Merch Madness: Avoid These Common Pitfalls When Ordering Bulk Swag!

  Budget-Friendly Doesn’t Mean Boring: Merch on a Mission Part of our series on Top 5 Merchandise Ideas for Community Events in 2025 Estimated Reading Time: 5–6 mins Merch, Small Budget — It’s Possible Community organizations, youth groups, and nonprofit event planners know the challenge all too well — you want to make your event memorable, but you’ve got a limited budget and a long list of priorities. When money’s tight, merch is often the first thing to get cut — or reduced to the cheapest, most forgettable items possible. But here’s the truth: budget limitations don’t mean your merchandise has to be boring or low-quality. In fact, with the right approach, limited resources can spark more intentional, creative, and people-centred solutions. Merch doesn’t need to be flashy — it needs to be functional, thoughtful, and aligned with your mission. Rethink What “Value” Really Means When it comes to event giveaways or fundraiser swag, the most effective items aren’t always the ...

Beyond the Logo: How to Design Merch That Sticks When it comes to community events, your merchandise is more than just a giveaway—it’s a lasting impression, a walking billboard, and often, a cherished keepsake. While slapping a logo on a t-shirt might seem like enough, truly memorable merch goes beyond branding. It tells a story, reflects community pride, and resonates emotionally with your audience. In this post, we’ll explore how you can design merchandise that leaves a lasting impact long after the event ends. Why Good Merch Design Matters Designing compelling merch isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about connection. As we shared in Blog #2: The Psychology of Merch , people keep and wear items that make them feel good, that spark joy, or align with their identity. Your design is the gateway to that emotional bond. A well-designed piece of merch can: Strengthen brand recognition Encourage organic social sharing Spark conversation and curiosity Foster community pride and inclusivity S...

From camps and school fundraisers to local festivals and rallies, one thing remains true: the right merchandise can amplify your event. It extends your message, energizes your crowd, and, when done right, becomes part of your community’s culture. So, what are the standout items you should be planning for this year? We’re giving you a sneak peek from our newest eBook . We won’t give away the full list (you’ll have to download it for that), but here are three teaser picks and why they’re more than just popular—they’re purposeful: T-Shirts : Still the champion. Flexible, wearable, and a canvas for your mission. According to Custom Ink, t-shirts remain the #1 most ordered event item globally because they’re low-cost, high-impact, and universally loved. You can design one shirt for staff, another for attendees, and even sell limited edition versions to raise funds. When youth wear a shirt that represents their club, cause, or experience, they become walking testimonials. Tote Bags : Pract...