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Dunstan Group Celebrates Ten Years

March 2, 2018

In the history of business, 10 years may not seem like a long time. But to Scott Dunstan, his business is exactly where he wants it to be.

“Where we are now, is exactly what I envisioned,” says Scott. “A nice office with great people surrounding me, and a viable, sustainable business model helping people build their brands.”

Scott discussed the first 10 years of owning his own business with co-host Brian Young on the Brandbuilders Podcast, anniversary edition.

Listen here:

The Dunstan Group, maker of branded merchandise — apparel and gifts bearing your company logo — turns 10 this year. Scott began the business after 8 years in a similar family business. Scott’s uncle sold that business shortly after Scott left, which meant he didn’t have to compete against his own relatives for customers. That was important to him, because family, ethics, and integrity are all part of his core beliefs.

He also wanted to run his business with a different philosophy than he’d seen in the corporate world.

“I don’t live to work, I work to live,” he says, professing his love of travel and desire to see his co-workers enjoy lives and grow personally outside of the office.

“I truly believe none of us are going to be on our death beds saying we wish we had worked more,” he adds with a laugh.

That subject hits very close to his heart in another way, however. Scott has a strong desire to give back to the community because of how his life changed when he was just 10 years old — when his mother died of cancer. He understands how precious life is, and that every day is a gift. Scott lives that message with commitment to the 24 Foundation, the Charlotte-based cancer support and navigation charity.

“Community involvement is so important,” says Scott, explaining how he felt an immediate connection to the 24 Foundation’s mission and message. He has been fundraising for them and riding in their signature event, the 24 Hours of Booty, since 2009. Dunstan Group has also been providing the branded merchandise for the “24 HOB” since then — much of it at cost or even free.

“It speaks to how important philanthropy and community are to Scott,” says Mallory Walsh, Executive Director of 24 Foundation. Walsh says Scott has personally raised $20,000 for the foundation, and then took the next step to start a fundraising team. That team has raised more than $100,000. That “really speaks to his heart for service,” says Walsh.

Josh Jones, a Dunstan Group client and partner in Jones & Hedges Custom Homes, shares Scott’s vision about serving the community.

“How he does business reflects that,” says Jones. “He’s living that out. He puts so much value into his relationships, that it adds legitimacy to what a great person Scott is.”

“A huge component is giving back,” says Scott. “Everything is not about money. Success is not measured by money.” He explains that he believes true success comes from helping others be successful. “It’s what you do for others is what matters,” he adds.

Setting a solid foundation for his business has allowed the Dunstan Group to grow, too. Scott talks about surrounding himself with “people smarter than me,” who are encouraged to grow professionally, which, in turn, allows the business to grow.

“If you surround yourself with a good team, everybody’s an important part of it, and that’s way more sustainable for happiness in work life,” he says.

Scott also gives good basic advice for entrepreneurs who want to create a strong, sustainable business like his.

“You gotta be willing to take a risk,” he warns. That can mean living for a full year or more without income. Don’t carry a lot of debt. Make good financial choices. And the most important advice if you want to be around for a long time: “Do the right thing every single time no matter what it costs you.” Own up to mistakes and make them right, no matter the cost. People make mistakes, he says — how you handle the corrections is what will keep you in business.

Jones quickly agrees that Scott’s integrity is what drives both his personal and professional relationships. “Scott is someone I look at and think, ‘That is someone who will do the right thing every time.'” Not surprisingly, the two have become good friends.

So what’s next?

“We keep doing what we’ve always done, just do it better,” Scott says with a smile. He’s seen the business of branded merchandise change a lot over the last 18 years, especially with more women in the workplace who want apparel that fit and flatter them. Computer graphics, email, and digital files speed up the process of providing products to customers who need them.

And there are more ways to reach people — through social media and the Brandbuilders podcasts that “let people talk about building their brands, not just in product but in voice.”

Brandbuilders Podcast co-host Brian Young chimes in here, telling Scott, “It’s great to work with you, but also call you a friend.” You can tell he means it.

Scott replies with his best advice: “Stay optimistic,” he says. “Keep hammering, keep getting up every day and be happy about life.”

Friday Finds: Groundhog Day Edition 2018

February 2, 2018

You heard the groundhog. Looks like we’ve got six more weeks of winter to plan for. That just means more time to get ready for spring! This Friday Finds from The Dunstan Group features some of our favorite new season-spanning pics for 2018— enjoy!

Frosty Navy Sherpa Pullover

A perfect layering piece or stand-alone. Wrap yourself in rich, warm bliss with our Sherpa Quarter Zip Pullover. The dye process used to produce this garment infuses each one with unique character, making for a one-of-a-kind sweater. Frosty Navy Quarter Zip Sherpa Pullover for men and women in sizes with a quarter-zip front and pop-up collar.

 

Cooler and Water-Resistant Dry Bag

Get it there no matter what you need to carry. Our soft-sided cooler hold 36 cans and ice, so there’s plenty to share with friends. Don’t need it cold? No problem! This one doubles as a water-resistant dry bag that’ll help you haul groceries or other goodies with room to spare.

Wireless Charging Pad

Never run out of juice! Guarantee your devices are charged and ready to go when you are with the Boltron charging pad. It’s as simple as placing your device on a surface so you can grab and go without the hassle of a tangled mess or unplugging cords. The Boltron charging pad allows you to simultaneously charge 5 devices at once.

App-Enabled “Smart Button”

Yes, it’s as simple as pushing a button to automate everyday tasks with an Onyt! This wireless, app-controlled device can be programmed to complete a large number of tasks — and all you’ll have to do is push a button. The Onyx creates a shortcut for tasks such as turning on the stereo, calling a taxi, and a whole lot more.

Ashbury Duffle Bag

This water resistant duffle makes a great travel partner for your outdoor adventures. All zippers are waterproof for additional rainfall protection, plus the top-access main compartment has an extra-large 50L capacity for even more storage. Pack wet and dirty clothes in the external storage side pocket to keep your contents in the main compartment clean and dry.

PosiCharge Tri-Blend Wicking Tee

No matter the season, you’ll stay dry and comfortable in these tri-blend wicking tees. As a base layer during the winter, or a stand-alone piece for warmer weather, comfort is dialed-in with this tee. Plus, removable tags for a no-itch neckline, and loads of colors to choose from.

Yes, any and all of these amazing pieces can be customized for a branding opportunity that’s as unique as your team, business, or event. Just ask The Dunstan Group how to make it happen.

What Time Really Buys 

December 15, 2017

“Time is free, but it’s priceless. You can’t own it, but you can use it. You can’t keep it, but you can spend it. Once you’ve lost it you can never get it back.” 

—Harvey Mackay

Many great authors, speakers, and business leaders have written about the value of time. And it never seems more precious that when we’re working on deadline. Even Christmas, with the pressures of gift getting, party planning, and balancing end-of-year budgets, can seem more like a chore than a holiday.

Here at The Dunstan Group, we love a challenge — and celebrations, too. And as we begin to take stock on the year that was, it’s worth noting some of your projects that were made even more special thanks to the extra time we had to work with you on them. That includes our all-new BrandBuilders Box. It’s an incredible way to turn simple packaging into a spectacular branding opportunity, with full-color graphics inside and out, and cut-to-fit inserts that put the promotional product front-and-center.

Time is money.
— Benjamin Franklin

Yes, time is money. And as we like to say here at The Dunstan Group, you’ll almost always spend less money on shipping with more of it for great-looking promotional product if you give us just a little more time to find a creative piece that meets your goals and your budget— whether it’s a small project, a big promotional push, or something for the whole team.

 

The time for action is now. It’s never too late to do something.
— Carl Sandburg

Did you miss the deadline to deliver that “wow” moment for the Christmas holiday or the new year? Well, it’s never too late to do something, as Mr. Sandburg suggests. As you’re looking at your 2018 promotional and advertising budget, let’s talk about how branded merchandise and apparel from The Dunstan Group can play a role in your success story in the coming year.

 

This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it.
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

We’re pretty sure you know what to do. Begin here with a call or email to us at The Dunstan Group.

 

Weather Beaters 

December 12, 2017

Winter weather is finally here! Let The Dunstan Group outfit your team, group, or employees with branded jackets, vests, and outerwear for the season. From layering pieces like vests and fleece, to insulated jackets ready for serious weather— these all-new styles for 2017/18 are up for the challenge.

DriDuck Trek Vest:

Warm, good-looking and rugged, the Trek Vest is an ideal layer. Insulated throughout and equipped with a snowtop sherpa lined collar and back yoke, it protects from the wind and chill. Patch pockets with sturdy snaps at the chest, and interior cell phone pocket offer on-body security for your valuables. Toss on over a shirt or insulate your favorite coat, this vest is comfortable and durable without being bulky or excessively warm.

DriDuck Motion Softshell:

Designed to keep you warm and dry in three-season comfort, the DriDuck Motion Softshell is water and wind resistant, with zippered chest and hand pockets, and adjustable velcro cuffs. Just enough spandex for excellent mobility; the real deal for active use in the field!

Stormtech Omega Two-Tone Zip Hoody:

Classic, athletic-inspired performance hoody that features ultra-soft cotton-poly blend fabric, a full-zip front with welts, front kangaroo pockets, and more. A season-spanning layering piece, or a perfect stand-alone lifestyle piece that fits your life and your style. Rib cuffs and hem ensure a fitted-but-not-tight look.

Stormtech Brooklyn Quilted Jacket:

Lightweight DWR-coated jacket with thermal fill front panels for warmth and water-resistant protection. Front snap buttons, lay-flat collar, and slant hand pockets add classic looks to this rugged and functional piece. In men’s and women’s sizes!

Cutter & Buck Shoreline Pullover:

In a wide range of colors to pair with most any brand or logo, the Cutter & Buck Shoreline Pullover looks as good in the field, paired with a collard shirt, or kicked-back and casual with jeans and a tee. A touch of spandex gives it bounce back mobility and butter-soft feel. A great gift or layering piece for the whole team! In men’s and women’s sizes, big and tall, too.

Save on rush and shipping charges! Ordering now from The Dunstan Group allows us to explore all sorts of creative options, ensures inventories are at their peak, and keeps shipping costs at their lowest.

 

Charlotte’s First “Smart Bar” is Open

December 2, 2017

We’ve got smartphones and smart cars, self-service at banks, gas stations, and ice cream shops— and now at a brand new SouthEnd bar. Hoppin’, opening December 2nd, combines that tech and convenience with beer and wine.

If anything, the “smart bar” knows exactly WHAT you’re drinking, how much you’re drinking, how much you’re paying (no cheating here!), and when you need to take a break. A wristband, some iPads, and even your phone are keeping track of every ounce, including — like any good Big Brother — when you should stop.

“It intrigued me – Charlotte doesn’t have anything like this,” said owner, entrepreneur, and self-made millionaire Rich Moyer. Moyer also owns 2 Scoops Creamery in Plaza Midwood and Lake Norman, but made his money in construction by doing “jobs nobody wanted to do” and working up from there.

He sat down with Scott Dunstan and Brian Young on the Dunstan Group’s Brandbuilders Podcast to share how he became so successful at such a young age, and what led him to open a self-serve bar when his initial reaction to the idea was, “NO WAY.”

You can listen to his entire conversation here, and be as inspired as the rest of us: http://soundcloud.com/dunstangroup/brandbuilders-rich-moyer-hoppin-charlotte

Moyer said he’s approached often by businesses wanting an investor and the answer is usually no.

So when a friend called from Greenville, SC, late one night after visiting a self-serve bar there, the answer was still… no.

The friend went one step further: As soon as they hung up, he sent a video of the self-pour technology at work. Moyer wanted to learn more. The friend made a proposal, they took a presentation from the company that makes the technology — called iPour — and Moyer was in.

“What really intrigued me… was the technology piece, and bringing something new to Charlotte,” said Moyer.

He says the sophisticated software keeps track of everything. When you check in at the door, staff checks your ID and swipes your credit card to open a tab.

“That tab will be linked to a wristband, and that wristband is then usable for any tap in the building,” Moyer explained.

That’s “any” of 62 taps — 50 beer taps and 12 with wine, champagne, or other so-called “bottle” drinks, spread out over 4,600 square feet on two floors. Moyer says the beers will range from basic, to craft, to very expensive — meaning $25-30 a glass, but “people can buy a tenth of an ounce if they want to.”

All it takes is a “tap” on the tap. Each tap has an iPad above it, and patrons just have to hold their wristband up to the Hoppin’ logo on the iPad to activate the tap. Then they pour.

After 32 ounces, patrons have to re-activate the wristband. North Carolina law requires that bars can only sell 32 ounces of beer or wine at a time. This also allows staff to check if a patron has had too much to drink.

“It allows us to keep some kind of control, making sure someone is not just chugging beer and getting hammered,” said Moyer.

An app available on Android phones also keeps track of which beers you drink, and allows patrons to rate them. If favorites aren’t available on the next visit, the app recommends something similar. Fantastic.

Moyer isn’t waiting to see if Hoppin’ is successful before he expands. He likes the idea so much he has already picked out a second location in NoDa that he says will be ready in another two years.

Though Moyer insists he’ll take a vacation soon, he loves bringing new concepts to Charlotte. He wants to find things he’s passionate about and work hard at them to make them successful.

His advice for young entrepreneurs? “Take that leap, don’t be afraid to go get it.” You’ll be able to work hard — for yourself.

But first, serve yourself — at Hoppin’. You’ll find it at 1402 Winnifred Street in SouthEnd, and on Instagram at @hoppinclt.

Cheers!

Timing is Everything: Great Gifts Can Still Be Had 

November 28, 2017

For kids in school, it may feel like Christmas is light years away. In grown-up time, we know it’s just a matter of days from now. And if gift-getting is still on your to-do list, that time seems even shorter! Yes, there’s still time to select thoughtful, personalized gifts for the clients, friends, and employees on your list— but you’d better hurry! Here’s a short list of what’s hot here at The Dunstan Group.

Backpacks and Bags

Packs and bags are year-round crowd pleasers. From durable duffles, to backpacks, totes, and luggage, there’s a bag that’s a perfect fit for anyone and everyone on your list.

Writing Tools and Journals

Always in style, journals, notebooks, and writing tools are practical and appreciated. Paired together, they make a great-looking gift, too! In styles, colors, and textures as unique as your brand, we’ll help you find the one that’s just right.

Electronics

Phone chargers, cables, speakers, and more can be customized, packaged, and presented with your logo in time for holiday giving. With so many options, it’s easy to choose one they’ll use every day.

Read Also: Holiday Tech List from The Dunstan Group 

http://dunstangroup.com/listen-up-holiday-tech-list-from-the-dunstan-group/

Snacks, Candies and Coffee

Gift baskets are holiday favorites made better when loaded with snacks, meats, candies — and yes, coffee, tea, and cocoa, too. Ask us how to make yours even more special with custom labels, cutting boards, and more!

Drinkware and Mugs

Glasses, cups, mugs, and bottles make for gifts they’ll use year round. From laser engraved stainless steel, to insulated tumblers, and customized ceramic mugs, there’s a drinkware option that’ll fit the bill.

Want to make it really special? Let’s talk fully-custom packaging, inserts, and more and the BrandBuilders Box from The Dunstan Group! It’s sure to make your gift scream, “open me first!”

 

Listen Up: Holiday Tech List from The Dunstan Group

November 6, 2017

Audio and tech products are once again the hot items on the holiday gift-giving lists. Why not spread a little brand recognition along with that holiday spirit? Here are some best bets from The Dunstan Group that can be customized with your brand name, logo, message, or company colors:

Ten Four Powerbank

Practical and stylish, this high-capacity power bank is ready to go. Loaded with three USB outputs, a 3.1 amp charging speed, and a 10,400mAh battery capacity, the Tenfour charges up to three devices at once to completion—with room to spare.

Pionears Earbuds

Charge, connect, and go with these wireless Pionear earbuds. The sleek and ergonomic dual-function charging base and 4400mAh power bank combines with true wireless earbuds to deliver unhindered stereo sound. A great gift made even better with your brand and logo.

Boxanne Bluetooth Speaker

Here’s a portable Bluetooth speaker that gets noticed! With incredible sound thanks to its built-in subwoofer, the pocket-sized Boxanne carries an enormous sound. Use the included  looping strap to attach the Boxanne to any bike, backpack, or bag.

Beebop Bluetooth Headphones

Experience the full-range audio spectrum with outside noise reduction on the Beebop Bluetooth headphones. These also have a built-in microphone for integrated call handling and text notifications, essential for rocking out—but not missing out.

Sonosphear Bluetooth Speaker

Engineered to deliver bold, vibrant sound, the Sonosphear’s classic design, powerful dual 8 Watt driver performance, and state-of-the-art Bluetooth technology will enhance their musical experience. And with a big platform for logo and branding, they’ll listen and look!

Want to make your gift even more special? Check out the BrandBuilders Box from The Dunstan Group for fully customized packaging options that’ll really make them notice.

BrandBuilders – Court Creeden

November 6, 2017

Court Creeden has been called a “master of relationships,” and relationships are the foundation of the business he’s built at Parent Financial.  

Now, he’s offering a book about financial success that’s about a different relationship — the one you have with yourself, and your own ideas about what success looks like.    

“Almost every single person is trying… to keep up with that sense of what they THINK their life is supposed to look like,” Creeden told Dunstan Group’s Scott Dunstan and Brian Young on their Brandbuilders Podcast.  

Blue Goat is about living the life you were born to live, and creating your own path to your own personal idea of success.

Creeden says his insight comes from being a financial advisor to young couples, many just starting families — the focus of Parent Financial.  He realized after talking to so many couples, that their ideas of success were usually set for them by others.

“The ‘reality’ that most people think is going on in the world around them, is really not going on,” he says in Blue Goat. “The people we compare ourselves to, and are trying to keep up with, are trying just as hard to make it and keep up with everyone else themselves.”

In other words, if it looks like your neighbor or friend is more successful than you are, the truth is that they might not really be able to afford the life you see.

“What we’re comparing ourselves against, is what we see people spend money on,” says Creeden. “What we don’t have the opportunity to compare against is everything else going on behind the scenes.”

He blames it on a ‘sheep’ mentality.

“Everyone is just looking at the sheep in front of them, but they don’t know where that sheep is going,” says Creeden.  “We all end up in a big herd, and don’t know where we want to end up.”

Creeden meets a lot of people who have all the trappings of success, and “feel just as lost as they did when they were 22 years old.”

“They’re not successful,” says Creeden. “They’re not happy; they’re not where they want to be.”

Being a Blue Goat means living the life you’re meant to live, taking chances, and not being a “couch coward.”

“We need to throw the whole idea of success out the window and ask, ‘What’s your journey?'” says Creeden.  Sometimes that means veering off the main path everyone around you is following, and “getting dirty.”

Or telling yourself, “I’m not gonna miss out on the great moments because I’m so afraid of the bad moments.”

Creeden hopes people will draw inspiration from Blue Goat to live the “one amazing life” they’ve been given — not to be sheep, but be goats running their own paths, being supportive of those around them who also try to find their own path.  And to start building relationships with others — that start with building an honest relationship with themselves.

Find Blue Goat on Amazon, and follow on Instagram at @bluegoatlife.

You can hear all of Court Creeden’s comments to the Brandbuilders Podcast here: https://soundcloud.com/dunstangroup/brandbuilders-court-creeden-blue-goat-life

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The Dunstan Group

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Charlotte, NC 28204
704.293.4609
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