With all that we have gone through in 2020, people are reconsidering their lives as we all consider what we went through last year.

Everyone is processing a lot as we begin to open up and start seeing each other in person.

This would be a great year to give away pens and journals to your employees and customers. A gesture that says you care.

Do promotional pens work?

While it’s hard to measure how effective they are, it’s not hard to measure how many people keep their promotional products. According to an article in Forbes Magazine, a study done by the Advertising Specialty Institute found that 50% of US consumers own promotional pens.

They also found that consumers are nearly 2.5 times more likely to have a positive opinion of promotional products compared to Internet advertising! Why? Internet advertising interrupts their daily life, whereas, promotional products are useful and they have 100% control over when they use them.

Promotional Pens

There are thousands of pens to choose from. We picked out a few.

Bright colored pens

Pens with styluses to use on phones and tablets

Pens made with sustainable materials

Pens available in specialty holders

Pens in almost any color

Promotional Journals

Who doesn’t love journals? Men and women alike find them useful and are likely to use them. They are too nice to throw away, so they become a great place for notes and lists. They often end up in meetings, which expands your brand reach. Journals are one of the most appreciated promotional items.

Executive gray journal

Journal with front phone pocket

Journals with an expansive pocket

Executive blue journal

Lightweight journals perfect for quick lists and notes

Two-tone journal

A unique giveaway of journals and pens in 2021 would go a long way in promoting a positive brand experience with employees, customers, and prospects.

I would love to help you find the best products this year. Contact me to get started together!

Happy spring!

Debbie Smith

Every year, most people make health one of their priorities as they consider their New Years’ resolutions. With the pandemic, keeping our immune systems safe and healthy is top of the list. Sure we all want to lose weight and get in better shape, but fighting off COVID19 is still on everyone’s minds.

The best way to fight off COVID19, or any virus is to keep your immune system safe. I am no expert, but I know the basics are important. The NIH (National Institute of Health) has a Physical Wellness Checklist with”Positive physical health habits can help decrease your stress, lower your risk of disease, and increase your energy.”  Click here to download it.

The promotional industry reacted quickly rolling out lots of  COVID19 Resistant products, and COVID19 supplies, such as masks and sanitizers.

Another interesting innovation is phone sanitizers.

We use our phones everywhere, it makes sense to we want to keep them clean. If you think about it you realize just how many germs phones may be carrying around.

UV Phone Sanitizer with Wireless Charging Pad

This UV Phone Sanitizer with Wireless Charging Pad uses UV-C light technology for sanitization to kill 99% of microorganisms tested.

It can sanitize almost anything that fits inside (7.5″ L * 4″ W * 1″ H) such as large phones, keys, credit cards, watches, eyeglasses, jewelry, medical supplies such as protective equipment, and even children’s utensils.

Desktop UV Sanitizer and Bluetooth Speaker

The Desktop UV Sanitizer and Bluetooth Speaker combine premium sound, three UVC lights, music controls, and a microphone.

These features make this speaker a great addition to any desktop! Simply open the top lid and place your mobile phone, jewelry, or mask to begin the cleaning process.

The Bluetooth speaker produces a premium sound that can be heard around the office! The full music controls allow you to activate your voice assistance (Siri, Hey Google), change the audio, control the volume, and accept/reject incoming calls. The built-in microphone allows you to use the desktop speaker for your conference calls.

If you’re interested in promotional products for 2021 (whether they are COVID related or not), contact me, and I can help you get started.

I look forward to a much better year in 2021!

Debbie Smith

They are “antimicrobial products” and/or stainless steel. This means you can safely use and distribute these products knowing they fight off the microbes that can cause disease.

What is Antimicrobial?

In contrast to antibacterial agents, antimicrobial substances offer a greater level of product protection by continuously inhibiting the growth of microbes on surfaces for very long periods of time.

1)     REFINE Antimicrobial Pen

REFINE’S anti-microbial material, Sanitized Silver®, inhibits the spread and growth of microbes such as bacteria, fungi, yeast, algae, etc. Available in four trim colors pre-branded with Antimicrobial identification imprinted on the clip.

Refine’s antimicrobial treatment, Sanitized Silver®, begins working immediately upon contact and provides continuous product protection. Because the additive occurs at the manufacturing level, it doesn’t wear off and remains effective for the life of the product.

How does the additive do that? First, the additive destabilizes the bacterial outer cell membrane. Then it cuts off air to the cell.  Next, food intake is blocked. Finally, the ability of the cell to divide and reproduce is cut off. Once this happens, the bacteria deteriorates and can no longer spread.

2)   Colorama Antimicrobial Pen

Our new USA* Colorama Antimicrobial Pen includes an antimicrobial additive that fights against the growth and transmission of over 99% of bacteria, molds, yeasts, algae and other micro-organisms. The additive is molded into exterior plastic parts, lasting the entire life of the product.

With a full-color imprint, this retractable ballpoint is ideal for business focused on safety & hygiene.

3)    CSANTI Retractable, Antimicrobial Pen

The most popular, retractable pen in promotional products is now available with an antimicrobial additive – protecting the pen by suppressing the growth of bacteria, algae, fungus, mold, and mildew on the pen.

PrevaGuard products contain an EPA registered antimicrobial additive that is molded directly into the pen’s plastic components. This helps protect the pen by suppressing the growth of bacteria, molds, mildew, and fungi, especially in high-moisture environments.

4)    Mouse Pad With Antimicrobial Protection

Antimicrobial Mouse Pads are tried & true promotional workhorses. The soft fabric surface provides the comfort and superior mousing performance computer users have favored since the mouse pad was invented. As an added value, your customers will love the antimicrobial protection.

Even in today’s wireless world, mousepads are great for all businesses using desktop computers.

5)    Stainless Steel No Touch Tool with Stylus and Bottle Opener

PERFECT ZERO-TOUCH GADGET TO PREVENT GERMS

The Hands-Free Door Opener Tool is designed to keep you safe and stop the spread by limiting exposure to infected surfaces in day-to-day activities.

This Multipurpose Door Opener includes a stylus and bottle opener. The key or germ hook can be used as a sanitary door opener, no-touch button-pusher tool, keychain tool, keychain stylus, anti-touch stick tool or anti-germ utility tool for infected handles, locks,  elevators, ATMs, keypads, switches, sinks, gas pumps, levers, payment machines, trash bins. The stylus tip works on most touchscreens, and much more.

Comfortable, compact & durable – This stainless steel tool can hook or attach easily in pockets, belt straps, bags or purses, and a small hole for a keychain or carabiner.

Contact me, or start a quote to get you started on promotional products that will truly tell your customer, prospects, and employees that you care about them.

We are here to help!

Debbie Smith

p.s. We will most likely be using precautions for a while. If you’re interested in putting your brand on COVID19 supplies such as masks (for adults and kids), sanitizers, and more, check out the last blog: A Variety of COVID19 Supplies.

This is a great year for camping.

Families are staying safe and staying together. Many campgrounds are open with safe distancing rules. Here’s a link to information on campgrounds open (and closed) due to COVID19.

Show you care with some great items people will use for years to come.

#1 Cooler Chair

You’ll have it made in the shade when you relax in this cooler and chair combination that’s ready for any adventure.

#2 16 oz Enamel-Lined Iron Coffee Mug

Nothing is better than a fresh cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea around a campfire! Features iron construction with a speckled enamel finish.

#3 Cooler Bag

This complete picnic basket includes a 13-piece BBQ set and a 15-can cooler with 2 side pockets. The BBQ set includes tongs, a spatula, and a fork. The picnic set includes 2 knives, 2 forks, 2 napkins, salt and pepper shakers, a 6″ x 5″ cutting board, and a corkscrew/bottle opener. Everything needed to make the camp meals complete!

#4 BBQ Set

This three-piece BBQ set is a great summertime gift! The grillers must-have comes complete with tongs, a fork, and a spatula with TPR rubber handles – all of which are presented in a matching zipper case.

#5 Mini Lantern

Unique retro design, LED light automatically turns on when the top is pulled up. Handles fold neatly against the side of the lantern.

#6 Picnic Blanket

This 100% polyester fleece blanket with polyethylene and water-resistant backing. The blanket rolls up for easy carrying.

#7 Outdoor Adventure Kit

Stay prepared with this exciting kit, which includes an emergency blanket, compass, flashlight, multitool, pocket knife, Paracord bracelet with fire starter, and a roll-top waterproof bag to keep it all safe.

These are just a few ideas to help you and your customers, employees, and prospects enjoy the outdoors while spreading your brand for years to come.

Contact me for more information. Stay safe!

Debbie Smith

p.s. We will most likely be using precautions for a while. If you’re interested in putting your brand on COVID19 supplies such as masks (for adults and kids), sanitizers, and more, check out the last blog: A Variety of COVID19 Supplies.

You would be surprised at how many promotional products you can provide that are earth-friendly. From ballpoint pens to bio-degradable disposable cups, utensils, and keychains. Below are a few that you can choose from.

1. This eco-friendly, click-action ballpoint features a wheat straw trim to complement its bamboo barrel.

2. This classy bamboo stylus pen is tech-savvy and eco-friendly, which enables it to be used on the iPhone, iPad devices.

3. World’s first pens made from recycled bottles! Made from 89% post-consumer recycled bottles. Vibrant gel ink for smooth, effortless writing.

4. The wheat straw barrel, silver trim, and capacitance stylus of the pen below make it both eco-friendly and highly functional.

5. Save the earth while you write with this eco-friendly, click-action pen is made of wheat straw.

6. The 18 oz wheat cup below is BPA free, dishwasher and microwave safe, and suitable for hot liquids.

7. Below are boxes and straws made of wheat. The box comes in 3 parts that screw together and can be assembled in seconds. The box and straws are reusable. Cleaning brush included. Great for travel, purse, office, sports bag, glove box, or even your pocket.

8. The buildable box and tube set below are made of wheat straw. It comes in 3 parts that screw together and can be assembled in seconds, The straw is reusable. A cleaning brush included. Great for travel and it clips on to any purse or sports bag, fits in the glove box, or even your pocket.

9. Below is a bamboo, 3 piece set includes that includes a fork, spoon, and knife in a convenient carrying case. The set is perfect for being on the go and eliminating the use of disposable plastic utensils!

10. Through a partnership with 1% For The Planet, one percent of sales of EcoSmart products will be donated to nonprofits dedicated to protecting the planet. Below is a mug made with wheat straw. It comes with a push-on lid with twist secure closure. Double-wall construction with a stainless steel liner.

As you can see, there are lots of eco-friendly, promotional products to choose from!

It’s very exciting to be able to provide products to our customers that not only promote a positive image of your brands but also are good for the planet.

It’s a win-win, don’t you agree?

Contact me and I’ll help you get started.

Debbie Smith

It’s true – promotional products generate 14% – 50% greater recall rate of who you are! If someone is regularly using a pen, tote bag, hat or golf ball with a logo on it, they are most likely going to think of that company when they need whatever service or product they have.

I am always asked what would be good promotional items to get for customers, employees or prospects. So I have come up with a list of some of my favorites. And of course, you can put your logo on all of them!

1)  Tote Bag – KAPSTON Pierce Tote-Pack

A tote and backpack all in one! This bag features a sleek KAPSTON design, including a padded laptop compartment.

2)    Umbrella –WINDJAMMER® Vented Auto Open & Close Compact Umbrella

This umbrella features a 3 section shaft, automatic open & closing, a vented canopy engineered to resist windy conditions, black electrostatic steel shaft and ribs and an ergonomic rubber grip handle with a woven wrist strap.

3)    Calendar – ThePresident Monthly Planner – Leatherette

Horizontal Monthly Planner…the President includes large date blocks for easy organization and die-cut tabs for quick reference to make this the ideal planning tool for fast, efficient date keeping. This version has a 2-part (front and back) leatherette cover, one-color foil imprint and black wire binding. There is an optional PenPort & Pen.

4)    Post It Note Cube – Post-it® Notes Cube Custom Printed Full Color

Side printed Post-it® Notes cube full color. Custom printed on the top sheet also.

5)    Reusable Straws – Stainless Steel Straw Set

These sustainable yet trendy stainless steel straws are perfect for anyone. Each set comes with one straight straw, one bent straw, 1 silicone tip, 1 cleaner brush, and its own branded muslin bag. Because who needs more plastic straws in our oceans?

6)    Pen – BIC® Intensity® Clic Gel Pen

This ultra-smooth gel roller and a variety of trendy colors, the BIC® Intensity® Clic Gel is a modern take on the retractable pen.

7)    Pen – Souvenir® Story Pen

This Pen features black ink, a black accent, and a pocket clip.

8)    Pen – Top Cat Comfort Pen

High-end looks and a comfortable feel no matter where you grip. Engraved silver imprint and shining trim contrast boldly with a matte finish. Black hybrid ink adds to writing enjoyment.

9)    Pen – Xeedee Pen

The diamond-cut silver bands accent shimmering barrels and a houndstooth textured grip. Smooth writing black Hybrid ink adds to the high-end appeal.

As you probably know, there are thousands of promotional items to choose from. I am sure you would be happy with any of the 9 promotional items above.

Contact me and I’ll help you decide which is best for you and your budget.

I look forward to helping you!

Debbie Smith

March is National Umbrella Month

Just when we have had enough of winter, the rain comes in. At least here in Columbus, Ohio! But we have tulips, pansies, crocuses and other spring flowers just coming up.

There are many kinds of umbrellas and everyone needs one.

There are vented umbrellas, golf umbrellas, travel umbrellas, bubble umbrellas and more.

There’s something wonderful about putting up a great umbrella that shields you from the spring rain. It’s frustrating to not have one, or even worse have one that doesn’t work! So why not take advantage of this emotional attachment and put your logo on it?

Umbrellas are not an inexpensive promotional item. They are for special occasions, your special clients and your employees. Imagine people walking around in public with a beautiful umbrella that has your logo on it!

The best way to get and keep business is to stay top of mind – why not do that with umbrellas on top of people?!

Now to the exciting news of the coolest new umbrella on the market: the Inverted Umbrella.

People who love to camp are getting their gear ready and making plans.

Why not take advantage of the love of the outdoors to promote your brand? There are thousands of items to choose from that will come in handy and be used for years and years.

We all know that people will keep promotional items that are useful. People will keep and use gadgets that are useful and good quality.

Luckily there are many camping gadgets that are affordable to give as promotional items. Here are 4 great selections.

Camping Knives

If you’ve ever been camping, you know the importance of having a few good knives around. Cutting rope, fishing lines and, everyone’s favorite, gutting the fish!

Coolers

There’s no denying that coolers are a big deal in the summer. Not just for camping, but for any kind of travel, picnic or outing. There are lots to choose from!

Flashlights

Can you ever have too many flashlights? Especially when you’re camping. No one wants to be without one in the middle of the night when it’s time to find the restroom or the blanket you forgot in the car. And don’t forget the kids! They LOVE to have flashlights to feel safe and have fun.

Blankets

Once the day is done, it’s important to have a cozy blanket to snuggle under. They’re also great to have to go to the beach or take on a chilly hike. They’re even better when they wrap up with handles and pockets for snacks!

Make your customers happy with promotional camping items this year.

These are just a few of the many promotional camping items we have available. You can see more here.

Contact me and I’ll be happy to help you find what you’re looking for!

Debbie Smith

We write everyday.

Notes, lists, journals, letters (we should hand write more letters, don’t you think)?

In the age of technology, we forget how important it is to have nice writing instruments. We text, email, FB message and type an unbelievable amount of words each day. But when we need it, there’s nothing worse than grabbing a pen that doesn’t work, am I right?

People KEEP good pens.

We actually kind of cherish pens because psychologically, we like to use our hands to communicate, to write, to express.

Having your logo on a pen is a great way of keeping your business in the minds of your clients and prospects.

I was once at a meeting where someone from a bank was giving away pens, and they announced that they had given over a million of their logo pens away in Columbus, Ohio alone. A million!

We have some great new pens available this year, from gliding ink, to blue ink (great for legal documents) and pens with the option to print a logo in 2 colors.

Contact me to find the best pens for your company!

I look forward to hearing from you,

Debbie Smith, Owner