Pick of the Week - Bottle/Gift Tote

Bottle/Gift Non-Woven Tote

Description:  Tote bag designed specifically for toting wine bottles or similar shaped gifts.  Made of non-woven polypropylene.  Reusable, recyclable and hand washable.
Pricing:               400               750               1500                2500
                          $1.05            $0.93             $0.84               $0.79
Price includes:  one color imprint on one side
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, blue or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Grocery store, Customer appreciation, Wineries, Wine stores

Pick of the Week - 3 LED Keylight

3 LED Keylight

Description:  Simple metal keylight with 3 white LEDs.  Metal split ring comes attached.  Features on/off rubber button on side.  Bottom panel unscrews to change battery.  Includes 3 button cell batteries (LR44), replaceable.
Pricing:               150                250                500               1000                2500
                          $2.70             $2.55             $2.35             $2.20               $2.05
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, blue, red or silver
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Auto dealer, Trade show, Safety program

Pick of the Week - Tin with Truffles

Designer Tin filled with Lindt-Lindor Truffles

Description:  This stylish tin is filled with one-dozen individually wrapped, creamy, Lindt-Lindor Chocolate Truffles, half Milk and half Dark Chocolate.
Pricing:               48               96               144               288
                        $16.40        $15.65         $15.00          $14.50
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  Silver only
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Employee recognition, Customer appreciation, Teacher appreciation

Pick of the Week - Make-Up Bag

Make-Up Bag with Mirror

Description:  Toiletry bag with attached mirror.  Measures 6-7/8"w x 5"h x 1"d.
Pricing:               100               250               500               1000
                          $4.65            $3.95            $3.70             $3.45
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  navy, orange, red or stone
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Travel, Women's organizations

Pick of the Week - Mini Speaker

Mini Speaker

Description:  Small speaker for iPods, MP3 players, phones, etc...  Comes with USB charger.  Measures 3.25" diam
Pricing:               25               50               100               250                 500
                        $11.85        $10.70          $9.50            $8.85              $8.35
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, blue or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Travel, Gyms, Schools, Universities

Pick of the Week - Cutting Board

Grande Cutting Board

Description:  Full size cutting board perfect for the kitchen.  Features an attractive contoured handle.  Measures 12-3/16" x 9"w x 3/16"d.
Pricing:                100               250               500               1000
                           $3.30            $2.90            $2.60             $2.40
Price includes:  one color imprint above handle
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  Transparent blue, transparent green, transparent red, transparent violet or frost
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Service industries, Schools, Realtors, Cooking

Pick of the Week - Pill Holder

Pill Holder

Description:  Round pill holder with 3 separate compartments.  Measures 3"w x 3"h x 11/16"d.
Pricing:               300               500                1000               2500
                          $0.85             $0.70             $0.60              $0.55
Price includes:  one color imprint on lid
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  blue or white
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Health care, Pharmacy, Trade shows, Health fairs

Pick of the Week - Poopy Bag Dispenser

Poopy Bag Dispenser

Description:  This bag dispenser can be used for diaper-changing as well as dog-walking!  This dispenser attaches to any diaper bag, leash or belt loop with the swivel plastic clip.  The 600D nylon construction features a 20 biodegradable disposable bag refillable compartment.
Pricing:               150               250               500               1000
                          $2.35            $2.10            $1.90             $1.75
Price includes:  one color imprint on side
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, blue, green, orange, purple or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Pet Stores, Baby Stores, Pediatricians, Travel, Hotels, Vets, Hospitals

Pick of the Week - Pasta Server

Lift-It Pasta Server

Description:  This pasta server is designed to keep counters clean and cooking utensils free of germs with a special lift-up feature on the underside.  The durable nylon construction will withstand short term exposure to temperatures up to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.  Fun way to launch your message.
Pricing:               150               250               500               1000
                          $2.05            $1.85            $1.60             $1.45
Price includes:  one color imprint on handle
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, blue, celery green, charcoal, dark blue, dark green, green, light grey, pink, red, salsa or white
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Trade Shows, Restaurants, Banks, Bars

Pick of the Week - Hand Grip Exerciser

Hand Grip Exerciser

Description:  This resistive metal exerciser has soft EVA grips to help strengthen hand muscles.  Grip tension rating of 33 lbs.
Pricing:               150               250               500               1000               2500
                          $2.10            $1.95            $1.75             $1.60              $1.50
Price includes:  one color imprint on one handle
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, blue, lime green or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Wellness programs, Gyms, Sports organizations, Travel, Hotels

Pick of the Week - Pill Tray

Twice-A-Day Pill Tray

Description:  This weekly medication tray provides removable morning and night compartments.  Stay organized daily and for the entire week.  Base holds removable two compartment pill boxes with easy out design.
Pricing:               100               250                500                1000
                          $3.20            $2.80             $2.50              $2.35
Price includes:  one color imprint on front of tray
Setup charge: none
Available colors:  white tray with rainbow translucent colors
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Health Care, Hospitals, Pharmacies, Senior Organizations

Pick of the Week - Paw Bank

Paw Bank

Description:  This is the purr-fect item to promote saving your pennies!  The exclusive design features a money slot on the top and twist-off plug on the bottom.
Pricing:               150               250               500               1000
                          $2.80            $2.55            $2.30             $2.15
Price includes:  one color imprint on one side
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:
     Solid - black, blue, dark blue, dark green, green, light grey, orange, pink, purple, red, white or yellow
     Translucent - aqua, berry, blue, frost, green, lime, orange, pink, purple, red, smoke or yellow
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Banks, Pet Stores, Schools, Universities, Animal Shelters, Fundraising

Pick of the Week - Flashing Pedometer

Flashing Pedometer

Description:  Compact almond shaped black pedometer with translucent red face.  Flashing warning light function (ideal for the dark).  Features include:  top read; metallic silver button accent; built-in belt clip; calculates calories burned, steps taken and distance in miles.
Pricing:               100               250               500               1000
                          $6.45            $5.90            $5.45             $5.20
Price includes:  one color imprint on front
Setup charge:  none
Color:  black only with red flashing light
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Wellness programs, Safety programs, Schools, Running clubs

Pick of the Week - Coffee Lid

Krazy Kuzil Thumbs Up Coffee Lid

Description:  Seal this lid on mugs, glasses or cups to help keep beverages at a constant temperature and prevent spills.  Molded in heat resistant silicone.  Note: Push down on center to seal.  Lift tab to gently release seal.  Mug not included.  Individually poly bagged.
Pricing:               150               250               500               1000
                          $2.25            $2.00            $1.85             $1.70
Price includes:  one color imprint on lid
Setup charge:  none
Comes in white silicone only
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Coffee shops, Universities, Doughnut shops, Employee gifts

Pick of the Week - Stadium Cup

Glow-in-the-dark Stadium Cup

Description:  16 oz Glow in the Dark smooth-sided stadium cup.
Pricing:               250               500               1000                2500
                          $0.80            $0.70             $0.60               $0.50
Price includes:  one color imprint on one side or wrap
Setup charge:  none
Color:  Glow-in-the-dark only
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Halloween, Safety, Banks

Pick of the Week - Pet Bowl

Perky Pet Travel Bowl

Description:  Take this bowl wherever you go to give your dog the liquid refreshment he needs!  The zippered closure ensures a compact size with clip to hang onto any purse or bag.  The 600D nylon construction holds up to 24 oz of water.
Pricing:               150               250               500                1000
                          $2.90            $2.65            $2.40              $2.25
Price includes:  one color imprint on side
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, blue, green, orange, purple or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Travel, Pet Stores, Vets, Hotels

Pick of the Week - Infuser Water Bottle

Infuser Water Bottle

Description:  Create your own personalized flavored beverage with fresh, natural ingredients!  Made of durable Eastman TRITAN quality reusable product with comfortable single hand access.  Fill the removable snap lock infuser basket with strawberries, lemons, limes, orange slices, mint leaves, tea bags and much more!
Pricing:               150               300               500               1000
                          $8.95            $8.30            $7.75             $7.20
Price includes:  one color imprint on one side, two sides or wrap around
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  clear only
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Wellness programs, Yoga, Gyms, Sports Organizations

Pick of the Week - Flying Disk

Flying Disk

Description:  Foam flying disk.  Measures 7-7/8" dia.
Pricing:               250               500               1000                2500
                          $1.20            $1.08             $0.96               $0.87
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  yellow, blue or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Trade shows, Festivals, Health care

Pick of the Week - Heat Pack

Heat Pack

Description:  Oval-shaped instant heat pack.  Can be reused over and over by placing into hot water.  Reactivate by bending the metal disc.
Pricing:               100                250               500               1000
                          $2.40             $2.05            $1.80             $1.65
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  blue, clear or orange
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Camping, Outdoors, Sports, Schools, Wellness programs

Pick of the Week - Oven Mitt

Silicone Oven Mitt

Description:  15" Heat-resistant oven mitt combines silicone with the comfort of a cotton insert.  Silicone exterior protects your hand when taking hot pots or pans out of the oven.  The mitt's longer length makes it perfect for lifting cooked items off the barbecue.  Can withstand temperatures up to 250 deg C/482 deg F and is waterproof - able to withstand hot steam.  Note:  this mitt is sold individually, NOT as a pair.
Pricing:               24               48               96                144               288
                        $14.80       $13.45         $12.35          $11.55          $10.90
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  gray, red or blue
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Cooking, Bakeries, Service industry

Pick of the Week - USB Car Charger

USB Car Charger

Description:  USB Car Charger will charge your devices on the go!  This charger has dual ports and a LED ring that helps illuminate the logo area in the dark.  Compatible with all USB charging cable including mobile phone, MP3, MP4, iPod, iPhone, iPad, GPS, digital camera, etc...
Pricing:               50               150               250               500
                         $9.05           $8.10            $7.50            $6.95
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  White w/translucent blue only
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Auto dealers, Recruiting, Law office, Travel

Pick of the Week - Retractable Badge

Carabiner Secure-A-Badge

Description:  Retractable badge with metal carabiner style clip to keep identification holder in place.  The 30" durable nylon retracting cord has a strong snap lock closure.
Pricing:               150               250               500               1000
                          $1.85            $1.60            $1.45             $1.30
Price includes:  one color imprint on front
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:
     Solid - black or white
     Translucent - blue, green or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Trade Shows, Health Care, Corporations

Pick of the Week - Travel Tumbler

Grip N Go Stainless Tumbler

Description:  16 oz Stainless Steel Tumbler with diamond patterned rubber grip and drink thru lid.  Matching colored rubber non-skid bottom.  Double wall insulated.  Made of 201 stainless and polypropylene.

Pricing:               100               250               500                1000

                          $6.35            $5.75            $5.40              $5.10

Price includes:  one color imprint on one or two sides, or wrap

Setup charge:  none

Available colors:  stainless steel with red, green, black or blue grip and lid

Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Coffee shops, Employee recognition, Universities



Pick of the Week - Jotter w/Pen

Eco Stowaway Sticky Jotter w/Pen

Description:  Includes five assorted neon sticky page flags, a 3"x4" white perforated 80-sheet pad, and a mini paper barrel ballpoint pen in a recycled cardboard cover.  Pen nestles inside a special die-cut slot.  Tuck-in flap closure.
Pricing:               250               500               1000               2500
                          $1.55            $1.35             $1.25              $1.15
Price includes:  one color imprint on front cover
Setup charge: none
Available colors:  blue, natural, red or white
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Schools, Universities, Recruiting

Pick of the Week - GameTime Drawstring Backpack

GameTime Drawstring Backpack

 

 

Description:  Backpacks for all of your favorite sports.  This cute, new design can have your school or team name imprinted right on the pack.
Pricing:               100               250               500               1000                 2500
                          $3.05            $2.75            $2.50             $2.30                $2.15
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available themes:  basketball, football, baseball, soccer, tennis or golf
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Schools, Universities, Golf tournaments, Sports organizations

Pick of the Week - Accessory Case

Neoprene Accessory Case

Description:  Neoprene Accessory Case holds most cell phones and compact cameras.  Includes wrist strap attached with a metal D-ring.
Pricing:               250               500               1000               2500
                         $2.00             $1.80             $1.65              $1.55
Price includes:  one color imprint on front
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  Black with black, green, royal blue or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Recruiting, Universities, Hotels, Travel agencies, Airlines, Tourist attractions

Pick of the Week - Beach Set

Beach Set

Description:  Beach set consists of two rackets and one ball.  Rackets are made of wood and ball is made of PVC rubber.
Pricing:               100               250               500               1000
                          $5.75            $5.10            $4.80             $4.55
Price includes:  one color imprint in one location
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  red, blue, green or orange
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Corporate summer parties, Wellness programs, Gyms

Pick of the Week - Drawstring Grocery Tote

Non-Woven Drawstring Grocery Tote

Description:  Non-woven grocery tote with insulated foil lining to keep foods hot or cold.  Made of 80GSM.  Fold-out drawstring closure and front pocket.  Side mesh pocket.
Pricing:               100               250               500               1000
                          $5.50            $4.90            $4.55             $4.30
Price includes:  One color imprint on front
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, blue, lime green, natural or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Grocery Stores, Health Care, Eco-conscious Companies

Pick of the Week - Mechanics Glove

Mechanics Glove

Description:  Pair of mechanics gloves.  Made of synthetic leather.  Breathable finger side panels provide ventilation and comfort.  Secure fit is enhanced with a spandex back and elastic cuff with velcro closure.  Reinforced fingers for added protection.
Pricing:               24               48               96               144               288
                        $14.00        $12.80        $11.50         $10.90          $10.30
Price includes:  one color imprint on glove
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  blue only
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Auto dealer, Auto body shop, Racing, Hardware shop, Tool manufacturer

Pick of the Week - Ice Cream Scoop

Double Dip Ice Cream Scoop

Description:  Ultra strong comfort grip with perfect portion scoop size.  Tough and dishwasher safe for long-lasting advertising exposure.
Pricing:               300               500               100               2500
                          $1.15            $1.05             $0.95           $0.85
Price includes:  one color imprint on handle
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  white handle with green trim, red trim, blue trim or orange trim
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Trade shows, Schools, Festivals

Pick of the Week - Frenchie Apron

Frenchie Apron

Description:  Waist apron made of 90gsm non-woven polypropylene (yes, the same stuff those reusable grocery bags are made of).  Large front pocket and ruffled trim.  Ties at waist for adjustable fit.  Actual size is 19"h x 20"w.
Pricing:               150               250               500               1000
                          $3.05            $2.70            $2.35             $2.20
Price includes:  one color imprint on front
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  red, royal blue, lime, black or pink
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Trade shows, Cooking, Bakeries

Pick of the Week - 6-Can Flexi-Chiller

6-Can Flexi-Chiller

Description:  This Freezable PVC can cooler has special cold-holding pockets.  Keeps contents chilled for hours.  Zippered closure.
Pricing:               100               250               500               1000
                          $6.05            $5.50            $5.05             $4.75
Price includes:  one color imprint on front pocket
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  blue, clear, lime green or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Customer appreciation, Health care, Tourist attractions, Schools, Sports organizations

Pick of the Week - Scramble Pic

Scramble Pic

Description:  Ideal for Scramble Tournaments!  Pick up your ball with ease from the comfort of the golf cart.  Unique, affordable and effective.  Continuous advertising on a full custom 4-color wrap protected in an acrylic sleeve.
Pricing:               24               48               96               144                288
                        $17.20        $15.85        $14.50         $13.70           $13.00
Price includes:  4-color process imprint on sleeve
Setup charge:  none
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Golf Tournaments, Pro Shops, Non-Profits

Pick of the Week - Doggie Play Pack

Doggie Play Pack

Description:  Play pack includes one tennis dog ball (no imprint), 3 milk-bone dog treats and an imprinted triangle handkerchief (22"x30"x22").
Pricing:               100               250               500               1000
                          $6.25            $5.80            $5.40             $5.15
Price includes:  one color imprint on handkerchief
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:
     Ball - blue, red or white
     Handkerchief - black, blue or red
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Pet Stores, Banks, Retail/Dog Friendly Shops

Pick of the Week - Journal

Tuscany Writing Journal

Description:  This journal is made with a soft faux leather cover, 80 ruled pages and elastic loop closure with bookmark.  There is a document pocket on the inside back cover as well.  Measures 5-3/8"w x 8-1/2"h x 5/8"d.
Pricing:     50               100                250               500
              $11.90          $10.35           $9.15            $8.70
Price includes:  debossing on front cover
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, light blue, lime green, navy, orange, pink or tan
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Coffee Shops, Travel, Hotels, Books/Literary

Pick of the Week - Luggage Scale

Luggage Scale with Tape Measure

Description:  Luggage Scale - holds up to 75 lbs.  39" metal tape measure with metric/inch scale.  Slide web strap through luggage handle and clip in place to weigh luggage.  Comfortable rubber grip handle folds down for easy storage.  Secondary dial market stays in place to mark weight.

Pricing:     50               100               250               500               1000

               $4.50           $3.95            $3.50            $3.20             $3.00

Price includes:  one color imprint in one location.

Setup charge:  none

Available colors:  black only

Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Travel, Sales, Airlines, Hotels

How To Keep Your Customers Happy and Coming Back

You've heard that it costs less to keep a customer than to earn a new one?  It's true!  What's a good way to keep a customer?  Make them happy...

Here are a few ways to do it:

• Say Thank You - This is so simple, but effective.  As a culture, we have become so accustomed to not feeling appreciated, so when a "thank you" comes along, we are floored.  Take this simple step to make sure your customers know you appreciate them.
• Send Them an Unexpected Bonus - Whether it be jar of candy or a $5 Starbucks gift card, they will feel special and loved when they receive a gift with no strings attached.
• Offer Amazing Customer Service - This should go without saying.  Make sure your customers can always get a hold of you.  Ticket systems, 24-hour phone support or an autoresponder set to respond immediately to emails letting them know you will respond to their request as soon as possible.  These types of things always make your customer feel loved and respected.
• Consider Loyalty Programs - These types of programs can make your customers feel as if they are part of your inner circle.  Offer discounts, gift certificates or freebies once they spend a certain amount with you.
• Host a Customer Appreciation Day - Invite customers to your office or storefront and provide refreshments, activities and prizes.
• Provide Valuable Content to Your Customers - This forces you to keep updated in your industry and to stay in communication with your customers.
• Become More than a Retailer or Service Provider - Take that extra step to show them how much you appreciate them and position yourself as a value-added problem solver.

If you take good care of your customers, they will, in turn, take good care of you!

Pick of the Week - Tablet Stand

Deluxe Tablet Stand

Description:  This deluxe tablet stand is the perfect corporate gift for the tech-savvy professional.  Doubles as a protective carrying case with snap closure and as a presentation stand.  Interior features 3 different positions so you can find the perfect angle to view videos, slideshows or for typing on the onscreen keyboard.  Holds tablet or e-reader and features removable Velcro corners to accommodate various tablet sizes.  Fits all tablets except Kindle DX and Galaxy Tab 10.1.  Made of simulated leather and measures 7.75"l x 9.75"h x .75"w.
Pricing:     25               50               100               250
              $18.00        $15.60         $14.05          $13.15
Price includes:  Debossing on front cover
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  Deep Pink, Apple Green, Black and Plum
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Employee Recognition, Sales, Travel, Books/Literature

Twitter Netiquette - Do's and Don'ts

Twitter is a social networking tool that has helped launch many businesses and grow business connections.  On the other hand, it can also hurt your business don't follow the rules of "netiquette."  Here are some DO'S and DON'TS to follow:

• Create a profile that reflects how you want your business to be perceived.
• Participate in conversations.
• Be a posting hog.  Some people log on to their Twitter account and post 20 consecutive messages at a time.  That takes up an entire viewable space for everyone else.
• Post relevant and interesting news about your business and link to it when it's appropriate.
• Abbreviate or use text chat too much.  You only have 140 characters, but omgroflttyl is way too confusing.
• Use hashtags (#) to tag posts.  Hashtags were developed as a means to create "groupings" on Twitter, without having to change the basic service.
• Automate your direct messages.  Your recipients will view this as junk mail.  If you choose to send direct message, please make them personal.
• Thank people for following you...privately.  Posting a series of "thank you's" to every new person who follows you takes up space and annoys people.
• Steal tweets.  If someone posts something interesting, RT - retweet it and give them credit.
• Keep your personal conversations personal.  DM - direct message - is there for a reason.
• Drag a post on for several consecutive tweets.  It will get too scattered and difficult to follow your train of thought.
• Take it personally.  People can and will unfollow and block you...it's okay.
• Know that you don't have to autofollow.  You're not expected to do so.  It's tough to form a connection with 5000 people.
• Know that you can block anyone you don't want to connect with - same for unfollowing.
• Ask people to RT your posts all of the time.  If it's worthy or retweeting, people will do it.
• SPAM
• Minimize URLs. This saves space and makes it easier to RT your post.

With the ever-evolving technology, there will always be changes in etiquette and the way we do things.  Stay true to your purpose for using Twitter.  Be considerate and professional and ALWAYS remember that what you put online does not go away.  If you aren't sure whether to post something or not...don't post it.

Pick of the Week - Tote

City Square Jute Tote

Description:  This tote is made of laminated jute fabric with contrasting accents and handles.  Also has a laminated interior with zippered pocket.  Measures 15.25"w x 11.5"h x 4.125"d.
Pricing:     100               250               500               1000
                $5.50            $4.90            $4.55             $4.30
Price includes:  one color imprint on front center panel.  Bold artwork only - no fine text or graphics.
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  blue, brown, green or grey
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Health Care, Spas, Hotels, Car Dealers

Time For Spring Cleaning...Your Website That Is

Ahhhh...spring.  The buds are popping and the days are getting longer (yea!).  Spring cleaning is right around the corner.  You're probably thinking about washing windows and getting the screens out.  These are important, but don't forget to clean up in your business life as well.  Get that desk in order and don't forgot your website!  Here are some ideas to help you give your website a little "spring lift."

1. Update your photo (or add one if you don't currently have one) - A personal touch, like a photo or video message, is a great way to connect with your visitors.  People like to see who they are doing business with.
2. Add a social networking tool - Add a "connect with me" button for Twitter, Facebook, Linked In or any other social networking sites that you have a profile on.  These feeds help give a boost to your followers and strengthen that personal connection your customers want.
3. Update your links - Go on your website and make sure all of your links are functional and take you to the right place.  There's nothing worse than broken links on a website.
4. Add a new technology - News feeds, as they relate to your industry, can help give a fun lift to your site.  You can also add a new survey, contest or poll that helps to engage your visitors and help provide you with valuable information on your customers.
5. Change font colors - This can have more of an impact than you know on your visitors and on your sales.  Take this opportunity to test the effectiveness of a few different font colors.  It's an easy way to give your site a little "lift" and maybe even increase sales and conversions.

Pick of the Week - Cooler

Igloo Polar Cooler

Description:  Made of 600d polyester and measures 7"l x 9"h x 4"w.  This cooler features:

• Enhanced insulation
• Leak-resistant, heat-sealed antimicrobial liner
• Easy pull tab and Velcro top closure
• Grab handle
• Side mesh water bottle pocket
• Front pocket
• ID window on back
• Stylish quilted accents and contrast piping
• 5 can capacity
• PVC free
• Back panel of each bag matches primary bag color

Pricing:     50               100               250               500               1000
               $9.30           $8.55            $7.80            $7.20             $6.90
Price includes:  one color imprint on front of bag
Setup charge:  none
Available colors:  black, steel blue, citron green, red, deep pink, plaid purple, plaid blue
Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Employee Recognition, Wellness Programs, Recruiting, Health Care, Schools, Universities

How To Beat Stress in Your Home Office

Stress is known as a "silent killer" and can wreak havoc on your body as well as your personal life.  Here are a few ideas to help beat the stress in your home office:

• Exercise - Helps to release pent-up energy and anxiety.  This doesn't have to mean a daily trip to the gym.  You can take a brisk walk in your neighborhood or even dance to your favorite music for 20 minutes.  Anything that is fun and gets your heart rate up.
• Breathe - Deep breathing has been proven to slow down or even stop the onset of stress.  Breathing properly helps get oxygen to your cells and slow your heart rate.
• Easy breathing instructions:
• Take a deep breath in through your nose (mouth closed)
• Let your stomach expand like it's a balloon filling with air
• Hold your breath for 3 seconds
• Exhale slowly through your mouth as you flatten your stomach
• Do this 5-10 times when you feel stress coming on.
• Take a break - When you feel your stress level rising, just get up a take a break for a few minutes.  Go outside and breathe in some fresh air, make a cup of tea, or even read a couple of chapters in a good book.  This will help you feel refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of your day.
• Stop the caffeine - You don't have to go cold turkey, but caffeine can really raise your stress levels.  Maybe substitute a nice, herbal tea for that afternoon coffee.

Life in general can be stressful.  Make sure you take a little time to look after yourself and recharge your batteries.  This will help you get on the path to stress-free living!

Pick of the Week - Highlighter Set

5 in 1 Highlighter Set

Description:  5 chisel tip highlighters in convenient pocket case.  Plastic white case with gray trim.

Pricing:     100               250               500               1000               2500

                $2.75            $2.40            $2.20             $2.05              $1.95

Price includes:  One color imprint in one location

Setup charge:  none

Available colors:  White only

Production time:  2-3 wks

Industry uses:  Schools, Universities, Recruiting

Best. Guacamole. Ever.

This guacamole recipe was featured in our local paper a few weeks ago. I'm never making anything else...

1-2-3 Tomatillo Salsa Guacamole

3-4 ripe avocados
1 cup tomatillo salsa (salsa verde)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Kosher salt

Cut the avocados in half, scoop out flesh and combine in a bowl. Mash well. Stir in the salsa verde and cilantro. Season with salt.

Special Thru April 13th!

Rock & Light Clock

This unique weighted clock tilts to one side!  Great desk item giveaway for any industry!  Take advantage of the great deal - 56% off thru 4/13/12.

Features:

• Imprint is aligned with clock face
• Back light option for clock face
• Button cell battery included (& inserted)
• Size: 4-3/4"w x 2-3/4"h
• Comes packaged in a gift box

Minimum: 50 qty

Pricing:  $2.50 ea

Price includes:  one color imprint on face of product

Setup charge:  $45.00

Available colors:  blue, red, lime green and orange

Production time:  2-3 wks

Build Your Networking Skills

The best thing for a business person to do is network!  If you own your own business, it's great for meeting "partners" that you can refer business back and forth with.  If you are unemployed, what a great way to meet a potential employer!  Regardless of your reasons for networking, make sure you have the skill set you need:

• Create a target list of contacts and goals - This list can include friends, neighbors, colleagues, vendors, salespeople and the like.  Once you have your list, set a contact goal every week such as email/call at least 5 that week with a face-to-face meeting with one person.
• Develop your elevator speech - This is a 30-second concise statement about who you are, what you're looking for and what makes you unique.
• Business card - Create one and carry with you everywhere!  You DO get points for uniqueness in this category.  No one likes a boring business card.
• Attend networking events - This might be a meeting or forum held by professional associations, alumni groups, civic groups or social organizations.  Decide who you want to meet, have your elevator speech ready, business cards in hand and make sure you dress the part!
• Use your manners - this might seem so simple, but a "please" and "thank you" go a long way.
• Networking is a 2-way street - Don't have the "me, me, me" attitude.  Networking and relationship-building work two ways.  Ask someone, "how can I help you?"
• Always be "on" - You never know who you might talk to that particular day that could be a really great opportunity for business.  Always have your business card and elevator speech handy.

One last piece of advice - don't burn bridges.  You never know when you might need that referral from your last workplace or the advice of a past colleague.