Hip to be Square?

These days baseball hats have lots of bells and whistles from pockets, bottle openers, puffy embroidery, inside custom labels, all over imprints, screened bills and more. So, I was surprised to see something new...a square shaped bill.

It's not for everyone but it could work if you're going for something new. I'm not sure if you're supposed to wear it flat or curved - the hipness factor changes quickly on this - but it is unique. Check it out and let me know if you're feeling...hip to be square.

Why give naked pens?

I like receiving gifts. I like ripping the wrapping paper and opening box. Friends usually take the time to wrap a gift or put a card into an envelope. So I am not sure why companies so often ignore the packaging of their corporate gifts. They give out naked gifts! Maybe it's one step too many to think about or maybe it's the cost. Whatever it is, I know that they might show more appreciation for their clients if they took that extra step and showed that they care - one step more than most.

Most nice gifts come in boxes that can be decorated. Some can have cards inserted into the box for a nominal fee. Wrapping paper and tissue can also be customized. All it takes is another step...and a naked pen can become a well dressed and appreciated gift.

Will you pay for organic?

As we know from grocery shopping, an organic apple costs about 20% more than a non-organic one. As consumers, we decide whether the extra cost is worth it to us based on what we value. In the promo world, organic t-shirts also cost more than regular cotton t-shirts. Is it worth it? That depends on what a company values. Does your company have a "green" initiative? Our largest industry tradeshow was full of organic, green and recycled products...are you interested?

I really like some of the recycled notebooks, bags and pens. They are modern and simple. They also cost a bit more, but I think you get more bang for your buck there. It's always worth it to pay a bit more for promotional products that have more value and keep the message around longer.

Maybe the Prius owners of the world (people who are willing to pay a bit more for a car that is ecological) will start asking their companies for "green" branding gifts.