Bags consistently deliver on popularity, functionality with long term value for use & impressions- which makes them a valuable marketing medium. Due to the popularity of bags, we keep abundant samples in the showroom to compare. A visit to the showroom is always a step in the process we suggest so you can compare the look & feel in person- beyond the screen. It's also less overwhelming seeing all those choices in person rather than flipping through pages of products on a website. Today let's break down some common questions: What's trending? Versatility. Simplicity and minimalism is on the rise, so a bag that is versatile is more valuable than ever. These bags make your transitions from work to play and everything in between seamless. Sport & Outdoor. Participation in outdoor sports and activities continues to rise. Having the right bag for your outdoor adventures is a must! Quiet Luxury . Defined by quality, timeless styles and elevating materials to give a new level of sophistication to even the most basic styles making them an essential part of your wardrobe. On The Go. Convenience is key when you're always on the go, which makes a cross body, sling or waist pack a part of your essential daily carry. Color. The desire for more color options lends itself to self-expression, from mood to day-to-day style. We can help compare the options. Sustainability . Whether it's rPET, Repreve or GOTS cotton, we help you identify the right style in materials you can feel good about purchasing. Retail Brands. The reassurance of performance, quality, and a brand culture is why retail brands are a continuous trend. Consumers lean towards brands they know and love. Why bag offer more value for your investment: Popular ways to decorate: Color Print Silkscreen Ink is applied directly to the item through a customized screen. Versatile technique for numerous materials Ideal for smooth surfaces Economical way to gain high visibility Digital Transfer Artwork is digitally printed directly to a transfer film, then applied to the product. Full color detailed prints Superior clarity and precision in comparison to silkscreen Versatility to create unique graphics Embroidery A classic decorating technique created by stitching the artwork directly into the product fabric. Professional and sophisticated style Durability for multiple wears and washes Over 300 Isacord thread colors available Ideal for premium gifts Deboss Logo is stamped into the surface using a heated custom metal die. Premium high-end look and feel Unique 3D appearance Subtle tone-on-tone look A more eco-friendly decorating technique What style is right for your project & recipient? Consider the size, use and materials. Most of the bags featured in this post have eco- construction and give back to environmental efforts on a global level, which means you can feel good about bagging more value for your investment. If the terminology is confusing here are some key terms to know: What types of materials are popular? Ready to bag more value for your brand? Let's set up a time to compare options. One of our favorites? This new puffer collection.

It's been said that all work and no play makes Jack or Jill dull. Perhaps the center of your life should revolve around a place that has ways to engage your mind & body year round. A community center is the perfect place to invest more into your life. Since there is so much activity that happens in & out of the footprint of a community center, visitors are bound to get thirsty. What type of drinkware will keep them hydrated and happy? There are a lot of quality options, so today let's break down some common questions around drinkware. Knowing your preferences help in the selection process and of course, budget is always a factor. Educating you about options is one way we are a different type of partner. Which Type of Insulation? Which Materials- Construction Best Fit Your Project? Popular options for drinkware include these options below. Aluminum A lightweight alternative to stainless steel; the look and feel of a metal vessel without the premium cost and heftiness of steel. This material is more widely accepted in recycling programs. Ask about USA Made options! Acrylic Usually referred to as #7 AS, Acrylic is a rigid plastic material. Acrylic is used on tumblers and bottles, as well as for lids and outer straws. Ceramic Stoneware molded and fired in a kiln, perfect for hot beverages. Shipping usually requires more packing material to prevent this fragile material from breaking. Glass Chemically inert and recyclable, glass is a great eco option. The disadvantage is its fragility, making it one of the least versatile drinkware materials. Ask about USA Made options! Stainless Steel 18/8 Also known as 304 grade, 18/8 steel is the most widely used form of food-grade steel. 18/8 represents the composition: 18% chromium and 8% nickel. Tritan Copolyester plastic that’s manufactured by Eastman Chemical Company. Made without any BPA, Tritan is strong, clear, and resistant to heat and chemical degradation. It’s also impact-resistant, so products can be used without fear of shattering. Tritan Renew Tritan Renew is the same tough, safe, BPA-free material as Tritan — but revitalized thanks to Eastman’s innovative recycling technologies, containing up to 50% certified recycled content. Retail Brands If you have a favorite, ask- many consumers lean towards brands they know and love. It is the reassurance of performance, features, and a brand culture they associate with that make those brands a fit for your brand alignment. Do you have a lid preference? Terminology commonly used: Decoration Methods: When it comes to decoration- we have several popular methods including silkscreen, laser, and digital. A growing request is wrap around color, some with a 3D feel. Using this type of surface, we can have some fun. Our design team is able to craft amazing, original graphics for your project. Recently the Town of Fuquay-Varina opened a new community center. Using the full surface of the water bottle attendees received a water bottle they could use in each way they engage with this new space. The icons on the surface serve as a reminder and encouragement to try new programs or activities to keep them in shape. You know, become - a dash more! Watch this video to see the entire 360 surface of the bottle.

When it's been raining as much as it has lately- you want protection from the WET! Being cold & wet, well, it's an awful feeling. Before you step outside you'll need the proper gear. This weather tamer is a perfect gift for students, shoppers and commuters walking from the parking garage, shuttle bus or their ride share. Gifts are meant to be something the recipient will appreciate. When it's raining buckets- your recipient will love this umbrella. What makes this product great? The 42" Folding Auto Open Umbrella is the perfect combination of durability, convenience, and sustainability. Built with a sturdy metal and fiberglass frame This umbrella is wind rated up to 55 mph Features an FSC®-certified wooden handle with an ABS button for easy auto-open functionality. Designed for travel, it folds down to just 12" and includes a matching rPET storage sleeve. The strong spring mechanism ensures quick and reliable opening, even in strong winds, while the integrated handle strap provides comfortable carrying. One percent of this eco-product purchase will be donated to environmental non-profits through a partnership with 1% for the planet. When you consider the long term use of an umbrella- this type of product used in a campaign for consumer loyalty or retaining employees is smart. Making an umbrella a low cost option when you consider this statistic: Sometimes it's the simple things in life that make our day "brighter"- sorry, had to go there with all the gray we've had lately in the forecast. Looking for more rain tamers? Search our blog using the word rain and you will find 11 pages of content to read. Shower yourself with knowledge.

An ability to charge all your devices quickly is a must! You've LOVE this charger. This product of the week offers a solution: 10,000 mAh/36Wh rechargeable lithium polymer battery Power Delivery (PD) technology at 20W lightning-fast charging Includes a detachable AC adapter with Type-C output Supports Apple and Samsung fast charging, Qualcomm Quick Charge, and USB-C Power Delivery for high-speed charging to virtually any Type-C device UL Listed means this product meets nationally recognized safety standards Power banks are permitted in carry-on luggage only and at the discretion of TSA agents. Check it out here. The multiple ports allows you to charge several devices at one time or use as a hub.

Raising the bar, might require you go behind the bar. Confused? Let's break down this story. Viski is a premium line of glassware inspired by mixologist and their craft. As a brand, Viski is a passion project of home mixologists started their journey of product development in 2012 while looking for glassware & tools to stock their home bars. The founders of this brand were disappointment that most products were too basic or too focused on current fashion trends to function to their expectations. They set out to make refined, functional bar tools and glassware for home mixology enthusiasts. What pairs well with Visky ? Twine Living , another premium line focused on helping you indulge your creative side at home. From beautiful charcuterie boards to a unique wine tasting event, this brand has the pieces to make your vision an elegant experience using high-end materials like rose quartz, acacia wood, crystal and real marble. Their line is functional, durable and beautiful. Do you already know these lines?

Every business traveler needs a go bag- full of the essentials to keep them moving quickly from point A to B. In fact, the definition of essentials is absolutely necessary. A desk top kit that fits into your travel bag or your commuter bag, that then allows you to set up and work anywhere- that is essential. Life moves quick, your ability be nimble and responsive to challenges at work- also essential. Take a look at this Desktop Essentials Travel Kit , which has everything you need to create a fully functional workspace, wherever you land. The compact kit contains a full-sized, folding keyboard, a mouse, an HDMI adapter, charging cables, international plug adapters, and more. It all fits in a compact, sturdy case that you can grab at a moment’s notice when it’s time to go. Take a look inside: Inside - a Portable, Full Desktop Setup- check out this video of the inside. Full-sized Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse Connect to a Monitor with the HDMI Adapter Connect with USB-C Charging Cable Charge Wirelessly Charge While You Drive Connect to International Outlets This type of gift will be appreciated & used. What features do you think you'd use the most?

Life's too short to be boring. Imagine the impact of this type of gift. Easily add this to a company store incentive program for top performers to select, use as a referral gift or reward long time loyalty; partnerships matter. This would even be a great gift in an office or warehouse setting for the group to enjoy. Purchase as few as 1 unit No set up fee Full color decoration Break away from a boring listening experience! This Breakaway speaker, offers true stereo sound. Simply twist the left and right side to separate one speaker into two. Fill even large room with high-quality surround sound. A silicone sleeve makes it easy to twist back together. Compact enough to take wherever you go. Watch this quick video, to see how it works and then review the product here. Set up a time in our showroom & design studio to collaborate about how to use this type of product to elevate your brand!

We love products that embrace creativity. Cooking is one of those moments that can be a task or a labor of love. For those that love to cook- it's more about the unlimited possibilities for combining ingredients & flavor profiles that delight those around your table. When you gather with friends and family, quality cooking tools & accessories make "tasks" easier. In fact, with Blackstone products, you'll love the performance, that way you can work on the love. Press on, to enjoy cooking outside. Since 2008 the goal of this brand has been to combine technology & innovation, bringing together family & friends through a love of grilling. Outdoor cooking is a global passion. Blackstone simply worked hard to perfect superior quality and keep you enjoying the outdoors! Not only can each of these products be branded with your logo, each can be purchased with as few as 1 unit! This brand is yet another way to show gratitude to employees, key relationships or acknowledge a teammates work anniversary, birthday or welcoming a new family member. Ask us to design a program that fits your needs. After-all, we also love innovation and unlimited possibilities. Do you have a favorite? Nope- not on our website. Not all of our partnerships or brand are listed on the site!

Knowing what someone else wants, that's golden when creating a meaningful consumer experience. You might say, the clarity of vision creates the feeling that brand "get's you" in a way that adds more spice in your life! The Spice Girls sang- "I'll Tell "Ya What I Want, What I Really Really Want"   which is now stuck in your head. Right? How do you best identify consumer preferences? Trend watching. Reading your monthly newsletters for tips & strategies. Continue reading our blog! The posts over the past 30 days introduced you to brands consumers " really, really, want". Consumer preferences have been driving product demand for years. If a product is popular in retail, our industry will create one that is super similar. However, consumers are asking more frequently for the actual brand. What's the driver behind that trend? According to a 2023 article by Forbes there are "elements of influence" that guide the preferences of the modern consumer. In no order- they identified the 9 below. Innovation – brands being “perceived as smart, creative, leading the field” Trust – brands that “people feel they can count on” Performance – brands “associated with excellence and specialist expertise” Status – brands that “say something” - aka stand for something greater Purpose – brands that “consumers perceive as being driven by a mission”- giving back Authenticity – brands that “feel to consumers like the real deal” Convenience – brands that “simply make life easier” Fun – brands that “bring a smile to peoples’ faces” Contemporary – highly relevant brands on the “cutting edge" As we embark on our 18th year in business, we strive to add each of these 9 values into our relationship. As your brand partner, we want to elevate & uplift you, your message and make you what everyone really, really wants! We hope you enjoyed our 30 day brand challenge and encourage you to open your February newsletter for a bonus edition!

The secret to increasing your brand activity lies in your own hand! According to an article by Scientific America in 2024, your hand & brain work better together to accomplish tasks. Are you missing your own super power to imagination & memory by not writing things down? Here are 4 key considerations to pulled from the article: Apparently there is a connection between your visual & cognitive processing when you add in sensory motor skills; writing. Handwriting requires more brain activity than typing! Our brain processes letter identification differently when we write; which is especially important as kids learn to read & write. Using digital formats for notes & photos is a form of cognitive off loading, which means you are not engaging your brain to it's full capacity! When your ready to take notes, write a letter or spend time " journaling " the RIGHT, writing instrument matters. How the instrument feels in your hand and how ink glides across the page are important factors to consider. Our showroom is the perfect place to explore those options! Did you know that we offer these brand names? Paper Mate Waterman Sharpie Parker Plus many more name brands and quality writing instruments.

Love stories are personal moments. Our website states that branding is personal . It's about you. For a business, non-profit or education partner- what you say and what you do reflects on your brand. In researching new brand stories for January, we came across this product. The American Eagle is a symbol of freedom and America, so we found it surprising that this signed award from Italian artist, Pino Signoretto is a leading figure in Murano, Italy is pitched as American Heritage, but it's not USA Made. It is cool that he trained and worked with several great masters and well-known artists such as Dali and Pomodoro and his work continues today through the studio he started. It's also a great connection to the bald eagle that as a portraitist, nature lover, and figurative artist. He has worked in many materials, but remains renowned for his commitment to glass; deeming it “the love of my life.” Awards & recognition pieces are meant to celebrate individuals who love what they do- going above & beyond. Partnerships that work, that is a love story. We seek out partnerships that are visually exciting. It's a bonus when that partner offers affordable, custom crafted awards that are USA Made! For example, this eagle award can be crafted in an array of stone colors, plus adding in your own specific company colors. It's only $33.25 each for 25 units, plus set up and shipping. However, if you're ready to order an award over $5K- we'd LOVE to charge your card now!

When you need gear that works & plays as hard as you do- these are brands to trust! In business, the assets are your people and the right tools to add protection on the job site & beyond. Today let's explore a few brands that add value at work or play. Nite Ize Runoff protection - This versatile bag can be worn on the hip or as a cross body tote. T he RunOff Waterproof Hip Pack is submersible, sand-proof, and touchscreen-friendly. Expertly designed to hold most phones and allows you to text and use apps from the water with its transparent front window. Can be worn comfortably around the hip or converted to a cross-body bag and features a quick-release buckle for easy clipping and unclipping. Carhartt Rain Defende r, sun defender and storm defender gear- are meant for extreme water, sun and wind protection. Product construction that breathes, yet provides you protection from the elements. When you pack up for overnight stays at the job sight, Rains brand backpacks and duffels will keep your gear dry. Dirty hand jobs require serious tools- not just any type of gloves will provide protection. In industries such as agriculture, food & beverage, mechanical, construction and trucking individuals work constantly with their hands. Each of these industries have specific tasks that without the right protection will cause cuts, burns, and even frost bite. Advances in technology often require using touch screen devices, making touch screen glove protection a valuable option. Take a look at this comprehensive collection of options here. Whatever your challenge, we have solutions!