By Amanda Hofman, Chief Swag Officer and Branded Merchandise Expert
If you’ve ever thought…
“We’re too small for swag.”
“Merch is for bigger companies.”
“We’ll do branded merchandise once we grow.”
I get it. It feels logical.
But here’s the truth:
Waiting until you’re “big enough” for merch is exactly how you stay small.
The Best Time to Invest in Swag Is Before You Feel Ready
If you worry you’re too early-stage, too scrappy, or too small of a team to have branded merch…
That’s actually your signal that now is the perfect time.
That might sound backwards, but it’s not. 🔄
(It’s just uncomfortable.)
Branded merchandise isn’t something you earn once you’ve “made it.”
It’s something that helps you get there.
Branded Merch Creates Social Proof and Visibility
Great swag isn’t just a hoodie or a tote bag.
It’s a marketing engine.
Companies that invest in branded merchandise:
→ Are more visible in the world
→ Create better content opportunities
→ Look more established (even if they’re lean)
→ Build team culture from day one
→ Show commitment to their brand values
Swag is walking, talking social proof.
Every time someone wears your logo, your brand shows up.
Swag Is the Starting Point for Getting Your Name Out There
Branded merch is one of the simplest ways to start building awareness.
It gets your company into conversations, into photos, into everyday life.
And you don’t need to be a household name to start.
If you’ve got:
- A logo
- A mission
- A few brand values
- A desire to be remembered
…you’re ready to create swag.
Merch Helps Small Companies Look Like Big Companies
One of the most underrated benefits of branded merchandise?
It makes your company feel real.
Even if you’re only five people.
Even if you’re pre-launch.
Even if you’re still figuring it out.
Swag signals:
We’re here. We’re building. We’re serious.
Your Brand Deserves to Be Seen
Don’t wait until you’re “big enough.”
Branded merch is how you get visible, build culture, and grow your presence faster.
Start small. Start smart. Start now.