I don't think it's illegal. Wear a watch. They're only 4 bucks at Walmart.

It can make or break a new business.  Leases are expensive, and owners can't afford to wait weeks or months for traffic to reach their stores.  Merely putting up an "OPEN" sign isn't enough.  New business advertising requires some creativity.

Of course, new businesses usually have tight advertising budgets.  After rent, contractors and suppliers have been paid there is typically little money leftover for promotional purposes. Yet advertising cannot be overlooked.  The trick is finding effective ways to stretch those dollars effectively.

Fortunately, some of the best techniques for new business advertising are some of the least expensive.  Every business owner should try at least ONE of the following methods of advertising a grand opening:

Though it adds extra cost, business advertising should be as essential a part of your operating budget as rent and utilities.  Failure to advertise your new business may start you off on the wrong foot and result in a delay in getting your business off the ground.  Good business advertising doesn't have to be expensive, just creative.

Jenny Schweyer is a freelance writer from the Pacific Northwest. Art Promos: YOUR PARTNER IN BUSINESS ADVERTISING. Business Promotional Gifts: TIPS, HINTS AND INFO FOR BUSINESS OWNERS.