers love. Wholesale & Retailers Ecorations™ fabric wraps & bags are available wholesale to approved retail merchants. Interested parties that wish to receive our wholesale catalog and pricing information should send an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it that includes: • • • • • Retail Name E-mail Address Phone Number City, State & Zip Tell us something about your store and why our products would be a good fit. Interested parties will be contacted and receive our new client application, an order form and instructions. Once approved, your store location will be placed on our website as one of our retailers. Contact Information For general and media inquires contact: Kathy de Jong, Co-Founder, President Ecorations, LLC P.O. Box 297 Clemmons, NC 27012 336-712-1899 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it For the marketing department including inquires on wholesale accounts and product customization requests: Debora Owens, Co-Founder and Vice President 336-712-1899 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it For customer service contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Website: www.ecorations.com