Building A Consistent Look

Building a brand and creating a program or promotion with a consistent look is often difficult.  Finding a variety of products in different price points to coordinate with logo colors, events and even your print marketing is downright impossible sometimes.  And if those items need to have options for both men and ladies the choices dwindle down even further.

That is why we love the Duet Collection of products. These items are stunning and absolutely impressive (don’t let the PVC material deter you).   With a variety of colors and styles to choose from, we add your debossed logo for a subtle message and elegant look.  Either the  rectangular tote or the more casual tote make beautiful, upscale swag bags, meeting gifts or speaker gifts.  The business card holders and stash tray are reasonably priced gift items that work for both men and women, yet still have a high perceived value.  My personal favorite is the large carryall tote which has so many uses- from carry on bag to business bag to giant purse, this bag is awesome.

The wine tote makes an elegant table favor, room drop gift or closing gift for Real Estate Agents- fill it with a favorite bottle of wine or other beverage of choice.  An excellent choice for gift with purchase, room drop gift or swag bag option is the cosmetic bag.  The luggage tag is small enough to use in a direct mail piece to convention attendees, travel agents or as a swag item at trade shows.

While any of these items can stand alone, the coordinating colors and styles make it possible to combine multiple items for a truly impactful promotion, giveaway or gift.  Or for a long term promotion, select a few items in the same colors to use over a period of time, building on the theme and colors to create a matching set.  And if you need gift boxes or other packaging we can add that as well to really add the wow factor to your swag.

If you want to create an item (or set) to match your corporate colors, let us know- we can discuss what will be necessary to turn your exact colors into stunning promotional swag.

sales@barefootswag.com       866-247-4320

http://www.barefootswag.com

How To Select the Right T-Shirt For Your Promotion

Bella + Canvas Cotton T

Fruit of the Loom SofSpun T

Having the perfect design or logo to print on t-shirts is only part of the battle when it comes to imprinted T’s.  With all the t-shirt options out there, it can be really challenging to figure out which styles & options are best to achieve your marketing goals.  You don’t want to select a shirt, only to find out it doesn’t fit the image you want to present or that no one will wear it- no matter how great the imprint is.

To help you make the best decision, we teamed up with one of our vendors to develop a “Better Basics” guide, which lists the ‘Top 3’ styles within the most popular t-shirt categories (Cotton, Blends and Triblends).

Let’s take a look at the “Cotton” styles. If you are looking for a tee that has a “soft feel” and resembles a higher-end “retail” quality shirt, then we recommend the Bella+Canvas OZPJG-ISQKE, which is labeled as being the “BEST” option in this category.  This style is going to be the choice for shirts you will resale, give to employees or for a higher end promotional T with a hip vibe.  This shirt also comes in a coordinating youth style, UZPHG-ISQKY and an adult V-neck, WZPHC-ISQKU.  For a T that still has that soft feel, is comfortable and still stylish, check out the  KXPOF-DFJMB in the “better” category.  If you are looking for a good option at the lowest price point possible, then we recommend the Fruit of the Loom KZNOI-KBIKE.  Although not as soft as the others, it is still considered a “Good” option in this category and is a durable shirt for employees that need the moisture wicking of 100% cotton or for a give away shirt for events.

 

Cotton/Poly blend T’s are a popular choice for comfort, style and durability and are generally lighter weight than cotton T’s.  A fashionable, hip and youthful “Best” option is the Alternative Apparel vintage T, UXULA-LOEIS.  With retail inspired details and color options, this shirt is a popular choice.  A more budget conscious option is actually a favorite brand of ours, Next Level. This CVC crew, KATKC-KBHWC, is really comfortable and will quickly become a favorite T of everyone who owns it- this shirt is a favorite for event giveaways and shirts for vounteers.  Our choice for a “Good” option is the Anvil lightweight T shirt, UXTII-EUJGE.  With over 50 colors to choose from, this shirt is a great fit for events, promotions and employee giveaways.

A category that has gained a tremendous amount of popularity in the last few years is the Tri-Blend.  With cotton/poly/rayon, these shirts are extremely soft, lightweight and comfortable.  For the “Best”, we go with the Bella + Canvas Unisex tri-blend, OTTFA-GHHCS.  This shirt has a more fitted, retail look and a wide variety of colors.  The Anvil tri blend crewneck in our “better” t in the category and offers some really nice heathered color options, LAVFF-KBIFV.  A solid choice for the “good” option is the Jerzees triblend, JCPII-LOLBG, the color choices stick with the basic colors and offers a budget conscious option with comfort of a tri blend.

While all of the styles are available in the unisex style listed, many have companion styles in ladies, youth, V-neck, pocket T’s and other styles.  By letting us know what shirt style options you need, we can recommend the right shirt to fit everyone and every style.

So what are you waiting for? Use this guide as inspiration and direction in selecting the shirt that best fits your marketing goals and we can add your logo in a variety of imprint methods- screen print, embroidery, embellishments, foil imprint and more.

Need more information, options or additional help selecting the perfect t-shirt for your event, promotion, employees or to fit your budget?  Give us a call or email- we are happy to help.

sales@barefootswag.com      866-247-4320

www.barefootswag.com

Showcasing Your Brand From Floors to Walls

Make effective use of all the space you have available to advertise with removable signs for the floor or walls.  I mean, if you want to get really creative you can probably even put it on the ceiling (how great would these be to advertise dental products in a dentist office- those ceiling are BORING).  Affixed to flat surfaces, these signs can utilize spaces not normally covered with signage, therefore making them stand out.

We offer two options with these removable signs- surface grip or surface tac.

Surface grip

• indoor use
• textured matte vinyl
• easy to apply & remove
• leaves no residue
• use on hard & carpeted floors
• usable on walls
• slip resistant
• custom shapes available

 

 

 

 Surface Tac

• outdoor use
• aluminum foil based media
• easy to apply & remove
• 100% recyclable
• use on asphalt, cement, stone & brick
• usable on walls
• slip resistant
• custom shapes available

 

 

 

Both of these options are easy to install (see outdoor installation video below) to create eye catching advertising.

Just a few of the suggested uses are:

Promote Sales & Merchandise at point of purchase, lobbies, car dealerships, malls

Directional Signage on Floors & Walls for marathons, bus & train stations, healthcare facilities, sporting events, colleges & universities

Spotlight Upcoming Events & Shows in entryways, strip malls, walkways, exhibits

Check out a few of the stock shapes and sizes here or contact us so we can help design a custom shape to fit your needs.

BREAKING IN: HOW TO GET YOUR MESSAGE INTO THEIR HOME

It seems that the automatic thought process when wanting to tie your company in with something useful for the home is to think of the kitchen…and we get it. Beyond the fact that we all have to eat to survive, it’s the natural gathering place for the family and arguably the most commonly used room in the house.

While we have ideas that go beyond the kitchen, let’s first explore some of the Promotional Products that are a natural fit for this part of the home. Cutting boards (flexible, hard plastic, bamboo, wood) are a great gift item for new homeowners, gifts with a purchase of high ticket household appliances, remodeling, etc. The flexible cutting boards can fit perfectly into a larger envelope for direct mail. Utensils such as ice cream scoops, spatulas, tongs, serving spoons and basting brushes are items that are useful and will find their way into the hands of your clients frequently- keeping your logo at the front of mind. Chip clips, pot holders and measuring spoons are items that stay in regular rotation in the kitchen and help create many fantastic memories as families cook and spend time together.

 

Gifts that can be used throughout the home for years to come create good will and keep your brand in front of the recipient. Coaster sets, picture frames, clocks and rain gauges imprinted with a discrete logo make classy thank-you gifts, gift with purchase, donor gifts or even employee gifts. Candles, mini screwdrivers, spa items, flashlights, tape measures and calendars are useful items at lower price points and are great for general giveaways, trade or home shows, etc. With the options ranging from fleece to Sherpa to wool, blankets make a thoughtful and appreciated gift. Depending on the purpose and budget we can screen print, embroider, heat transfer or laser imprint.

 

 

At some point in time, every home is going to have an encounter with illness or injury. Incorporating items into your marketing for just such occasions shows that you are caring and compassionate. Hot/cold bead packs, first aid kits, pill splitters & pill holders, tissues and thermometers are items that people hold onto and will be grateful to have when the need arises.

 

There are promotional marketing items for the home to fit every budget and purpose. Contact us to put together some specific ideas to fit your needs and get your name into your clients homes.

http://www.barefootswag.com     sales@barefootswag.com

866-247-4320

Back to School Trends

Source: Back to School Trends by Bic ~Margit Fawbush

It seems like the school year just ended, but we’re already thinking Back to School shopping and promotions. We looked at trends to see what students are going to want to carry around with them when Fall comes and have identified a few items beyond the usual shopping list.

 

Rucksack styling in backpacks is hot – both in retail and high-end luggage, the drawstring closure with flap is everywhere.

KAPSTON® Jaxon Rucksack

 

 

Backpacks with extra functionality like earbud holes, side pockets for water bottles, extra handles for easy clip-on storage, etc are highly sought after.

Homestretch Backpack

 

Organizers help keep tech gadgets in place as well as make-up and other school supplies. A great idea for students who have a lot of small odds and ends to keep up with.  Great for college students to keep up with flash drives, power cords, and other small items so they don’t end up in the bottom of the backpack.

COCOON(TM) GRID-IT(TM) Organizer

 

Clip it on! This water bottles features a pop up, drink through, spill proof lid and attached carabiner for clip on storage.  Great option for athletes and mobile hydrators alike. The metal carabiner is durable- prefect for attaching to bags or backpacks.

Vista Bottle 26oz

 

These keyholders are popular – Students love the brightly colored straps and attach more than keys. USBs, keychains, hand sanitizers, keycards, and more get hooked on and carried around.

Wrist Strap Keyholder

 

Looking for an upgraded lunch tote? Bento boxes are all the rage, but you need a horizontal tote with an external water bottle pocket to make them work. Check out the KOOZIE® Swirl Lunch Tote and help them keep food fresh and ready to eat.  Great for students, teachers, faculty and staff.

KOOZIE® Swirl Lunch Tote

 

 

We are happy to put together ideas for your back to school, welcome to campus or new student orientation needs- just let us know your school, college or university colors and the budget and we are happy to do the research for you.

http://www.barefootswag.com      sales@barefootswag.com

866-247-4320

Marketing & Promotion Ideas for Ice Cream Month

Not only is July National Ice Cream month, but these notable days also fall within July: Creative ice cream flavors day, Strawberry sundae day, Ice cream day and Vanilla Ice Cream Day.  There are so many ideas for tying a promotion, event or marketing campaign around ice cream- let your imagination take over!

Showing appreciation to your employees on a hot summer day makes an easy tie in to ice cream. Serve up your bowls of ice cream with color changing spoons  with your logo or a message of appreciation imprinted on them they can take home.  This idea works well at company picnics, corporate outings or golf events.   Add a color changing bowl for even more impact.

 

Six different color combinations to choose from.

Create a fun in-store promotion using ice cream scoops as a gift with purchase.  Or mail out postcards, send to your email list, or post on social media for them to come in to get an ice cream scoop.  Or use them as trade show and festival giveaways or swag bag items.

Ice cream scoops are fun gifts with purchase.

Have a “make your own sundae” promotion at community events or for a customer appreciation event.  Serve ice cream in a vintage malt cup they can keep and have a selection of toppings to choose from- fun and customizable so everyone gets the ice cream and toppings they want.   Ice cream sundae bars are also popular at weddings and these can double as your imprinted wedding favor.

For a promotion that will really make an impression we can deliver four pints of ice cream right to your clients office or home.  This makes a perfect Thank you gift, Real Estate closing gift or Customer Appreciation Gift.  They will get a beautiful aluminum ice cream scoop along with a card explaining how to receive their ice cream.  Click here to see how this program works- it is sure to be appreciated.

Creating clever tag lines, tie-ins and promotions centered around ice cream month is easy- we are available to work through the process with you to come up with an event or campaign that is sure to be remembered.

http://www.barefootswag.com

866-247-4320      sales@barefootswag.com

 

 

 

Surprising Things You Might Not Know We Do

After 25 plus years in this business, I feel like I should have seen and done it all- from the tried and true Bic Clic Stic to the ultra trendy fidget spinners (I think we can all agree this fad needs to end quickly).  So when someone asks for something I have never been asked for before, it’s always surprising.  For example, today I had a client wanting branding irons. Yes, we have those.  So it made me think, what other items do our clients not realize we can add their logo to, what items are actually in the swag category that you wouldn’t think of?

Bottled Water–  we get tons of requests for water bottles, but we can also do bottles of water in a variety of sizes, shapes and even colors.  8 oz bottles are small and convenient for using in a showroom, for office visitors or handing out at events.  12 oz and 16 oz are popular sizes for tradeshows and meetings.  We even have recycled and eco friendly bottle styles available and flat or sport caps.  With multiple shipping locations across the US, we can find a shipping point closest to you to help with freight costs as well.

Patio Umbrellas– I love to sit outside on the patio at restaurants as often as possible and always notice the umbrellas (I think it’s a hazard of the job).  Beverage distributors, food distributors and restaurants can add their logo to one or more panels.  Or alternate logos around the umbrella for even more impact.

Mascots & Costumes are in our wheelhouse as well.  There are a variety of stock designs you can choose from such as bears, bunny costume, lion, bulldog and more OR we can custom design one for you.  Starting from your concept or using stock design as a base, our designers can work with you to create mascot costume unique to you.  Need help coming up with a mascot for your company? That’s no problem either.  Just give us a call and we can discuss your needs and work on ideas for you.

 

Giant Inflatables- it is a little bit of a broad category.   All of the larger than life blow up items such as giant inflatable “dancers” (those things seriously freak me out), blimps, giant balloons and other inflatable shapes are all available with or without an imprint.  These are used a lot by auto dealerships, for grand openings, outdoor events and at any business or retail location to attract attention.  We can even have a custom shape made of your mascot (to match the costume above) or logo.

Rugs and floor mats are used by many companies, colleges & universities, banks, restaurants, leasing companies, grocery stores and more for entry way rugs to not only showcase their logo and “welcome” people, but to trap water, mug and dirt from being tracking throughout the building and keep their entry way looking clean and neat. Indoor/Outdoor rugs are durable enough to withstand traffic and look nice for a long time.

These are just a few of the more unusual categories that many people don’t think of when they are looking at branded or logo items and don’t realized that they fall into the realm of promotional products.  My general rule of thumb is, if you can think of it, we can put your logo on it.

Whether you need normal swag items such as pens, shirts and mugs or you want something a little more unusual and unique, our team is here to help you find exactly what works for you.

www.barefootswag.com   866-247-4320

sales@barefootswag.com