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!

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!