Today is storytelling day and I consider myself a storyteller. I've been spinning tales for years. As a teenage babysitter I'd weave together tall tales for kids, adding new chapters of adventure each time we gathered. Stories give our mind both a release & a burst of creativity, plus provide an ability to take an unexpected journey. If I'm not captivated by the first page, I'll never read the book. Life is a lot like a book; if it's not captivating, I move on. Key characters in our life keep us focused, balanced and provide us the confidence to open new doors. The key on a wayfinding map is intended to mark iconic locations we'll need on our journey. Perhaps if we knew the iconic moments that are ahead in our life, we might not take the journey. Early pioneers couldn't rely on map, instead the put their faith in people and relied on their own grit. 18 years into business ownership, my journey has taught me that the key to opening the right doors lies inside yourself. It's what you glean from relationships & stories that fuels the resilience & energy necessary to forge ahead another day. I don't possess all the keys to unlock "success." However, through my entrepreneurial journey I've learned that pots of gold are rarely paved with money, each individual along your path layers in another pearl and happiness comes does come in waves . Through family research, I learned I'm related to Pocahontas! Myth, fact, fiction or the Disney version, she clearly was influenced by the individuals along her path. Paths that lead to destinations have compelling stories. Unlocking the doors to your future and being content with the journey simply means you've found the keys to what makes you feel whole. Over the past 18 years, your stories & my journey have carved a unique key. Each facet in my key adds dimension and makes each new door I encounter irresistible. Always open doors. Destinations lead to new outcomes, which create results. Stay optimistic, hope is the elixir of life! I bet you'll discover compelling stories to guide your path forward.

Today is Arbor Day; do you know the roots  of this story? As the pioneers moved into Nebraska Territory, the absence of trees made it hard to find shade, heat & build their homes, and have the necessary windbreaks they needed to keep soil in place. Then in 1872, J. Sterling Morton took his advocacy for trees to another level, proposing a tree planting day known as Arbor Day. It's estimated that 1 million trees were planted that day, which might be a stretch, but it's a fact that by 1920, forty-five 45 states and territories were celebrating Arbor Day. The Forest Stewardship Council  (FSC) has been around for about 25 years and is devoted to promoting sustainable forest management. Read more about these certifications in this post. In fact, our forests need trees to protect our ecosystem. R ead more about the impact FSC is making for the planet. We're committed to offering you more value for your brand, like partners that offer products with products with responsible construction; our ProudPath Collection has 4 pillars - including journals with FSC construction. Just for following the blog, you've earned a free set up fee on our FSC journals through the end of May! To keep celebrating trees- we've got another perk for our followers. 10% off this line of wooden coasters till the end of May. Besides the discount, this wooden coaster adds more value. Through a partnership with Evertreen, a tree is planted with every order! In this  previous post we featured a dimensional option. Perhaps you'd like to become a modern pioneer and stake your claim on a piece of the earth! In this collaboration, we used our resourcefulness to source a Canadian made product, which saved our client time & avoided tariffs, left them with no worries about delays in customs. Let's learn from the pioneers and advocate for planting trees to protect our planet for future generations.

Pickleball is here to stay! It serves up fun for players of all ages. We first started sharing about this rapidly growing trend in this 2022 post. April is Pickleball Month- so let's serve up some of our own fun for our partner enthusiasts. Offering client loyalty & reward gifts, as well as incentives for employees to get outside and stay fit are perfect reasons to embrace this quirky enough to work idea for marketing. After-all there is nothing quirky about a trend that's got people moving. Did you know FIA Topline Participation Report for 2025, 19.8 million people played pickleball in the US in 2024—a 45.8% increase from the 2023 numbers? Those are some impressive numbers. Over the past couple years our lines have expanded to bags, balls, paddles, accessories such as socks, sweatbands, caps, visors, and oh so much more. Discover some of the many options we offer here . We offer custom options for paddles and other accessories. We stock lines that include- Woman-owned brands like Recess Limited edition- like the Go to Pickleball Bag - the official bag of the Professional Pickleball Association! On Demand gift sets - as few as 1 unit 3 in 1 bands , Hide a Band and Retro bags ! If your following our socials, you'll see these April & May Shower specials: As a blog follower, you have access to all the specials at once! We design in house too- our friends at Peak Pickleball were recently at the Think Apex Awards! Make sure to note you saw these on our blog and comment on our socials for extra perks. We love rewarding our partners!

This recent industry post, p ublished April 1, 2025, by Elizabeth Wimbush, Director of Sustainability & Responsibility for PPAI caught my attention. Reposting her article here. Which sustainability credential should you aim to achieve? Let’s go to the tale of the tape. B Corporation certification and EcoVadis ratings are becoming more and more prevalent in our industry. Why are they so important? How do they differ? And which one is better for your business? Considering that we’re in the middle of WrestleMania season , get ready for a sustainability smackdown – minus the sweat and spandex. In the world of promotional products, sustainability credentials can feel like a game of alphabet soup. You’ve got ISO, LCA, GRI and, of course, today’s main contenders: B Corp and EcoVadis. Both are heavyweight champions in responsible business, but they serve different audiences and have different impacts. Let’s break it down, promo-style. In The Blue Corner, We Have B Corp: The End-User Darling! If B Corp were a promotional product, it’d be a cool recycled material tote bag with a bold statement: eye-catching, mission-driven and a clear declaration of values. (It would likely also have a digital product passport, but let’s save that for another article.) B Corp certification is like the gold star for companies that “walk the talk” when it comes to fair governance, as well as environmental and social responsibility. It’s rigorous, holistic and importantly, public-facing. Certified B Corporations meet high social and environmental standards , demonstrating a commitment to balancing profit with purpose. The certification process, overseen by the nonprofit B Lab, evaluates a company’s impact across governance, workers, community and environment, with a focus on continuous improvement. Companies need to recertify every three years, so it’s not a one-and-done process. Whether you choose B Corp to woo consumers or EcoVadis to land corporate contracts, both frameworks can help your business thrive.” Elizabeth Wimbush- Director of Sustainability & Responsibility, PPAI Why B Corp Matters Brand recognition: Customers (and employees) love it. If your brand carries the B Corp badge, you’re speaking directly to conscious consumers who vote with their dollars and attracting employees who are purpose-driven. Credibility boost: Achieving B Corp status signals a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, not just a greenwashing attempt. Competitive differentiation: In an industry where buyers increasingly ask about ethics and sustainability, B Corp helps you stand out from the swag pack, and being able to point to your company’s B Corp directory listing allows anyone to see for themselves how you stack up, including against your previous scores. Downside? The process isn’t for the faint of heart. The B Impact Assessment is comprehensive, time-consuming and requires ongoing improvement to maintain certification. It also doesn’t provide the level of supply-chain mapping that certain levels of EcoVadis subscription can get you, which is an increasingly important feature as demands for transparency increase. And In The Red Corner, EcoVadis: The B2B Power Player! If EcoVadis were a promotional product, it’d be a functional tech corporate gift – less flashy but deeply valuable in the right business circles. Think of it as the LinkedIn of sustainability credentials: It might not mean much to the general public, but in supply chain conversations, it’s a game-changer. EcoVadis is a sustainability ratings platform used by businesses to evaluate suppliers across environmental, social and ethical criteria. Companies undergo a structured assessment and receive a scorecard ranking their sustainability performance. Why EcoVadis Matters Supply chain credibility: Many large brands and corporations require their suppliers to have an EcoVadis rating. If you want to work with corporate giants, this may be a ticket in. Risk management: EcoVadis ratings help businesses track supplier sustainability performance, flagging potential risks and areas for improvement. Business opportunities: Companies with high EcoVadis scores often gain a competitive edge in B2B relationships, as many buyers prioritize working with highly rated suppliers. Downside? While incredibly valuable in B2B procurement, EcoVadis doesn’t carry much weight with everyday consumers. You won’t see an end buyer choosing between two promo companies based on their EcoVadis scores – it’s built for corporate procurement teams, not retail shoppers. Also, it’s not a certification, meaning it doesn’t provide a distinct marketing edge in the same way B Corp does. Choose Your Fighter The million-dollar question: If you’re in the promotional products industry, should you go for B Corp or EcoVadis? The answer depends on who you’re trying to impress. If your customers are end buyers, retail brands or the general public, B Corp is your best bet. It’s recognized, respected and an excellent marketing tool. If your customers are corporate buyers, procurement teams or supply chain managers, EcoVadis is your golden ticket. Many large companies require it to do business. How is this article relevant to your relationship with Promotional Partners? We know which of our partners are B Corp Certified and which are EcoVadis. When you have specific certifications you are seeking in partnership- we've got you covered.

April is associated with celebrating the earth, trees and gardening, as well as a focus on mental health & awareness. We need the oxygen, and plants create oxygen for us. Google it - if you need more facts! What do trees, plants, flower gardens and park spaces have to do with your mental health? There's a lot of scientific literature supporting the benefits of adding more "green space" to your life. Key reasons include: Reducing stress & anxiety Boosting your memory & creativity & intellect. Here are some simple kits to get your recipient started on a wellness journey. Each is ready to ship out to each person on your list. Both are perfect editions to wellness programs, new hires, volunteer gifts, new interns to the company or key business relationships in the community. Start planting outside with this growing kit Then head inside - perhaps taking up Bonsai tree care is the solution to a stronger mind! What's behind this ancient Japanese tradition? Take a look at the kit . Even watch this video  about how to get started and the benefits! After all of the planting, weeding & pruning- sit back & relax with this Tiki inspired wireless speaker ! Since this item can be ordered as few as 1 unit- it's perfect for employee or key referral acknowledgements or added to your on-demand store program. Looking for more ways to add a green thumb to growing your brand awareness & engagement? Set up a time to visit our showroom & design studio. Ideas like today's post are some of our quirky enough to work options! Be #orginal Follow these blog stories. Explore our website. Follow our socials- Instagram , Facebook & LinkedIn for some April shower garden perks and mental health product specials this month. You never know when a spring shower will occur, so make sure you're following us now!

Own space anywhere? Point the way to go- wayfinding! Share good news! Welcome home. Actually mark the herb garden Spread some joy with fun saying in the garden Hometown & Home team pride When you've got something to say, we make it simple! A few as 1 unit, these garden stakes have limitless possibilities for creatives like us! The imaginative properties of this type of promotion also fit for our quirky enough to work series of branding & marketing ideas. Task us with something fun. Then let's design in our showroom & studio space. Point the way or mark your spot with these beautiful decorative wood garden stakes. Custom profiled & engraved, they are available in three sizes to fit any need. Besides the creative fun, each order plants a tree in partnership with Evertreen , making this product a win for your brand and the environment. Know what else is a win? Blog followers & social followers have just scored a discount on their April or May order!

Finding the force behind your brand identity relies on the right touch. Developing a brand takes consistency & a partner that understands how to create connection. Promotional branding relies on the power of touch. We make sure the touch points behind your campaigns drive the green! The past few weeks have been busy preparing our clients for charity & business golf tournaments. Before they get to the links, it's important to determine how to keep them standing out among the teams. Our Top 10 Requests Include: Quality metal divot tools-ball markers; multi- functional Unique towels that will be kept & used Name brand golf balls Umbrellas Tents Club protectors Can Coolers- including magnetic ones for the cart Tees & tee holders Cart signs- hole signs- pin flags Caps! There will be a flurry of activity that day- stay ahead of the pack by shipping your top clients a box ahead of the event or as a follow up to remind them of the day. Not sure what to pack inside? Watch this video . Let us design a custom box kit to ship that fits your preferences & budget. Our showroom is full of new samples to compare. When you need inspiration & we are closed, check out our blog. There's over 40 posts about golf !

By weeding out distractions, focusing on what matters- your brand will grow to new heights! We love providing unexpected ways to engage your brand with new target markets. It's National Gardening Month - let's lend your brand a helping hand. Gloves for gardening provide long term use one- on- one time with nature. We have palm dipped, cut rated and suede work gloves to name a few styles. The options featured in this link , are one of our favorite NC partnerships. There's never a set up fee. We can decorate in full color. Plus you will be helping two businesses grow through our partnership. A vibrant economy relies on commerce. Commerce comes from relationships & connection. Just for reading this post, you've found a "four leaf clover", a discount on gloves till the end of May! Collaborations in our showroom & design studio provide you access to samples and our experienced certified team!

Sometimes we all need a break- Mittens decided to have some fun today. If you don't follow our socials, then "Mittens" will seem like a strange reference. Today is April Fool's Day, so we googled to find the back story. According to History.com the back story is a bit like a "kick me sign" from grade school. If you're up to pranks or a hoax today, you're in good company. Since 1563 when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar, individuals have been the "butt of jokes". Who was the target? Anyone out of the loop about the calendar switch. Remember no texting, internet or phones- so, news traveled only as quickly as encountering someone new to share this switch, Let's face it, in 1582- a calendar switch, did it really matter? Take a look at the history page if you want more of the backstory behind why April Fool's Day " is a thing". Do you like to have fun on this day each year?

PATH®’s mission is to inspire the world to #refillit. One PATH®, one iconic bottle, all powered by the human spirit to do better. Next time you have a conference, give out water in a re-useable container that's already filled- ready to use. Aluminum bottles keep liquids cold and cost a fraction of the double wall stainless tumblers. Their also durable and USA MADE! No Tariffs! What's in this bottle? Includes Ultra-Purified, Reverse Osmosis Filtered Water With Electrolytes Water Packaged In Refillable Single-Wall Aluminum Bottle 100% Recyclable Screw On, Spill-Resistant Lid Wide Mouth Opening You Can Refill With Your Favorite Beverages Water Is pH Level 7.5pH Designed For Cold Liquids Only Ingredients Printed On Side Meets FDA Requirements Hand Wash Recommended BPA-Free Made In USA Check Your Local Recycling Abilities Before Adding To Your Recycle Bin Looking for more ways to reuse, recycle and sustainability? Check out this section of our blog.

The older I get, the more I FEEL like a mom & pop business. The responsibility of operating a business is similar to parenting, requiring consistency, vision, care & passion. Parents guide & nurture, providing the tools necessary for kids to blaze their trail. Similarly, as a marketer, blazing the right path for your message to reach it's destination requires shared vision & purpose; plus trust. Like parenting, it's fun when we see your brand "shine"- resonating & making connections. Internally, teaming is an essential part of what makes our promotions "click". Our unity of purpose provides the visionary assurance to create successful outcomes. Being that today is National Mom & Pop Business Day- let's reflect on our journey. Keith and I never planned on being in business together. We were partners, parents and then entrepreneurs together. At each step we trusted each other. Keith wanted me to take the reins for the vision of our company- believing my creativity, drive and ingenuity would make us succeed. Success is not as much a number, as an ability to support life. Sure, we'd all love a huge pot of gold. Raising a family, insuring your kids are happy, secure & feed who become amazing adults is a pot of gold. Becoming the fabric of something larger than yourself requires inserting your heart into relationships. Entrepreneurship consumes immense time, so it should be spent in places that matter. Working from your heart produces a golden force. The heartbeat of your life will be paved with golden moments to remember long after you're no longer an entrepreneur. What are some of my tips for the future entrepreneur? Raise your hand to volunteer Don't shy away from leadership Challenge yourself Stay curious Adapt to change Don't let failures define you or keep you immobile Focus Innovate Authenticity means being yourself- not a copy of another Find your path, there is more than one way to get to a destination- carve your path. Create goals- take each step by step Trust your instincts, but listen to reason See the journey- visualize it in a way you can share with others Instill confidence in yourself & in others Image. Indulge in possibility, dream and embrace some ambiguity along the way Surrounding yourself with pursuits in your leisure that feed your soul. Invest in value of laughing at yourself. Laughter will keep you centered, resolute and help chase away doubt; leaving space for imagination, passion & possibility to thrive instead.  Love life, and the destination to your pot of gold will easily be found!

Meet Wellable- a new way to think about achieving the state of relaxation that re-charges us. Who doesn't need more ways to reduce stress & relax? As we head into April & May our partners will need ideas for Volunteer Appreciation, Teacher Appreciation and Nurses Week. Show some appreciation for individuals making an impact in the community with products that remove distractions & allow our mind & body to relax. Explore our new Wellable collection of products here . Sleep peaceful Enjoy therapeutic moments Keep your cool Make a plan Remove distractions Enjoy ambient light Technology has allowed products to have value added benefits. For example, this sleep mask. Sleep in peace with the Wellable™ Bluetooth Sleep Mask , designed to provide ultimate relaxation and comfort. Crafted from extra-soft nylon with added cushioning around the eyes, this mask blocks out light while ensuring a comfortable fit. The adjustable strap accommodates different head sizes, making it suitable for everyone. Hidden Bluetooth speakers on the sides of the headband connect to your phone or any Bluetooth-enabled device, allowing you to enjoy soothing sounds while you rest. In addition to streaming music or podcasts, the speakers feature ten built-in white noise options to help you drift into peaceful sleep. Built-in music controls let you adjust the track or sound without reaching for your connected device. The Wellable LED Mirror - add value with each purchase, you're contributing to environmental nonprofits through our partnership with 1% For The Planet.