What others are saying...
Don't just take our word for it. Here is what artists like you have to say about the products and programs from ArtLicensingInfo.com
Beginner Basics audio | Get Started eBook | Find Manufacturers eBook | Contracts eBook
Repeat Pattern eBooks | Find an Agent eBook | Trade Show eBook | Ask Calls | Coaching | Branding Teleseminar with Paul Brent
... in general
"The illustration market has changed drastically over the last decade. It is now more important than ever for an illustrator to be an entrepeneur. This involves marketing to the widest possible number of potential buyers. It also means initiating, rather than simply waiting for projects to come. Licensing fits the bill on both of these. Tara Reed's books contain a wealth of information, much of which can only be gotten by the doing and she has done it. Licensing may not be for everyone, but her books give a fuller picture of this sometimes mysterious, but potentially lucrative, market."
– Jim Carson, faculty, MFA program University of Hartford
"I recently graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology with a Textile and Surface Design degree, but I needed more than that to launch my design business. Tara's wealth of experience was just the thing to get me on the right track. Why re-invent the wheel? Tara's already been there and knows just what questions you'll need answered to succeed in licensing. I deeply appreciate Tara's leadership in this field...and her personal generosity in sharing what she knows is a resource you can't ignore. Thank you, Tara!!"
– Theresa, Artist, NYC
I have been an artist since I was a child, but licensing is a brand new field for me, and an exciting one. I was introduced to Tara's work, and then I decided to invest in a few of her ebooks - certainly the most affordable and worthwhile investment I've made! - and what Tara has done through her eBooks and other online information is transform me from an artist with talent but no business clue, into a budding licensed artist with a website that looks more professional than any I have had before. She has taught and continues to teach me about everything from Photoshop patterns, to how to to focus my artistic and business efforts, and I know that she will continue to teach me about how to emerge into this field that I am fascinated with and thrilled to be emerging into. I can't wait to get home from work every day and read more, learn more, try more and enjoy more. If you want to take your artistic skills and business skills to the next level...if you want to learn more about licensing...Tara's your girl!
– Lori Kirstein, Artist, LoriKirsteinDesigns.Weebly.com
Your ebooks are worth every penny! Your very clear instructions and presentation in your ebooks have been the perfect bridge to help me connect the dots and build by confidence to forge ahead in the "yes I can!" spirit.
- Joy Jamerson, artist, joyjamersondesigns.com
"I've been a self-employed graphic designer for 22 years in Fairbanks, Alaska and wholesale 46 different notecards statewide. I've been thinking of entering the licensing market for several years now and your material was just perfect to fill in my knowledge gaps. Thanks so much for taking the time to compile all the things you've learned!"
– Jill Marshall, Artist, MarshallArtsDesign.com
"Tara’s books are a must-read for any artist interested in making a living with their artwork. Tara’s combination of professional knowledge and personal experience result in easy to read ebooks that are full of valuable information. I was able to apply the information she shared in the books immediately. Thanks to Tara, I don’t have to spend my time figuring out how licensing works. I can concentrate on my artwork and earning money."
– Laura Bray, Artist & Owner, katydid designs, http://www.katydiddys.blogspot.com/
"Tara's e-book on finding an art licensing agent is invaluable! I am new to licensing and as one who doesn't have the thickest skin in the world, I know I will need an agent. I encourage you to purchase all of them that you feel apply to your business. I especially liked "How to Maximize Your Time and Investment in Trade Shows" and "Trade Show Tactics". The books are like treeasure maps ... just follow the great clues and you'll make it to your personal pot of creative gold!!!"
– Kit, Artist
"I have enjoyed learning from you VERY much. More than anything, your sharing of information via blog, teleseminars, emails, etc has given me permission to try. Just want you to know that your generosity does spawn action! The only thing holding me back at this stage is I need to stop spending my “clock money” (aka time) on the computer and literally sit down, paint and develop some collections. Wish me luck and thanks again!"
– Deborah Dee, Artist, www.deborahdee.blogspot.com
I'm writing to let you know how grateful I am that you share so much insight with the art/design community. Thank you for all your amazing advice!
I will be exhibiting at my first trade show: SURTEX and I am beyond thrilled! It's always been my dream to be a part of Surtex and to see it getting closer is so exciting--I get butterflies just thinking about the big day.
It's pretty intimidating to take that first step and jump into a trade show but with your knowledge and expertise it was like I had my own personal coach in my corner cheering me on. Your e-book and incredible info on your website made it so much easier. I followed what you said to do and like magic---it's all happening.
After researching on your website and soaking it all in ---I feel more confident and prepared (but still a bit freaked out too) I did exactly what you suggested regarding press and publicity and it's really paying off. Having press printed about my studio is a thrill. thank you :)
I would recommend you to anyone who is looking for knowledge, guidance, support and inspiration in this colorful industry.
– Jodi, Artist, www.JolioDesign.com
"I forwarded Tara Reed's terrific newsletter to a few artist friends that are on the fence about licensing. I wanted them to register and start receiving it too! I want them to see that licensing is not an overwhelming, murky undertaking and I feel like Tara's eBooks really whisk the fog away!"
– Monica Lee, Artist, MonicaLeeStudios.com
"Tara, I have purchase several of your products over the last year. Your products have been most helpful in getting me on the road to licensing my designs.
I have developed a portfolio of mock ups that I am really excited about. I just wanted to say hello and thank you for your voice and your wisdom."
– Cheryl Warrick, Artist, www.WarrickDesign.com
"As an illustrator with years of experience, I thought it would be easy to jump into licensing my artwork. But as I tried to learn about the industry I found there were no good resources. Then I found Tara Reed's website and learned about her great eBooks. Since then I have gotten all of them and feel like the cloud of mystery has been lifted.
I am so happy I found them. The 'Cliffs Notes' to art licensing. I highly recommend them."
– Karyn Servin, Artist, www.karynservin.com
"Your web site is an incredible resource for learning about the complex world of licensing. After reading through your web site, listening to interviews, and following you on Twitter, I've gone from feeling intimidated about the business to feeling empowered and ready to take my art where I want it to go. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!"
– Cyn Narcisi, Chicago, IL Art>>www.cynnarcisi.com Blog>>www.cynnarcisi.blogspot.com
"I have been using Tara Reed's e-book tutorials and taking teleseminars on art-licensing related topics, and have had personal coaching from her as well.
For those interested in exploring the art-licensing field, Tara Reed is a bright light illuminating the path to knowledge in the art-licensing field. Tara knows her subject. She has answered all my questions, to my satisfaction, and provided me with specific ideas and practical suggestions that I have been able to utilize in my work. Her positive energy is infectious and sets the stage of learning and exploration by fostering an attitude of eager anticipation.
I highly recommend Tara’s coaching, and look forward to continue working with her as I develop my business as a licensing artist."
– Leyla Torres, Artist, www.LeylaTorres.com
"Love your site- you are a generous and happy mentor to many! I'm just getting started on my own again after 20 yrs at "a large midwetsern greeting company" and being a little timid about getting started. I really appreciate all the resources you make available."
– Erin Dennis, Artist www.ErinDennis.net
... about the Beginner Basics Teleseminar
"I was on your Beginner Basics Teleseminar for Art Licensing, and I cannot thank you enough! It was fantastic, and exactly what I wanted and needed at this time.
I have been exposed to and learning about art licensing for about 3 months. I was on the Paul Brent phone call in June, and found it so informative and inspiring, and have gotten a lot of information through my own research, but your call today really helped me put it all together and consolidate my knowledge and research to this point.
Everything you said on the call was exactly in the proper order for me to understand, and I found your action guide for the call VERY helpful as I took notes on it while you spoke. The way you categorized the steps of your seminar was very logical and thus easy to understand and process – it’s a lot of information!
I really appreciate getting “the reality of the job” of an artist in this field, from the inside, and your goal of “polarizing” us into feeling either for or against the job description! I am definitely “for” this career, for me, and your website and calls are a great resource for me to inspire myself to keep going.
Thank you again, very much – I look forward to listening to the call again."
– Keri McIntyre Los Angeles, CA
"I just wanted to let you know that I finally finished listening to your seminar, Beginner Basics.
It took me a while, but I thoroughly enjoyed it! :)
You provided excellent information and I made good use of the printed material provided. I took lots of notes! Your seminar was very well organized and clearly presented. It was a pleasure to learn about art licensing this way."
– Debbie Lapointe www.DebbieLapointe.ca
"I think that was the best $20- I have ever spent!
It was so well organized and informative! You answered questions that I didn't even realize that I had yet. Your printout was especially helpful and ingenious. I cannot thank you enough for such a thorough job in regard to art licensing. It was honest and informative and eye opening to say the least.
Thank you so much. You are an excellent educator, as well!"
– Suzanne Barber www.SuzanneBarberDesigns.com
"I just listened to your "Beginner Basics" Teleseminar - it was FANTASTIC! It was like you read my mind and addressed every one of my questions and concerns, item by item. You're both impartial and honest, and tell it like it is - the good, the bad, and (occasionally) the ugly! The best thing is that your Teleseminar is the only source I've come across that told me EXACTLY how to get started, not in generalities, but in specifics - how much art I need in advance, how to format it to appeal to manufacturers, how to locate and approach them, exactly what to say when I do. All my biggest questions (and biggest stumbling blocks - now I have no more excuses!) By the end, I had enough information to make an INFORMED decision about whether or not licensing is the right path for me and my art.
I want to thank you not only for making this audio, but for all the other information you share on your web site and your blog - the e- books, teleseminars, newsletter, coaching, and more. Not only great resources, but a continuing source of inspiration and motivation"!
– Adele www.whimbletails.com
A Twitter testimonial about my goal to "polarize" artists with interviews and the Beginner Basics Teleseminar
@artsong hey Tara, listened to you on Artistically Speaking Radio. Now I know what I don't want to do. Very insightful.
@artistTaraReed I like ppl to know it's NOT 4 them w/little effort if it isn't a fit so that's awesome! :)
@artsong absolutely. I have work that would do well, but you made things very clear. I so appreciate you. It saves time and energy
Thanks for letting me share this Carley! www.CarleySense.com
... about How to Get Started in Art Licensing
"Thanks for writing your e-book, How To Get Started in Art Licensing. What I liked best about it was that it got right to all the main, meaty points, without fluff. I like that I got all my basic questions answered without having to skim through pages and pages of impertinent information. I also like that I can print it out and highlight sentences that will remind me of the steps I need to take next.
Thanks for all your hard work in helping new artists."
– Elisabeth Klos www.ElisabethKlos.com , www.ekfinearts.com
"I’ve read your book and I feel empowered and ready to get started. Thanks! So well done on putting together such a comprehensive guide for us greenies!"
– Elria Ellis, artist www.ElriaEllisArt.blogspot.com
"Finding Tara Reed's amazing e-books on licensing has changed the way I see my creative business. In How to get started in Licensing I found the answers of many questions and concerns I had on the licensing business. It helped me decide where I wanted to dedicate my energy and efforts on my creative business.
Now I am learning the basics for creating repeated patterns. Just with some of the first book tools I am making repeated patterns and I am having a blast practicing what Tara teaches in those amazing books. I will definitely buy the book on finding an agent as soon s I feel I am mastering the repeated pattern tools even thou I have other designs in other mediums that could be licensed already.
I now can foresee a dream come true, designing fabric and see all my mixed media designs in many products sharing my art and inspiring others around the world!"
– Elizabeth Glz, artist www.ElizabethGlz.com
... about How to Find, Interact & Work with Manufacturers
Tara - I have been following your website for about a year now - and made my first purchase yesterday (How to Find, Interact & Work with Manufacturers...)
Last week we exhibited at a NZ Gift Fair and we were approached by a stationary manufacturer (!!) who has invited us to his FACTORY to talk about licensing our images onto their social stationary!!! This is so exciting for us. (We are just two homeschooling mothers who work part time in our garage!)
Anyway, just wanted to thank you for putting out such great resources - we are now taking a 'crash course' in A.L and your e-books will certainly help us prepare for our meeting and hopefully future meetings.
– Jane Buckley, Artist, www.BackyardLetters.com
I have read the ebook, How to Find, Interact and Work with Manufacturers and it was so helpful. In fact, I am ready to do my first submission to a manufacturer. I can safely say I couldn't have done it without your help - especially when it came to writing the "tell us about yourself" section. My mind was blank (what could I possibly say?) until I reviewed your section on how to "help them get to know you". The advice was invaluable. It broke my writer's block and I found I actually did have things to say that they would want to know.
Thanks for writing these books. They are just what I needed to get started!
– Kathy Montgomery, Artist, www.MontgomeryArt.com
I just finished reading Tara Reed's latest eBook, "How to Find, Interact & Work with Manufacturers who License Art", and I must say, it covers every possible scenario involved in handling your own licensing career.
If you're not sure whether you can or want to handle your career yourself, or need to elicit the expertise of a licensing agent, this book will help you decide. All facets of contacting and working with manufacturers are explored and explained with professionalism and humor from someone who has experienced it all.
I was sure I needed an agent, but after reading Tara's book, I think I have everything I need to handle my own career."
– Judi Bohner, Artist, JudiBDesigns.com
– Cherish Flieder, Artist, SomethingToCherish.com
"This morning I read "How to Find, Interact and Work with Manufacturers......."
The book is helpful, informative, and upbeat with an easy flow, which is a tricky combination. The layout makes for easy reading, as well. Nice going! Your thoughts and experiences are interesting and inclusion of interviews with others in licensing is a delightful bonus."
– Audrey Ross, Artist
The book has been great! I have made a couple of calls using your advise by asking questions, finding how they work ect., and have had a positive response from one company who maybe considering my art for the spring! whoo! I will continue to carry on calling and will not be phased or put off thanks to your advice.
– Dawn Critchley, artist, www.DawnCritchleyDesigns.co.uk
"I've been a self-employed graphic designer for 22 years in Fairbanks, Alaska and wholesale 46 different notecards statewide. I've been thinking of entering the licensing market for several years now and your material was just perfect to fill in my knowledge gaps. Thanks so much for taking the time to compile all the things you've learned!"
– Jill Marshall, Artist, MarshallArtsDesign.com
... about How to Find an Art Licensing Agent
"How to Find an Art Licensing Agent, has insightful information and I love how you interviewed several different agents for their input... that is the most valuable part of the e-book I think, although, it's ALL very helpful information and it's hard to say what is the most valuable part!
Thank you again for seeking out and sharing your valuable knowledge with the rest of us!"
– Gina, Gina Linn Designs www.GinaLinnDesigns.com
"Tara's E-book on finding an agent was great! It provides step-by-step instructions to getting you and your work organized for an agent. How to number your work was a big step, you need to put some kind of order to your art pieces. With Tara's help I'm ready to look for an agent!
Thanks Tara, for all your help and inspiration!"
– Helen Milne, artist
... about How to Understand Art Licensing Contracts
"Tara and Maria's e-book, How To Understand Art Licensing Contracts, is a must read for any artist involved in Art Licensing, whether they are just beginning or have been in the game for awhile. Written from the point of view of two seasoned art licensing veterans who learned the ropes by doing the work themselves. It' s clear concise style, incredible organization, and well thought out format, make it impossible not to find needed factual information. If you're working with art licensing contracts and don't have this on your desktop, you're just making things harder for yourself than they need to be."
– Marty Qatani, artist, martytoons.com
"I've signed hundreds of licensing agreements over the last 10 years and was astonished at some very important clauses that aren't included in my contract or didn't take notice of in theirs that were covered in How to Understand Art Licensing Contracts."
– Barb Tourtillotte, Artist, Designer, Licensor, Barb Tourtillotte Illustration www.TurtleCrossings.com
... about How to Create Repeat Patterns in Photoshop™
"I am a self-taught artist and I have been using Photoshop for almost two years. Tara's eBook on How to Create Repeat Patterns is fabulous and very simple to read. I believe that even if I were a beginner to Photoshop, I would be able to follow and understand this guide. I would recommend it for anyone who wants to learn how to do repeats for the art licensing industry.
Tara- A Huge thanks to you for sharing your knowledge and experience. Even the free information that you offer on your blog and ASK calls! You truly are an amazing girl for all that you do!"
– Carmen Brunson, Artist www.CarmenBrunson.com
"I ordered your two e-books on repeat borders and patterns and wanted to let you know I had a breakthrough! I'm on such a steep learning curve and had spent a few desperate weeks trying to figure Photoshop out. I ordered an excellent text book, but of course it's not specific to what I need to know to get my collections ready for licensing. That's where your books fill the gap - thank you!"
– Elria Ellis
"Tara's Basic Repeat Borders and Patterns eBook is an easy, comprehensive book that is invaluable to the Licensing Artist. This book takes the artist through simple step by step processes using the Photoshop™ program, to turn simple images into useful repeat patterns and borders. I personally have been in the licensing arena for years and thought I knew Photoshop™ quite well, until I read and utilized Tara's tutorial.
I was thrilled to learn so many time saving tips using PS tools that I never knew existed! Even the simplest of Photoshop™ 
tutorials in the market are often hard to grasp but with Tara's fun sense of humor, step by step explanations and illusrations, it was a breeze to develop accurate borders and repeats.
A two thumbs up for this eBook. I highly recommend it to all Licensing Artists and designers."
– Barb Tourtillotte, Artist, Designer, Licensor, Barb Tourtillotte Illustration www.TurtleCrossings.com
"Tara's tutorial on fabric repeats unlocked the mystery for me! It's easy to get through and is presented in a very friendly manner. In addition to the great repeat information, I picked up some excellent Photoshop tips that simplified things I've been doing the long hard way all these years, which was an unexpected bonus!"
– Jill Seale, Artist, Author, Licensor, www.JillSeale.com
"Thank you so much for these amazing tutorials. I am actually practicing right now!! It's 1am here, but I can't stop. I finally understand some very important steps and layers are actually making sense. I am cutting out my images and saving them. I haven't started trying to make any patterns yet. Just practicing the cutting out and cleaning up. You've written these so I can finally understand. I've never gotten anything out of other tutorials or books. They just didn't make sense. So happy right now!"
Thank you again! Really and truly!!
– Traci Bixby, www.TraciBixby.com
"I LOVE your tutorial on repeats for Photoshop-- what a great investment and I encourage any artist who needs this valuable skill to check out your E-book because it turned on the lightbulb for me! : >
Look forward to more of your tutorials Tara."
– Gaby, Artist
"I just downloaded your print/repeat guide and it's fabulous! I can't believe the how much it is going to help me in my business. I cringe thinking about the way I used to put together repeats. You're a doll to take the time to put this guide together! Thanks so much!"
– Anne Keenan Higgins, www.AnneKeenanHiggins.com
"I can't believe how easy your "repeat" instructions are. I can't thank you enough. I'm already very proficient in PhotoShop so got it right away. I had previously purchased a $600+ program that was SO daunting and intimidating I never got thru it!! ARG! And yes, I'm doing 1/2 and 1/3 drops, etc!!"
Again, THANK YOU!!!!!!!!
– Kathleen Francour, www.kfrancour.com
"Tara - I'm happily repeating myself, and my images, too. Thank you! I went right to the link you just sent (in a follow-up email) and am thrilled to finally see what those "smart objects" are all about.
Between your e-book and these tips I think my Photoshop skills are growing by leaps and bounds!"
Thanks!
Viki Woodworth, Artist, VikiWoodworth.blogspot.com
"Artists, Rejoice!, and save endless hours of trial and error unraveling the mysteries of Photoshop. Tara Reed is your answer with her new E-Book on Icons, Patterns & Borders that leads you step by step, with a delightful and easy to follow writing style, through some amazing discoveries and techniques that will accelerate your knowledge and ability to create marketable images for Surface Design. I highly recommend learning from this successful Designer who is willing to share the inside scoop."
– Susanne Fitzgerald, SF Designs
"The Basic Repeat eBook is great! Today I really got into it...this is expanding my abilities and I am excited about what I can do with this. Thank you for putting this together...it is so worth the money."
– Vickie, Artist
"I took a crack at it today and I LOVE the instructions you've shared. Thank you. I really look forward to working this way more fluidly in the future. So far so good. I've already learned tidbits well worth the investment."
– Pam Luer, PamLuer.com
... about Brand Yourself For Success in Art Licensing Teleseminar with Paul Brent
"I woke up at 4 a.m. this morning with tag line ideas running through my head and thinking about all I need to do to work on my brand. When I went to my computer to jot down my ideas, I saw your email--thanks so much for the lists to help focus on exactly what to do. I am so glad I took this seminar!"
– Betty Laur, Artist, www.BettyLaur.com
"I'm amazed by not just the quality and quantity of the information; but also the genuine and friendly personality of Paul Brent. I'm fortunate to receive all this information in the early stages of my development; because I know it will give me the most solid launch possible!"
– Brenda D. Baker, Artist, www.ArtAndIllumination.com
"Tara, it was powerful and I have been so busy. All my answers came like a tidal wave that night. All my answers were in pieces here and there. Right in front of my nose and did not see it. After that call in two hours of brain storming, I saw my style, subject, and created a logo and tag line. It just all fell into place. Great class and I'm looking forward to hearing the replay for things I might I missed. "
– Bruce Michael, Artist, www.SeasonalArtForLicensing.com
After attending SURTEX, I began a planned "retreat" away from my home, my everyday ceramic work and home households to take the time to analyze my career as artist. The perfect time to hear Paul Brent Teleseminar on Branding!!!. I have no words to describe all I learned.
I have been planning this branding issue for a long time and I have some steps taken, already. I am a ceramist since 1996 and I believe I have a well known and recognizable style even in my new mixed media work but I was not sure at all about that.
Now I know I have to focus on what I am going to present for licensing and how I will use this branding knowledge to make this licensing dream happen. I will be working on all the steps Paul Brent talked about. I started today with the tag line. I have a few of them in my profile, but now is what I can understand what is this about!
I can tell you, I am Enjoying this Ride....I use this tag line a lot in my blog and in my collage paintings but it is the time to analyze it in terms of my licensing career I want to star NOW. Well I did some licensing 8 year ago but the payment was just "pennies" although the company sold millions. Now is the time to make this happen, with better deals. Your books are helping me a lot....all of them. Thanks for all your hard work and your creativity to show us the right path!!
– Elizabeth, Artist, http://elizabethglz.com
... about coaching with Tara Reed 
"After listening to one of Tara Reed’s “Ask Calls,” I could tell that she had the personality and the experience to help me reach some of my artistic goals. I signed up for her coaching sessions to figure out how to tailor my art for Licensing and what to include in my portfolio.
On each call Tara gives me specific direction and detailed feedback. Every time I talk to Tara I come away with more confidence and am driven to keep moving forward with my work. Her calls are definitely worth it!"
– Elisabeth Klos, Artist www.ElisabethKlos.com
"Tara is a profound source of information for licensing, and a brilliant licensing Coach! I can't emphasize this enough. You want to know how to best go about licensing your art, which products your art would be most suitable for, what to expect from Licensing Trade Shows, how to best prepare for them, how to best prepare yourself for questions from manufacturers etc., Tara is your Go To Girl!
As an artist who is interested in licensing my designs, I can testify that Tara's mentoring advice, and coaching has proven fantastic! Her advice is filled with experience, and Tara personalizes everything to suit your needs. With her honesty and background in licensing, Tara continues to help me get things moving on my end. Licensing is not an easy industry, and it does not happen over night. But once you have your foot in the door, you have the ability to move forward faster. With determination, skill in your area of expertise and know-how from Tara, you will go places with licensing your work! I highly recommend Tara!
Good luck to you in all your licensing endeavors!"
– Elisabeth Bell, Artist, www.ElisabethBell.com
"I am in the home décor field already and was considering expanding into licensing. In 2009 I did an internet search and found Tara Reed, she knows how to market herself... SHE KNOWS HER STUFF!! After contacting her I met her at SURTEX where she spoke at a lecture, I was highly impressed with her wealth of knowledge.
Her industry experience is exactly what I needed I to learn the ropes. I feel I can ask her anything and get the answers I need to move forward with my licensing career. She is easily accessible, responsible, connected and personable. I can’t say enough about the support she has provided to help me along the road to success!
Because of her I feel well prepared to do Surtex 2011. Not only is she up to date informative and continually educating but she also successfully licenses her own work... she walks the walk and talks the talk! Tara is amazing...I say go for it!!!"
– Rebecca Lyon, Home Décor Designer, www.RebeccaLyonDesign.com
"I decided to work with Tara because I was in negotiations with a company for a potential licensing deal. I had questions about several issues, including freelance pricing, exclusivity and payment schedule. Tara was awesome!
She is a wonderful listener and gives excellent and thorough advice. She answered each of my questions with all of the information I needed. She was even able to point out and give advice on other issues that I had not even anticipated.
An added bonus was her incredible enthusiasm and encouragement. My conversation with her gave me all of the information and confidence that I needed to move forward. I wholeheartedly recommend coaching work with Tara!"
– Deb Eiseman, Artist, eMoonlightCreations.com
"I am an artist showing at my first licensing expo but didn't have much background on licensing so I started searching for answers. I was so relieved to find Tara Reed.
Tara gave me valuable information and it was worth the cost of the consultation. She explained how licensing works, gave me good suggestions on preparing for the show and ideas for follow-ups after the show. Now, I feel more confident moving forward into the world of licensing. Thank you Tara!"
– Jen, creator of Pincurl Girls, www.PinCurlGirls.com
"My coaching session with Tara Reed was $$ well spent, she definitely helped me with how to promote myself better both on my website and in person at the shows - something I know I need to do.
"I would highly recommend Tara to any and all other artists out there - EVERYONE could benefit from a little coaching!!! It's a GREAT way to get pumped up about your work AND there's ALWAYS something new to learn."
– Sally Hushak, artist / graphic designer, www.olive-food.com
"I felt I needed to jumpstart a stagnating career so I signed up for a coaching session with Tara. Well worth it! The session was a bit inspirational, a bit practical and it left me with a new way of working and a new set of goals. Thanks again."
– Bob Pennycook, artist
www.bobpennycook.com
... about coaching with Paul Brent
"Paul Brent provides an abundance of thoughtful comments on what's working in my portfolio and spot-on art direction for improvements, along with insightful observations about where my business needs to focus in order to reach its art licensing goals. Paul is at the top of the industry, so meeting with him is akin to getting batting tips from Babe Ruth — a home run!"
– Sean Kane, Artist, www.SeanKane.com
Last night I had my first consultation with Paul Brent. (I imagine I will have more in the future!) What a great experience! Paul thoroughly studied my website and for a full hour gave me great insight as to how my art relates to the licensing industry. He gave me information that I would not have gotten elsewhere - a great resource! I highly recommend his consultation services.
– Susan Morgan, Artist, www.SusanMorganArt.com
... about How to Maximize Your Time and Investment in Trade Shows
“As a Fine Art Publisher for almost thirty years, I am continually on an international talent search. Both an exhibitor and buyer
at Surtex, I am discerning about how I budget my time. Tara was a stand out at Surtex 2007 when we first met. Her booth had a positive vibe showcasing her artistic abilities, intellect, & delightful sense of humor. From the onset of our working relationship in the wall décor category, she has been a true professional. Her marketing background and ability to infuse her personality into her work has led to her successful imagery in the licensing venue. She knows how to “tweak” her designs to suit the product and does so with enthusiasm and reliability.”
– Robin Bonnist, owner, BonArtique.com
"Tara Reed's Licensing Trade Show "How To" Guide is the best source of "on target" information that artists who are new to exhibiting need to know! Years of experience and "blood, sweat and tears" make this guide the most comprehensive and creative licensing exhibition manual around. I am proud to be a contributor to this outstanding book."
– Randy Evert, Finkstrom Licensing International Finkstrom.com
"After reading "How to Maximize Your Time and Investment in Trade Shows" I feel more confident and prepared to exhibit at my first art licensing show. It is so good to know I'm not alone in my nervousness to write those big checks! The information included will help me focus my preparations –what to bring as far as art and supplies for exhibiting, are two examples.
There are even things in here that I wouldn't have thought of -- like the value of staying eye level with attendees during the show. I will be looking at this book again as the show nears!"
– Monica Lee, Artist, MonicaLeeStudios.com
""How to Maximize Your Time and Investment in Trade Shows" is another wonderful & informative new e-book written by licensed artist, Tara Reed.
This is the perfect book if you’re an artist, illustrator, photographer or designer and are seeking the knowledge and practical steps in how to best utilize your time and money exhibiting in trade shows for the purpose of licensing your work. It’s also one of the most useful guides I’ve found in providing some of the best knowledge in step-by-step techniques in setting up at the trade shows, exhibiting and following up with manufacturers after the shows.
Tara’s hands on experience exhibiting for years at many of these trade shows, her marketing savvy and her proven track record with numerous licensing deals gives her the insight necessary to share her methods of success with those of us seeking the same and how to make the most of our investment.
A sample of the variety of topics included in Tara’s e-book include everything from deciding where to exhibit, information on the specific trade shows, portfolio basics - to one of my favorite topics – the “Elevator Speech”. Once you learn about this so called “Elevator Speech”, you’ll find you will absolutely need one too…especially if you plan to exhibit at any trade show and sell yourself as well as your work! In addition, you’ll discover informative quotes and tips from other successful licensed artists included throughout the book.
Tara’s clarity and straightforward approach, including a little humor, presents all of this in a way that makes it an interesting and enjoyable read.
With sincerity I believe this book will benefit anyone attempting success in the licensing industry using Tara’s practical strategies, as she shares the honest truth of all of the “ins and outs” of how to truly “MAXIMIZE YOUR TIME AND INVESTMENT IN TRADE SHOWS”.
Karen Embry, Artist,Designer & Author, KarenEmbry.com
"I just wanted to tell you that you are a true GodSend!! I'm doing Surtex for the first time this year and it's a little nerve-wracking thinking about everything to do, but your guides/e-books are truly a lifesaver, I feel better already, LOL!"
MADART – Megan Aroon Duncanson, www.madartgallery.net
"Tara, I can't tell you this enough, but I REALLY think you have found your true calling! Yes, you are a very talented artist first of all, BUT....I just think that it's even more of a perfect fit for you in the coaching arena!
Your personality, professionalism and social skills combine so well for this. And I really appreciate that you are speaking as a "down to earth" creative/marketing person, ....not just another unrelated, stuffy, professional as some coaches can be. You are perfect for this and I thoroughly enjoyed the teleseminar last evening.
You also have a great relationship with your sister and she's obviously a very valuable asset to your business. ( I am envious! ) With all of the in house experience that I have working with freelancers and the business, I wasn't sure that I would really get any new information from this seminar,...but sure enough, I did!!!! I am fairly new as a full-time freelancer, so all of your tactics and extra information that you gave was very, very helpful for me."
THANK YOU SO MUCH TARA, AND CHRISTINE! - Gina L. Wilder (from an in-house Sr.Designer / Asst. Design Manager turned Freelance Artist )
– Gina Linn Designs , www.GinaLinnDesigns.com
... about the Monthly Ask Calls
"Loved that interview (April 2010 Ask Tara Reed) and have been inspired all day while working on my portfolio. Thanks Tara!"
- Mary Lou LaBerge www.LaBergeDesign.com
"These calls are priceless. THANKS."
– Madeline Faiella www.madelinefaiella.com
"Hi Paul and Tara,
Thanks so much for sharing your licensing experiences and knowledge. Your session was so interesting and informative that I wish it lasted longer. I loved the format with Tara asking Paul questions and then jumping in periodically with comments. I felt like I was listening in to a conversation between two professionals discussing the business we all love - art licensing. I look forward to the next session in June and also your ebooks Paul!"
– Joan Beiriger – "art for products" www.joanbeiriger.com
"I can't thank you enough for yesterday's Paul Brent interview. It was jammed packed with professional information and honest answers on the licensing industry. His keen point of view was refreshingly supported with rich insight.
Paul Brent definitely speaks as a man of experience and as a true artist. It's no wonder he's achieved so much success. Long live Paul Brent!"
– Stan Tusan – artist / writer
"Thank you for all of the insightful blogs and "ask" calls you offer. It's a great way to learn tidbits about this industry that we might never have even thought of. Of even greater importance, is that you invite some of the most successful licensors to give advice and answer questions, which is inspiring on so many levels."
– Nicole Percy, Artist, www.House-Mouse.com
"I wanted to say thanks for the Ask Jeff Grinspan call. I couldn't participate but I downloaded the free replay and found the entire thing completely useful. Jeff, I surprised myself by answering many of those questions right along with you – which gives me great comfort because you are obviously a well-rounded industry veteran. In a climate where it seems from some vantage points that the whole industry is going haywire and everything we thought we knew isn't applicable any more – I took great encouragement in listening to your perspective and agreeing with everything you said. Apparently we haven't gone as haywire as some have feared because there are still general rules of thumb that hold true."
- Beth Yarbrough, artist, www.byarbrough.com
