Party decorations that fuel the party.
HOOK-SHOT is a product that transforms a mini-liquor bottle into a party ornament. While displaying the mini bottles as an ornament at parties and events, the bottle can easily be removed from the red cap and consumed as a shot or added to a cocktail mix.
It is ideal for; Special Events, Office Parties, Christmas Parties or Birthdays, just to name a few possibilities. In addition there are thousands of individuals around the world who collect mini-liquor bottles and this product provides a simple and effective way for them to bring their bottles off the shelf and into the party or holiday event. (If you are interested just do a You Tube search for “Mini-Liquor Bottle Collectors” )
While we are providing what we refer to as “coils” in the packages, purchasers will be able to be creative and add an endless variety of other trinkets and adornments over the hook to create their own unique ornaments. Our coils will initially be available in red, gold and silver, and in both a square and spiral pattern.
The HOOK-SHOT is one of the featured exhibitors at the DaVinci Inventor Showcase, which takes place on Oct 13, 2012 at the Denver Merchandise Mart.
Inventor Don Brinkmann recently took time to talk to us about naming a unique invention, protecting his vision and selling a million widgets…
Beautify your booze before consuming.
What was the defining moment that led you to create this product?
While walking to catch the bus to get to the job I hated, I found the key part to my product laying in the street. This motivated me to pursue my idea.
What problem does your invention solve?
It’s is not really a problem solving product, but provides a conversation piece and a unique way to display an existing item and provide a source of fun at parties.
After you came up with the idea, how did you size up the market and decide who your customers would be?
I talked to many people about the concept, did hours of Google and YouTube searching and searched the USPTO Website.
How did you go about naming your product?
I wrote down every associated word I could think of and looked at possible combinations. While I had settled on a name that I though was OK, my Marketing Consultant didn’t think it worked. I consulted a college buddy who knew what I was doing and two days later he sent me an email with two words on it, “ HOOK SHOT” which worked for everyone involved.
How can you resist?
How long did it take you to create you initial prototype, and what problems did you run into along the way?
It only took 10 – 15 minutes since it is so simple, the problems were many when it came to sourcing the parts, and keeping everything within the price point we needed. In the end the packaging will cost more than the product.
Funding a new idea is always tricky. How did you go about lining up the money you needed?
Personal funds
Is this a product you’d like to produce and sell yourself?
Yes, I would like to manufacturer and sell it myself, for now.
What all channels are you using to market your product?
I hired a marketing consultant; created a marketing plan, budget and schedule; they are creating a website, possible video, contact lists for wholesalers and retailers; a sales sheet; and preparing a media news release.
How many people do you currently have involved in your business?
Myself, my marketing consultant and the companies that provide the parts and packaging (6-7)
How do you define success?
(1) Making back the money I have invested in the product
(2) Receiving the Trademark and Design Patent I have applied for
(3) Selling one million widgets
What would hitting a “home run” look like in your mind?
Being able to live off of this product.
Where do people go to find out more about your product?
Our website is www.b-jaminproducts.com
Also, we expect to have products available at liquor stores in Denver and the front range by the end of August, 2012, and starting exclusively at Wild at Heart boutique located at 7166 W Alaska Dr. In the Belmar Shopping area of Lakewood by August 4th
