Just a thought..........wha t do you think?

That's an enviable talent Phoenix, I'd love to be able to write verse. Perhaps a job with Hallmark?...

I am sure that there is money in it. Why not make enquiries as suggested?

We have said before Phoenix that maybe you should consider trying to be paid for writing a column or something. You could start maybe by writing an article in your inimitable style about trying to get back into the workforce. You could embellish it with tales from interviews etc and send it to magazines or newspapers and see how you get on. I for one would be pleased to read any of the things you write.

Thanks ladies.

I did try contacting the Western Morning News, but they said no. I also submitted a piece to The Oldie, but that was rejected too.

Do a blog phoenix and spread the word. We will too!

That's how Jack started, I think!

But I think offering to write specific poems is a brilliant idea! I tried to find someone to write one for DH for our 40th but was unsuccessful. Can you do calligraphy, or so you know someone who does? I would not have had the nerve to read out anything at our party but would have loved to have something to give him to tell him how mu h he means to me! A brilliant idea!!

Also that ides about contacting Hallmark is excellent.

My left handed scrawl doesn't lend itself to calligraphy kitty but no doubt I could either find someone who does or perhaps find some good fonts on line somewhere.

Charleygirl I'll have a quick google and see if I can find a contact us section for Hallmark.

I have just googled in writing verses for cash and Hallmark do not acept freelance submissions but others do. There were some very good tips, too many to write here.

If you have a talent try to use it! There will be lots of other publications out there.

DD2 wrote articles for a local magazine when she went overseas. Although the magazine was free (promoting tourism) she got paid for the articles and her photography, plus expenses.

I think it's probably a better course to bombard whatever newspaper, magazine etc. you can think of rather than just one or two, phoenix - although if by mail the postage could work out rather expensive! Just think how many rejection slips now-famous authors had before publication of their first novel.

Rhymes to order / verses for occasions/ poems for people/ personalise your greetings card /so why not put an notice on Gumtree perhaps in rhyme to advertise your talent get in quick for Mothers Day. Of course declare your earnings when you go to sign on. Once your talent has spread Nationwide you can link up with moonpig or similar to enhance their service. Would be a talking point at interviews and provide an interesting CV.

I was thinking of the Church newsletters we get delivered here, lots of local services, businesses advertise on the back pages. Also independent wedding outfitters, we have one shop that only sells celebration helium balloons and they are always busy! Party planners, church halls, a website. Good Luck.

Just seen this,
www.silversurfers.com/silversurfers-members-write-to-win/
I wonder if surfers publish some winning writing might it be worth applying to be noticed?

Thanks penguin got to be worth a go, I wonder how they feel about articles covering underwear problems? (I've got one of those ready to go, articles that is, not underwear problems!)

I think I might also look into a little advertisement in the village newsletter, just to see if there is any interest.

Now then,

Odes to Go
Rachel's Rhymes
Poems Pronto
Verse & Worse
Bespoke Ballads

???????

I really should read before posting. Was thinking of a balloon with a verse and perhaps not speeches from the best man but individual verses for bridesmaids, mother of the bride to be offered at the wedding outfitters.
I also thought of all those pet portraits services you now see, a verse to go with a portrait of your pet?

We searched high and low for a suitable verse for DGD (6) to read at her parent's wedding. Eventually, I wrote a personalised one myself and offered it with some trepidation but it was enthusiastically received and created a real 'Awaaa' moment during the ceremony. I also wrote DH's speech in rhyming couplet and that went down a storm at the reception.

You have a BIG writing talent Phoenix and can dash off masterpieces of comic verse at the drop of a hat. Rather trying to interest existing outlets to buy your stuff perhaps you should think of setting up a 'Customised speeches, poems and songs' website and sell direct to the public. I know there is a big demand out there for this type of bespoke service for Christenings or Baby Namings, Weddings, Funerals, Anniversaries, significant birthdays, which is currently not being met adequately. People will pay big money when they want something for a special occasion and if they wish to pass it off on the day as 'all their own work' so what!

Phoenix There are many gransnetters with facebook pages and twitter accounts who would promote youe project. You could get a mention on the local pages too.

Go for it.

I like "Odes to Go" and"Bespoke ballads" best.

Last suggestion then I promise to shut up. Daughter and I went to a craft fair just before Christmas and there was a stall of printed cards with versus on the front and a couple were displayed in frames. Might be worth looking on the Etsy site?

Easy and notonthehighstreet.

notonthehighstreet.com

https://www.etsy.com/uk/

I was going to mention 'not on the high street' penguin. It appears to be our children's first choice for our presents!

Go for it Phoenix - lots of good ideas from people here!

I have just contacted "Not on the High Street" , will see if I get a response!

Why not contact the Princes Trust as they now help people of all ages to start up their own business. I think you can attend their courses at no cost. Free advice from professionals can never be wasted.

Are there any wedding venues around you Phoenix? It could be a service to offer there - wedding poems/readings etc. People do like personalised things so it might be a goer!

Try your local florist, phoenix It's a competitive business so they might be interested in a service that the others don't offer.