You know those BIG business wins you see all over social media? Here’s the dirty secret about them:

They’re (often) a big fat lie. And they’re doing a HUGE disservice to entrepreneurs everywhere by setting a “standard” of success based on smoke and mirrors.

Sure, maybe they did:

• Earn $80K in a month
• Gain 3K new followers a day
• Sell tens of high-ticket offers in a day
• Get 30 new clients from one post

(Probably, they didn’t—but that’s another story.)

What They’re Not Telling You

Let’s say the success stories are true. Here’s what they’re not telling you:

• How much money they’re spending on ads
• How many staff members they have helping them
• How many failures came before their success
• The business connections they leveraged to fuel their growth

There’s a crapton happening behind the scenes. But when you’re a new business owner, you might think you’re failing if you’re not seeing these same massive wins.

That’s a ridiculous standard. Slow and steady is the way to grow at the beginning of your business journey.

Build a Sustainable Brand—Not Just a Viral Moment

Instead of chasing social media illusions, focus on real, lasting brand recognition—and this is where branded merch and swag come in. A strong business isn’t built on vanity metrics; it’s built on community, credibility, and consistency.

Here’s how branded merchandise can help you grow your business the right way:

• Brand Visibility: High-quality branded swag (like apparel, drinkware, and accessories) keeps your business top-of-mind for customers.
• Customer Loyalty: People love repping brands they believe in. Thoughtful, useful merch turns casual customers into loyal fans.
• Organic Marketing: Unlike paid ads that disappear, branded merch is a walking advertisement that keeps your brand in circulation.
• Business Credibility: A well-designed merch collection adds professionalism and authority to your brand, making you look more established.

Don’t Buy Into the Hype—Build a Business That Lasts

Forget the overnight success stories. The real winners are the entrepreneurs who focus on long-term brand growth rather than momentary hype.

That’s why I was thrilled to discuss this (and more) with Women On Topp for their latest piece, “What I Wish I Had Known My First Year in Business: Leading Women Entrepreneurs Share.”

Thanks to Dreamers & Doers® for the opportunity!

And if you’re ready to grow your business authentically, let’s talk about how branded merch can help you make a lasting impact.

Branded merchandise isn’t just for customers—your team needs it too! Investing in high-quality, stylish company swag can boost morale, increase brand loyalty, and create a strong sense of belonging. Here’s why your business should prioritize team swag today:

1️⃣ Strengthen Team Connection in a Remote World

In today’s remote and hybrid work environments, your employees may struggle to feel connected to the larger team. Think about sports teams—what’s the one thing they all have in common? Team colors and uniforms!

Providing your employees with branded merch, like custom hoodies, T-shirts, or hats, can help create a sense of unity, even when they’re working from different locations. When everyone wears your company’s swag, it reinforces team spirit and makes employees feel part of something bigger.

2️⃣ Build Brand Loyalty and Identity Outside of Work

When your team members proudly wear or use your company’s swag in their everyday lives, they’re not just representing your brand—they’re strengthening their emotional connection to it. Whether they’re sipping coffee from a branded tumbler, carrying a custom tote, or rocking a stylish company hoodie, they become walking brand ambassadors.

Branded merchandise also serves as a subtle yet powerful form of advertising. Every time an employee wears your merch out in public, they’re increasing brand visibility and sparking conversations about your business.

3️⃣ Show Employees You Care

Providing employees with high-quality, cool swag isn’t just about marketing—it’s about appreciation. Thoughtful, well-designed merch shows your team that you value them and their contributions. Giving them the freedom to choose from different designs and styles makes the experience even more meaningful. When employees feel seen and appreciated, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed to your company’s mission.

Ready to Elevate Your Team’s Swag?

The Elevate Virtual Business Solutions team (shoutout to Ashley Carlson! 😘) is already rocking their awesome branded merch—does your team have theirs yet? If not, it’s time to step up your swag game!

What’s your go-to piece of company merch? Let us know in the comments!

One of the most common questions I hear about branded merchandise is: “I need giveaways for my upcoming trade show. What should I print?” Before you make a decision, consider this: Are you looking for brand recognition or lead generation?

Branded Merch for Brand Recognition

If your goal is brand recognition—meaning you want to hand something out to everyone— stick to small, practical items like:

• Mints
• Pens
• Sticky notes
• Other small, useful items that people might keep in their bag

This strategy will get your brand name seen, but it won’t necessarily build relationships or generate leads. It’s also an expensive and often wasteful approach. However, if you insist on printing something for the masses, these are the best options.

(And please, please, please never print a stress ball 😖)

Branded Merch for Lead Generation

If your focus is lead generation, here’s a smarter approach:

1️⃣ Create a Print-on-Demand Shop – Design a collection of trendy, stylish branded merch that people will actually want to wear. Make it cool, creative, and high-quality. (Need help? DM me!)

2️⃣ Print a Postcard with a QR Code – Instead of giving away cheap swag, hand out postcards with a QR code directing people to your online shop. Offer a free branded item like a hat, t-shirt, or tote bag (your choice). Make sure your booth staff is wearing the merch to showcase it.

3️⃣ Capture Leads at Checkout – When visitors redeem their free merch, ask them to opt in to your mailing list. This turns casual trade show attendees into engaged leads who are genuinely interested in your brand.

Why This Giveaway Strategy Works

✅ Quality Over Quantity: Only a small percentage of attendees will redeem the offer, but those who do are high-intent leads—people who want to engage with your business.

✅ Free Advertising: When attendees wear your branded merch, it provides social proof and increases brand visibility—unlike 1,500 mints that disappear in a pocket.

✅ Sustainability Matters: Consumers care about eco-friendly practices. This approach minimizes waste and aligns with their values.

What If You Can’t Set Up a Print-on-Demand Store?

No worries! You can still offer something valuable, like:

• A free course
• A consultation
• An exclusive interview
• Any other high-value lead magnet that directs traffic to your website

Final Thoughts: Make Your Merch Count

Pens and stress balls don’t make sales. But people who opt in for your branded merch are solid leads who are interested in your business.

If you HAD to pick a low-cost giveaway item, what would it be? I’m team mints! 😆

Props to Dr. Sandra Lee (aka Dr. Pimple Popper) and her Skin Physicians and Surgeons team for having a merch shop—there are plenty of clever and fun designs here! But as with any branded swag collection, there’s always room for improvement.

Here’s how I’d refine the shop to make it even better:

1️⃣ Kick the Design Up a Notch 💥

While the merch is creative, the design execution could use some polish and consistency. Right now, it feels a bit chaotic with:

🚨 Too many different fonts clashing on designs

🚨 Too many contrasting styles that lack cohesion

A streamlined aesthetic would make the merch feel more professional, wearable, and on-brand—instead of looking a bit, well, on the nose (like… a pimple).

2️⃣ Reduce the Number of Options 👕🎽👚👔

Variety is great, but too many choices can lead to shopper fatigue. Right now, the store offers 34+ designs—which is likely overwhelming for fans.

Instead, a curated collection of 5-6 standout designs would be more impactful, helping shoppers easily find the best-selling, most-loved pieces.

3️⃣ Organize the Store for a Better Shopping Experience 🛍️

Currently, similar designs are scattered throughout the shop, making it harder for customers to browse. For example:

🔹 The “I’d Rather Be Watching Dr. Pimple Popper” tee comes in four different styles, but they’re not grouped together.

A more structured layout—grouping similar items together—would make the store feel more intuitive and enhance the customer experience.

Would You Wear Dr. Pimple Popper Merch? 🤔

What’s your take on the Dr. Pimple Popper merch collection? Are you a fan of these designs? Let me know in the comments!

(And let’s be honest… if you watch just one video, your feed is never going to be the same again. 😳)

When two iconic brands like Whataburger and Wrangler team up, you know the merch is going to be something special. And let me tell you—this collection is giving me ALL THE FEELS.

Why Am I So Obsessed With This Merch?

This branded swag collection is the perfect blend of trendy and nostalgic, and here’s why:

✅ Trendy & Retro at the Same Time – The designs capture a perfect mix of vintage cowboy vibes with modern aesthetics. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Whataburger or Wrangler, this merch delivers a timeless cool factor.

✅ Exciting & Relevant to Fans of Both Brands – Whataburger lovers and Wrangler loyalists will instantly connect with this collaboration. It’s a fresh take on two legendary names, celebrating Texan culture and American style.

✅ Fashionable & Wearable, Even If You Don’t Know the Brands – You don’t have to be a die-hard fan of either brand to appreciate the quality and design. The pieces are stylish enough to wear anywhere, even if you’ve never stepped foot inside a Whataburger (🙈 guilty!).

This Swag is for Everyone Who Wants to Look and Feel Cool

Great branded merch isn’t just about logos—it’s about creating something that people genuinely want to wear. The Whataburger X Wrangler collection does just that, making it a must-have for fans of Western fashion, fast food nostalgia, and casual streetwear alike.

These Brands Understood the Assignment 💥

Not all collaborations hit the mark, but this one? Absolute chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of limited-edition merch that creates buzz, drives sales, and builds brand love. Whether you’re in Texas, New York, or anywhere in between, this collection proves that a well-executed branded swag strategy can reach and excite a broad audience.

Could a Collab Like This Work for Your Brand?

Seeing this drop got me thinking—could a strategic brand collaboration like this work for YOUR company? If you’re a business owner or marketer looking to create standout branded merchandise, take note:

🔥 Find a brand partner that shares your values and audience

🔥 Create designs that blend both brands’ aesthetics in a fresh, wearable way

🔥 Make sure the swag is something people will actually want to wear, not just a promotional item.

The success of the Whataburger X Wrangler collab proves that great branded merch is more than just a logo—it’s an experience, a conversation starter, and a way to connect with customers in a real way.

So, have you seen this collection yet? What do you think—would you wear this tee? Drop a comment and let me know!

If you’ve ever heard me talk about branded merchandise, you know I can’t stop yapping about print-on-demand. But why? Because it’s one of the smartest, most efficient ways to create and distribute high-quality branded swag without the headaches of traditional inventory management.

The Simple Definition of Print-on-Demand

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

✅ No inventory to manage

✅ No minimum order sizes or quantities

✅ No wasted stock sitting in storage

How Print-on-Demand Works

There are printers all over the world with the same blank inventory, and they all use the same advanced technology to print your design onto products like apparel, mugs, tote bags, and more. When a customer places an order, the nearest facility prints and ships it—simple, efficient, and cost-effective.

Why Print-on-Demand is a Game Changer for Branded Merch

With print-on-demand, your risk is essentially zero. You can:

• Experiment with new designs whenever you want—no upfront costs.
• Offer a wider variety of products without bulk commitments.
• Ensure sustainability by only printing what’s needed, reducing waste.

The Bigger Picture: Why I Advocate for Print-on-Demand

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

➡ Your company – No financial risk from unsold inventory.

➡ The recipients of your merch – They get high-quality, thoughtfully designed items.

➡ The environment – Less waste, no overproduction, and a more sustainable approach to branded merchandise.

Have You Heard of Print-on-Demand Before?

Most people have heard the term, but few truly understand its potential. Now that you do, are you ready to rethink how you approach branded merch?

Branded merchandise, often called swag, is more than just a giveaway—it’s a strategic tool that can strengthen your brand, build customer loyalty, and even drive revenue. If you’re only using merch for trade shows and team outings, you’re missing out on its full potential.

1. Offer as a Reward for Customer Referrals

Your customers are your best brand ambassadors. Encourage them to spread the word by offering exclusive swag as a referral incentive. A stylish branded hoodie or high-quality tote bag can turn customers into walking billboards for your business.

2. Incentivize People to Join a Program

Whether you’re launching a membership, coaching program, or subscription service, offering a free branded item can boost sign-ups. People love free, high-value items, and a well-designed product can reinforce your brand in their daily lives.

3. Upsell Between Tiers of Membership

Encourage customers to upgrade by offering premium swag to higher-tier members. A branded water bottle, notebook, or hoodie can add perceived value and make customers feel exclusive while driving higher revenue for your business.

4. Gift to Key Influencers in Your Local Area

Local influencers and community leaders can amplify your brand. By gifting them high-quality merch, you create a connection and increase your chances of getting shoutouts on social media, leading to brand exposure and credibility.

5. Reward Loyal Customers

Long-term customers deserve recognition. Celebrate their loyalty with thoughtful swag that makes them feel valued and keeps them engaged with your brand. Personalized items or limited-edition merch work especially well.

6. Thank People Who Host You as a Speaker or Podcast Guest

If you’ve been invited to speak at an event, be a podcast guest, or contribute to a panel, leave a lasting impression with a unique branded gift. This simple gesture strengthens relationships and keeps your brand top of mind.

7. Create a VIP Tier for Customers Who Own Certain Merch

Exclusive merch can foster a sense of belonging. Consider offering perks, discounts, or early access to customers who purchase specific swag items. This turns merch into a loyalty program that keeps customers engaged.

8. Celebrate Anniversaries & Team Milestones

Your team is the backbone of your business. Recognizing their hard work with branded gifts—such as apparel, accessories, or desk items—boosts morale and fosters a stronger company culture.

Think Beyond the Basic Swag

Branded merch isn’t just about slapping a logo on cheap plastic giveaways. High-quality, thoughtfully designed items can build brand loyalty, drive sales, and create meaningful connections.

Are you using branded merch in innovative ways? If not, it’s time to think outside the (cheap, plastic, branded) box and turn swag into a powerful business tool.

How have you used branded merch in your business? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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!