By Amanda Hofman, Chief Swag Officer and Branded Merchandise Expert
People DM me all the time asking what sparks all the connection, energy, and curiosity I get at events or online.
It’s not my skincare routine (but thanks 😜).
It’s the merch.
Your Merch Is Talking—What’s It Saying?
Everywhere I go, I wear my brand. Whether I’m on a Zoom call, grabbing coffee, or flying across the country, my custom branded merch is doing the talking before I even say a word.
The best part?
🔥 It signals my values
🔥 It shows my vibe
🔥 It starts conversations—with potential clients, collaborators, and future superfans
That’s the power of strategic swag.
Not just freebies. Not just stuff.
But brand-aligned merch that’s rooted in who you are and what you stand for.
Branded Merch Is a Visibility Engine
When your branded apparel or accessories reflect your mission, it:
- Creates instant brand recognition
- Sparks natural curiosity and conversation
- Builds emotional connection
- Turns your community into brand ambassadors
- Drives organic reach far beyond your social feed
You don’t need to explain your brand every time—your merch does it for you.
How to Make Merch That Works for You
Want merch that actually does something?
Here’s how to make it matter:
1. Make It Authentic
Design around what you believe in. Create pieces you’d wear even if your name weren’t on it. That authenticity shows up in every stitch.
2. Wear It Often
Don’t save your swag for trade shows. Rock it on casual Fridays, coaching calls, and even school pickup. The more you wear it, the more brand impressions you generate.
3. Let It Speak Before You Do
The best branded merchandise is a conversation starter. It communicates your energy, aesthetic, and values before you ever say a word.
I’ve landed clients, sparked friendships, and made meaningful connections—all thanks to what I was wearing.
Branded Swag That Sticks
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, coach, or creative founder, your swag can work way harder than you think. It’s more than fabric. It’s a strategic storytelling tool.
So ask yourself: What’s in your closet that you’d wear to every Zoom call if you could?
Let’s turn that into branded merch that shows the world who you really are.