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

At Strategic DesignTs , we love a good tee. But custom merch doesn’t end with T-shirts — and neither should your brand visibility. If your event swag gets tossed in a drawer or forgotten after the first wear, it’s not doing the heavy lifting. The best community merch finds a second life in people’s everyday routines. It shows up at the gym. It rides along to school. It tags along to work. It sparks conversations. So if you’re looking to stretch your impact (and your budget), here are five merch items that make daily appearances long after your event is over: 1. Tote Bags That Actually Get Used Go for a roomy, reinforced tote with clean design and bold messaging. These are grocery-run workhorses and library companions that also happen to promote your initiative. Pro Tip: Add a positive affirmation or slogan that feels personal enough to keep using. “Rooted in Community,” for example, makes it bigger than just a logo. 2. Reusable Water Bottles with Purpose Help your people stay hydrated ...

  At Strategic DesignTs, we often tell our clients: Good merch gets attention, but great merch tells a story. And the most powerful stories are the ones that align with the theme, goals, and spirit of your event. Whether you’re running a youth conference, a health fair, a neighbourhood clean-up, or a cultural celebration, the right merchandise doesn’t just fill a swag bag. It becomes a symbol of the experience and leaves a lasting impression long after the event is over. So , how do you make sure your giveaways actually match your mission? Let’s dive into the art (and strategy) of themed merchandise — with real examples, community event data, and practical tips to help you plan with purpose. Why Merch Matching Matters Stats show that alignment matters. According to a 2024 report by the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI): 83% of consumers are more likely to remember the brand when the merch is relevant to the occasion . 69% say they’re more likely...