#flash pop

Added to the collection today.

I think I have a new favorite Pop!

Funko Pop Batman Red Death

Part the Batman 80th Anniversary Collection

Finally added this to the collection

Funko Pop Conan Flash

A better look at the Superman/Flash NYCC Exclusive Funko Pop

It’s a shared with GameStop

Newsworthy Pops from Last Month

It seemed like every other day in February, I was hearing about a cool new pop-up shop or event. So this week, I’m bringing you the best of the best: quick highlights of what you might have missed - and what you can still potentially get in on. 

Saved by the Max Pop-Up Diner

In early February, the Internet freaked out when they heard a “Saved by the Bell” themed pop-up restaurant was coming to Chicago. “Saved by the Max” is being organized by a group of friends who are all in the service industry. They hope to open the parody diner for the month of June in Wicker Park. 

The pop-up will feature a pun-filled menu (think “AC Sliders” or “Macaroni and Screech”), themed cocktails, trivia nights and costume parties. And there is chance that Saved by the Bell cast members will make appearances for meet and greets.

You can RSVP to the “Saved By The Bell - Pop Up Parody Bar & Diner!” event page on Facebook so you don’t miss any updates. 

It's happening!!! June 1st for 1 month! Who is coming??? Reservation info + special event tickets coming soon! #savedbythemax.

A photo posted by Saved by the Max (@savedbythemax) on Mar 1, 2016 at 3:12pm PST

The Giving Keys’ First Pop-Up

The Giving Keys sells inspirational jewelry - such as necklaces with keys that have special words engraved on them. The company focuses on giving back and inspiring others. They employ people affected by homelessness and, according to their Instagram profile, encourage customers to “embrace your word, then pass it on to someone who needs the message more than you.”

On Valentine’s Day weekend, they hosted their first-ever pop-up shop. Located in the Arts District in Downtown LA, the pop-up featured new products, freebies and prizes, food, and live engraving. Shoppers also had the chance to meet some of the people behind the charitable brand. 

Spend your weekend with us for our first ever Pop-Up shop in the Arts District of LA. Sweet treats, live engraving, free coffee and a chance to win some of our not-yet-released product when you spin our wheel-of-love (while supplies last). Invite your friends. Be our Valentine? Friday: 4PM - 8PM Saturday: 11AM - 7PM 836 Traction Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90013

A photo posted by The Giving Keys (@thegivingkeys) on Feb 12, 2016 at 8:44am PST

Retronaut’s New York from Mashable

On Mashable’s website, you can find news regarding social media, entertainment, lifestyle, business and more. They also have a few sub-sites, including Retronaut, which they call “the photographic time machine.” Articles found there are full of images with a short intro about the topic. 

On February 25, Mashable opened a pop-up at Premiere Exhibitions in New York City. According to Mashable, the photo exhibition features “digitally restored panoramas of New York City at the turn of the 19th and 20th century.” The free pop-up event runs through March 28.

See the past like you wouldn't believe at “Retronaut's New York”, a pop-up exhibition of historic New York City opening today in #NYC. Click the link in our profile for more details! #Retronaut #tbt (Image: SC Exhibitions)

A photo posted by Mashable (@mashable) on Feb 25, 2016 at 4:50pm PST

LA Galaxy Introduced New Kits

On February 4, the LA Galaxy hosted a pop-up event at BLENDS in Downtown Los Angeles to introduce their new kit for the 2016 Major League Soccer season. The event continued through the weekend, as they also introduced their new #ThisIsLA marketing campaign. 

Usually a sneaker store, BLENDS was turned into a gallery to show off the redesigned kit, or “uniform.” Also on display were large photos featuring past and present Galaxy players in their home neighborhoods. Seeing Landon Donovan, Robbie Keane and A.J. DeLaGarza throughout the city reinforced that LA Galaxy “Is LA.”

Come celebrate the launch of the #LAGalaxy's new 2016 kit this Friday & Saturday at @blendsla! Details 👉 lagalaxy.com #ThisIsLA

A video posted by LA Galaxy (@lagalaxy) on Feb 1, 2016 at 2:42pm PST

Rachel Zoe’s Pop-Up Features Custom Snapchat Filter

Stylist/designer/TV host/author/everythingunderthesun Rachel Zoe opened a pop-up shop on February 24 at The Grove in Los Angeles. Her first retail space showcases her spring 2016 ready-to-wear collection, jewelry, shoes and pieces from her Core collection. Core can only be found online or at the pop-up store. 

The pop-up has a custom Snapchat filter that says “OMG, it’s everything!” Open until March 31, the store is somewhat of an experiment for possible future locations in LA, New York, and other major cities. Hollywood Reporter quotes Zoe as saying, “…the pop-up is sort of the dream because I can sort of test the waters without going in head-first.” 

Spent the morning chatting about #rachelzoepopup @thegrovela #sneakpeek #tooexcited #pinchme #dreamcometrue #sograteful @laurelandwolf @ericbuterbaugh

From large companies like WeWork’s offices in 24 cities across the world to smaller ones such as Cowork Cafe based in Arlington, Va., coworking spaces are becoming a new norm. These collaborative spaces are giving startups, small businesses and creatives a place to work that’s more inspiring than a coffee shop. 

Earlier this week, I got the chance to work from a local coworking space’s exclusive pop-up. The OSC Tech Lab’s members-only event was hosted at the Akron Art Museum on a day they are normally closed to the public. Nearly 20 people signed up to work from the museum from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Afterward, they hosted a happy hour at a nearby restaurant. 

The set up at the art museum was similar to the general working area at the Tech Lab. There were five tables to work at and free coffee from Akron Coffee Roasters. A few desktop computers were available, as well as multiple outlets to charge your laptop and other electronics. Wifi was provided with a specific Tech Lab log in. 

The Tech Lab even set up a meeting area and a lounge. They also provided free parking. The art museum’s cafe was open to purchase lunch and snacks. Midday, we were treated to an hour-long private tour of the museum. It was an opportunity we normally wouldn’t have the chance to do and a nice break from staring at our computers. 

While I was working on some Poppir articles at the #PopupTechLab, I got the chance to chat with Nick Petroski, founder of OSC Tech Lab. We talked about the start of his coworking space in downtown Akron and why he wanted to host a Popup Tech Lab.

Rachel Whinnery: How did the OSC Tech Lab get started?

Nick Petroski: A few years ago, I wanted to create a start up in Akron, but I needed a good place to do it. I was tired of working at coffee shops, being surrounded by people working on their manuscript for hours. So in January 2014, I opened the OSC Tech Lab to be around other ambitious people. It had a slow start, but it’s definitely picking up now.

RW: What features does the OSC Tech Lab have?

NP: There’s a general coworking area that seats 16-20 people; a lounge area with books, video games and other fun things to help you decompress; a few private offices; and a conference room with a projector and white board. We also have free coffee from Akron Coffee Roasters.

RW: What types of professionals use the Tech Lab? 

NP: At first I thought only other tech-related professionals would sign up to work here. But now we have all types of creatives: artists, graphic designers, speech writers, civic development consultants, web developers, and even the magazine The Devil Strip. We also host community events in the coworking space, so members who run groups like Women in Tech and UX Akron have a free, easy venue available to them. 

RW: What makes OSC Tech Lab different from other coworking spaces? 

NP: We have a soul. We’re not a superficial community, like what some other big name coworking spaces try to manufacture. The members of the Tech Lab are actual friends. We go to events in Akron together and hang out on the weekends. 

RW: Why did you want to host a Popup Tech Lab?

NP: It’s a great way to show our members cool places in Akron that they might not normally have access to. And it’s an interesting way to break up the monotony of the day-to-day. Every pop-up location will be different. This is our first pop up, and I think it’s going really well. 

Only being able to judge the pop-up, since I haven’t been to the OSC Tech Lab, I think they had a successful event. The organizers had thought of everything we would need. Everyone seemed focused, yet they were having fun. At one point, a few people were wearing superhero masks. Having the opportunity to collaborate with people working in so many different fields, just because you’re sitting next them working on your own project, is inspiring. 

The idea of coworking spaces is new, but I think as individuals keep creating their own small businesses, this concept will skyrocket. Poppir has noticed this unique trend and now offers a Work Pop, in addition to our Share, Flash and Classic Pops. Learn more and find out how you can book your own pop-up to inspire the creatives in your community!

From large companies like WeWork’s offices in 24 cities across the world to smaller ones such as Cowork Cafe based in Arlington, Va., coworking spaces are becoming a new norm. These collaborative spaces are giving startups, small businesses and creatives a place to work that’s more inspiring than a coffee shop. 

Earlier this week, I got the chance to work from a local coworking space’s exclusive pop-up. The OSC Tech Lab’s members-only event was hosted at the Akron Art Museum on a day they are normally closed to the public. Nearly 20 people signed up to work from the museum from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Afterward, they hosted a happy hour at a nearby restaurant. 

The set up at the art museum was similar to the general working area at the Tech Lab. There were five tables to work at and free coffee from Akron Coffee Roasters. A few desktop computers were available, as well as multiple outlets to charge your laptop and other electronics. Wifi was provided with a specific Tech Lab log in. 

The Tech Lab even set up a meeting area and a lounge. They also provided free parking. The art museum’s cafe was open to purchase lunch and snacks. Midday, we were treated to an hour-long private tour of the museum. It was an opportunity we normally wouldn’t have the chance to do and a nice break from staring at our computers. 

While I was working on some Poppir articles at the #PopupTechLab, I got the chance to chat with Nick Petroski, founder of OSC Tech Lab. We talked about the start of his coworking space in downtown Akron and why he wanted to host a Popup Tech Lab.

Rachel Whinnery: How did the OSC Tech Lab get started?

Nick Petroski: A few years ago, I wanted to create a start up in Akron, but I needed a good place to do it. I was tired of working at coffee shops, being surrounded by people working on their manuscript for hours. So in January 2014, I opened the OSC Tech Lab to be around other ambitious people. It had a slow start, but it’s definitely picking up now.

RW: What features does the OSC Tech Lab have?

NP: There’s a general coworking area that seats 16-20 people; a lounge area with books, video games and other fun things to help you decompress; a few private offices; and a conference room with a projector and white board. We also have free coffee from Akron Coffee Roasters.

RW: What types of professionals use the Tech Lab? 

NP: At first I thought only other tech-related professionals would sign up to work here. But now we have all types of creatives: artists, graphic designers, speech writers, civic development consultants, web developers, and even the magazine The Devil Strip. We also host community events in the coworking space, so members who run groups like Women in Tech and UX Akron have a free, easy venue available to them. 

RW: What makes OSC Tech Lab different from other coworking spaces? 

NP: We have a soul. We’re not a superficial community, like what some other big name coworking spaces try to manufacture. The members of the Tech Lab are actual friends. We go to events in Akron together and hang out on the weekends. 

RW: Why did you want to host a Popup Tech Lab?

NP: It’s a great way to show our members cool places in Akron that they might not normally have access to. And it’s an interesting way to break up the monotony of the day-to-day. Every pop-up location will be different. This is our first pop up, and I think it’s going really well. 

Only being able to judge the pop-up, since I haven’t been to the OSC Tech Lab, I think they had a successful event. The organizers had thought of everything we would need. Everyone seemed focused, yet they were having fun. At one point, a few people were wearing superhero masks. Having the opportunity to collaborate with people working in so many different fields, just because you’re sitting next them working on your own project, is inspiring. 

The idea of coworking spaces is new, but I think as individuals keep creating their own small businesses, this concept will skyrocket. Poppir has noticed this unique trend and now offers a Work Pop, in addition to our Share, Flash and Classic Pops. Learn more and find out how you can book your own pop-up to inspire the creatives in your community!

To all the businesses that have never had a brick-and-mortar space or physically sold their products, this ones for you! Congratulations, you have decided venturing a pop-up shop taking your brand to new levels. This is the perfect route to go for testing your product in the market place, building brand awareness and giving your customers an experience they will not forget.

You have mapped out the area, knowing the perfect neighborhood that will attract your target demographic, and even have a design in mind of how you want your store to look. But what about budgeting? This is one of the most important factors in deciding to have a pop-up shop.The opportunity is huge for a burst of exposure from foot traffic but time is always against us and if we are going to maximize our investment there are some key biz hacks to jump into.

#1 Money Talks

Figuring out the maximum amount of money you are willing to spend will direct your selection for a Pop. There are 4 different styles of Pop-ups to consider:

Classic Pop which tends to be the largest investment as you rent an entire space for your disposal. Average Avg. Rental Time: 6 - 8 weeks   Cost: $$$-$$$$

Share Pop - Get the same great exposure of a Classic Pop without the price tag. Rent a space with a complimentary existing business. This is an excellent way to attract an existing customer base to your new products & services. Clare Tattersall, of Prim and Wilde (@primandwilde) is using salons to host trunk shows.                                                                                                                                                            Rental Time: 4 Hours - 30 Days   Cost: $-$$

Flash Pop - Have a flashy product? Consider renting an entire event space. An excellent opportunity to not only display your products over a weekend but its a smart way to pop if you allow complimentary businesses rent tables in your space, giving you a big bang for your buck.                                                                               Avg. Rental Time: 4 Hours-7 Days    Cost: $$-$$$

Spot Pop - Limited on cash but want massive exposure? Consider renting a space from a Flash Pop. It's a great way to get your new clothing design, tech invention, or unique yoga service some purchases or sign-ups on a smaller budget.                                                                                                                                                             Avg. Rental Time: 4 Hours-7 Days   Cost: $-$$

The price will determine whether you can afford a stand alone space for your pop-up shop, a kiosk or you may want to partner with another business and share a space with them.

#2 Staging

Assuming you selected an ideal neighborhood to promote in, we are facing tons of competition. What will draw your customers in? Appearances are key for a Pop-up's success as they are known for their eye-catching, unique designs. Depending on the budget, you can hire an interior designer and voice your vision or route to D-I-Y. At early stages, it will make sense to get a little crafty, invite some friends and team members create the ambiance needed in telling your story. 

Start with some research to find where you can get discounted furniture or gently used furniture (ideally to rent, but craigslist has some cash steals). Collaborating with other artists is also an excellent suggestion that adds amazing color to your space and doubles to help artists looking to advertise their work. Use social outlets such as Poppir's Artist Connect, a Facebook group. As long as there is an directive focal point that articulates what you are displaying, working with complimentary business is an excellent source.

#3 Promote! Promote! Promote!

Great! You have figured out what format you want your pop-up shop to be in. Time to promote! It is VITAL to create buzz before the shop even opens. There are some amazing options for online promotion that will drive traffic to your company website and event page.  Established companies will already have a definitive budget for marketing; for the newbies (which is most of us), we are still treading water on the best options and price model.

Beginner Hack: Use Buffer to create scheduled tweets/posts about your Pop. It has a great scheduling tool allowing you to Power Schedule the same post multiple times across Facebook, Twitter, Google +, Pinterest, and Linkedin and it will re-post at time intervals you select. Currently default time intervals are Now, 8 Hours, 1 day, and 7 days. (10 Minutes)

Intermediate Hack: If you are a social media regular and enjoy content curation, try this mobile biz hack. Use a content curation tool like Apple News, Scoop.it, Juice, or Hootsuite Suggestions to pull content based on keywords that compliment your business. Once you find a piece of content to share, grab the link and head over to Snip.ly to add an amazing re-targeting feature. Snip.ly allows you to brand a Call To Action at the bottom left corner of any piece of content you share. Display your logo, and a message like "Find More Interesting Pop-Up Stories Here" with a CTA to subscribe OR Mention your upcoming Pop-Up with a CTA that links them to your event page. (35 Minutes)