The Phone Call That Reminded Me Why I Love What We Do

This morning, I grabbed my coffee and settled in at my desk, and that's when I heard Regina on the phone.

Our founder wasn't rushing through an order or rattling off a product catalog. She was really talking to someone. Asking questions. Pausing to listen. Explaining the difference between screen printing and embroidery like she was helping a friend pick out the perfect gift.

"Okay, so here's the thing about that method," she said. "It'll save you a bit of money, but for your logo? It's not going to look the way you want it to. Let me tell you what I'd recommend instead."

And then, I kid you not, she talked the client down to a simpler option that cost less but would actually look better for their brand.

That's Regina. That's us. That's just how we do things around here.

Look, I get it. Shopping for promotional products can feel like wandering through a maze blindfolded. There are a million options, a dozen ways to customize each one, and honestly? A lot of companies out there just want to take your money and move on to the next order.

We don't work like that.

When you call us, we're going to ask you questions. What's the vibe you're going for? Who's receiving these? What's your timeline looking like? And then we're going to walk you through your options, the real pros and cons, not just the upsell.

Sometimes that means we suggest something cheaper. Sometimes it means we recommend waiting an extra week for better quality. And yes, sometimes it means we'll straight-up tell you that what you're asking for isn't going to serve your brand the way you deserve.

Because here's the truth: your brand matters more to us than making a quick sale.

Whether you're ordering 50 tote bags for a conference or 500 custom hoodies for your team, every single item that goes out the door with your logo on it is a reflection of you. And we take that seriously.

We actually sent an email about this exact thing to our subscribers this week (because apparently, I can't stop talking about how much I love our team). If you want more stories like this, plus insider tips on what actually works in the promo world, join our mailing list here.

So yeah, if you're looking for someone who'll just take your order and ship it out, we're probably not your people.

But if you want a partner who genuinely cares about how your brand shows up in the world? Someone who'll take the time to make sure you're making the right choice, even if it means a longer conversation or a smaller invoice?

Then let's talk. Because your swag should be more than just "stuff." It should be kick ass.

Ready to make your brand shine? Reach out, we're here for you.

Why This Holiday Season Might Be Your Best Chance to Gift Boldly

Every December, inboxes flood, budgets tighten, and brands scramble to send something. But what if this year your holiday gifting actually worked, not just checked a box? At Kick Ass Swag, we believe well-chosen gifts are a secret weapon for building relationships, boosting loyalty, and making your brand unforgettable.

It’s not just sentiment—there’s solid data behind it. 52% of recipients go on to do business with a company after receiving a corporate gift. (DFS) And in a recent corporate gifting report, more than half of companies said their top reason to give was brand awareness. (Giftsenda Gifting Platform)

So it’s worth asking: should you do holiday gifting this year? Let’s walk through how to decide.

The Signs You Should Gift

1. You want to stand out in a crowded inbox

Clients and partners get dozens of emails in December. A physical, thoughtful gift cuts through the noise and becomes tangible proof you care beyond the Q4 deal.

Set the mood, light it up, let your brand glow.

2. You value long-term relationships

Gifts signal appreciation. Executives regularly say that a branded gift helps cement long-term trust (Forbes backs this). (Forbes)

3. You have clients or employees you want remembered

Holiday gifts are less likely to be pitched away. They stay on desks, get used, or spark conversations. Your brand gets ongoing visibility long after the box is opened.

4. You have time to plan

The difference between “meh” and “knockout” is lead time. Ordering too late = limited choices, rushed fulfillment, and generic options. A gift boldly program gives you breathing room.

When You Shouldn’t Go All-In

1. If your budget is already stretched

Holiday gifting should enhance, not hurt your bottom line. If adding swag means cutting critical investments, it might be prudent to scale back.

2. If the gift is generic

Cheesy, shareable, and spreading your logo with every bite.

Sending low-quality or irrelevant items can do more harm than good. A pen with your logo won’t shock anyone. A custom, high-quality item? That makes a statement.

3. If you can’t personalize

The difference between “just another gift” and “meaningful gesture” is personalization. If you can’t match gifts to recipients’ tastes or roles, your ROI will suffer.

How to Pull It Off Right

Turn up the volume on your brand!

• Start early As Cultivate Premium Gifts warns, timing is key. Plan your holiday gifting strategy before Q4 hits. (blog.cultivatepcg.com)

• Bundle with purpose Combine items (like a cozy throw + branded tote + flavored drink) into kits. Bundles feel elevated and meaningful.

• Offer choice within a box Because 68% of people prefer choosing their own gift. Let recipients pick from a few curated options, keeps it personal while still on brand.

• Match the gift to the relationship High-value relationships deserve premium swag. Mid-tier relationships can get high-impact “everyday” items. Tier your gifting.

• Track, measure, iterate Ask recipients for feedback. Track engagement, did those clients stick around or come back? Use that data to improve next year.

  
  

Final Take: Gift Boldly ! (Kick Ass Swag Wisdom)

If you’re willing to spend time, care, and a bit more budget this year, holiday gifting isn’t just worthwhile, it’s transformative. Your brand moves from “vendor” to “thoughtful partner.” Your clients don’t just use the gift, they remember it… and the giver behind it.

If you're on the fence: yes, you should do it. But do it right. Start early, personalize deeply, and let your brand speak through quality. Leave behind the holiday-return pile, and hand out swag they’ll actually keep—and talk about.

HOLIDAY LOOK BOOK 2025

Fall Into Style: Promo That Walks the Talk

Fall is the perfect time to boost brand visibility with products people actually want to use. As the temps drop, comfort becomes king, making this the season to pitch cozy, functional swag that blends warmth, style, and branding.

Let’s start with socks.

Athletic ankle and crew socks are a no-brainer for fitness campaigns and seasonal gifting, while stash socks (yep, with hidden pockets) bring a fun twist for festivals, travel, and Gen Z vibes. They’re practical, stylish, and keep your brand in daily rotation, literally.

But socks aren’t the only footwear making moves in the promo world. Light-up Get Lits are built for night events and parties, while sock shoes deliver comfort and support perfect for wellness programs. For premium gifting with retail appeal, sneakers or boots bring a modern, influencer-worthy edge.

Of course, fall promo isn’t just about what’s on your feet. The right accessories help you fall into style and turn any kit into a full-on seasonal experience. Think plush blankets, cozy capes, and trendy totes. Tote bags can check all the boxes, sustainable, useful, and super visible at tradeshows, campuses, or around town. Add in a plush throw, and you’ve got the perfect fall gift set for remote teams, or VIP clients.

This season, people want thoughtful, high-utility swag that feels intentional. That might mean bundling “Fall Survival Kits” (socks, blanket, tote) for a crowd-pleasing set, or leaning into custom sneakers for premium gifting.

Kick Ass Swag Kicks

Bottom line: Fall is your chance to help clients create a true brand experience, not just hand out another product.

With the right mix of comfort, trend, and functionality, your socks, shoes, and accessories won’t just get used—they’ll get remembered. This season, pitch the promo that really walks the talk.

Thanks to https://www.sock101.com/ for blog inspiration!