Advertising?!

Hey Guys,

I'm just breaking into freelace web design (started in August) and I'm looking for some ideas on how to advertise. What are the best ways to reach clients? What works for you?

What materials should I invest in: business cards, brochures, or mailers? I'm totally new at all this so spare me no details. =)

Much Appreciated!
-Fearless

I just finished my last course for my major in Advertising in college. However, when it comes to the personal, freelance stuff, I'm finding that word of mouth and "networking" with people is the way I'm making contacts right now.

My take on Advertising is more along the lines of Advertising campaigns, large scale things speced out to specefic demographics, client briefs, etc.

Business cards will work well, getting involved in organizations in your area, looking on job boards in the area, things like that work well.

For the business cards, try to think of designing an entire set of busines materials: letterhead, envelope, business card, the graphics on your site. It's best to keep these things unified, so when anyone sees any one thing that is representing you, they will recognize the other things whenever they see them. That's of the highest importance to me when it comes to business material.

Good Luck,

mg33