Direct Mailing in my own neighborhood

[Ashley Russell]

We are starting a small direct mail campaign in our neighborhood, within 5 miles from our primary residence. We have already targeted about 60 single family homes and plan to send out handwritten letters within the next week or two. Looking for suggestions on the pros and cons of handwriting vs. typing and also whether or not we should put our actual cell phones numbers on the letters or use an out of state number created through google voice (no more local numbers left). We are also hesitant to put our full return address on the envelops. Lastly, debating on whether to put a real photo of our family on the letters vs. clipart. Since its our neighborhood and a smaller number of properties, we want our letters to stand out and be personal, yet also want to protect our family's privacy - we have two small children.

Any tips are appreciated!

[Larry Turowski]

@Ashley Russell Get a UPS mailbox and use that as the return address.  The address will be like 123 Main St #362, Anytown, ST, 12345.  Use a local number.  If none available from google, maybe get another cell phone.  Handwriting is slow, but it is a start.  60 addresses is a tiny list, but again, a start.  Three calls would be a fantastic response.