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!

As the “always eating” season approaches, let’s talk about something that might ruffle some feathers: corporate food gifts. 🎁🍫 I get it—food gifts seem like an easy way to spread cheer, but they often miss the mark, and here’s why.

1️⃣ Allergies Make Food Gifts Risky

As the mom of a formerly very-allergic kid, let me tell you: some foods can be downright terrifying to have in your home. Imagine the stress of wondering if a well-meaning corporate cookie box might send your child to the ER. 🚑

If you’ve never had to think about allergies, consider this: for some families, even cross-contamination can be dangerous. Sending out food gifts without knowing your recipients’ dietary restrictions is a gamble—and not one you want to take as a company.

2️⃣ Food Gifts Aren’t Always Welcome

Let’s face it: not everyone is excited about receiving food, even if it’s gourmet or thoughtfully curated.

As someone who grew up in the “nothing tastes as good as skinny feels” era (🤮), I know firsthand that food gifts can be fraught with emotional baggage. Whether someone is navigating dietary changes, avoiding certain foods, or just doesn’t like chocolate (yes, these people exist!), food gifts can feel more like a burden than a blessing.

Some cringe-worthy examples:

• 🍪 Cookies sent to a gluten-free household
• 🍷 Wine gifted to a sober individual
• 🎂 Cake to someone focused on eating healthier
• 🍫 Chocolate for someone who doesn’t like it

It’s not just about allergies or diets—it’s about thoughtfulness. A corporate gift should make the recipient feel valued, not excluded.

3️⃣ Food Gifts Aren’t Scalable or Personal

In a corporate setting, you’re often giving gifts to tens, hundreds, or even thousands of people. It’s nearly impossible to account for everyone’s preferences and dietary needs. A one-size-fits-all food gift risks alienating a significant portion of your audience.

What Should You Give Instead of Food Gifts?

So if food gifts are off the table, what’s the alternative? This is where branded merchandise and custom swag truly shine. 🛍️✨

Unlike food, branded merchandise is:

• Inclusive: Everyone can use a high-quality tumbler, notebook, or tote bag.
• Durable: Food is gone in a bite; merch sticks around and keeps your brand top-of-mind.
• Customizable: You can create something meaningful and unique to your brand that your recipients will genuinely appreciate.

Examples of awesome corporate gifts:

• Personalized drinkware: Think insulated tumblers or water bottles.
• Apparel: Soft, comfy tees or stylish hats.
• Office-friendly items: Branded journals, pens, or desk accessories.
• Seasonal swag: Cozy blankets or fun holiday-themed merch.

Why Branded Merchandise Beats Food Gifts Every Time

Branded swag isn’t just a gift—it’s a tangible reminder of your brand. When done right, it reflects your company’s values and shows you’ve thought about what will resonate with your audience. It’s the perfect way to make your company stand out during the holiday season (or any time of year).

Need Help Choosing the Right Swag?

If you’re ready to ditch the cookie tins and gift something truly impactful, let’s chat! 🛠️

What do you think—are corporate food gifts a hard pass for you, too? Let me know in the comments! 👇

When it comes to branded merchandise and swag, Duolingo is absolutely nailing it. Known for gamifying language learning, Duolingo has created a cult-like following among its users (𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘰, 𝘪𝘭 𝘮𝘪𝘰 𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘤𝘰!). Not only is it a daily ritual in my household, but their holiday swag store has me saying, “Now this is how you do branded merch!”

Let’s break down why their approach to merch is genius and what you can learn to level up your company’s branded merchandise strategy.

Why Duolingo’s Swag Stands Out

Duolingo’s characters and quirky personality are central to the brand’s identity. From the relentless green owl to the comical in-app moments, their swag reflects their unique vibe perfectly. The merch shop is:

🦉 A Little Creepy, A Lot Weird
From over-the-top designs to ironic sticker packs (looking at you, Ennui Pack 🙄), their products embrace the app’s humor and eccentricity.

🦉 Over-the-Top Silly
Think goofy mugs and tees that make language learning a joy. The shop leans into the same whimsy that keeps users hooked on the app.

🦉 Very IYKYK (If You Know, You Know)
Their merch speaks directly to their superfans, creating a sense of exclusivity. The in-jokes resonate with users who have spent hours with their quirky characters.

🦉 A Love Letter to Their Fans
The swag is a celebration of their community. It feels personal, like a thank-you to everyone who loves the app as much as they do.

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The Big Lesson: Match Your Merch to Your Brand’s Values

Here’s the takeaway: Your branded merchandise should align seamlessly with your company’s vibe and values.

• Boring merch ➡️ Boring company
• Exciting merch ➡️ Exciting company

Duolingo’s swag tells the world they’re fun, engaging, and totally in touch with their users. Their merch isn’t just something you buy — it’s an extension of their brand’s personality.

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What Is Your Swag Saying About You?

Take a hard look at your company’s branded merchandise. Does it reflect your business’s energy and mission? Whether you’re a corporate powerhouse or a quirky startup, your merch is a chance to showcase who you are.

Actionable Tips for Better Branded Merch:

1. Know Your Audience: Design swag that resonates with your community, just like Duolingo caters to its superfans.
2. Embrace Your Vibe: Whether it’s professional, bold, or playful, ensure your merch feels like you.
3. Go Beyond the Logo: Incorporate elements that tell a story about your brand or make fans feel part of an exclusive club.

Pro Tip: Investing in creative, high-quality branded merchandise is one of the smartest ways to strengthen your brand’s identity and grow your fanbase. Let Duolingo’s success be your inspiration!

Need help creating swag that truly represents your brand? Let’s make it happen!

When it comes to branded merchandise and swag, there’s one super simple tip that can make a big difference for anyone planning to show off their branding on video calls: keep your design “above the fold.”

Why “Above the Fold” Matters for Branded Swag on Video Calls

Think about it—on Zoom calls, Instagram Lives, podcast recordings, and all those virtual meetings, what people see on screen is limited to the upper part of your outfit. If your branded message is too low, it won’t be visible to your audience. That’s why I print my branded merch designs on the upper third of my chest. When I’m on camera, my brand is clear, visible, and front-and-center. This is the secret to making sure your message lands, even when you’re seated.

The “Business on Top” Rule for Swag

This “above-the-fold” rule for branded merch is like the 2020 “business on top, PJs on the bottom” trend—but with a twist. Instead of worrying about pants, focus on keeping your branding at eye level. If you want to make an impression, aim for the top third of your apparel!

I recently received this hoodie (check out the pic!) and I’m absolutely in love with it. 😍 But here’s the problem: the word “SWAG” is on the upper chest, but “BOSS” is lower down. So when I’m seated, only part of the message is visible. Lesson learned—if I want to feel like a boss on video calls, the design needs to sit higher.

Takeaway for Your Branded Merch

If you’re creating branded apparel to wear on camera, design with the “above-the-fold” principle in mind. Make sure your logo, tagline, or key message is in the upper third of the shirt or hoodie. This way, you’ll look great, and your brand will be clearly seen on every call! Have you ever made this mistake? What do you think of this new hoodie?

What if you could solve a key marketing challenge in your business for just $20? That’s right—one of the most effective and affordable ways to elevate brand awareness is through branded merchandise and swag. Let’s dive into how wearing your brand can maximize your visibility and leave a lasting impact on clients and customers.

Are You Maximizing Your Brand’s Exposure?

You’re already hustling hard to build your brand—whether in meetings, on social media, or during client calls. But you may be missing one of the simplest, most impactful ways to communicate your brand message: wearing your brand.

If you’re not showing up to meetings, events, and social platforms in branded gear, you’re overlooking a powerful opportunity to:

• Clarify your brand values
• Reinforce your brand identity
• Connect your personal presence to your brand
• Differentiate yourself from competitors

How Branded Merchandise Elevates Brand Awareness

For around $20, branded merchandise like T-shirts, mugs, hats, or water bottles can help you make a consistent statement about your brand. Here’s why branded swag can be a game-changer for your visibility:

1. Reinforces Brand Recognition

Wearing branded merchandise reminds others of your brand each time they see you, reinforcing recognition. Over time, your logo, colors, and slogans become associated with your face and reputation, creating a seamless identity that’s hard to forget.

2. Connects You to Your Audience

Whether you’re in a meeting, on a video call, or out networking, branded gear subtly communicates your commitment to your business. Wearing your brand says, “I’m here, and I’m serious about what I represent.” It makes your brand approachable and relatable.

3. Affordable Marketing Tool

Compared to other marketing strategies, branded merchandise is cost-effective. For around $20, you get an item that can be used repeatedly, increasing your brand’s visibility with each wear or use. It’s marketing that keeps on giving!

4. Enhances Social Media Presence

In an age where visuals matter, wearing branded merchandise on social media boosts brand presence. Every photo, video, or story featuring your logo, slogan, or brand colors becomes a subtle yet powerful advertisement, reinforcing your brand message to followers.

Top Branded Merchandise Items to Wear for Maximum Impact

Here are a few affordable branded items that can effortlessly boost your visibility:

• Branded T-Shirt – Great for casual meetings and social media posts
• Branded Hat – A simple, effective way to display your logo
• Branded Sweatshirt, Hoodie, or Pullover – Perfect for fall and winter, keeping you warm and your brand visible
• Branded Coffee Mug – Ideal for virtual meetings, this item keeps your brand front and center
• Branded Water Bottle – Perfect for a subtle, everyday reminder of your brand

These small investments have the potential to make a big impact on how your brand is perceived, helping you build brand loyalty without breaking the bank.

Ready to Elevate Your Brand with Swag?

If you’re ready to make branded merchandise part of your marketing strategy, I can help you get started with ideas and tips on sourcing affordable, high-quality swag. Just reach out, and let’s explore the best options for your brand!

Your Turn: What Do You Think About Branded Merchandise?

When someone shows up to a meeting or event wearing their brand, how does it affect you? Do you find it helpful, memorable, or inspiring? Share your thoughts below, and let’s chat about how branded merchandise could work for you!

McDonald’s is making headlines, but the real story isn’t just about their latest menu updates or viral marketing stunts. This time, McDonald’s Sweden has launched an inventive campaign that’s all about their most loyal customers. With their “Made to Order” campaign, fans can now walk away not just with a tasty meal but with customized merch that literally showcases their go-to order. All it takes is the receipt of a fan-favorite item to create a one-of-a-kind t-shirt, designed on-site at select McDonald’s locations.

Why This Campaign is Pure Genius: Loyalty and Self-Expression Meet Custom Branded Merch

McDonald’s clever campaign speaks to the power of personalization and brand loyalty by celebrating those who have a favorite item they order time and again. This merch lets fans literally wear their love for the brand on their sleeves, transforming McDonald’s customers into brand ambassadors with a simple yet powerful approach. It’s also a perfect example of “IYKYK” (If You Know, You Know) branding, where the inside joke or shared interest elevates a product from ordinary to memorable.

As McDonald’s put it in their campaign copy:

Maybe you’ve been loyal to your go-to for years, even decades. Nothing says more about a person than their favorite order. So as a tribute to the fans, we created merch showing off their go-to, honoring the fans who’ve made their orders part of who they are.

Why Customizable Branded Swag Builds Community

McDonald’s “Made to Order” campaign takes merch beyond a marketing gimmick; it’s an invitation for fans to publicly identify with a product they love. Branded swag is one of the most effective tools for businesses to build strong connections with customers. A well-designed t-shirt, mug, or tote featuring something as unique as a favorite order taps into what makes loyal customers tick and encourages them to wear their brand pride in an authentic way. The fans’ loyalty to their go-to orders becomes a community badge—a way to show they belong.

How to Bring “Made to Order” Energy to Your Brand

McDonald’s Sweden might be leading the charge with custom merch, but your business can tap into this same strategy with branded swag that celebrates your unique customers. When done right, personalized merchandise and promotional products become a lasting reminder of your brand and a powerful way to build loyalty.

Here are a few ways you can do this:

• Create Customizable Branded Merchandise: Offer items that allow customers to add a touch of personality—whether it’s a personalized slogan, favorite color, or a unique design.
• Feature Loyal Customers’ Favorites: Turn popular product selections into limited-edition swag that customers can wear, use, or display proudly.
• Promote on Social Media: Encourage your customers to share their merch and orders on social media for added brand exposure and community-building.

Is This the Future of Customer Rewards?

Imagine if other brands took inspiration from McDonald’s “Made to Order” campaign. Would you wear the receipt of your favorite coffee order, or a t-shirt displaying your preferred pizza topping? Not only does this type of personalized merch build loyalty, but it also sparks social engagement, turning every customer into a potential brand advocate.

As McDonald’s Sweden shows, the possibilities for branded merch and swag are endless. In an age where people love to express themselves, especially on social media, innovative merchandise can make a big impact. So, what are you waiting for? Consider integrating this loyalty-building tactic into your own marketing strategy.