How creative can a "Do Not Disturb" sign be? That's the question Embassy Suites is asking with their latest promotion as they search for humorous, unique themes for their door-hanging signs. The signs will be judged on originality, creativity, humor and the expression of the "Do Not Disturb" concept. The top five entrants will receive four nights at an Embassy Suites of their choosing, either in Hawaii, Mexico City, California, New York City or Washington D.C. Entrants must get creative by October 31.

This is a good example of a simple contest a company can run without incurring expenses. Web promotions are a great way to reach the masses and spread the word about your brand, no matter how simple the concept.

Earlier this month, we blogged about the hot spots for back-to-school shopping season. Brookings, Oregon topped the list with $449.69 spent on children's clothes annually per person. But if you think the back-to-school shopping burst is over, this USA Today article says to brace yourself for the second surge. An NPD Group Survey discovered that while 25 percent of consumers planned on starting their back-to-school shopping in August, 38 percent said they'd be doing it in September. That's because stylish students are waiting to see what the rest of their classmates are wearing before purchasing their wardrobe for the fall season. As a result, retailers are extending their back-to-school clothing season.

Local retailers should do their homework, too. According to the article, back-to-school trends are very localized; so, what's cool on one side of town may not be trendy on the other.