Guidance and Events for Entrepreneurs

July 28, 2025

DIRECT MAIL WORKS

Hey Bob,

Well, if you know me, you know I love direct mail. Yes, this message is via email and I do think that email is perfect for this type of weekly communication. It is fast, easy and affordable. But when it comes to actually selling stuff, there is not much that compares to direct mail.

Many of you know that I started my career working for the USPS and later started my first business consulting exclusively on direct mail. I still do some of that work to this day. So direct mail was the foundation upon which I built up my marketing knowledge.

But is direct mail STILL practical today? Digital is everywhere and the price of real mail postage has skyrocketed which is challenging for small business owners.

The short answer is YES. The primary reason direct mail is still worth considering in your marketing mix is because it WORKS. Let's look at 3 of the main marketing keys that lead to a sale:

GET NOTICED. With less mail in mailboxes these days, direct mail is a surefire way to get your message noticed.
BE TRUSTED. There is something about the physical nature of mail that makes people trust it more than a digital message.
STICK AROUND. Direct mail pieces that people find interesting are often kept until they are ready to make a buying decision. Most digital messages disappear forever with a simple keystroke.

This is a winning combination that works.

You may have heard that email has the best ROI (return on investment) in marketing but the secret they don't tell you is that email costs very little so ANY response will drive up those ROI numbers. Direct mail may have a lower ROI but it has one of the best RESPONSE RATES in marketing and also has a much higher percentage of conversion (if done correctly)....in some studies direct mail was 600% more effective than digital! For more interesting facts on direct mail, check out today's short article WHY DIRECT MAIL WORKS.

"Trust is critical in marketing, and direct mail helps build trust by offering something concrete. Many consumers view physical mail as more trustworthy and reliable compared to digital communications, which can often feel impersonal or spammy. Whether it’s a beautifully designed postcard, a catalog, or a personalized letter, direct mail allows brands to communicate authenticity."

-snowballpm.com

The Mission of MOMENTUM

is to support the local small business community and entrepreneurs by encouraging them to:

ENGAGE (get out to seminars, networking and other events);

EDUCATE (commit to lifelong learning); ENJOY (if you cannot laugh and have a little fun, then you are not doing it right!).

See you out there!

Bob

P.S. If you want to check out the power of direct mail but you have a small business budget, check out the system I use. It is called MAILBOX POWER and I can send out one card or 1000 right from my laptop. And I get to send postcards for free! (note that I am an affiliate for this online service).

Check out MAILBOX POWER

P.P.S. Remember-NO MOMENTUM NETWORKING THIS SUMMER! If you are a regular attendee at our 4th Monday Momentum Networking event or were thinking about visiting, just a reminder that we are taking the summer months off. There are many other summer options out there for fun and networking (many of which will be featured in this newsletter). Our monthly event kicks off again on September 22nd at the TOWNE TAP & TAVERN in North Attleboro MA.

(registration for the Sept event is now open...see info below).

WHY DIRECT MAIL MARKETING WORKS

REVENUE GENERATION: Leads generated through direct mail produces 600% more revenue than...

Upcoming Events

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking

at T's Restaurant,

East Greenwich RI

July 29, 2025

8am-9am

At Trust Networking - East Greenwich, you'll have the chance to expand your professional network, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Whether you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or simply looking to meet new people, this event is perfect for anyone interested in fostering meaningful connections.

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking

at Wine and Cheese, North Providence RI

July 29, 2025

noon-1pm

Trust Networking - North Providence

Join us on Tuesday at Wine and Cheese in North Providence.

This in-person gathering will be a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals in the start of a new referral chapter in North Providence.

The meeting will run from 12:00 PM-1:00PM

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity for a BRAND NEW CHAPTER from the ground up.

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking

at Englund Studio, North Kingstown RI

July 30, 2025

12pm-1pm

At Trust Networking - North Kingstown, you'll have the chance to expand your professional network, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Whether you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or simply looking to meet new people, this event is perfect for anyone interested in fostering meaningful connections.

In-Person Networking:

Pints & Partnerships Networking

at the Hot Club, Providence RI

July 30, 2025

5pm-7pm

Looking to keep the connections flowing this summer? Don’t miss Pints & Partnerships hosted by the amazing Lori Coleman!!

LOCATION: The Hot Club – 25 Bridge St, Providence, RI

This casual summer meet-up is the perfect chance to unwind, sip something refreshing, and meet new people who get the power of networking.

RSVP directly to Lori if you’re planning to join the fun: lcoleman@supportingstrategies.com.

In-Person Networking:

Good Networking Coffee Hour

at Good Working

July 31, 2025

8am-9am

Good Working Coworking .

585 Smithfield Road,

North Smithfield, RI

What to Expect: Join fellow professionals at our monthly Good Networking Coffee Hour held at the cozy and inviting Good Working co-working space. Whether you're a freelancer, business owner, etc.

In-Person Networking:

Trust B2B Cumberland Networking

at Ravenous Brewing Co, Cumberland RI

August 1, 2025 12pm-1pm

Visit Rhode Island's first strictly B2B networking group.

In-Person Networking:

Trust B2B Providence Networking

at the Brass Monkey, Providence RI

August 1, 2025 12pm-1pm

The newest TRUST B2B group!

In-Person Event:

The Charlestown Seafood Festival

at Ninigret Park, Charlestown RI

August 1-2, 2025

This year is the 40th anniversary of THE CHARLESTOWN SEAFOOD FESTIVAL. It is planned for August 1-3, 2025 at Ninigret Park, Charlestown RI.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Networking:

Cigar Networking

with Kamil Sarji

August 4, 2025 5pm-8pm

Come out and enjoy a cigar with Kamil and I and a host of regulars as we network casually at the WHITE ASH CIGAR LOUNGE in Pawtucket RI. Even if you don't smoke cigars, this relaxed atmosphere makes for some terrific business connections!

In-Person Networking: Welcome Wednesday: Networking Coffee Hour

with the Northern RI Chamber of Commerce

August 6, 2025 8:30am-9:30am

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow your network and make connections that matter.

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking Mansfield

at DataPay Payroll, Mansfield MA

August 8, 2025 9am-10am

Trust Networking - Mansfield

Join us for referral networking at the Mansfield, MA chapter.

In-Person Event: Washington Commanders vs the New England Patriots

with at Gillette Stadium, Foxboro MA

August 8, 2025 7:30pm

The Patriots have only one home exhibition game this year and it is against the Washington Commanders. Both teams are cautiously optimistic about the coming season. GO PATS!

PATRIOT 2025-26 GAME SCHEDULE

Happy Victory Day!

August 11, 2025

In-Person Networking: Networking Pop-Up

with the Northern RI Chamber of Commerce

August 13, 2025 4:30pm-6:30pm

Step into a night of flavorful experiences and dynamic connections at Juncal Mexican Grill & Bar in Cumberland RI.

Celebrate community and culture while networking with local professionals in a setting that blends tradition with modern flair.

In-Person Event:

Calling All Veterans Day

at the Seabee Museum and Memorial Park, North Kingstown RI

August 16, 2025

10am-1pm

The 6th Annual Calling All Veterans Day sponsored by RI ELDER INFO will be held on August 16, 2025 from 10am-1pm. For more information go to:

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Networking:

RI/MA Referral Makers Networking

with Paula Allin

August 19, 2025

8:30am-10am

If it is the third Tuesday of the month, then it is time to network with Paula Allin and HOMESMART at 550 Douglas Pike in Smithfield RI.

In-Person Networking:

The Heart of RI Networking & Referral Group

at CIC, Providence RI

August 20, 2025

8:30am-9:30am

The Heart of Rhode Island Networking & Referral Group was founded in March 2022 by Deb Honor and Natalie Delmage. Deb Honor and Charise Wilson run this monthly event! It is an event that continually evolves and grows in size! We have sold out at 100 attendees since September 2023. It is a free event to the public…but we count on our attendees to take turns sponsoring the event each month to provide breakfast treats and coffee for the attendees. CIC in Providence is a wonderful partner for this event. Come check us out…we would LOVE to meet you and help you grow your network.

In-Person Networking:

Heart of Massachusetts Networking

at Spring-Hill Suites, Wrentham MA

August 20, 2025

5pm-7pm

The Heart Of Massachusetts

Gather and collaborate with The Heart of Massachusetts to connect, grow, and thrive in a vibrant, community-focused event.

In-Person Networking: August Morning Marketing Mingle

with AMP-RI

August 21, 2025 8am-9:30am

Morning Marketing Mingle - August Edition

The Association of Marketing Professionals of Rhode Island (AMP-RI) invites you to our Morning Marketing Mingle – where the best conversations happen over coffee and the connections you make could change your career.

In-Person Networking: August PVD Networking & Social Event

with Little Rhody Professional Networking

August 21, 2025 6pm-8pm

Little Rhody Professional Networking would like to invite you to our August PVD Business Networking Event at WXYZ Bar at Aloft in Providence.

In-Person Event:

Pawtucket Food Truck and Craft Beverage Festival

at Tidewater Landing, Pawtucket RI

August 23, 2025

12pm-6pm

The 1st ever Pawtucket Food Truck and Craft Beverage Festival at Tidewater Landing sponsored by the Good Truck Festivals of America! August 23, 2025 from 12pm-6pm. For more information go to:

FOOD TRUCK FESTIVALS OF AMERICA.

In-Person Event:

PUFFS & PAWNS

with Bob Salvas and Bill Parmentier

August 24, 2025 1pm-5pm

If you like to smoke cigars and play chess, we have a casual gathering that you might want to be part of. PUFFS & PAWNS in Pawtucket. It started as a few business guys going to the WHITE ASH on a Sunday afternoon and enjoying casual chess, conversation, and cigars. Now we are opening it up to all who might have an interest. No cost to play. All skill levels welcome.

In-Person Networking:

Cigar Networking

with Sal and Uncle Jay

August 27, 2025 4pm-6:30pm

Regency Cigar Emporium

752 Main Street, East Greenwich, RI

Join us at the Regency in East Greenwich for a little casual business-to-business networking.

Sit back and relax, enjoy a cigar and adult beverage.

Discuss the issues of the day and unwind from the grind.

In-Person Networking:

Good Networking Coffee Hour

at Good Working

August 28, 2025

8am-9am

Good Working Coworking .

585 Smithfield Road,

North Smithfield, RI

What to Expect: Join fellow professionals at our monthly Good Networking Coffee Hour held at the cozy and inviting Good Working co-working space. Whether you're a freelancer, business owner, etc.

In-Person Networking:

Last Friday Coffee

at Englund Studio, North Kingstown RI

August 29, 2025

8:30am-10am

Quonset Office Park

70 Romano Vineyard Way, North Kingstown, RI

Bring plenty of business cards and a positive energetic business attitude. Stop by and meet new contacts and, as always, rebuild your associations.

In-Person Event:

Jimmy Buffett Day

at Margaritaville (real or imagined)

August 29, 2025

Labor Day weekend starts early with the celebration of the tropical laid back legend Jimmy Buffett. So visit a Margaritaville property near you (or make your own Margaritaville) and in spirit of Jimmy Buffet, keep the party going and do some good in the world! Remember too that "If we couldn't laugh, we would all go insane."

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Event:

King Richard's Faire

at Edaville Park, Carver MA

August 30 through October 19, 2025

(weekends and holidays)

The biggest and best Renaissance festival in New England starts at their new location at the old Edaville theme park. If you have never experienced this event, now would be a great time to check it out. The festival runs weekends and Monday holidays from August 30th through October 19th.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Happy Labor Day!

September 1, 2025

The last big holiday of the summer. A day NOT to work, but rather to enjoy family, outdoors and maybe even a cookout. Happy Labor Day to ALL the hard-working people in our country!

In-Person Networking:

Elevating Your Potential Providence

with Strive Networking

September 3, 2025

6pm-8pm

Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', an event for tenured and newcomers at Tiny Bar in Providence RI! Event is 21+. Limited Tickets

In-Person Event:

PVD FEST

in downtown, Providence RI

September 5-6, 2025

The 6th Annual PVD FEST takes place in downtown Providence RI on September 5 & 6, 2025. It is considered the People's Festival of art, culture and music. Always a blast!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Event: Las Vegas Raiders vs the New England Patriots

at Gillette Stadium, Foxboro MA

September 7, 2025 1pm

The Patriots open their regular season with a visit from the Las Vegas Raiders. Buckle up! GO PATS!

PATRIOT 2025-26 GAME SCHEDULE

In-Person Networking:

Cigar Networking

with Kamil Sarji

September 8, 2025 5pm-8pm

In-Person Networking:

Networking Pop-Up

at Our Spot Bar & Brill, Pawtucket RI

September 9, 2025

4:30pm-6:30pm

Join us for an evening of connection and conversation at one of Northern Rhode Island’s most inviting neighborhood bar & grills — where the flavors are bold, and the vibe is even better.

Whether you're looking to grow your professional network, reconnect with peers, or meet new contacts across industries, this casual networking event is the perfect place to do it.

In-Person Event:

1st Annual Mac and Cheese Festival

at Crafted Hope Brewing Co, East Greenwich RI

September 13, 2025

11am-1pm

There are few things more comforting than craft beer and delicious mac and cheese. Get both at the FIRST Mac and Cheese Festival!

In-Person Event: New England Patriots vs the Miami Dolphins

at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami FL

September 14, 2025 1pm

The Patriots play their second regular season in the heat that is Miami. GO PATS!

PATRIOT 2025-26 GAME SCHEDULE

SOLD OUT

In-Person Event:

The Taste of Southern Rhode Island

at Clark Farms, Matunuck RI

September 18, 2025

5pm-8pm

Contact Southern RI Chamber to get on the wait list.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Event: Pittsburgh Steelers vs the New England Patriots

at Gillette Stadium, Foxboro MA

September 21, 2025 1pm

The Patriots play their third regular season back home in Foxboro against the Steelers! GO PATS!

PATRIOT 2025-26 GAME SCHEDULE

In-Person Networking:

Momentum & Trust Open Networking

at Towne Tap & Tavern

September 22, 2025

5pm-7:30pm

Join us at the longest running open networking event in southeastern New England! Originally called 4th Monday Networking, this casual event has hosted businesspeople from all over New England. Stop by for networking, a beverage and maybe a piece of that GREAT Towne pizza!

Whether you're looking to grow your professional network, reconnect with peers, or meet new contacts across industries, this casual networking event is the perfect place to do it.

In-Person Event:

The Walk to End Alzheimer's

at Village Green, North Scituate RI

September 27, 2025

8:30am

The Walk to End Alzheimer's for northern Rhode Island is scheduled for Saturday September 27, 2025 at the Village Green of North Scituate. Site opens at 8:30am. For more info:

ALZHEIMER'S WALK RI.

In-Person Event:

The RI Women's Expo

at Crowne Plaza, Warwick RI

September 28, 2025

11am-3pm

The RI Women's Expo returns on Sunday September 28, 2025 from 11am-3pm. It will be held at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick RI. RI's favorite one day event for women featuring health, wellness, food & drink, shopping, fashion, gifts, prizes, personal growth and FUN! .For more info:

RI WOMEN'S EXPO.

In-Person Event: Carolina Panthers vs the New England Patriots

at Gillette Stadium, Foxboro MA

September 28, 2025 1pm

The Patriots play their fourth regular season at home in Foxboro against the Panthers! GO PATS!

PATRIOT 2025-26 GAME SCHEDULE

SAVE THE DATES

for some BIG events

in the fall of 2025

(NOTE: Many of these events are now open for those who want to sponsor or exhibit at them -please contact me if you are interested in that or feel free to check out the links to each event)

The 47th year of THE AUTUMNFEST in Woonsocket RI is planned for the holiday weekend, October 10-13, 2025 outdoors on Social Street in Woonsocket RI. It is the largest festival in northern Rhode Island.

The 34th year of THE BOWEN'S WHARF SEAFOOD FESTIVAL in Newport RI is planned for October 18-19, 2025 outdoors at Bowen's Wharf in Newport RI.

The 99th celebration of the United Way of Rhode Island. The event takes place year on

Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at the WaterFire Arts Center, 475 Valley Street, Providence, RI 02905. UNITED WAY RI.

The 4th annual BUSINESSES GIVE BACK TOYS FOR TOTS event will be held November 10, 2025 at the Guild Brewery in Pawtucket RI.

The long-awaited return of the OCEAN STATE BUSINESS EXPO & NETWORKING EVENT takes place on November 12, 2025 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick RI.

One of the most important days for the small business community is Small Business Saturday. A special annual event takes place on November 29, 2025 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick RI.

9am-3:30pm. SMALL BUS RI.

Momentum Monday is sponsored by

Mailbox Power

Let's be sure to reach out in gratitude to those who have helped us succeed in business and in life. Make that notion of gratitude more meaningful by sending something TANGIBLE to those you appreciate. I like to call it MOMENTUM MAIL- sending tangible thanks not only makes you feel good but it builds momentum for your business and for your life!

Many of you will think about this but then get too busy.

Trust me, MAILBOX POWER is the solution you have been looking for.

Send small gifts or cards affordably and conveniently right from your laptop.

CHECK IT OUT HERE!

This is an easy and creative solution to gift giving and card sending, so I encourage you to take a closer look at MAILBOX POWER (try it free for 14 days). Everything can be done from your laptop and at an affordable price too!

LET YOUR CLIENTS AND PROSPECTS KNOW YOU APPRECIATE THEM!

Contact Bob