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Boosting Brand Visibility: Why Custom Merchandise is a Game-Changer for Businesses

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In today's competitive marketplace, custom merchandise has surged as a crucial component of the marketing mix. This strategy involves creating personalized products that resonate with a brand’s identity, ranging from apparel and accessories to office supplies and gadgets. The trend towards personalized products reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences towards more authentic and bespoke experiences, making custom merchandise a vital tool for businesses looking to stand out.

This article delves into the transformative impact of custom merchandise on brand visibility. By leveraging personalized items, companies can not only strengthen their brand identity but also ensure that their marketing messages resonate more deeply with their audience. The goal is to uncover why incorporating custom merchandise into your marketing strategy is not just a trend, but a fundamental aspect of building a memorable brand in a cluttered market.

The Power of Custom Merchandise in Branding

Custom merchandise offers a unique opportunity to embed your brand into the daily lives of your customers. By designing items that are not only useful but also aesthetically pleasing, businesses can create lasting impressions that reinforce their brand identity. This approach transforms ordinary objects into powerful branding tools, continually reminding customers of the brand every time the item is used.

The beauty of custom merchandise lies in its ability to maintain brand visibility outside of conventional advertising spaces. Whether it's a branded tote bag carried through the city or a custom coffee mug used during Zoom meetings, these items keep your brand front and center. This constant exposure helps maintain top-of-mind awareness among consumers, significantly boosting brand recall and increasing the likelihood of repeat engagements.

 

Strategic Integration into Marketing Campaigns

Integrating custom merchandise into your overall marketing strategy can amplify your brand’s message across various platforms. For example, merchandise can be used in tandem with social media campaigns by encouraging users to share photos of themselves with branded items. It also plays a crucial role during events and promotions, where merchandise can serve as a tangible reminder of the brand experience.

Economic Efficiency of Merchandise Marketing

When compared to traditional advertising methods like TV ads or billboards, custom merchandise can be a more cost-effective solution with a potentially higher return on investment. Merchandise creates physical touchpoints with consumers, offering a durable form of advertising that extends beyond a one-time exposure.
Unlike fleeting ad campaigns, the tangible nature of merchandise ensures that your brand remains in the consumer’s life for an extended period. This longevity translates into prolonged marketing benefits, as each item continues to reinforce brand loyalty and recognition long after the initial distribution.

Designing Effective Merchandise

Successful merchandise design starts with a deep understanding of your target demographic. Knowing the preferences, lifestyles, and needs of your audience allows you to create items that are genuinely appealing and frequently used, ensuring more visibility.

The most effective merchandise combines aesthetic appeal with practicality. Items should be visually striking to grab attention and crafted with quality to ensure they are kept and used regularly. Branding should be seamlessly integrated into the design, enhancing the item without overwhelming it.

To stand out, businesses must think creatively about their merchandise. This might involve tapping into the latest tech trends, like AR-enabled wearables, or eco-friendly materials that resonate with environmentally conscious consumers. The key is to create products that not only serve a practical function but also tell a compelling story about the brand.

Implementing a Merchandise Strategy

Launching a custom merchandise strategy begins with identifying the goal of your campaign, be it increasing brand awareness, driving sales, or enhancing customer loyalty. Following this, businesses should select products that align with their branding and appeal to their target audience. It’s essential to establish a timeline and budget, taking into consideration the design, production, and distribution phases.


Partnering with the right vendors is crucial for producing high-quality merchandise. Look for suppliers who not only provide a wide range of products but also support custom designs and sustainable options. Ensuring the quality of your merchandise reflects the quality of your brand is paramount.

Measuring the Success of Merchandise Campaigns

To gauge the effectiveness of merchandise in marketing campaigns, it's crucial to focus on specific metrics that reflect both reach and engagement. Sales data, promotional code usage, and social media analytics provide tangible evidence of how well merchandise is resonating with your audience. Additionally, surveying customers on their satisfaction with and usage of the merchandise can offer insights into its practical impact. Tools such as Google Analytics and social media tracking platforms can be instrumental in capturing this data, allowing marketers to assess how merchandise drives traffic, converts leads, and fosters customer loyalty.

Beyond quantitative analysis, qualitative feedback is essential. Engage with your community through social media comments, direct feedback, and focus groups to understand the emotional and brand-connective impact of your merchandise. This feedback can reveal whether your items are cherished and used in the manner intended, or if they miss the mark in aligning with customer expectations and lifestyle. It’s also a way to gauge brand sentiment, which can be a more subtle but powerful indicator of a campaign’s success.

Establishing a clear set of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) before launching a merchandise campaign is crucial. These could include increases in brand awareness, measured through social media mentions and website traffic, or direct revenue impact, such as sales attributed to promotional merchandise. Regularly reviewing these KPIs allows for ongoing adjustments and optimizations, ensuring that the merchandise continues to serve as a valuable and effective component of the broader marketing strategy.

Overcoming Challenges in Merchandise Marketing

One common obstacle in merchandise marketing is aligning the product selection and design with the brand identity and customer preferences. To overcome this, businesses should conduct thorough market research and gather customer insights before product development begins. This strategy ensures that the merchandise not only stands out but also resonates deeply with the target audience, enhancing overall campaign effectiveness.

Another challenge involves logistics and inventory management, especially for businesses that are new to merchandise marketing. Overstocking can lead to unnecessary costs, while understocking can miss sales opportunities and customer dissatisfaction. Implementing a just-in-time production strategy or working with a demand-driven manufacturing partner can mitigate these risks. These approaches allow for more flexible inventory management and reduce the financial strain associated with large upfront production runs.

Finally, maintaining high-quality standards while keeping costs manageable is a delicate balance that can impact the perceived value of the merchandise. Partnering with reliable suppliers and manufacturers who understand your quality expectations and can scale with your needs is critical. Additionally, regular quality checks and staying actively involved in the production process can help in maintaining the integrity of the final product, ensuring that each item reflects well on the brand and meets customer expectations.

Conclusion

Custom merchandise is a powerful tool for enhancing brand visibility. It offers a unique blend of practicality and creative expression, allowing brands to make a lasting impression in the consumer’s mind and maintain visibility in everyday life. Integrating merchandise into broader marketing strategies enhances its impact, providing a cost-effective solution with long-lasting benefits.

Looking for The Best Merch printer?

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com, or give us a call at 323.227.1547 and we'd be happy to help.

Our showroom at 2755 Fruitdale Street, Los Angeles, CA 90039 is open by appointment only from 10 am - 4 pm Monday through Friday.

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The Future of Merchandising: Laser Engraving for Unique and Durable Designs

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staying ahead of the curve with innovative techniques is key to captivating your audience. Laser engraving emerges as a front-runner, offering unique, durable designs that revolutionize the concept of personalized merchandise. This guide will explore the transformative impact of laser engraving in merchandising, highlighting its versatility, process, material compatibility, and what the future holds for this technology. It's a journey through the intricate world of laser-engraved designs that are redefining the boundaries of creativity in merchandise.

Revolutionizing Merchandise Personalization with Laser Engraving

Laser engraving has brought a new dimension to merchandise personalization, allowing for an unprecedented level of detail and creativity. This technique offers a myriad of unique advantages over traditional printing methods. Its ability to produce precise, long-lasting, and sophisticated designs on various materials has made it highly sought-after for businesses and brands looking to stand out. By etching designs directly onto the product, laser engraving ensures that the personalization is not just a superficial addition but an integral part of the merchandise that withstands the test of time.

 

The Versatility of Laser Engraving in Modern Merch Design

The application of laser engraving extends across a diverse range of materials, making it an incredibly versatile tool for modern merch design. Whether it's on wood, metal, glass, or even leather, laser engraving can adapt to different textures and contours, offering endless possibilities for innovative and durable merch design. This versatility opens doors to a wide array of product types – from elegant corporate gifts to rugged outdoor gear, and everything in between. The ability to customize these various materials with precise, lasting designs is what sets laser engraving apart in the merchandising industry.

Understanding the Laser Engraving Process: From Concept to Creation

The journey from a concept to a finished laser-engraved product is a blend of art and science. The process begins with a digital design, which is meticulously translated into an engraving pattern. Controlled by advanced software, the laser then etches this design onto the material with remarkable precision. The intensity, speed, and movement of the laser are finely tuned to suit the specific material, ensuring that each engraved design reflects the desired level of detail and depth. This section of the guide would delve into the technical aspects of the laser engraving process, offering a comprehensive understanding of how ideas are transformed into tangible, engraved products.

 

Material Matters: Choosing the Right Base for Your Laser Engraved Merch

Selecting the appropriate material is crucial in laser engraving, as each material interacts differently with the laser beam. This choice greatly influences the final appearance and quality of the engraved product. Woods offer a natural and warm look, metals provide durability and a sleek finish, while acrylic and glass can create a more modern and sophisticated appearance. Understanding these material properties is key to maximizing the impact of laser-engraved designs, ensuring that each piece of merchandise resonates with the intended audience.

 

Precision and Limitations: Navigating the Challenges of Laser Engraved Design

While laser engraving is renowned for its precision, it's important to recognize its limitations and challenges. Factors like material type, thickness, and the complexity of the design can all impact the engraving outcome. This part of the guide will explore how to balance intricate designs with the practical aspects of laser engraving, offering insights into what is achievable and how to navigate any constraints effectively. It will also touch upon best practices to optimize the quality of the engraved design, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and functional integrity.

Future Trends in Laser Engraving for Merchandise

As we look towards the future, laser engraving is set to evolve with advancements in technology and design. This section will speculate on emerging trends, such as the integration of AI in design processes, advancements in laser precision and speed, and the development of new, eco-friendly materials suited for laser engraving.

Family Industries has mastered the craft of laser engraving and they have pushed the boundaries of this application by laser engraving a cloth bracelet.

By staying ahead of these trends, businesses can continue to offer cutting-edge, personalized merchandise that captivates and engages their audience.

Conclusion

Laser engraving has firmly established itself as a cornerstone in the future of merchandising, blending artistry with innovation. This guide has traversed the multifaceted world of laser engraving, from its ability to revolutionize merchandise personalization to its versatility across various materials and the precision it brings to design. The journey from concept to creation, guided by the laser's beam, is not just a process but a transformative experience for any brand seeking to make a lasting impression.

As we look ahead, the potential for laser engraving in merchandising is boundless. With advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on unique, durable designs, laser engraving stands ready to meet these evolving demands. It offers a sustainable, efficient, and creative pathway for brands to differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

For businesses looking to leave a lasting mark, laser engraving is more than a printing technique; it's a statement of quality, durability, and innovation. As we embrace the future of merchandising, laser engraving will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping how brands connect with their audience, turning everyday objects into personalized tokens of brand identity and enduring value.

Looking for The Best Merch printer?

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com, or give us a call at 323.227.1547 and we'd be happy to help.

Our showroom at 2755 Fruitdale Street, Los Angeles, CA 90039 is open by appointment only from 10 am - 4 pm Monday through Friday.

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2023 Holiday Merch Branding: Trends, Tips, and Personalization Strategies

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As the holiday season approaches, businesses are gearing up to capitalize on one of the busiest times of the year. For companies like Family Industries, specializing in branded merchandise, this period offers a unique opportunity to showcase creativity and connect with customers on a deeper level. For merchandising, the holidays are not just about selling products; they're about creating experiences and memories that resonate with the audience.

From understanding the latest trends in design and merch personalization to maximizing brand impact and enhancing customer loyalty, we'll explore various facets of holiday branding that can set your business apart. Whether you're a large corporation or a small business, these insights will provide valuable guidance on how to effectively leverage your holiday merch for maximum impact. Get ready to unwrap the secrets to successful holiday merchandising and make this season truly memorable for your brand and your customers.

 

Holiday Merch Trends: What's Hot in Branding This Season

In 2023, holiday merchandising is seeing a vibrant evolution, with brands embracing innovative 2023 holiday trends to stand out. Seasonal designs are getting bolder and more thematic, reflecting the festive spirit with a modern twist. This year, we're witnessing a surge in eco-friendly materials and digital integrations in branding, signaling a shift towards sustainable and tech-savvy merch options. As businesses plan their seasonal campaigns, understanding these evolving trends is crucial for staying ahead in the competitive landscape.

Alongside sustainability and technology, another significant trend in 2023 is the fusion of traditional and contemporary designs. Brands are revisiting classic holiday symbols, infusing them with modern aesthetics to appeal to a broader audience. This includes experimenting with unconventional color palettes and incorporating interactive elements like QR codes, which connect physical products to digital experiences. These trends underscore the need for brands to balance tradition with innovation, ensuring their holiday merch resonates with both new and loyal customers.

 

Maximizing Brand Impact: Essential Tips for Effective Holiday Branding

To maximize brand impact during the holidays, businesses need to strategize effectively. Key holiday branding tips include aligning merch designs with brand identity, using seasonal themes to create emotional connections, and leveraging social media platforms for wider reach. It's also essential to incorporate a solid business strategy that integrates merchandising with overall marketing goals, ensuring a consistent and impactful brand message across all channels.

An often-overlooked aspect of holiday branding is consistency across various platforms and products. Ensuring that your holiday merch aligns with your overall brand image and messaging across all mediums – from packaging to online presence – is crucial. This holistic approach solidifies brand recognition and reinforces the emotional connection with your audience. Additionally, leveraging user-generated content, such as customer reviews and photos, can amplify your brand’s authenticity and reach during the holiday season.

 

Customizing Your Holiday Merch for Maximum Engagement

"Personalization" is more than a buzzword in today's marketing landscape; it's a necessity. Customizing holiday merch offers a unique opportunity to connect with customers on a personal level, significantly boosting customer engagement. Personalization can range from adding individual names to products to creating designs that resonate with specific customer segments. This approach not only enhances the customer experience but also strengthens brand recall.

In addition to traditional personalization methods, consider incorporating storytelling elements into your merch. This could involve creating limited edition items that tell a story about your brand or the holiday season, adding a layer of exclusivity and emotional appeal. Also, using data analytics to understand customer preferences can lead to more targeted and meaningful personalization, further enhancing the customer’s connection to the brand and increasing the likelihood of repeat purchases.

 

Navigating Color Choices and Design Themes for 2023

Choosing the right color trends and design themes for 2023 can significantly impact the appeal of holiday merch. This year, we're seeing a preference for warm, comforting hues that evoke a sense of nostalgia, alongside vibrant and energetic colors that celebrate joy and festivity. When selecting design themes, consider incorporating elements that resonate with your target audience while staying true to your brand ethos. Whether it's minimalist chic or bold and festive, the right design can make your merch stand out.

As we navigate these color and design trends, it's important to also pay attention to packaging. The unboxing experience can be just as important as the product itself, especially during the holiday season. Creative, festive packaging that aligns with your chosen color scheme and design theme can make your products more giftable and shareable on social media, thus extending your brand's reach and appeal.

 

Strategies to Enhance Customer Loyalty Through Holiday Merch

Enhancing customer loyalty through holiday merch requires more than just attractive designs. It's about creating a memorable brand experience. Strategies include offering exclusive merch items for repeat customers, personalizing products based on previous purchases, and incorporating loyalty rewards with merch purchases. Effective holiday marketing strategies should focus on building long-term relationships with customers, making them feel valued and appreciated.

Another strategy to bolster customer loyalty is to create a sense of community around your brand. This could involve hosting holiday-themed events or online contests where customers can showcase how they use your merch. Engaging with customers through these activities not only strengthens their loyalty but also provides valuable feedback for future merchandising efforts. Remember, loyal customers are often your best advocates and can be instrumental in attracting new customers.

 

Innovative Personalization Techniques: Beyond the Basics

To truly stand out, innovative personalization techniques in merchandising are key. Beyond basic customization, consider utilizing advanced technologies like augmented reality (AR) for interactive experiences, data-driven personalization for tailored product recommendations, and unique material combinations for a distinctive feel. These advanced merch customization techniques not only enhance the perceived value of your merch but also position your brand as an innovator in customer engagement.

Expanding further on innovative personalization, consider embracing cross-brand collaborations for a fresh take on holiday merch. Collaborating with artists, influencers, or other brands can introduce unique personalization options that resonate with different audiences. These collaborations can also bring a creative edge to your products, making them stand out in a crowded market. The key is to find partners who align with your brand values and can add a unique twist to your holiday offerings.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our exploration of holiday merchandising for 2023, it's clear that the key to success lies in a blend of innovation, personalization, and emotional engagement. By embracing the latest trends, focusing on cohesive branding, and pushing the boundaries of personalization, businesses can create holiday merch that not only stands out but also forms a lasting connection with their customers.

Remember, the goal is not just to sell a product but to create an experience that customers will associate with your brand long after the holiday season is over. From thoughtful design choices to advanced personalization techniques, every aspect of your holiday merch should reflect your brand's unique identity and values.

As Family Industries and other merchandising companies venture into this festive season, the opportunities are as abundant as the challenges. By staying true to your brand and being receptive to your customers' evolving preferences, you can turn this holiday season into a remarkable success.

Looking for The Best Holiday Merch printer?

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com, or give us a call at 323.227.1547 and we'd be happy to help.

Our showroom at 2755 Fruitdale Street, Los Angeles, CA 90039 is open by appointment only from 10 am - 4 pm Monday through Friday.

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The Art of Hat Personalization: How to Create Your Unique Style with Custom Caps

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Crafting your unique style is all about showcasing your personality, and what better way to do this than through the art of hat personalization? Custom caps offer a platform for your creativity, allowing you to stand out from the crowd while making a statement. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the vibrant world of custom cap design and the various techniques involved in achieving a tailored look. Whether you're a business looking to promote your brand, a team wanting to demonstrate unity, or an individual seeking to express your unique flair, our insights into the process and benefits of custom hat printing will be invaluable. We invite you to explore how you can leverage custom hat personalization to create a style that's unmistakably yours.

The Versatility of Embroidered Hats

Embroidered hats have become a modern fashion staple, resonating with all ages and styles, due to their unrivaled versatility and the personal touch they add to any outfit. This hat personalization technique allows for intricate designs to be sewn directly onto the hat, creating a high-quality, durable product that is equally at home or on the sports field.

embroidered hat

  • Durability: The embroidery process creates a design that is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring your logo or custom image remains crisp and clear even with regular use.

  • High Quality: The depth and texture of embroidery impart a premium feel to the hats, reflecting positively on your brand.

  • Versatility: From a delicate monogram to a detailed logo, embroidery can handle a range of designs, making it suitable for both personal and business use.

How Heat Pressed Hats are Made

Heat pressed hats are another popular option in the realm of hat personalization. This technique uses heat and pressure to transfer a design from a special type of paper onto the cap. Heat pressing allows for the reproduction of complex, multi-colored designs with a smooth finish that feels part of the hat fabric.

  • Speedy Production: Heat pressing is a quicker process than embroidery, making it an excellent option for bulk orders.

  • Detailed Designs: This method can reproduce intricate, multicolored designs with ease, which may be challenging with embroidery.

  • Cost-Effective: Heat pressing typically has a lower setup cost compared to embroidery, making it a budget-friendly choice for startups and small businesses.

These two custom hat techniques offer distinct advantages and can be chosen based on the specific needs and preferences of the individual or company.

Why Custom Hats are a Fan Favorite

Custom hats have become a quintessential part of band merch, providing fans with a wearable symbol of their loyalty and support. From embroidered logos to heat-pressed tour dates, custom caps offer endless possibilities for bands to connect with their fans.

  • Fan Engagement: Custom hats enable fans to show their support in a fashionable, practical way.

  • Variety of Options: With so many customization options available, each band can create merchandise that's as unique as their music.

  • Revenue Generation: Custom hats are not just a fan favorite, they're also a great source of additional income for bands, making them a win-win solution.

The Popularity of Ebbets Field Style Hats in Modern Fashion

The timeless charm of Ebbets Field style hats, with their vintage aesthetic and comfortable fit, has captured the attention of modern fashion enthusiasts. Named after the iconic ballpark, these hats mimic the style and quality found in the caps of yesteryears.

  • Historical Allure: Ebbets Field style hats are steeped in nostalgia, making them an appealing choice for those seeking a classic look.

  • Quality Craftsmanship: These hats are typically made with premium materials and high attention to detail, resulting in a comfortable, long-lasting product.

  • Versatility: From casual wear to themed events, the vintage appeal of Ebbets Field style hats allows them to fit in effortlessly wherever they are worn.

Band Merch Essential: Why Custom Hats are a Fan Favorite

hart house restaurant merch

HART HOUSE Merch Window

Custom hats have become a quintessential part of band merch, providing fans with a wearable symbol of their loyalty and support. From embroidered logos to heat-pressed tour dates, custom caps offer endless possibilities for bands to connect with their fans.

  • Fan Engagement: Custom hats enable fans to show their support in a fashionable, practical way.

  • Variety of Options: With so many customization options available, each band can create merchandise that's as unique as their music.

  • Revenue Generation: Custom hats are not just a fan favorite, they're also a great source of additional income for bands, making them a win-win solution.

Comparing Custom Hat Techniques: Embroidered vs. Heat Pressed

When it comes to choosing between embroidery and heat press for your custom hat designs, understanding the strengths of each technique can inform your decision. Here's a comparative breakdown to help:

  • Detail and Texture: Embroidery stands out with its distinct, tactile quality, which is excellent for simpler designs or logos. Heat pressing, on the other hand, is more suited to complex, multicolor designs, as it provides a smoother finish.

  • Durability: Both methods offer excellent durability, but embroidery may have a slight edge as the design is woven into the fabric, providing resistance against fading or peeling.

  • Cost and Time: Heat pressing generally has lower setup costs and faster production times, making it ideal for large orders or tighter budgets.

It's essential to consider the intended use, audience, and budget for your hats before deciding which method is the best fit.

By understanding these elements of hat personalization, you're well-equipped to start your journey into the world of custom caps. Whether you're looking to create a piece of nostalgia with an Ebbets Field style cap, craft the perfect piece of band merch, or build a brand-forward image for your business, there's a custom cap solution that fits your needs. Get creative, have fun, and watch as your unique style comes to life through the art of hat personalization.

The Strategic Use of Custom Caps in Business

A strong, brand-forward image is crucial in today's competitive business landscape. Custom caps serve as a mobile billboard, consistently putting your brand in the public eye.

  • Brand Recognition: The more your logo is seen, the more recognizable your brand becomes. Custom caps provide an opportunity for your brand to be seen in various settings.

  • Unity and Professionalism: Custom hats can also serve to unify a team at corporate events or trade shows, presenting a professional and coordinated image of your company.

  • Cost-Effective Marketing: Compared to many traditional forms of advertising, custom caps can provide considerable brand exposure for relatively little investment.

Each of these methods offers unique ways to use custom hats, whether it's for personal fashion, band merchandising, or brand promotion.

4 Benefits of Embroidered Custom Hats for Your Brand

 

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the world of hat personalization provides an abundance of opportunities for individual expression, brand-forward marketing, and creative merchandise. From the durability of embroidered hats to the detailed designs achievable with heat-pressed hats, each technique brings its unique advantages to the table. The nostalgia-evoking Ebbets Field style hats make a stylish statement, while custom caps serve as a go-to fan favorite for band merch. Whether you're a business seeking a cost-effective marketing strategy or an individual looking to express your personal style, understanding the art of hat personalization can empower you to create unique, impactful designs that truly stand out. Don't miss out on the incredible potential that custom hats offer in today's fashion and business landscapes – start exploring the world of hat customization today!

 

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Art & Merch Design with Coco Nella

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In honor of Women’s History Month, we decided to interview some Los Angeles women artists, designers, and business owners. We start this series by talking to artist and designer, Coco Nella who has paved her way through the Los Angeles art scene after relocating from the Tri-State area. Coco has worked with several brands and businesses to elevate their brand with her abstract designs.

Who Is Coco Nella?

Coco Nella is a Los Angeles-based mural & custom artwork business owned by Corinne “coco” Pulsinelle. Coco hails from the east coast, where she grew up fascinated by abandoned buildings and street art. After attending SUNY Purchase Art Conservatory in New York, she was able to refine her style and scale up her designs into large murals.

Since moving to Los Angeles, Coco’s painting style has caught the attention of major corporations, interior designers, business owners, and independent clients looking to have custom artwork in their homes. Her illustrations have also been used on packaging, clothing, and merch specifically in collaboration with local breweries.



Coco’s Background

Growing up in New Jersey, Coco became interested in the arts while taking an art class at her high school. Growing up, she took a specific interest in photography and graffiti as her artistic outlet. While in high school her teacher encouraged her and helped her apply to art schools.

After relocating to Los Angeles, Coco made connections with local interior designers and she began doing large-scale paintings and home murals as well as retail and office spaces. She has been able to create these connections through the years and building a brand for herself.

Although Coco’s primary work is painting murals and graphic design, she majored in Screen Printing while at SUNY Purchase where she learned the art of printmaking. This knowledge helped her understand design and plays a big role in how she works today. Coco has been able to pivot her knowledge of design and printmaking to create artwork for beer cans and apparel.

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10 Questions with Coco Nella

We sat down with Coco to talk about her story, her inspiration for what she does, and the women in history that paved the way for her.

Q: How do you think learning the art of Printmaking in college influences your art today?

Coco: Printmaking is a cool knowledge base to come from because it is process-heavy and I am better at setting up a project overall because of it. For example, I approach murals by having a completely planned-out design first and pay close attention to things like color order as you would in printmaking. The heavy focus on design and image layering is definitely something I think is evident across my work.

Q: Growing up, who were the women that you looked up to as inspiration for making art?

Coco: I have always been inspired by strong women in general, especially those who are accomplished in male-dominated industries or have overcome very big challenges. I can’t pinpoint a particular idol in the art world, but I will say that seeing my grandma react to the drawings I was doing as a kid for example made me feel like maybe I had something worth pursuing. So maybe I didn’t know all of the art icons & hadn’t been to many galleries, but I had strong women around me who I looked up to and wanted to make proud.

Q: How do you help brands develop their visual assets?

Coco: My approach to working with brands is based on making a personal connection and understanding the ethos of the company and who their customer is. Developing color schemes, fonts, and images. Those are all tools we can utilize to communicate. Sometimes I feel like a translator, taking what it is a company wants to express and simply putting that into the language of design. I am not short on unconventional ideas and I value freshness and originality while keeping things approachable.

Q: What is your process when designing merch for a business?

Coco: On a technical level, it’s important for me to understand what the design is going to be used for. An image that translates well on a digitally printed t-shirt might not work on an embroidered hat for example. Once that part is sorted out, I really just focus on making the merch look eye-catching and awesome. People often buy merch because it’s nostalgic… you had a great time at a new brewery and there’s an awesome t-shirt hanging in front of you that you can wear and remember that awesome time. It’s built into the experience for the customer, but it’s also built into the advertising of the business. It’s a proper win-win scenario that should be treated as a fun and enjoyable creative process.  

Q: What do you enjoy about working with local breweries?

Coco: Local breweries are often down-to-earth social environments where things behind the scenes are often very creative and experimental. I feel like my goal as a visual artist to bring people together parallels the goal of many brewers that I have met, and that alignment allows for really cool artwork to happen.

Q: How important do you think it is for breweries to have label art for their cans?

Coco: Label art on almost any product is an integral part of creating/product brand awareness and making sales. A lot of people like myself will engage with a new product almost exclusively because I like how it looks, after all that’s often all you know about the product until you’ve tried it.

Q: What is the best part of working with a local business?

Coco: The best part of working with a local business is that I am also a local business and we speak the same language, a lot of times as far as understanding the hustle, the highs, and lows. I come at those projects from a place of support and I really appreciate the support in return.

Q: What do you like most about designing beer can labels?

Coco: Craft beer is specifically cool to make art for because oftentimes the customer will sip on a beer and have a rare moment of pause where they can actually look at the can. I like to bring a lot of detail into these labels and give people lots to look at, it’s just fun and part of the whole experience of unwinding with a good beer. Plus I’ve seen people either collect or turn the can into planters so that’s been a meaningful and unexpected demonstration of how people respond to the work I’m putting out.

Q: What is the most challenging part of designing merch?

Coco: The most challenging part of designing merch for me is creating the best strategy ahead of time so that whatever artwork I send to the printer will translate really well onto whatever product we are making. At the same time, I want to create artwork that is versatile for my client, so if they decide in the future to turn the same image into a patch or a pin I need to hit that sweet spot of having visually interesting details, but not so many details that they get lost on the item or can’t be made at all. It’s not always possible but that is often a challenge I face being in between the client and the printer.

Q: What inspires your creativity when designing merch?

Coco: When I design merch, I am always on the lookout for unconventional sources of inspiration that can bring freshness and originality. I don’t look at other merch as much as I might look at old photos, advertisements, and even just cool color combinations that I might notice while I’m out on a walk. 

Designed by Coco Nella for the 2020 Los Angeles Brewers Guild

Designed by Coco Nella for the 2020 Los Angeles Brewers Guild

Beer label designs

Coco has worked with some Los Angeles County-based breweries such as Lucky Luke Brewing and Pacific Plate Brewing designing their cans. She has been able to bring a brighter concept and an out-of-the-box approach to label design.

Colorful and eye-catching beer label designs have recently become a very integral part of the craft beer business in Los Angeles. Having a well-thought-out, colorful and fun design on a beer label has proven to increase sales, and breweries all around the country are beginning to notice that combining art and beer is a good way to create brand awareness and loyalty.

Check out The 20 best beer label designs of 2020

Read How to design a beer label: The ultimate guide for craft brewers

Merch Design

Having a well-thought-out design printed on a t-shirt or stickers can get you noticed. Coco has created some very cool designs to establish a brand visual asset for some of her clients such as Leo & Mamas, which is a women-owned lifestyle brand and shop in Lancaster, California, and a cool bandana collab with Lady Luck Print Co. which is a women-owned print shop located in Carlsbad, California.

As a business with regular customers, selling t-shirts, mugs, or stickers at your events or establishment creates a beautiful flywheel effect: the more merch you sell, the more money you make, and the more your brand gets promoted by your regular customers. A nice mention on their social media also helps promote your brand and gets you noticed by orders in a way that is fast and easy.

Read 8 Reasons why your company needs branded merchandise

Author: Irene Floridia - Content Creator

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Our showroom at 2755 Fruitdale Street, Los Angeles, CA 90039 is open by appointment only from 10 am - 4 pm Monday through Friday.

5 Influencer Merch Ideas To Help Launch Your Store

As an influencer you’re constantly selling other brands’ products, however, when it comes to selling yourself, we think there is a lot of missed opportunities; especially when you have a large following that is active in engaging with your content. So how do you get started? We’ll take you through some ideas to help you launch your own merch store.

Why Do Influencers Need Merch?

Merch is a great way to earn money without damaging your image. While major brands are always looking for influencers with a large and dedicated following, it's likely that you will only have so many opportunities to partner with them on sponsored posts or ads. With merch, however, you have another five or ten ways to earn money without ever having to discuss any subject matter that may not resonate with your audience. If you're considering expanding your earnings as an influencer, this could be the perfect solution.

But merch isn't just another way to make extra money—it's also a great way to get additional exposure on social media. Influencers who create and sell their own products can use their channels to promote them in new and interesting ways.

For example, they might post pictures of themselves wearing the product in various locations around the world; they might even host giveaways for fans who purchase it! And when influencers take advantage of opportunities like this one (which is often given away at conferences), it results in lots more likes and comments on Instagram. In fact, some studies show that each new product sold through social media gets its creator about $5 worth of free advertising—not bad considering they don't even have spend any money upfront!

Check Out The State of Influencer Marketing 2022: Benchmark Report

Brand Awareness

While influencer merchandise is a product, it’s also a conversation starter. As an influencer, you can use your commercial products to connect with your audience and share who you are outside of the confines of social media.

For example, you can use the notes section on your Shopify store to chat directly with customers and offer them inside information about the brand. Similarly, fans can share their own story by posting pictures of themselves using or wearing your merch.

The result: Influencers have built communities around their unique brands and stories, but their merchandise is more than just another way to audiences to show support. It gives fans the opportunity to interact in meaningful ways outside of the digital world while continuing to build strong connections and leads to loyalty and sales down the line.

Read More 9 Instagram Growth Strategies to Grow Your Following

Loyalty

Here’s a scenario: You post on social media telling your followers all the placed they can buy merch, and it would be nice to see photos of them wearing their new purchases. In addition to getting your followers excited about the products you’re selling, this exercised will get them more involved with you and your brand. These interactions will strengthen your relationship with your audience and lead to more people wanting to buy merch from you down the road.

Read More How Promotional Merch Cultivates Brand Loyalty

Gather User Data

Influencer merch will help you gather vita user data by giving you a crucial contact and payment information. This gives brands opportunities to upsell.

Influencer merch is a relatively new space in e-commerce that allows influencers to create custom products for their followers. These product can be designed and sold directly through the influencer’s social pages and websites, using merch print shops such as Family Industries.

Collecting data can help you determine who your users are and what they want from your brand. Use this information to better target products for your niche audience. It doesn’t matter how much data you collect if you don’t use it properly.

Active Revenue Stream

Merch is a great way to earn money without damaging your image. While major brands are always looking for influencers with a large and dedicated following, it's likely that you will only have so many opportunities to partner with them on sponsored posts or ads. With merch, however, you have another five or ten ways to earn money without ever having to discuss any subject matter that may not resonate with your audience. If you're considering expanding your earnings as an influencer, this could be the perfect solution.

“Influencer Marketing Industry is set to grow to approximately $16.4 Billion in 2022”
— The State of Influencer Marketing 2022: Benchmark Report

5 Influencer Merch Ideas

Before you establish a line of merch item, make sure you have a logo, a font, and brand colors established. Some logos may not work with certain items so it’s important you have a good idea of what you want your branding to look like whether it’s your name or your Instagram handle make sure you have the right dimensions and file type.

Check Out MERCH IDEAS FOR STREAMERS AND YOUTUBERS

  1. Apparel

Avani 'YOUISBEBE' Tie Dye Sweatpants

Anything that can be worn is a staple in every merch store. T-shirts, and sweatshirts or hoodies are essential and a great way to promote yourself or a project.

To ensure success, it’s best to not only use your name or social medial handle but include some type of graphic, like a logo. If you don’t have a distinctive logo or graphic, we suggest to work with your merch agency or a graphic designer to develop one that best represents you.

Printed sweat pants have now become a popular item for most merch stores in 2022 as well as sweat shorts with the same graphics. You can have sweats screen printed with your logo and other designs. Be creative!

2. Hats

Middle Kid logo bucket hat

Once again, hats are a staple for merch stores - however, beanies may sell best during the winter and other hats like bucket hats sell better in the summer.

Seasonality is something you should consider with merch that is wearable. This way, if you plan accordingly you’re always ahead and you avoid overstock of certain items.

3. Bags & Backpacks

Jake Paul Backpack


Bags not only serve a purpose, but can be the best canvas for your logo and other branding attributes. The possibilities of what you can print on a bag such as a tote bag or backpack provides an opportunity to get very creative.

Using a lot of colors and fun graphics is recommended, you want to have your bag stand out.





4. Tech / Lifestyle

Addison Ray iPhone Case

Phone cases are affordable merch items and one of the most popular items among the Gen Z audience. If your demographics fall within the ages of 14 through 25, a phone case is a great option.

Tech accessories are also less hassle to sell as there are no sizing requirements and returns tend to be low for items like this.




5. Accessories

As a content creator, it’s important to have a merch item that directly speaks to your audience and correlates with the type of content you are creating.

For example, if you’re a fitness influencer, a cool yoga mat or stretch bands with your logo would be ideal. Sport merch items such as balls are good if you’re a sports content creator.

Lifestyle creators have a bigger list of merch items to choose from especially when it comes to accessories. For lifestyle brands you can go anywhere from drinkware to loungewear, making it easier to build a solid merch line that covers all aspects of everyday life.

Author: Irene Floridia - Content Creator

Looking for The Best Influencer Merch printer?

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com, or give us a call at 323.227.1547 and we'd be happy to help.

Our showroom at 2755 Fruitdale Street, Los Angeles, CA 90039 is open by appointment only from 10 am - 4 pm Monday through Friday.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook

For FAQ, check out our site!

For any inquiries, send us a message!

OR

send us an e-mail at quotes@familyindustriesla.com

p 323-522-3829