"I need 500 pieces for an event next week. What can you get me?"
If you've ever sent a message like this, you're not alone. We hear some version of it all the time.
And here's what I've learned: most of the time, the marketing team is doing their best with the timeline they were given.
They're often the ones who get handed the last-minute request:
"We have an event in two weeks." "We need gifts for 200 people." "Can you get something here by Friday?"
And suddenly, it's on marketing to make it happen.
Sound familiar?
After 34 years in the promotional products industry, I've seen this scenario more times than I can count. And we're always glad to help find a way to pull it off.
But there's an easier way.
A Little Planning Gives You a Lot More Choices
Give us a week or two, and yes, we can usually find something.
But we'd love to help you find something you're truly proud to put your brand on.
When we're working against the clock, choices become limited by what's in stock, what colors are available, what can be decorated quickly and what can physically get to you on time.
Sometimes you end up choosing a product not because you love it, but simply because:
"It can arrive Tuesday."
Your brand deserves a better reason than that.
Last-Minute Orders Can Get Expensive
There's another downside to rushing: rush charges and expedited freight.
Money that could have gone toward a better product, upgraded packaging or a more memorable experience ends up being spent simply getting the order there on time.
Planning ahead gives us the opportunity to look at more options and make the best use of your budget, not just find the fastest solution.
Creativity Needs a Little Breathing Room
This is where planning ahead really pays off.
When you give us time, we can get creative.
We can source something unique. We can explore custom products, colors and packaging. We can order samples. We can consider overseas manufacturing when it makes sense. And we have time for proper proofs and approvals, so everyone feels confident about the finished product.
After 34 years in this industry, I can tell you that some of the best projects we've produced weren't necessarily the ones with the biggest budgets.
They were the ones where we were given enough time to be creative.
Make Promotional Products Part of the Planning Process
Here's one simple idea that can make a big difference:
When an event, conference, employee program, golf tournament or client initiative goes on the calendar, think about promotional products at the same time.
You don't have to know exactly what you want.
You don't need final quantities.
You don't even need the artwork ready.
Just start the conversation.
And if other departments are relying on marketing to handle their promotional products, a little lead time helps them too!
The earlier they know, the earlier they can involve partners like us, and the more we can do for you.
Your Event Is Already on the Calendar. Your Swag Can Be Too.
Give us a little more time, and we can give you a lot more options, while probably saving you money, stress and a few gray hairs along the way.
Have an event coming up in the next few months?
Let's start planning it together.
Don't Be Boring.
Contact us today at Sales@wearableimaging.com.