By Amanda Hofman, Chief Swag Officer and Branded Merchandise Expert

At exactly 11:59 AM, I was emotionally prepared to become someone who wears a solid gold macaroni necklace. By 12:01 PM, it was sold out. And yes—I’m still thinking about it. 😭 Why? Because it was more than just a necklace. It was a masterclass in bold, joy-filled brand storytelling—and a shining example of how custom branded merch can create deep emotional connections.

The Power of Irresistible Swag

Let’s be honest: branded swag doesn’t usually sell out in three minutes.

But Kraft Heinz isn’t just selling pasta—they’re selling nostalgia, love, and humor. That limited-edition gold macaroni necklace was genuinely chic and culturally iconic. It turned a beloved brand into something people could wear, gift, and talk about.

That’s the secret sauce right there:

Make your brand tangible.

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Why This Works (And How You Can Do It Too)

Kraft took the emotional connection customers already had—and transformed it into premium branded merchandise that was unexpected, delightful, and meaningful.

You might not have a globally iconic noodle in your logo, but you can create memorable, personalized swag that inspires loyalty and sparks conversation.

Here’s how to apply this strategy to your own corporate swag program:

🎯 1. Tap Into Emotion

Create branded merch that reflects your brand’s values and story. Think beyond logos—focus on what your audience feels when they interact with you.

✨ 2. Be Bold and Playful

The gold macaroni worked because it was unexpected. Unique, fun, and just a little ridiculous—in the best way. Let your custom swag have a personality.

👕 3. Make It Wearable and Shareable

People want to wear what makes them look good and feel connected. Great branded apparel and accessories turn customers into brand ambassadors voluntarily.

🔄 4. Think Beyond Giveaways

This wasn’t just promo merch—it was limited-edition, high-quality, and worth buying. Consider print-on-demand swag stores and premium custom products as part of your brand strategy.

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Swag That Sparks Brand Love

This kind of campaign shows what’s possible when you treat branded merchandise as more than a checkbox for events or conferences. It becomes a vehicle for joy, storytelling, and connection. And if your merch gets people excited, laughing, or reminiscing—you’re doing it right. You don’t have to be Kraft. You just have to be you—in a way that people are proud to put on, share, and celebrate.

So, tell me: Would you wear the golden noodle? What would your brand’s version of this be? 👇

By Amanda Hofman, Chief Swag Officer and Branded Merchandise Expert

Let’s talk about that box. You know the one—tucked in the corner of your office or storage closet. Overflowing with branded merch that no one asked for, no one wants, and no one knows what to do with. You guessed sizes. You ordered in bulk. Now all the mediums are gone. Some are… beige? (Nobody ever asked for beige.) And half of it is still there, quietly collecting dust. 🫠

Traditional Branded Merchandise Is Broken

Managing inventory for corporate swag can be a nightmare. You either order too many or not enough. You hope people want what you picked. Spoiler alert: they often don’t. The result? Cluttered shelves, wasted money, and zero brand impact.

Enter: Print-on-Demand Swag

If you’ve ever been burned by bulk ordering, it’s time to rethink your branded merchandise strategy. Print-on-demand corporate swag solves nearly every problem that traditional merch creates.

Here’s why print-on-demand is the future of branded merch:

• 🧠 No more guessing sizes – Let employees, clients, or event attendees pick what fits them best.
• 🛍️ No bulk orders gone wrong – Stop ordering 300 of the wrong item and hoping someone takes them.
• 🎯 Stay brand-flexible – Update designs, logos, and product lines anytime without tossing old stock.
• 🙌 People choose what they actually want – Which means they’re more likely to wear it, use it, and rep your brand proudly.

The Benefits of On-Demand Swag Go Beyond Convenience

• 🚫 No waste – Sustainable corporate gifting made easy.
• 🧹 No clutter – Say goodbye to those sad office boxes.
• 😬 No awkward “Do you have this in literally anything else?” moments.

Branded Merch People Actually Keep

The best branded swag is the kind people want to keep. It’s personalized, stylish, and functional. With on-demand corporate merchandise, your team or audience gets to choose the item that speaks to them.

So, What’s the Oldest Piece of Branded Swag You Still Own?

We all have one. Mine’s a summer camp T-shirt from 7th grade—faded but still in the drawer. 👕👇 What’s yours?

By Amanda Hofman, Chief Swag Officer and Branded Merchandise Expert

As a founder who lives and breathes branded merchandise, I use social media every single day. It’s where I check in on client campaigns, review engagement, and track what’s trending in the world of company swag. But let’s be real: it’s also where productivity goes to die.

Social Media: Necessary for Work, Dangerous for Focus

You know the drill. You log on to check someone’s job title—and somehow you end up 27 comments deep in a thread debating protein intake. (Just me?) Social platforms are powerful tools for building your brand and growing your reach, but the distractions can derail your day in seconds.

If you’re a founder, creative, or marketer responsible for designing and delivering branded merch that connects, your time and focus are everything.

The Chrome Extension That Changed the Game

Then I discovered News Feed Eradicator—a free Chrome extension that hides your news feed on social platforms. Suddenly, I could open social media for one purpose: to post a campaign, review branded content, or check in on swag engagement stats—and leave without the scroll spiral.

No more digital rabbit holes. Just intentional, focused action.

Why Focus Matters for Branded Merch Creators

If you’re managing branded swag campaigns, client merch drops, or corporate giveaways, your creativity needs space to breathe. Tools like News Feed Eradicator protect that space. They allow you to focus on what really matters: turning branded merch into tangible brand experiences people remember and love.

Because the best swag doesn’t come from mindless scrolling. It comes from strategy.

Featured in Thrive Global

This small but mighty habit even got me featured in Thrive Global’s piece, “The Daily Habits That Fuel My Productivity and Creativity as a Founder + Leader.” I’m honored to be included alongside so many brilliant, intentional entrepreneurs and creators. Check it out here.

What’s Your Go-To Productivity Habit?

Whether you’re building a merch store, designing your next custom hoodie, or planning a swag launch for your team, staying focused is the real superpower. Got a tool or habit that changed your productivity game? I’d love to hear it.

Let’s swap strategies—because smart founders don’t just create cool swag. We create connection.

By Amanda Hofman, Chief Swag Officer and Branded Merchandise Expert

Your brand is powerful. So why does it only exist on Zoom calls and in email threads?

If you’re a service-based business, your brand likely lives in digital spaces:

📧 Your client’s inbox
🖥 A Zoom square
📱 Direct messages
🗂 A tucked-away client portal

Helpful? Sure. But memorable? Not so much. If you want to build a brand that truly connects — and sticks — it’s time to make it tangible.

Bring Your Brand Into the Real World with Custom Swag

The most unforgettable brands aren’t just seen — they’re felt. Think about it:

• A branded hoodie they wear on repeat
• A custom mug that lives on their kitchen counter
• A notebook with your logo they carry to every important meeting

That’s not just merch — that’s emotional real estate. It’s everyday visibility. It’s trust, warmth, and brand loyalty built into daily life. You’re no longer “just a service provider.” You’re part of the routine. You’re part of their world.

Why Tangible Branding Works (and Digital Alone Doesn’t)

Branded merchandise creates real-life brand engagement in a way PDFs, email newsletters, and digital freebies simply can’t.

When your audience can literally touch, wear, or use your brand:

• They remember you
• They talk about you
• They stick with you

Custom swag becomes a conversation starter, a brand touchpoint, and a lasting impression — all in one.

Ditch the Digital Clutter — Go for Connection

You don’t need more online noise. You need real-world connection.

✅ Smart branded merch > forgettable downloads
✅ Thoughtful swag > logo overload
✅ Emotional connection > digital clutter

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, creative, or founder — your brand deserves to show up IRL.

Make Your Brand Unforgettable with the Right Swag

What piece of branded merch lives in your weekly rotation? Personally, I had a camp T-shirt I wore until it was basically thread. Why? Because it meant something to me. That’s the power of good swag. So what’s the one piece of branded merchandise your audience would never want to take off, throw away, or forget? Let’s create that — together.

If your branded merch strategy starts with, “How many mugs should we order?” — it’s time for a serious reset. Too many businesses are still stuck in the old promotional product playbook:
→ Order a bulk shipment of branded items
→ Hope people actually want them
→ Pray they don’t end up collecting dust in a drawer

Here’s the truth: The future of branded merchandise isn’t about inventory — it’s about intention. I recently had the opportunity to talk about this shift with Thrive, and I’m thrilled to share some of what we covered — because rethinking your swag strategy could be one of the most powerful moves your brand makes this year.

Out with the Old: The Problem with Traditional Swag

In the past, promotional products were often seen as “throwaway” marketing tactics — cheap pens, endless water bottles, random T-shirts, and yes, way too many coffee mugs. The problem? Most of that merch ends up unused, unloved, and ultimately ineffective.

You’re not just wasting money. You’re missing an opportunity to connect.

In with the Smart Swag Strategy

Modern branded merch is different.
It’s not just “promo.” It’s a growth strategy.

The most successful brands today are using intentional, high-quality custom merch to:

• Strengthen emotional connections with their audience
• Build long-term brand loyalty
• Turn customers into advocates
• Create real-world brand touchpoints that actually matter

When done right, your swag becomes more than a freebie — it becomes a reflection of your brand values, your personality, and your purpose.

Branded Merchandise as a Brand Experience

The smartest brands aren’t asking how much stuff to order. They’re asking:

• What experience do we want to create?
• How can our branded products delight our customers or team?
• How can our merch align with our mission and messaging?

This is where the magic happens — when your branded merchandise starts doing what marketing is supposed to do: connect, resonate, and inspire loyalty.

So What Should You Do Instead?

✅ Ditch the “bulk and hope” approach
✅ Choose thoughtful, well-designed merch that aligns with your brand story
✅ Opt for sustainable, on-demand options to reduce waste and increase impact
✅ Use your swag as a conversation starter — not just a logo placement

Real Talk: Swag Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought

Swag is a statement.
It’s a first impression.
It’s a brand-building tool.

And when you treat it like a strategic investment — instead of an afterthought — the return is real. Big thanks to John Kennelly and the Thrive team for letting me share why I care so much about this shift in branded merch strategy. 💬✨

Your Turn: Dream Merch Time

If you could create ONE perfect piece of custom swag for your brand — what would it be? (Don’t say pens. 😉) Drop your dream merch idea in the comments below — or reach out if you’re ready to create branded merch that actually works.

I thought I was heading to a wholesome dog rescue event last weekend. Plot twist: I walked into the New York International Auto Show at the Javits Center instead. So, no rescue pup—but what I did find was something equally thrilling: some of the best (and worst) branded merch in the game.

Turns out, every major car brand had a dedicated merchandise section. And for someone who lives and breathes brand expression through swag, this was an unexpected masterclass in what makes branded merch work—or flop.

Let’s talk about Hyundai. Their “Never Just Drive” collection was a standout. This wasn’t just a logo printed on a t-shirt. It was a full-blown vibe—stylish, modern, and perfectly aligned with the identity of their latest vehicles. The colors, fonts, and cuts all screamed design-forward thinking. It felt like lifestyle merch, not just marketing collateral. It’s the kind of custom swag that builds brand affinity because it doesn’t feel like traditional swag at all.

Then there was Corvette. And, well… it hurt. Their merchandise felt like it was unearthed from a conference swag closet circa 2004. We’re talking dated polos, bland mugs, and zero storytelling. Their cars are sleek and high-performance, but their merch was giving “freebie at a dealership service desk.” When your branded gear doesn’t reflect the power and polish of your product, you’re missing a golden opportunity to build connection and credibility.

Ford, on the other hand, absolutely surprised me. Their merch was retro in the best way—clean graphics, bold throwback fonts, and a trendy color palette that felt current but nostalgic. Everything looked wearable. Not in a “corporate branding” way, but in a genuinely cool, “where’d you get that?” kind of way. I don’t even drive a Ford, but I’d 100% rock their hats. That’s the power of branded merchandise done right—it makes outsiders want in.

What this little merch field trip proved to me is simple: great swag tells a story. It’s not just about stamping your logo on a hoodie or keychain. The best branded merch translates your brand essence into something people actually want to wear, use, and show off.

Whether you’re in the automotive industry or building a niche service brand, your promotional products should serve as extensions of your brand personality. If your gear is forgettable, it won’t spark loyalty. But if it’s thoughtful, on-trend, and genuinely cool? You’re not just giving away swag—you’re creating advocates.

So next time you’re designing your company’s merch, ask yourself: would someone who doesn’t even use your product still want to wear it? If the answer is yes, you’re doing something right.

And hey—sometimes the best brand inspiration shows up when you’re least expecting it. Even at an auto show you wandered into by mistake.

Seen any surprisingly great branded swag lately? Drop it in the comments—I’m always on the hunt for merch worth talking about.

Let’s be real for a second: If your swag is just a logo slapped on something—congrats. You didn’t create a marketing tool. You created clutter. 😬

The Problem with Boring Branded Swag

We’ve all seen it before:
🧢 A t-shirt with your company logo—meh.
📝 A pencil with your website URL—yawn.
☕ A coffee mug with your branding—straight to the landfill.

Let’s call it what it is: forgettable promotional merch that no one actually wants to use.

But here’s the thing: Your brand? It’s not forgettable. It’s bold. Magnetic. Strategic.

So why is your custom merch sending mixed signals?

Good Swag Is a Brand Extension—Not an Afterthought

Your branded merchandise should feel like your brand, in real life.
It should live on someone’s desk, show up in their weekend outfit rotation, or make it into their daily coffee ritual.

That kind of merch isn’t just cool—it builds connection. And that’s the real ROI of great swag marketing.

Before you hit reorder on those stress balls and cheap pens, ask yourself: 💡 Would your dream client actually wear this? Use this? Brag about this? If the honest answer is “ehhh”… Let’s rethink your merch strategy.

From Forgettable to Unmissable: Strategic Branded Merch That Converts

At its best, company swag doesn’t just promote your business—it enhances your brand identity. We believe in creating branded merch that makes people say: “Wait—I love this… and it’s branded?!” That’s not just a giveaway item. That’s brand storytelling—in tote bag form.

Ready to Elevate Your Swag Game?

If you’re staring into your desk drawer and realizing it’s full of junky promo items no one uses… You’re not alone. But you can do better. Actually—you deserve better. Because the right custom promotional products don’t end up in the trash. They end up in your audience’s lives.

✨ Let’s make your swag something people are proud to rep.
Something they’ll keep, use, and talk about.

🧠 Curious about how to turn your branded merch into a true brand asset?
Drop your questions or share your merch fails in the comments 👇

When your grocery store sells $19 celery juice and raw milk, it’s not just a place to shop—it’s a brand experience. And yes, Erewhon—the ultra-luxury Los Angeles health market—sells merch. But this isn’t your average tote bag with a logo. It’s giving: “I’m looking for a man in finance” energy. 👀

The Power of Branded Swag That Feels Like Status

Erewhon doesn’t just sell groceries. It sells an identity. A vibe. A lifestyle.

And the branded swag? It’s designed to tell the world: “I’m part of this culture.”

From sleek logo hoodies to minimalist water bottles, everything is intentional. It’s not just about putting a name on a shirt—it’s about building a sense of belonging.

When Swag Becomes a Badge of Community

Here’s the thing about great branded merchandise:
When your brand identity is strong, merch doesn’t feel like marketing—it feels like access. Like a secret club, only it’s hiding in plain sight. Wearing Erewhon gear doesn’t say, 🛒 “I shop here.” It says, ✨ “I belong here.”

This is the holy grail of company swag marketing: turning your followers into fans, and your customers into walking billboards—unironically.

Lessons from Erewhon: Brand Loyalty, Unlocked

Erewhon’s merch is a masterclass in brand strategy. They’ve created high-demand promotional merchandise by leaning into what makes them different: exclusivity, wellness, and aesthetic minimalism.

If you’re building a brand with community in mind? You might be one great sweatshirt away from cult-like brand loyalty. Because people don’t just want to support brands anymore. They want to represent them.

Want to Build Swag People Actually Want to Wear?

If you’re looking to create branded merch that sparks conversation and builds belonging, start by asking:

• What does our merch say about our brand?
• Does our swag reflect the energy of our community?
• Would our audience wear this proudly?

Make your brand wearable—and watch your community grow.

💬 So, why do you think Erewhon has such a cultural grip right now?
Is it the wellness obsession? The scarcity mindset? The $26 smoothies?
Drop your thoughts below 👇

Let’s be real: Most branded merch = logos slapped on junk.

✨ That’s not strategy. That’s clutter.

If your branded merchandise isn’t being worn, used, or loved — it’s not working. And that’s because so many brands are stuck in an outdated swag mindset: bulk-ordering cheap products, adding a logo, and calling it a day.

But real swag strategy? That’s a whole different game. It’s about building connection, not just boosting brand recognition.

Great Branded Merch Reflects Your Brand’s Vibe and Values

When your swag reflects who you are and what you stand for, it becomes something your audience wants to keep around. Thoughtfully designed merch should:

• Reinforce your brand identity
• Reflect your company culture
• Speak directly to your ideal customer
• Build a lasting emotional connection

Branded merch isn’t just about visibility — it’s about value.

Printing Logos on Junk? That’s a Missed Opportunity.

If you’re investing in merch, go beyond the basics. Ask yourself:

• Would my ideal customer wear this hoodie in public?
• Would they use this water bottle at the gym, on a hike, or at work?
• Does this product tell a story about who we are and what we stand for?

Because the best branded swag doesn’t end up in the junk drawer.
It lives in your customer’s daily life — and reminds them why they love your brand.

Connection Over Promotion, Always.

Instead of shouting your logo from the rooftops, let your merch speak with your people, not at them. Let it carry a message, a movement, a shared mindset.

Think of brands that nail this approach:

• Nike – Performance, empowerment, sleek design.
• Peloton – Community, commitment, active lifestyle.
• Spiritual Gangster – Intention, spirituality, elevated design.
• Stanley – Function meets trend. Utility becomes identity.

These brands understand that swag is an extension of the experience they offer. It’s branding that breathes — and it builds loyalty.

TL;DR? Your Branded Merch Deserves Better.

🧠 Be strategic.
🫶 Be intentional.
💥 Be bold in creating swag that actually means something.

Because great branded merch isn’t about being seen.
It’s about being remembered.

Need help designing merch your audience actually wants to wear?
Let’s create something unforgettable. ✨

Yes, you read that right—you can now get married at the Las Vegas Taco Bell… complete with wedding-themed Taco Bell swag. 🌮💍

Taco Bell Swag: Taking Brand Love to the Altar

I’ve written a lot about Taco Bell merch before, but their sauce-covered bowties, sauce packet garter belts, and even a sauce packet bouquet have officially left me speechless. 🤯 I mean, talk about commitment—Taco Bell is going ALL IN on branded merchandise, and honestly, I’m both impressed and slightly covering my eyes in disbelief. 😆

The Cult-Like Devotion to Taco Bell (Yes, It’s Real)

I didn’t fully grasp the absolute devotion some people have for Taco Bell until I watched Love is Blind this season and saw that one of the main contestants had “TACO BELL” tattooed inside her lower lip. Now, that’s brand loyalty. 🔥

And Taco Bell knows it. They’ve built a brand that people love with their whole hearts—and they’re creating branded merchandise to complete that love story.

What This Means for Branded Merch

Taco Bell’s wedding swag proves that merch isn’t just about slapping a logo on a T-shirt. The best branded merchandise taps into: ✅ Emotion – It makes fans feel connected to the brand ✅ Experience – It creates moments people will never forget ✅ Authenticity – It aligns with what customers already love ✅ Shareability – It’s unique enough that people have to post about it.

Taco Bell is setting a gold standard for brand engagement through merch—and if your brand has a passionate audience, there’s definitely a way to create swag they’ll obsess over.

Would You Say “I Do” at Taco Bell?

What do you think—would you (or someone you know) tie the knot at a fast-food wedding chapel? And are any of my followers Taco Bell fanatics? I need to hear your stories!