Angle for my press release

[framinzfun]

Well, better late than never.... I am writing a press release for the local papers. I am not touting any sort of special event, I just want to get it out there that I am a new business, and am trying to figure out how to make it newsworthy. I have an idea of the angle I want to take, but need an opinion or other ideas of what I can do. Here's a brief overview of my business. It is a strictly custom framing shop (not much for art or gallery space at all), I am in a renovated stone bank barn that retains the original structural aspects of the barn (158 years old).
Since there are a gazillion frame shops in the general area, a new frame shop is nothing special. But, I read an article in the paper a few months back that Pennsylvania wants to start cataloging all of the remaining barns, since they are slowly disappearing. So, my thought was to take the angle of 'Breathing new life into an old barn." Something that would make it of interest simply because I am saving a barn and keeping the originality of it intact. And of course tout my stellar framing skills to boot.
Is this a good angle? I really can't think of too many businesses in the area that are located in barns, and that might make me special. Does this make any sense? Is there something I'm missing? Please, any help would be great.

[EllenAtHowards]

and don't forget the 'grand opening' part, even if you have been in there for a time (I'd say it's like being a bride for the whole first year...)

[Richard Darling]

I like the angle you're taking. Rather than coming across as a shameless attempt to get customers graemlins/thumbsup.gif , you're highlighting a unique thing you're doing to preserve the barn: putting your business inside it! graemlins/beer.gif

I think you're on the right track.

[Baer Charlton]

You could slant it as "A modern barn raising with a twist". or "Keeping The Frame Up" or "New Frames save the Old Frame".

just brain storming....

[Elaine]

I think its a great idea. I like Baer's suggestions also. Instead of Press Release, I would suggest you ask them to write a business spotlight article - these don't usually end up on the cutting room floor. No guarantees with a press release submitted, you take your chances.

Asking for a business story has gained me much press, and they seem to remember you and ask for updates and also for specialty sections when they come up.

my 2 cents!
Elaine

[framinzfun]

What makes a business story different from a press release? Do I write the story? How does that get more response than a press release.... I'm interested in that idea...

[Val]

Baer said:
"just brain storming...."
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...or would that be "barn storming"?

And I agree with what Elaine said. Our paper has one business story-and-photo featured every Sunday in the business section, about a half-page. You write the story. Ask the rep at your paper.
I'm working mentally on one now. Will need advice then too, so I'm paying attention!

[Elaine]

In our paper(s), they write the story. They do an interview, take photos, etc., and its usually good for a half page or a full page depending on which section they print it in.

I have found with press releases, that if it sounds like an "ad" and not just a quick blurb on a new product or technology, it gets minimized depending on space required for other things that week. I remember writing a nice press release when we got the wizard, and it ended up as a one paragraph insert wherever they needed filler items.

I firmly believe, that you don't get what you don't ask for, so I would recommend contacting the papers' editor and ask. simple as that; all they can do is say no or give you direction on what would work. We also have a "storefront" column where you can submit tidbits by email and they get published either in the print column or on the blog online. Either way, its free press and gets you into the readership.

again, worked for me, no guarantees.

Elaine

[framinzfun]

Thanks, Elaine. My plan of attack was going to be sending a short blurb about my biz to the editors of a bunch of papers (business editors, as well as arts, and lifestyle editors), and then call them a week or so later to see if they got it and try to speak with someone relatively important. The marketing book I've been reading also suggested sending a copy to a staff writer, as well as an editor... makes sense to me.
Thanks again for the ideas.