When most businesses think about marketing, their focus is on new customers. And that makes sense—you need to keep growing and reaching fresh audiences. But here’s the truth: the most overlooked audience for most organizations is their current customer base.
Why Appreciation Marketing Works
Your existing customers are not only more likely to buy from you again, but they tend to buy faster and more. Yet, too often, they get the least attention. That’s where appreciation marketing comes in.
This isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about gratitude that scales. It’s about building relationships that last. And when you do it right, appreciation marketing becomes one of the most powerful branding tools you can use.
Let’s dig into seven ways to build your brand through appreciation marketing.
1. Send Thank You Notes
It sounds simple because it is—but that’s also why it works. A handwritten thank-you note cuts through the noise in a digital world. Everyone knows they should send them, but very few actually do.
Pro tip: Keep a stack of cards and envelopes on your desk so it’s easy to act on this right away.
2. Create an Appreciation Program
Want to make appreciation consistent? Build a program for it.
Once a quarter, go to your best clients—the top 20% that drive most of your revenue—and show them you care. It could be a thoughtful gift, a great piece of branded merch, or even a personalized gesture that keeps your brand in front of them all year long.
This isn’t just gratitude—it’s smart branding.
3. Make It Feel Like a Gift
One of the most powerful things about appreciation marketing is that it’s the only kind of marketing people will thank you for.
When you give a useful, well-designed branded item, it doesn’t feel like an advertisement—it feels like a gift. And that gift creates goodwill and long-lasting impressions.
4. Appreciate Your Team Too
It’s not just about clients. Showing appreciation to your team creates a ripple effect.
Happy, valued employees create better customer experiences. When you take care of your people—whether that’s with recognition, thank-you merch, or simple acknowledgment—you’re really taking care of your customers, too.
5. Use Gratitude as a Follow-Up Tool
Most people say thank you after a win. But what if you said thank you for the opportunity—even if you didn’t close the deal?
That kind of appreciation sets you apart. It leaves the door open for future opportunities and shows your brand has heart.
6. Show Up Just Because
At Hasseman Marketing, we say: “Show up when you’re not asking for money.”
It’s easy to show gratitude when you’re closing a deal. But the moments that really matter are the ones in between—the “just because” touches that show you care even when there’s nothing in it for you right now.
7. Turn Appreciation into a Referral Engine
Gratitude and referrals go hand in hand.
When a customer gives you a great review, thank them—and then take the next step:
“Is there anyone like you who would also appreciate this service or product?”
Sweeten it with a reward, like a t-shirt or another piece of merch, and suddenly you’ve created a simple but powerful referral machine fueled by appreciation.
Final Thoughts
Appreciation marketing isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a brand builder. It deepens relationships, drives loyalty, and can even create new opportunities.
When you scale gratitude, you scale impact. And in the process, you make your brand unforgettable.
So here’s the challenge: what can you do this week to show appreciation to a client, a team member, or even a prospect? Start small, stay consistent, and watch how it transforms your brand.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
On the latest episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing, Kirby and Jade cover a little bit of everything—from marketing brilliance and intentional branding to downright strange Gen Z TikTok trends. This week’s conversation is packed with insights, laughs, and a few ideas you might just be able to steal for your own business.
Taylor Swift’s Strategic Brilliance
The episode kicked off with Taylor Swift’s latest headline-making move—announcing her new album on the New Heights podcast with Travis and Jason Kelce. Jade pointed out the sheer intentionality in Swift’s marketing. Nothing she does is accidental, and this was yet another masterclass in audience targeting and platform choice.
Kirby agreed and took the discussion further, highlighting the importance and power of building your own audience. Swift can make a splash anywhere because she’s spent years cultivating a loyal fanbase. Whether you’re a music icon or a small business owner, the takeaway is the same—focus on your audience, connect with them consistently, and they’ll follow you anywhere.
Big Brands, Big Ideas
From music megastars, the conversation shifted to some impressive campaigns from big brands. Kirby brought up McDonald’s recent rollout of their chicken strips—a campaign that leaned heavily into nano-influencers. Instead of chasing massive celebrity endorsements, they partnered with local foodies to create authentic, relatable reviews. The result? Other influencers picked up on the trend, and social media was buzzing.
The lesson here for small businesses: you don’t need a huge budget to make an impact. Find the people in your community who already have influence in your niche and collaborate with them in fun, creative ways.
Jade chimed in with another example—Mattel’s successful rebranding of Barbie through the blockbuster Barbie movie. It was a perfect case of modernizing a legacy brand for a new audience while staying true to its core identity.
Brain-Rot Marketing for Gen Z
Not all marketing trends get a thumbs up from our hosts. Jade shared a phenomenon she’s been seeing on TikTok—what she calls “brain-rot marketing.” Brands like Pine-Sol and Nutter Butter are creating bizarre, random videos designed to grab attention and go viral with younger audiences.
While Jade found it fascinating and worth noting, Kirby wasn’t convinced. He admitted that he didn’t “get” it and worried that, while it might rack up views, it might not actually convert into long-term brand loyalty.
Product of the Week: Glass Jar Candle from Numo
This week’s Product of the Week comes from Numo—a beautiful Glass Jar Candle with Lid and direct print decoration. You can check it out here.
It’s a perfect example of branded merch that people actually use and enjoy. Candles work across industries, are universally appealing, and can be customized to reflect your brand’s personality and scent preferences.
Shout Out: Local Festivals in Coshocton County
The episode wrapped up with a nod to some exciting local happenings—the Coshocton Dog Fest and the Roscoe Village Food Truck Festival happening this weekend. Both events bring the community together, support local vendors, and give people a reason to get out and explore.
Final Thoughts
From Swift’s calculated moves to McDonald’s nano-influencer magic, this episode proves that great marketing can come from anywhere—and not all of it will make sense to everyone. The key is knowing your audience, meeting them where they are, and being intentional about every move you make.
Whether you’re running a small local business or managing a global brand, there’s something in this episode for you. Tune in, take notes, and maybe even light a candle while you listen.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
Welcome back to another episode of Better Merch…Better Marketing with Kirby Hasseman and Jade Crider! This week’s conversation covers everything from celebrity controversy and year-end gift planning to nostalgic sequels and sunflower fields. As always, it’s a mix of marketing strategy, pop culture, and a little bit of fun along the way.
Sydney Sweeney and the American Eagle Ad Debate
We kicked off the show by diving into the controversy surrounding Sydney Sweeney and her recent ad campaign with American Eagle. For those who haven’t seen it, the campaign has sparked online backlash—some claiming it’s off-brand for the clothing company, others calling it tone-deaf.
Jade’s take? She felt the campaign missed the mark. “It feels like her personal brand is all over the place,” she said. From HBO star to country music features to now being the face of a youthful denim brand, the messaging isn’t cohesive. Jade noted that good marketing should align the brand’s identity with the influencer’s vibe—and this one might have been a mismatch.
Kirby had a slightly different view, suggesting that the outrage may be more about today’s internet culture than the campaign itself. “It seems like people are just looking for something to be mad about,” he said. That said, both agreed that when you’re crafting campaigns involving celebrity influencers, brand alignment is key—otherwise, the message gets lost in the noise.
Year-End Gifting…In August?
If you’ve been around the branded merch world long enough, you know this truth: it’s never too early to plan your year-end gifts.
Jade and Kirby discussed how starting now gives you better options, better pricing, and most importantly—less stress. Waiting until November means you’re fighting stock issues, shipping delays, and a rush of last-minute panic. But if you start in August or September, the world of creative gift-giving is wide open.
Whether you’re showing appreciation to clients, rewarding employees, or sending thank-you kits to partners, branded gifts are a chance to make a lasting impression. Done right, they’re not just “stuff”—they’re a relationship-building tool.
Pro tip: Don’t overthink the size of the gift. A thoughtful, quality item delivered with care can go a long way.
Happy Gilmore 2 – The Cameo Marketing Machine
Next up, we hit on the release of Happy Gilmore 2. Jade saw the movie and gave it a solid “meh” for entertainment value, but the marketing strategy behind it was definitely a conversation starter.
Kirby was intrigued by the power of cameos in promoting the film. “It felt like everyone was talking about it—not because of the storyline, but because of who showed up in it,” he said. Celebrities from all corners made appearances, and those cameos created a ripple effect of free publicity across social media.
The lesson? Create buzz through surprise and involvement. Whether it’s in your content, your product, or your events, when unexpected faces or moments appear, people pay attention. It’s word-of-mouth 2.0.
Product of the Week: Olive Wood Cutting Board with Handle
This week’s product spotlight is a showstopper—especially if you’re thinking about higher-end gifts for clients or team members. The Rock & Branch Olive Wood Cutting and Serving Board is beautiful, functional, and classy.
This isn’t your average kitchen item. It’s the kind of piece that gets used, complimented, and remembered. With its natural olive wood grain and serving handle, it bridges the gap between utility and luxury—and offers a unique branding opportunity.
Pair it with a custom recipe card, a local treat, or a thank-you note for an elevated gift experience. This one’s definitely going on the “holiday favorites” list.
Shout Out: The Coshocton Sunflower Festival 🌻
To wrap up the episode, we gave a shout-out to one of the most beautiful events in Coshocton County: the Coshocton Sunflower Festival!
Taking place over two weekends in August, this festival draws people from all over to wander through fields of vibrant blooms, take stunning photos, and enjoy food, music, and family-friendly fun. It’s a shining example of how local events create community pride and tourism impact.
This episode was a fun blend of hot takes, smart planning, and seasonal strategy.
From celebrity-brand alignment and buzz-worthy marketing moments to early gifting advice and sunflower celebrations, Jade and Kirby always bring insights you can use—and a few laughs along the way.
Thanks for tuning in to Better Merch…Better Marketing—Season 2 is off to a strong start. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode. And if you’re ready to start planning your year-end merch strategy, reach out to our team—we’d love to help.
Until next time—keep spreading the Marketing Joy!
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
We’re back! After wrapping up Season 1, Jade Crider and Kirby Hasseman are kicking off Season 2 of Better Merch…Better Marketing with fresh stories, lessons learned, and a few laughs along the way. From big life changes to bold PR moves, this episode is full of practical takeaways (and a really cool product you’ll want to see).
Here’s what we covered in this week’s episode:
Big Changes in July
July brought big shifts for both Jade and Kirby.
Jade made a major move, relocating from Colorado to Georgia. In the episode, she shares what it’s been like to transition both personally and professionally, including the adjustments she’s making in a brand-new environment.
Kirby, on the other hand, spent the month “out of the office.” He didn’t completely disconnect from work but intentionally pulled back from his usual pace. He shares what worked (recharging and finding clarity) and what didn’t (because, let’s be honest, unplugging from a busy schedule isn’t always smooth).
The lesson? Sometimes you need to step back—or shake things up—to see your business (and your life) from a fresh perspective.
A Brilliant PR Move from Astronomer
We couldn’t resist talking about the story that took social media by storm: Astronomer’s CEO and HR director unexpectedly going viral after being caught on the “kiss cam” at a Coldplay concert. Instead of ignoring it, the company leaned in with humor and creativity—bringing in Gwyneth Paltrow as their temporary spokesperson to address the attention.
And it worked.
Both Jade and Kirby agreed: this was PR done right. It was smart, funny, and most importantly, human. It’s a great reminder that not every “crisis” is a crisis. Sometimes, if you embrace the moment with authenticity, it can turn into a win.
Instagram is Becoming a Search Platform
Jade led a fascinating discussion on Instagram’s shift toward becoming more of a search platform—and what that means for marketers.
Instead of just pretty pictures and short captions, users are now treating Instagram like a mini search engine. That means captions, keywords, and descriptions matter more than ever.
Some of the key tips we discussed:
Write captions with searchable terms that match what your audience is looking for.
Consider the questions people are asking and use your posts to answer them.
Don’t just post for aesthetics—think about discoverability.
If you’re using Instagram for business, it’s time to optimize not just for likes but for searchability.
Product of the Week: EZ Breezy Neck Fan
When it’s hot outside, you don’t just want to cool off—you need to. That’s why our Product of the Week is the EZ Breezy Neck Fan from HPG.
This hands-free fan is rechargeable, lightweight, and perfect for events, outdoor work, or simply surviving summer. It’s also a fantastic branded merch option because it’s useful, fun, and attention-grabbing—the kind of thing people will thank you for.
Shout Out of the Week: Coshocton Economic Development Win
Finally, we ended the episode with a huge shout out to the Coshocton Port Authority, Ohio SE, the Ohio Department of Development, and everyone involved in securing a $58.7 million grant for the old AEP site in Coshocton County.
This funding will help build out the infrastructure to make the site ready for future economic development projects—an incredible step forward for the local community.
This is a huge win for Coshocton County, and it’s a great example of what happens when local leaders, state agencies, and development organizations work together.
Final Thoughts
Season 2 is off to a strong start. From personal growth to smart PR strategies, from Instagram’s evolution to innovative branded products, this episode is packed with value—and plenty of reasons to get excited about what’s next.
Be sure to watch the full episode above, and if you haven’t subscribed yet, now’s the time. Season 2 is going to be even bigger, better, and more insightful.
And if you’re battling the summer heat? Get yourself an EZ Breezy Neck Fan. Trust us.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, merch strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand or your team, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Get your TARGET Hiring Playbook here for free!
We’re back with another fun-filled and refreshingly ridiculous episode of Thirsty Thursday! This week, Jade Crider (your Branding Bestie), Briar Swigert from Simple Signs & Print, and Kirby Hasseman take on another mystery drink—served in a sleek new piece of branded drinkware that we’re excited to talk about.
The Drinkware: Quenching in Style
This week, we raised our glasses (literally) to the 40 oz Quencher Collection from our friends at Glass America. You can check it out here: 40 oz Quencher Collection
Let’s just say… we were impressed.
This thing is sturdy. It’s the kind of cup that makes a statement on your desk, in your car, or at your next event. It’s insulated, stylish, and keeps your drink cold—plus it comes with a reusable straw that always works. That’s where the title of this episode comes in: How Often Do Straws Work? (You’ll have to watch the video to fully appreciate that inside joke.)
In terms of branding, the Quencher is a strong choice. With its large imprint area and trendy design, it’s the kind of merch your customers will actually use—and say thank you for. Whether you’re creating a premium gift or elevating your event swag, this is a piece that adds real value. Again…learn more or order for your next event here.
The Mystery Drink: St Julian Grape Punch
This week’s mystery drink was the St Julian Grape Punch, and let us tell you… it packs a punch.
With a rich, bold grape flavor and an impressive 20% alcohol content, this is one of those “sneaks up on you” beverages. It tastes like nostalgia in a glass—think grown-up grape juice with a serious kick. And the entire crew was in agreement: this one’s a hit.
Jade, Briar, and Kirby all gave this drink a solid thumbs-up. Just a heads-up… this is not a “sip all day” kind of drink unless you want your Thursday to turn into a very early Friday. Respect the punch!
Bonus Clip Alert
Make sure to stick around to the very end of this week’s episode—there’s a bonus clip that gives you a behind-the-scenes laugh you won’t want to miss. We always try to bring you the real, unscripted fun of marketing, branded merch, and of course—taste-testing new concoctions. This week delivers on all fronts.
Why It Matters (Yes, Even This)
At first glance, Thirsty Thursday might just seem like a silly, lighthearted video series—and it is. But at its core, it’s about testing branded merch in real-life situations. We’re not just reading product descriptions or flipping through catalogs. We’re holding it, using it, and yes… drinking from it.
That gives us (and you) valuable insight into what’s actually going to make an impact for your customers. Because when it comes to branded merchandise, practicality meets personality. And when you can create something memorable and useful, you win.
Want to Explore More Drinkware?
If you’re enjoying the drinkware featured on Thirsty Thursday, we’ve got a full collection of favorites waiting for you in our Thirsty Thursday shop. You can browse the full lineup here:
Whether you’re building kits, creating gifts, or just want to make sure your brand ends up on someone’s desk instead of in the trash—drinkware is always a great place to start.
Final Thoughts
This week’s Thirsty Thursday had it all: a show-stopping piece of drinkware, a deliciously deceptive beverage, and plenty of laughs to go around. As always, thanks for coming along for the ride. We hope it inspires you to think differently about the power of branded merch—and have a little fun in the process.
Stay tuned for next week’s episode and remember: Marketing should be fun. And maybe a little boozy too.
Let us know what drinkware (or mystery drink!) you want us to try next. Cheers!
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
This week’s Thirsty Thursday episode brought us the perfect blend of Southern charm and practical design. With the full crew—Jade, Briar, and Kirby—back in action, the mood was light, the banter was strong, and the reviews were unusually unanimous. That’s right: all thumbs up this time around. Let’s talk about what made this week’s sip session a success.
The Mug: 12 oz Stackable Ceramic Mug from BelPromo
First up, the drinkware. This week we featured the 12 oz Stackable Ceramic Mug from BelPromo, and it was a winner from the moment we unboxed it.
This mug is the perfect mix of classic and convenient. The ceramic build gives it that satisfying weight and smooth texture you want in a coffee mug, while the stackable design makes it ideal for small office kitchens, home cabinets, and anyone trying to save space. Whether you’re sipping on something warm during your morning routine or using it as a conversation starter in the break room, this mug is ready for action.
With a nice surface for decoration, it’s also a great piece for branded merch. If you’re planning a staff appreciation gift, launching a new campaign, or just want your logo in more hands (literally), this mug checks a lot of boxes.
Now for the surprise hit of the episode—the drink. This week we tested Sweet Carolina Sweet Tea Vodka, and let’s just say we were skeptical going in. Sweet tea and vodka? It could go either way.
But it didn’t take long to win us over.
Sweet Carolina somehow hits the sweet spot (pun intended) between flavor and balance. It’s smooth and lightly sweet without being syrupy, and the tea flavor is genuine—not artificial or overpowering. You could definitely see this becoming a summer go-to, especially when mixed with lemonade, soda water, or even just poured over ice.
All three of us gave it the coveted thumbs up, which doesn’t happen often. That’s how you know this one’s worth trying for yourself.
One of the reasons we love Thirsty Thursday is that it gives us a chance to showcase promotional products in real life. We’re not just talking about mugs and tumblers—we’re using them, washing them, comparing them, and seeing how they feel in hand. It’s the best way to find out which pieces are worth putting your logo on.
This week’s ceramic mug was a great reminder that sometimes the simplest products are the most effective. Stackable mugs like this are easy to store, easy to ship, and always useful. When you combine that practicality with strong decoration and quality feel, you’ve got a piece of merch that people won’t toss in the back of a cabinet.
And when it comes to building brand recognition, that’s exactly what you want.
Stock Your Shelf with the Thirsty Thursday Shop
If you’ve been following along with us, you know the Thirsty Thursday crew takes drinkware seriously. We’ve tested everything from flasks to tumblers, shot glasses to mugs—and we’ve built a collection of our favorite branded drinkware in one convenient spot.
If you’re looking for a fun giveaway, a premium client gift, or something fresh for your internal swag closet, check out the full Thirsty Thursday drinkware shop here:
Each item in the shop has been tested by real people drinking real drinks—sometimes the good, sometimes the questionable—and you’ll find honest reviews and ideas for how each piece might fit your brand.
Final Pour
This week’s episode was a reminder of why we love doing this show. A great drinkware piece, a surprisingly enjoyable drink, and a few laughs along the way.
Whether you’re here for the product ideas, the drink reviews, or the camaraderie, we’re glad you’ve joined us. Be sure to catch the episode above, and if you’re ready to find branded merch that people will actually use, we’d love to help.
And as always, if you need help with branded merch, marketing strategy, or creative ideas to grow your brand, let’s talk. We’d love to help you. Head here to get the book “Hit The TARGET” for FREE! This will help you dial in your marketing for better results.
