When done right, branded merchandise is more than just a logo on a product—it’s an extension of your brand’s identity. Great merch connects with your audience, creates lasting impressions, and builds loyalty. But creating truly impactful branded merchandise takes more than picking a product from a catalog.
The first—and most critical—step in creating better branded merch is to know your audience. Ask yourself:
Who will receive this product?
What do they value?
How will they use it?
For example, a sleek tumbler might be the perfect gift for professionals who need coffee on the go, while a cozy crewneck sweatshirt might resonate more with college students. The more you understand your audience, the better you can select products that align with their needs, tastes, and lifestyles.
2. Create a Cool Design
Branded merch should excite your audience, not bore them. A great design goes beyond simply slapping your logo on an item—it should be visually appealing and represent your brand in a way that makes people want to wear or use it.
Here are some tips for designing merch your audience will love:
Keep it clean and professional, but don’t be afraid to add a creative twist.
Use colors that match your brand but also pop on the product.
Incorporate messaging or visuals that resonate with your audience.
A well-designed piece of merch turns recipients into walking ambassadors for your brand.
3. Give Yourself Time
Rushing the process is a surefire way to miss opportunities for greatness. Better branded merch takes time—time to brainstorm ideas, create designs, and review proofs. By giving yourself ample time:
You can think through the product’s purpose and impact.
Your design team has the opportunity to create something truly exceptional.
You’ll avoid costly mistakes or last-minute compromises.
Remember: rushed merch often feels rushed. Plan ahead, and you’ll end up with a product you’re proud to share.
4. Pay Attention to Detail
Details matter, especially in branded merchandise. Before placing an order, always request a proof of your design, and then really look at it.
Here’s what to check for:
Are the colors correct?
Is your logo placed where you want it?
Are there typos or errors in any text?
Does the design scale well on the product?
Taking the time to review every detail ensures that the final product matches your vision. A small mistake on a proof can turn into a big problem when it’s on 500 products.
5. Pay Attention to the Merch That Moves You
Think about the last time you received a piece of branded merch that you loved. What made it special? Was it the design? The quality? The functionality?
When you notice merch that moves you, take note of why. Use those insights to create products that will resonate with your audience in the same way. The key to better merch is understanding what you find impactful and using that knowledge to connect with others.
Why BETTER Merch Matters
Branded merchandise isn’t just about promotion—it’s about creating an experience. When you invest time and energy into doing merch BETTER, your audience will notice. They’ll feel valued, appreciated, and connected to your brand.
By following these 5 tips, you can turn ordinary promotional products into extraordinary tools for engagement. So take the time to understand your audience, create something exciting, and pay attention to the details.
Because when it comes to branded merch, better isn’t just possible—it’s worth pursuing.
Imposter syndrome is a sneaky thing. It often creeps in when we’re pushing ourselves to grow, learn, or share what we know with others. I’ve felt it, especially when creating personal development content. Who am I to teach others when I don’t have it all figured out myself? That question used to hold me back.
But then, a simple realization shifted my perspective: I don’t need to be perfect—I just need to be BETTER.
This mindset—focusing on progress instead of perfection—has become the foundation for what I call The Relentless Pursuit of BETTER. It’s a personal development philosophy that acknowledges we’re all works in progress and gives us a clear roadmap to improve every day.
And here’s the best part: BETTER is more than just a word. It’s an acronym that serves as a step-by-step guide to help you stay on track in your own journey of growth.
B: Be Intentional
Growth doesn’t happen by accident. To improve, you must set intentional goals. These goals act as your compass, giving you direction and purpose. Think about what you truly want to achieve and write it down. Most people really struggle to name what they really want in their life. This is the first step to getting BETTER in your life. Be intentional about what you want…and write it down so you can see it every day.
E: Engage in Learning
The fastest way to grow is to learn. Seek out new knowledge, whether through books, podcasts, courses, or mentors. Every piece of insight adds to your toolkit, preparing you to take on new challenges. Learning is fun when you are working to learn something you WANT to know. And there are so many tools to learn for free. Dig in and learn as much as you can about what you are trying to accomplish.
T: Take Action
Ideas are great, but they don’t mean much without action. Make a plan and start moving toward your goals. Even small steps add up over time. Remember, you don’t have to be perfect—you just have to begin. Too many of us get stuck in learning because we think we will take action when we “know enough.” But we will always feel that pull to wait. Take action. More learning will happen as you go.
T: Track Your Efforts
What gets measured gets improved. Tracking your efforts helps you stay accountable and see how far you’ve come. Whether it’s writing down daily habits, logging workouts, or noting achievements, keep a record of your progress. I was late to the party on this one. I always thought, “I know what I am doing.” But when I started to measure every day…and write it down…it affected what I actually did.
E: Evaluate Your Progress
Every so often, take a step back and assess how you’re doing. Are you moving closer to your goals? What’s working? What’s not? This evaluation gives you clarity and keeps you focused.
R: Reflect and Adjust
Life rarely goes as planned, and that’s okay. Reflection allows you to celebrate wins and learn from setbacks. Then, adjust your approach to keep moving forward. Being adaptable is a superpower in the pursuit of growth.
Why BETTER Works
The beauty of this framework is its simplicity. It doesn’t ask you to have everything figured out. Instead, it encourages you to focus on consistent, incremental improvement. Each day, ask yourself: How can I be just a little bit better than yesterday?
The Relentless Pursuit of BETTER isn’t about perfection or reaching an endpoint. It’s about embracing the journey of becoming the best version of yourself—one intentional step at a time.
So, the next time imposter syndrome whispers in your ear, remind yourself: You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to pursue BETTER.
What will you do today to get started on your own relentless pursuit of BETTER?
Coshocton, Ohio – November 2024 – Hasseman Marketing, a full-service marketing agency dedicated to helping businesses grow through innovative marketing solutions, is thrilled to celebrate its 20th anniversary this month. Founded in 2004, the Coshocton-based agency has grown from a small startup into a trusted partner for clients across industries, providing a full spectrum of marketing services, from branding and promotional products to social media strategy and content creation.
Hasseman Marketing Celebrates 20 Years
Over the past two decades, Hasseman Marketing has established itself as a go-to agency for businesses in Ohio and beyond, consistently delivering customized solutions that drive results. Known for its commitment to customer service and a personalized approach to each client’s needs, the agency has helped numerous local businesses, nonprofits, and larger organizations achieve their marketing goals.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved over the past 20 years,” said Kirby Hasseman, founder and CEO of Hasseman Marketing. “Our success is a testament to the hard work of our team and the trust our clients have placed in us. As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to continuing to innovate and support our clients in an ever-changing marketing landscape.”
In addition to its client work, Hasseman Marketing is deeply committed to the local community. The agency has been involved in numerous initiatives to support local organizations, foster community spirit, and encourage local business growth.
To commemorate this special occasion, Hasseman Marketing will be creating amazing branded merch (no surprise) and creating social content to celebrate and look back. These celebrations are both a way to thank their clients and the Coshocton community that has supported them from the start.
About Hasseman Marketing: Founded in 2004, Hasseman Marketing is a full-service marketing agency based in Coshocton, Ohio. With a focus on strategic and creative marketing solutions, Hasseman Marketing offers branding, promotional products, social media strategy, content creation, and much more to help businesses of all sizes grow and thrive.
On this Thirsty Thursday, we take a blast to the past! We have been doing these so long that we don’t always remember what we have tried…but Briar remembers! On Thirsty Thursday, we try a mystery drink from a very cool piece of branded drinkware. We have no idea what is coming, so you get a true (and sometimes inappropriate) reaction to what we try! This time we are trying the mystery drink out of the Recyclable Steel Chill Cups! Watch the latest episode now!
Why The 16 oz Recyclable Steel Chill Cup?
While the feedback on the drink each week can have mixed reviews, this quality drinkware piece got thumbs up all around. Made in the USA from infinitely recyclable steel, the 16 oz Steel Chill-Cups™ keep the party going, plastic-free, with their sturdy, reusable, and recyclable design. Thanks to its inherent strength and magnetic qualities, steel is the #1 most recycled food can which makes it the ideal material for almost anything disposable. In fact, because it’s infinitely recyclable, more than 75% of all steel ever produced is still in use today. That’s why Steel Chill-Cups™ are the better option for disposable party cups, especially when compared with single-use plastics.
If you are interested in finding out more about the 9 oz Rocks Tumbler (or any of the other drinkware we feature) check out our shop here.
As for the drink…it was a blast to the past! What does that mean? Watch the full episode to find out!
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Thirsty Thursday as much as we did. Until next time, stay thirsty!
Each Thirsty Thursday, we feature a cool piece of branded drinkware. To learn more… head to our shop here.
In our fast-paced world, productivity and happiness can feel like elusive goals. However, achieving both can be simpler than we think—it often comes down to small but impactful daily habits. Here are five actionable steps you can take to increase both your productivity and happiness. Let’s dive in!
1. Get More Sleep
It sounds basic, but the truth is, many of us aren’t getting enough quality sleep. The benefits of a good night’s rest go far beyond just feeling alert. Sleep plays a crucial role in our ability to process information, manage stress, and make sound decisions. Studies have shown that sleep-deprived individuals are less productive and more likely to make errors at work.
Action Tip: Aim for at least 7–8 hours of sleep per night. To improve sleep quality, establish a wind-down routine, keep your room cool, and avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
2. Get Consistent Exercise
Physical activity isn’t just about staying fit—it’s about keeping your mind sharp and resilient, too. Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood, boost energy, and increase productivity. When you get moving, your brain releases endorphins, which help you feel happier and more focused.
Action Tip: If the thought of hitting the gym is daunting, start small. A daily 20-minute walk, some stretching, or a short yoga session can make a big difference in how you feel and perform each day.
3. Set Goals
Setting clear, achievable goals gives direction to your day. With a goal in mind, you’re more likely to stay on track and avoid distractions. Not only does achieving goals help you feel accomplished, but it also boosts confidence, which can lead to even more productivity and happiness.
Action Tip: Start by writing down one or two goals each morning. They don’t have to be monumental; even small wins can lead to big feelings of progress and satisfaction. Review your goals at the end of the day to see what you’ve accomplished and celebrate each step forward.
4. Be Mindful (Or Set Time for Meditation)
Mindfulness and meditation help us slow down, focus, and reduce stress—three things that greatly improve productivity. When you’re mindful, you’re more in tune with your thoughts and emotions, which makes it easier to handle stress, stay focused, and avoid burnout.
Action Tip: Start with just five minutes a day. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. You could also try guided meditation apps if that helps you stay focused. Over time, this simple practice can transform your mental clarity and emotional resilience.
5. Create an Intentional Morning Routine
A consistent morning routine can set the tone for a productive and joyful day. When you start your day with intention, you’re less likely to feel rushed or overwhelmed, which gives you a sense of calm and control. A morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated; it’s about choosing habits that set you up for success.
Action Tip: Your morning routine might include something as simple as a few minutes of stretching, writing down a couple of goals for the day, or having a quiet cup of coffee while planning your schedule. Experiment to find what works best for you, and make it a daily ritual.
Improving productivity and happiness isn’t about drastic changes—it’s about small, consistent actions that build up over time. By getting enough sleep, staying active, setting goals, being mindful, and establishing a morning routine, you’re creating a solid foundation for both productivity and happiness. So, take one step today, and keep building from there. You might be surprised by how quickly you notice the difference!
What do you do when it’s been a long week, and the energy seems low? You pump yourselves up by doing a brand new Thirsty Thursday with a Peanut Butter Pick Me Up! On Thirsty Thursday, we try a mystery drink from a very cool piece of branded drinkware. We have no idea what is coming, so you get a true (and sometimes inappropriate) reaction to what we try! This time we are trying the mystery drink out of the 9 oz Rocks Tumbler from our friends at CPS. Watch the latest episode now!
Why The 9 oz Rocks Tumbler?
While the feedback on the drink each week can have mixed reviews, this quality drinkware piece got thumbs up all around. We loved the size of the tumbler, the decoration capability, and the double-walled construction of the tumbler that will keep your drink cold for hours. This is a perfect year end gift for any one on your list.
If you are interested in finding out more about the 9 oz Rocks Tumbler (or any of the other drinkware we feature) check out our shop here.
As for the drink…we really liked this one! What was it? Watch the full episode to find out!
We hope you enjoyed this episode of Thirsty Thursday as much as we did. Until next time, stay thirsty!
Each Thirsty Thursday, we feature a cool piece of branded drinkware. To learn more… head to our shop here.
