How did find out about AP Lazer?
When we began researching the different laser companies online an ad for AP Lazer’s laser engraving machines popped up and caught our attention because of the open concept design and the 24/7 lifetime support.
How did you fund your laser and when do you expect it to take to pay off?
We’re hoping 2.5 years since this isn’t our full-time job. We chose a 5-year finance to own option.
What was the biggest selling point of AP Lazer?
The open concept design and the 24/7 tech support, 3-year warranty, full day of training, great customer service by Tony Miller who took the time out time to provide us with all the info about this laser machine.
How difficult is it to run an AP Lazer?
It’s very simple! I flew to AP headquarters in Michigan since this is our first laser machine ever purchased. Tony spent the day with me and by the end of the day, I knew how to operate the machine.
What have you used AP Lazer tech support for and how was your experience?
First time using the rotary, and they were able to walk me through how to use it within 5 minutes. I also called them when my air compressor stopped working and they sent me a new one no questions asked right away since it was under warranty.
What do you like about the AP Lazer family?
Everyone is more than willing to help each other. Before we purchased the machine we wanted to see one in person. We met with Paul Lazzaro with Faithful Companion from Clifton, NJ who was more than willing to show us the machine and make some samples. He raved about how his machine was over 10 years old and has no problems with it. Ap Laser user group on Facebook is amazing. Everyone shares their ideas and works together. The best part about it is the group is monitored by AP Laser technicians who also answer posts and help everyone right away.
Did you start your business when you purchased the AP Lazer?
We have an existing business Embellished Prints which is a printing and sublimation business and wanted to offer laser engraved products. We started our sister company Prestige Laser Engraving to start offering laser engraved products as well as combining both businesses to create custom made sublimation products.
What is your business and how would you describe it?
Our business name is Prestige Laser Engraving, LLC. We run this business out of our home and offer custom one of a kind products.
How would you describe the impact owning a laser has had on your business?
Owning a laser engraver has brought us many new clients, as well as bigger corporations for promotional products and, have gotten a lot of larger-scale orders.
How have you marketed your laser business and products?
Social media: Facebook, Instagram, and Etsy. We also set up at business expos and vendor shows where we do giveaways with laser-engraved products with our info on it.
Do you have a website, and do you think it is necessary?
Yes, we have a website but most of our business has been through social media, referrals, vendor shows and our clientele from our other business Embellished Prints, LLC
How do you target your customers?
Through social media and promotional products.
Where do you source your blanks from?
JDS, Johnson Plastics, AP Lazer, Amazon, RTIC, and Save a Cup, are all resources for laser engraving blanks
How do you determine pricing for your products?
Sometimes we ask for help from the AP Laser user group, other times we search our area to see what similar products go for. We normally try to make $2.00 per minute depending on the product/job.
What products would you recommend a new owner start with?
We started out with tumblers and wood ornaments. I would recommend the same for any new owner.
What is your favorite part about using the laser?
Seeing my designs from the computer screen come to life and the end result of a beautiful product.
In what ways do you see yourself using the laser in the future that you haven’t tried yet?
The options are endless because there are so many things you can make with the laser. There are always new products coming out. We eventually would like to upgrade to a bigger machine and hopefully get into local funeral homes in our local area who do not own a machine and outsource their headstones.
What is the most creative/unusual object you’ve engraved?
A bamboo bread box that was converted into a charging station for a photographer with his logo on it.
Do you have anything else you would like to add?
We looked at Epilog and Boss and nothing compared to what the AP Laser machine offered. We are so happy we went with the AP Laser, I love the look and color of the machine also. It determined what our business colors would be when I was designing our logo.
Inspired by the success story of Prestige Laser Engraving?
Contact a rep today to get started with AP Lazer!
