If you’ve ever heard me talk about branded merch, you’ve probably heard me mention print-on-demand. But what exactly is it, and why do I advocate for it so passionately?

The Simple Definition of Print-on-Demand

Print-on-demand (POD) is exactly what it sounds like—your swag items are printed only when they are ordered. That means:

• No inventory to manage
• No minimum order sizes or quantities
• No bulk printing that may go to waste

How Does Print-on-Demand Work?

POD companies operate globally, all using the same blank inventory and advanced printing technology to bring your designs to life. Whether you want to print on T-shirts, mugs, tote bags, or even Apple Watch bands, POD makes it easy to create high-quality, customized products without the hassle of upfront costs or storage issues.

Why Print-on-Demand is a Game-Changer

With POD, your risk is essentially zero. You can:

• Test new designs without financial commitment
• Continuously update your merch collection with fresh ideas
• Reduce waste and promote sustainability by printing only what’s needed

Why Your Business Should Switch to Print-on-Demand

I constantly encourage businesses to move to on-demand printing because it’s simply better for:

✔️ Your company – No wasted inventory, lower upfront costs, and complete design flexibility.
✔️ The recipients of your merch – Higher quality, unique designs, and always fresh inventory.
✔️ The environment – Less overproduction, less waste, and a more sustainable approach to branded merchandise.

Did You Know About Print-on-Demand Before?

Many people have heard of print-on-demand, but few truly understand its benefits. Now that you do, are you ready to upgrade your branded merch strategy? Switching to POD isn’t just a smart business move—it’s the future of sustainable, effective branding.

Let’s chat about how print-on-demand can work for your brand!

Branded merchandise is one of the most underrated marketing tools available to businesses today. If you’re fixated on price breaks and bulk order discounts, you’re missing the bigger picture. Instead of treating swag as an expense, start seeing it as an investment in brand visibility and customer loyalty.

Why Cheap Swag is a Missed Opportunity

When you focus too much on cutting costs for branded merch, you risk sacrificing quality and appeal. Think about it—would your ideal customers proudly wear or use something that feels cheap, ill-fitting, or poorly designed? Probably not. That means your brand misses out on organic promotion, engagement, and long-term brand advocacy.

Instead, ask yourself this: How much are you willing to spend to have your ideal customer wearing your brand like a walking billboard?

The Power of Branded Merch as Marketing

If you’re paying influencers to promote your brand, consider this: your own customers can be an even more authentic and powerful advertising army for you. People trust recommendations from their friends more than traditional ads. High-quality, stylish branded merchandise turns your customers into brand ambassadors, effortlessly promoting your business in their everyday lives.

Word-of-Mouth Marketing at Its Best

Have you ever bought from a brand because a friend was rocking their merch? Maybe you discovered a new coffee shop because someone was carrying their logo-emblazoned tote bag or started following a band because you saw their T-shirt on a friend. This is organic, word-of-mouth marketing in action, and it’s one of the most powerful drivers of consumer behavior.

Invest in Merch That Converts

Instead of thinking about the lowest possible cost per unit, consider the return on investment (ROI) of premium, well-designed branded merch. High-quality, wearable, and useful products create lasting impressions and keep your brand top of mind.

Don’t miss out on this low-hanging fruit. Elevate your swag game, invest in quality, and turn your customers into lifelong advocates.

Have you ever discovered a brand through a friend’s merch? Drop your experience in the comments!

If you’ve ever ordered branded merch in bulk, it’s time to rethink your strategy. Here’s why:

The Bulk Printing Trap

Most companies—and bulk swag printers are no different—encourage you to buy more, spend more. They offer tempting price breaks for larger orders, but here’s the truth:

• 🚫 Tiny Price Breaks: The savings often aren’t enough to make a real difference to your bottom line.
• 🚫 Excess Inventory: You’re left with piles of merch you don’t need, gathering dust in closets or storage units.

The Better Solution: Print-on-Demand Branded Merch

Switching to a print-on-demand (POD) model changes the game:

• 🤔 No Price Breaks? No Problem: You only order what you need, when you need it.
• 🤔 Less Waste, Better ROI: Even if the per-item cost is higher, you’re not stuck with unused inventory.

Think about it: Is saving a few pennies per unit worth dealing with a closet full of unused mugs, umbrellas, or stress balls?

Why Print-on-Demand Is the Future of Swag

POD lets you:

• Stay agile with your inventory
• Offer exclusive or seasonal branded merch
• Minimize environmental waste
• Avoid bulk storage headaches

Make Smarter Merch Decisions

Next time you’re tempted by that “bulk order price break,” ask yourself: “Do I really need 500 branded water bottles right now?” Chances are, the answer is no.

So, what’s your experience with ordering branded swag in bulk? Have you switched to print-on-demand yet? We’d love to hear about it!

I’m beyond excited to share some big news—I’ve been featured in Leading Visibly’s “Women to Watch in 2025”! This recognition means the world to me, and it’s a moment to reflect on the journey that brought me here.

Avoiding the Flashy Promises

As an entrepreneur, I’ve always stayed skeptical of the flashy promises that flood our social media feeds:

• Super-fast growth
• Thousands of new followers overnight
• Instant revenue jumps

Let’s be real—most of these promises are downright “sus”. 😒 They often prey on our desire for instant results, ignoring the grit and determination it takes to build something truly meaningful.

The Real Secret: Consistent Hard Work

Early in my entrepreneurial journey, I realized that there are no shortcuts. The real secret? Consistent hard work. Day in, day out, showing up and doing the work—that’s what gets results. Hustle isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the foundation of sustainable growth.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

At my company, Go To Market – Custom Print-On-Demand Branded Merchandise, we focus on slow and steady growth. Why? Because it allows us to maintain our integrity and consistently deliver on our promises. It’s not about chasing overnight success—it’s about building something that lasts.

Let’s Hear From You

What’s your take? Do you think anyone promising fast growth can actually deliver real value? Or do you believe, like I do, that the path to success is paved with persistence and authenticity?

Grateful for the Community

A huge thank you to Dreamers & Doers® for this incredible feature. I’m honored to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community. Here’s to more growth, connection, and success in 2025 and beyond!

When Is the Best Time to Make Branded Merchandise?

I hear this question every week:

When is the best time to make branded merchandise?
(Translation: Is my company too small/early/what-have-you to make swag?)

Here’s the answer: If you’re worried you’re too small of a company to have branded merch, then now is the time to make merch.

That might sound backward, but let me explain.

Branded merchandise is much more than just t-shirts, mugs, or stickers with your logo. It’s a statement. It shows the world (and yourself) that you’re serious about your brand.

1. Branded merch is social proof.
   When people see your merch, they know your brand exists and is worth representing. Swag makes your business feel tangible and credible, even if you’re just starting.
2. Branded merch is visibility.
   Every piece of swag is a mobile billboard for your business. Whether it’s a tote bag spotted at a coffee shop or a branded water bottle in a Zoom meeting, your name gets noticed.

Companies with Branded Merch…

→ Are visible: Branded items act as walking advertisements.
→ Create content: Merch can double as props for photos, giveaways, or unboxing videos.
→ Have a team (or look like they have one): Matching swag fosters a sense of unity and professionalism.
→ Love their brand: Showing off your own merch sends a strong message of pride and commitment.
→ Are committed to their company: Investing in swag demonstrates you’re in it for the long haul.

The Starting Point for Brand Visibility

Merch and swag aren’t reserved for Fortune 500 companies. They’re a starting point for getting your name and brand out in the world. If you have a logo and some brand values, you’re ready to go. You don’t need a huge budget or an elaborate strategy—just the willingness to take the first step.

You’re Not Too Small

Whether you’re a solopreneur, a small business owner, or in the early stages of launching your startup, merch can amplify your efforts. It’s not about size—it’s about showing up.

Reflecting on Your First Swag Moment

Think back to when you first made swag for your company (or imagine how it might feel if you haven’t yet). Holding that physical product in your hands with your logo on it is a special moment. It’s a tangible reminder of how far you’ve come and a symbol of where you’re headed.

When did you first make swag for your company?

How did it feel when you got it?

We’d love to hear your story—and if you haven’t created branded merch yet, let’s make it happen!

There’s one thing that draws your customers, partners, and employees to your company:

Your vibe. Your company has a unique vibe—an energy, a personality, a feel. But do you know what yours is?

Your vibe shines through in everything you do:

• Marketing campaigns and messaging
• Sales strategies and presentations
• Customer service interactions
• Product design and quality
• Branded merchandise and swag choices

Brands That Nail Their Vibe with Branded Merch

Think about brands that excel in creating a consistent vibe across all touchpoints. Companies like:

• Zappos Family of Companies – Known for exceptional customer service and playful branding.
• Stanley 1913 – The iconic tumblers and rugged outdoor gear align perfectly with their adventurous vibe.
• Peloton Interactive – Their swag reflects motivation, community, and high performance.
• Liquid Death – Their bold, edgy branding comes through in everything from water cans to merch.

What do these brands have in common?

🔥 Their branded merchandise and swag match their vibe perfectly.

Why Your Swag Matters

Your branded swag isn’t just free stuff—it’s a powerful branding tool. Imagine handing out boring, uninspired swag. It’s like throwing a wet towel on your branding efforts. 😬

🔥🔥 Now picture next-level branded merchandise:

• Custom designs that reflect your brand’s unique personality.
• High-quality products people actually want to use.
• Creative swag that sparks conversations.

The right swag can transform your image, boost brand loyalty, and leave a lasting impression.

What’s Your Favorite Swag?

I shared some of my favorite big companies with amazing branded merch—now it’s your turn! Which brands do you think have mastered their vibe with swag? Drop your favorites below!

When it comes to company-branded merchandise, many businesses stick to the basics. Matching t-shirts for everyone, logos slapped on every surface, and bulk orders to save a few bucks might seem like the way to go. But is this really the best strategy? Let’s break it down.

How You Think You Should Do Swag for Your Company:

• Matching T-Shirts for Everyone
  Sure, it’s great to promote unity, but identical t-shirts don’t always work for everyone’s style or comfort preferences.
• Your Logo Centered on Everything
  While it’s important to showcase your brand, overly simplistic designs can come across as uninspired.
• Order in Large Quantities for the Best Price
  Bulk orders can lead to leftover inventory, wasted resources, and limited customization options.

How You Actually Should Do Swag for Your Company:

1. Offer Variety in Styles and Sizing

Everyone loves options. Providing a range of styles—like t-shirts, hoodies, and accessories—and inclusive sizing ensures your swag feels welcoming and wearable. Customization opportunities also make people feel valued.

2. Go Beyond Your Logo in Your Designs

Your logo is important, but it doesn’t have to dominate. Incorporate trendy designs, witty phrases, or mission-driven messaging to create merch that people genuinely want to wear and share. Think about how your brand values can shine through creative designs.

3. Switch to Print-on-Demand for Flexibility and Sustainability

With print-on-demand, you can:

• Offer more variety without overordering.
• Stay eco-friendly by reducing waste.
• Update designs quickly to match trends or seasonal needs.

Why Exciting Swag Is a Powerful Marketing Tool

Basic swag is limiting. It doesn’t inspire excitement or foster engagement. On the other hand, high-quality, thoughtfully designed swag becomes a tool for brand advocacy. When people love your merch, they’ll use it and show it off—spreading your brand’s message effortlessly.

Make People Want Your Swag

Don’t settle for uninspired. By offering variety, creativity, and sustainability, you can create swag that not only excites your team but also delights your customers. Invest in designs that align with your brand values and make people proud to wear or use your merchandise.

Remember: Great swag isn’t just a product—it’s a statement.

Here’s a Public Service Announcement for all the merch enthusiasts out there:

• If you’re not changing up your swag…
• Your team and fans already have everything.
• There’s nothing new to excite them.

Result? You’re disappointing your people.

But here’s the good news: Branded merchandise and swag is an incredible opportunity to connect with your audience.

Would you really pass up the chance to strengthen relationships with your team, fans, and customers? If you’re ready to reinvigorate your approach to swag, keep reading.

How to Keep Your Branded Merchandise Fresh

If your branded swag feels stale, it’s time for a revamp. Here’s what you should do:

1. Change Up Your Swag at Least Once a Year

Refreshing your merchandise annually ensures your offerings stay relevant and exciting. Whether it’s new designs, updated colors, or entirely different products, an annual update keeps people engaged.

2. Stay on Top of Fashion Trends

Trendy swag is irresistible. Think beyond the basics and incorporate modern, stylish elements that resonate with your audience. Whether it’s eco-friendly materials, bold patterns, or functional tech accessories, following trends shows that your brand is forward-thinking.

3. Gift Swag Regularly

Don’t save your swag for special occasions. Offering gifts throughout the year strengthens the connection between your brand and your people. It’s a simple way to show appreciation and foster loyalty.

The Power of Swag in Relationship Building

At its core, swag isn’t just about free stuff; it’s about building relationships and creating meaningful connections. Your branded merchandise is a reflection of your company’s personality. When done right, it can:

• Reinforce brand loyalty.
• Make your team feel valued.
• Spark excitement among your audience.

Reward your people with thoughtful, high-quality swag — you won’t regret it.

Does this resonate with you? If so, it’s time to take action. Elevate your swag game, keep it fresh, and watch the positive impact it has on your brand relationships.

Remember, branded merchandise is more than just a giveaway; it’s a bridge between your brand and your people. Make it count!

One of my favorite parts of working in the branded merchandise world is seeing the wild, creative merch that businesses come up with. So, when Devin Lee told me about DrSnip® The Vasectomy Clinic™ and their engraved pocket knife swag for patients, I couldn’t stop laughing. (Yes, I’m talking about a real, post-vasectomy gift. 🤣⚰️)

But here’s the thing—business swag is WAY more powerful than we give it credit for.

Turning the Taboo Into a Talking Point

Well-designed swag has a unique ability to transform something potentially awkward or even embarrassing into a badge of pride. Think about it:

• Pepto Bismol isn’t exactly glamorous, but with the right touch, they could turn their product into a lighthearted conversation starter.
• BlueChew (a discreet way to get Viagra or Cialis) uses humor and confidence in their branding, making an “embarrassing” product approachable.
• And then there’s DrSnip®, turning a personal decision like a vasectomy into an experience you might actually want to talk about.

This same principle works for businesses that offer more “everyday” services that people might not feel like advertising, such as:

• Going to therapy
• Working with a business coach
• Getting financial advice
• Hiring a virtual assistant to manage your social media

The Transformative Power of Branded Merch

Branded merchandise and swag can change the way people think and talk about your product or service. It’s not just about slapping your logo on a water bottle or tote bag. When done well, swag becomes a conversation piece, a representation of your brand’s values, and even a source of pride for your clients.

For example, imagine a financial services firm giving away sleek, high-quality journals embossed with the phrase: “Building Wealth, One Page at a Time.” Or a therapist offering calming tea kits with the tagline: “Pause. Reflect. Heal.” These aren’t just items; they’re extensions of your brand’s story and message.

What Does Your Swag Say About You?

If a vasectomy clinic can turn an intimate medical procedure into an opportunity for memorable merch, imagine what you can do for your business. Swag isn’t just for tech companies or big brands—it’s for anyone who wants to:

• Make their service more memorable
• Shift perceptions about their industry
• Build stronger connections with their audience

Join the Swag Revolution

Whether you’re helping clients achieve their goals, improve their well-being, or manage their day-to-day tasks, branded merchandise can help your business stand out. So, what do you think? Could “embarrassing” products or services become swag-worthy moments for your brand?

Let’s get creative—because if a vasectomy clinic can rock engraved pocket knives, so can you.

When it comes to branded merchandise and swag, many businesses are unknowingly judging their choices by the wrong metric. They’re asking: Is it useful?

But the question they should be asking is: Does it improve the relationship between my brand and my team or customers?

The Problem with Focusing on Usefulness

It’s easy to understand why so many people get stuck on the “useful” factor. Here’s why:

1. Useful items are familiar. Pens, notepads, and flashlights are items we all use regularly, so they feel like a safe choice.
2. Avoiding waste is a priority. Nobody wants their branded merch to end up in the trash, and useful items seem like an anti-trash solution.
3. They’re practical. People are less likely to toss something they can use, which makes “useful” items seem like a good investment.

While these points make sense, they’re missing a critical piece of the puzzle: Branded merchandise is not about utility. It’s about connection.

Why Connection Matters More Than Usefulness

Pens and other generic items are fine, but they’re not memorable. They don’t differentiate your brand or deepen your relationship with your audience.

Here’s the truth:

Anyone can make a pen. Only your brand can create a meaningful connection with your customers and team.

Branded merchandise should:

• Reflect your brand’s personality.
• Make your audience feel seen and valued.
• Stand out with creative, thoughtful designs.

When you choose items based solely on usefulness, you’re missing an opportunity to strengthen your brand’s identity and build lasting relationships.

How to Create Impactful Branded Merchandise

Want to avoid the “useful but forgettable” trap? Here’s how to make your branded swag truly special:

1. Think about your audience. What resonates with them? What will make them feel excited to engage with your brand?
2. Focus on creativity. A bold, unique design or unexpected item can leave a lasting impression.
3. Prioritize connection. Choose merchandise that deepens relationships and makes your audience feel part of something bigger.

If a pen aligns with these goals, great! But don’t default to “usefulness” as the primary metric. Instead, make decisions that build relationships and highlight what makes your brand unique.

Let’s Discuss

What do you think? How important is “usefulness” when choosing branded merchandise? Have you found creative ways to connect with your audience through swag? Let us know in the comments!