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Our company became part of our community in 2007. From the start, we've been rooted in giving back through service, mentorship and philanthropy. As our post yesterda y described, giving & investing connects us to our community, keeps us rooted in what's really important in life and touches our humanity. Volunteering also provides you the opportunity to get to know your community and build relationships through collective service. Let's face it, owning a business cuts down on your time for a social life, so forming social relationships via service- that's a perk! Besides, you get to know some amazing people in your community. We stopped counting community service hours years ago, since it was well over 100K hours and spanned 19 different leadership & fundraising roles. We've been a speaker, panelist, moderator or facilitator and supported our local chamber's of commerce serving on boards, ambassador programs & chairing committees. Investing in youth paves the way for the future workforce to be more prepared for the challenges they will face. Boots on the ground provides a training ground outside the walls of the classroom. We've been a long time supporter and contributor to our local public school programs as mentor, speaker and facilitator. Additionally we've supported local internship programs, business alliances and career fairs. Within our industry we've paid it forward by frequently contributing to industry publications or forums for best practices. In 2024 our sponsorship dollars have benefited 22 different projects or programs with veterans, chambers of commerce, local schools, Special Olympics, food insecurity, healthcare, public safety, education, youth and empowering women. Since 2007 our giving total has totaled $95,735. Currently, you will find our service footprint the Apex Rotary Club & the Apex Festival Commission- better known as PeakFest. If you'd like to know more about how you can get involved in the community- let's set up a time to chat. We'd love to learn more about you and connect you to local resources. Together, we contribute to strong communities by supporting each other. As we wind down 2024- watch for a special opportunity to give back! Keep following our socials for details!

I can't color my hair- and found that out the hard way in 2014. However, those roots are not the story. This post is about a different type of root. I am talking about what's down deep. What's taken root in your soul. What defines you. Unexpected twists in your life provide some of the most meaningful moments. Those knots along the way add texture and make good stories. Today I had 3 unplanned discussions, with 3 different individuals. One dealing with a personal challenge, one disillusioned by service from individuals with an agenda and one that showed me their vulnerable side- through wit, grit and compassion. Each of these individuals is sincere, empathic and not afraid to show their humanity. Standing beside you and standing up for you- that's a strong root. What feeds my soul is knowing that time was well spent. The time away from family to grow the business, or the time away from business to be active in the community should matter. Time well spent should feed your soul and even better if it supports or lifts up another. Otherwise- why invest your time, talents and resources? Did you know that November 14 is National Philanthropy Day? Philanthropy has on the fabric of society . There are so many worthy organizations of your time, talents and resources. Find what give your purpose, feeds your soul. Today is National Kindness Day. Giving and kindness, go hand in hand. When we give of ourselves we get more in return. Kindness is free! Winston Churchill said, "We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give." Giving inspires others to think about kindness and more than one's self, it helps us connect to those around us. I love sharing connecting one-on-one about ways we can make an impact together in the roots of our community. So go ahead- let those roots show!

Simple low cost ideas- stick around! Helping your message stay around with your target market is the reason for promotional marketing & advertising. By sticking together- the product & the recipient you have time to bond. While you won't develop an emotional attachment to this actual product, when the product provides a solution or an opportunity to reflect on what you love, well it's a match. Face-time with builds bonds! Enough puns? Perhaps- but it's quirky enough to work. We hope you know, promotional marketing & advertising works- take a look at these stat's.

Today is Veteran's Day- a moment to show appreciation for the men & women that serve or have served this country. Veteran's Day was first observed over 100 years ago as Armistice Day after the end of World War I. In 1954, at the urging of veterans’ service organizations, Congress renamed it Veterans Day. The holiday has been observed over the years with parades and solemn ceremonies, and it’s a great opportunity to thank the veterans in your community for their service. There are numerous ways to support veterans beyond just today. Local Apex American Legion Post 124 host several days throughout the year to honor veterans, as well as holding community events and staying active supporting local veterans. We have brand partners that give back to veterans, such as: Mission 22 , outreach programs for long-term wellness through specific CamelBak purchases BaseCamp giving back to Wounded Warrior Patriot . helping to homes for veteran's with Homes for Our Troops We also have partners f or goods that are manufactured by veteran-owned partners. Ask us to share some samples with you next time you are in the showroom. Buying from these partners or supporting these types of give back programs are simple ways you can make a difference. Acknowledging service & shared values is another way to convey what makes your company unique.

The American Dream. Each individual has their own vision to associate with those words. Traditionally, the phrase is associated with opportunity. What is opportunity? Opportunity is a noun, meaning a set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something. The word also functions like a verb when we see a path, then take action. Record numbers of individuals are becoming entrepreneurs. In fact, USA Today reported these small business statistics in an Oct 16 report: Small businesses make up 99.9% of all U.S. firms, with around 33.3 million of these businesses in total across the country. They’re also responsible for almost two-thirds of newly created jobs in the U.S. between 1995 and 2021. Small businesses also comprise 99.7% of firms with paid employees and 97.3% of exporters while contributing 43.5% of the country’s total gross domestic product Self-employed small business owners in the U.S. earn an average of $51,816 per year. However, for unincorporated businesses, this decreases to an average of $26,084 per year. Small businesses that have one employee typically bring home around $44,000 per year, according to Fora Financial. Around 18% of small businesses will fail within a year of opening, while half fail after five years and approximately 65% after operating for up to 10 years. Women own around 26% of all small businesses in the U.S., while just under half are owned by Generation X, and only 14% of small business owners are Black, Hispanic or Asian. Al most four-fifths of small business owners were self-financed when launching, while 16% were funded by bank loans. Loans from family and friends made up the remaining 2% to 6%. Jumping into the world of being an entrepreneur means embracing a mindset of staying curious, adapting & innovating and being resistant. There will be set backs, but we grow from those failures to learn more. Each new step provides us new opportunities. Each step moves us forward to thrive. So, who's minding the store in the USA? The answer is probably a small business owner, who's an entrepreneur with a vision. These individuals are clearly not making millions, but continue to be invested in their community. American entrepreneurs are the heart & soul of community by creating jobs, innovating, investing in themself & others while that forge ahead to pursue their American Dream. This month, we challenge you to be bold, experiment, ask questions, remain curious and chase your dreams!

No, I am not talking about a revolt. I am talking about turning heads and utilizing the entire imprint area of these mugs to tell your story. This type of product fits our quirky enough to work series, offering at least 20 ways to use the imprint space creatively. Here's our list of 20 ways to add more value: Share fundraising impact Sales Kick bullet points Key reasons you offer more value Team photos Milestone moments to remember Destination vacations Hometown pride Footprint of your company within the community Benchmark dates Locations to access care or education Inspirational messages Fun quotes Reminders to reuse- zero waste Before & after shots Visual image of the services or products you offer Wedding memories Graduations Acknowledge volunteers Welcome new homeowner On-boarding employees, with company core values SEE how easy it was to generate a list of stories that could be enhanced by full color, full coverage graphics?! Remember, we offer graphic design services, creating logos and engaging ways to use your images on the surface. Here's a link to the product.

Recently, I was cleaning out a box of old documents I had saved from my parents. On Oct 20, 2024 I opened an old letter dated Oct 20, 1874. I was struck by the beauty of the handwriting. Each letter was carefully formed with care and consistency. It was also very cool to realize that 150 years ago, someone had taken time to "pen" the letter and I was holding that moment in time. There is a reason the classics are considered timeless. When something old resonates with you because of the design & quality, then you know there is something special. What's more classic than the fountain pen ? There is something both nostalgic & "classy" about writing with one of these pens. Today, November 1, is National Fountain Pen Day. Looking for a signature gift this season? Perhaps pair the pen with a leather wrapped journal that seems from an earlier time, yet add the twist of Silipint stein or go "old school", with a glass tankard or glassware set . Then- wrap up in a cozy blanket to read the return letter from someone special.

Often expo's and festivals feel a little like adult trick or treating. There's the bag to collect all the goodies as you move along the convention floor or festival footprint. Today let's use the power of visual communication to quickly recap how a bag, and presentation to your packaging can add unexpected value for your brand. Full color graphics are not only captivating but offer a large content space on the surface of a bag. In our experienced & expert hands the designs can express many messages. Make Your Brand A Treat Beyond One Night! In fact, treat your brand to a fresh face, add more value to the surface of your bags. We always have strategies- in fact our blog is full of stories that add value. 1- Include QR code for more information 2- Share before & after 3- Tell a story 4- Offer a coupon or rebate 5- Reuse- repurpose- loyalty programs. Slide to the industry inspirations below: Then as us to create the right look for your next distribution- holidays and beyond! Remember the value in a bag- from single use to longer term use bags, ask us how to layer in value for your brand. Did you know we have several partners that are also woman-owned? You betcha! That's a bonus treat!!!

Green is one of those colors that has so many meanings- green represents money, luck and in golf refers to the grass & your ability to get the ball on the green in less strokes. Let's face it. The easier it is to put green in your pocket, the better. BAG more visibility for sponsors, with full color bags! Golf tools & gifts are a way to connect on a personal level with key relationships that enjoy the game. What are some uni-fit ways to give something that will be used & appreciated? Since 1952, the PGA has celebrated golf lovers day- which was October 4. What are some options that perhaps you have not considered for decoration? Towels- a quality towel here Unique club covers or bag covers, even name brands here Brand name umbrellas Never underestimate the value of brand names. Your partners are wearing & carrying brands such as STITCH and Greatness Wins . Those same brand enthusiast are wearing melan and SWANNIES GOLF . Besides stock options, custom offers so much more- full color & specialty packaging. Explore some options below- then set up a time in our graphic design studio to discuss this project with our team. Put our expertise & design knowledge to work for your brand. Building brand identity is about connection. Strong connection happens, when your products offer function in the right location and include captivating graphics. Let us help you read the green- trust our line of site.

What suits you? Personal preference vary, but the intent in gifting is the same- to provide the recipient a gift they will use and appreciate. Unexpected, fun and luxurious are a bonus to the recipient. What should be on your list this year? Food gifts are always perfect for a crowd. We have numerous options, including women-owned ! We've featured several of our partners in posts . Additionally, since our focus this month is on woman- owned partnerships we recap some options in this post. Drinkware is always popular, for example woman-owned SWIG has many colorful choices. Products for enjoying your favorite beverage off simple ways to slide in teas, or hot coco packs, plus pair with the illusion of your own signature brand . For travel- under the seat TSA friendly options - did you catch this recent video on our socials. Look how much this bag holds! Looking to elevate your holiday gifting- consider these name brands: Tumi , Ricardo and Skyway. Don't forget those re usable sustainable snack packs - i ncluding woman- owned food huggers . Airports often dry out our skin, so travels will appreciate woman- owned All Good products. Bundle up with woman-owned Storm Creek or Fossa , with integrated technology. Perhaps you prefer a classic like Levi's ! Demonstrate some heart this season and increase the value of your gift with partnerships that give back. Explore items that give back to these organizations listed below. Discover more ideas in this flip catalog full of ideas! When you are ready to plan, just ask. We love collaborating in our expansive showroom & sharing our insights on brands making a difference.

If you are one of our loyal partners, check- you already support a woman-owned business. There are many models that qualify as woman-owned. We are 51%- with Olivia as the majority owner, but that does make a business that is 100% woman-owned- more woman-owned; just a different model. October is National Women's Small Business Month, which is an opportunity to highlight how women are making an impact in their community. There are over 11 million women owning a small business in the United States! #WOMENSSMALLBUSINESSMONTH Our team of 5 includes 4 women! We try to support other women-owned businesses in several ways. 1- We buy from local partners! 2- We mentor local partners & brainstorm ways to grow their business. Olivia has several businesses she works with unofficially- not part of a program, just because she cares. 3- We partner with woman-owned businesses in our industry. 4- We offer internships- often for young women. 5- Olivia has been a speaker for several local women's networking groups & chamber's of commerce over the years. Throughout the month, organizations, businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs share resources and advice that support women-owned businesses. We hope you are signed up for the Apex Chamber's Women of Innovation panel. Locally owned small businesses bring revenue to communities. Small companies are more likely to support local organizations, schools and projects. They also provide a tremendous number of jobs, keeping local economies going and growing. Consider these facts: When you include women in the small business factor, you increase business diversity. Did you know that 50 percent of these small business owners are women of color? Supporting women in small businesses also inspires young women in powerful ways. When they see other women succeeding, they're motivated to succeed, too! In 2012, 44 percent of women small business owners also had children under the age of 18 in their household. That means, by supporting women-owned businesses, you're also supporting families. Businesses owned by women come in all varieties, too. They pursue business in STEM fields, creative and consumer domains, and service-oriented professions. There's really no limit to the opportunities available. Whether you own a small business or are considering starting one, there are several ways to participate all month long. Attend or host an event. For example: Women of Innovation - October 28 Be Your Own Shero in January. Be a mentor to other women. Share what you've learned. Offer insights & support that lead to confidence in others. One on one listening & sharing means a lot to an entrepreneur- we encourage you to back and watch our Pearls series in this recap post. Sharpen your skills. It's vital to keep learning and discovering. Learning & professional development is one of the reasons we were a sponsor for the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce, Women's Empowerment Conference , back in June of 2024. Join an organization. Network! Discover local, regional & national organizations that offer resources & support. Plug into your community, Olivia loves meeting people, as you can see from her profile. Discover other resources.  For example, the U.S. Small Business Administration includes an Office of Women's Business Ownership that serves not only as a guide, but advocates for women business owners, too. Support a Woman-Owned Small Business. Did you notice all month long both our blog posts & social media are featuring partnerships with women! Follow our Instagram F acebook and LinkedIn accounts Stop by for a pair of support local, woman-owned socks. Each pair is FREE. We'd love to catch up with you. What are some of your favorite ways to support woman-owned businesses?

Throughout the Pearls of Wisdom series, we embarked on a journey with remarkable women in business, delving deep into their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. This series served as a beacon of inspiration, offering invaluable insights into navigating the complex terrain of careers and life as a woman in the business world. Exploring Key Themes: Resilience in the Face of Challenges: The women featured in the series exemplified unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. Their stories reminded us that setbacks are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth and transformation. Mentorship and Support Networks: Behind every successful woman, there's often a network of mentors, sponsors, and allies who provide guidance and support. The series highlighted the profound impact of mentorship on personal and professional development. Continuous Learning and Adaptability: In a rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to learn, unlearn, and adapt is paramount. The women in the series shared their commitment to lifelong learning, whether through formal education, mentorship, or hands-on experience. Their stories underscored the importance of staying agile and embracing change as a pathway to success. Authentic Leadership: Authenticity emerged as a cornerstone of effective leadership, with our guests emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself while leading with integrity and empathy. To all the trailblazing women who graciously shared their time, wisdom, and insights in the Pearls of Wisdom series, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your courage, resilience, and passion have not only inspired us but have also paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in business. As we wrap up the Pearls of Wisdom series, let's take these lessons with us as we navigate our own paths. Together, let's continue to inspire and support one another, making strides towards a more inclusive and equitable world. If you missed a pearl, catch up here . Emily Freed Did you miss our videos on our socials? Catch up here. Julianne- on entrepreneurship, leadership and getting out of your comfort zones. Part 1 and part 2 Chris Hilt- in entrepreneurship, career transitions, volunteering & mentor and champions- part 1 , part 2 , part 3 Stephanie Lake and part 2 - discussing self- forgiveness and utilizing your creativity in business. Ann Rollins - discussing the power of hugs Emily Freed & her mom , Clare Freed- lessons learned & passed down through generations