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A Party With a Purpose

First, a big “thank you” to everyone who bought a ticket, made a donation, won an auction item, or volunteered for this year’s Pink to Drink. Because of you, this good time for a great cause was again a huge success. It’s no small feat putting on Charlotte’s biggest block party, but stroking that check to the 24 Foundation makes it more than worth the effort. This year, The Dunstan Group, Team LIBSTRONG, Team AmWins, and Team Reeb presented a check for $37,713.90. Again, thank you all! 

Yes, the party’s over — for now — but the fight against cancer isn’t yet. The Dunstan Group rides again this weekend in the annual 24 Hours of Booty, with the hopes of helping reach the event goal of $1.8 million for cancer navigation services. And yes, there’s still time to donate. https://events.24foundation.org/fundraiser/1424699

This article originally appeared on Pink to Drink’s website.

Another Big Crowd, Another Big Check from Pink to Drink!

Just when you think Charlotte can’t be any more generous, there’s this: Thanks to event ticket sales and a new online auction, the 2018 Pink to Drink event raised $37,713.90 for cancer navigation and support services.

The three teams behind South End’s biggest block party — Team AmWINS, Team LIBSTRONG/Drew’s Crew, and Team Reeb — went all out for the 5th annual event. The party turned LoSo into a sea of pink as fun-seekers crowded Sugar Creek Brewing Co., The Broken Spoke, Queen Park Social, and The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery for food, drinks, and good entertainment for a great cause.

It was an incredible feeling as the three sponsoring teams handed over their biggest check yet at the 24 Foundation’s Jersey Awards Celebration.

“It’s amazing what our community can do when they see a need and want to help,” said Scott Dunstan, owner and president of The Dunstan Group, and a Pink to Drink founding member. Dunstan has ridden in the 24 Hours of Booty and supported the 24 Foundation for several years as a fundraiser and sponsor.

“Pink to Drink has helped challenge other people to do big things, too,” said Josh Jones, Pink to Drink co-founder and Team LIBSTRONG captain. “Tell your story,” he reminded the Jersey Awards crowd. “The more you tell it, the more people you invite in, because we’re all in this together.”

That night in 2014 was a surprise success, with more than 300 tickets sold. In 2017, Pink to Drink sold more than 600 tickets and raised $35,800. Sponsorship has grown too, with four participating venues and food from ROOTS Catering.

“Pink to Drink encapsulates what 24 Foundation is all about,” said Spencer Lueders, founder of the 24 Foundation. “Incredible storytelling, demonstrable passion for the mission, and heartfelt community support. Their collective efforts are inspiring and have made a real impact on 24 Foundation and this community.” Funds raised support organizations dedicated to cancer navigation and survivorship.

This year’s 24 Hours of Booty event is Friday and Saturday, July 27-28. More than 1,200 cyclists and walkers will circle Myers Parks’ “Booty Loop” for 24 hours, with a goal of raising $1.8 million for cancer navigation. For more information on the 24 Foundation, check them out at 24Foundation.org.

Packs are Back

Seems like summer’s just gotten good and rolling. The fireworks dust has barely settled from the Fourth of July, picnics and family trips are still on the calendar, and there’s still plenty of pool time ahead. But the season for fall day hikes, trade shows, and yes, school, gets closer every day. And the trusty, reliable backpack is the piece of gear that’ll carry us through one season and into the next. Here are some of our favorites here at The Dunstan Group!

Ogio Surge RSS Backpack

This best-in-class pack has an armor-protected laptop compartment with RSS technology which cradles your laptop so it never hits bottom. Includes integrated foam panels, built-in Reactive Suspension System (RSS) laptop sleeve and padded tablet/e-reader sleeve. Hybrid Unibody Backpanel (HUB) and increased shoulder strap foam make this the most comfortable pack we’ve ever owned. 

 

Mission Pack 

The Mission Pack will help you bring along all the necessary essentials for the journey ahead. With the extra large interior capacity and padded sleeve that fits most 15″ laptops, you’ll be ready when duty calls. Features includes dual-side water bottle/accessory holders, USB techport, padded laptop sleeve, RFID-lined pocket, insulated pocket, bottom straps for additional storage, and hydration sleeve.

 

Penryn Pack

The Penryn Pack™ will tote all your gear whether you’re hitting the trails, commuting to work, or heading to the airport for your next trip. With a dedicated laptop and tablet sleeve, secret stash pouches, RFID-lined pocket, and constructed from durable, water-repellent snow fabric, this pack has got you covered! Bring along your jacket, blanket, and more. A luggage pass-through handle, ergonomic back panel with memory foam, adjustable padded shoulder straps and sternum strap makes carrying this bag a walk in the park.

 

Oasis Backpack 

Get comfort go go with the Oasis Backpack’s Ergonomic Padded Shoulder Straps and Padded Airmesh Back Panel. The large main compartment features an Internal laptop compartment, plus an external zippered pocket, easy snaps and adjustable straps make for easy access to all your gear. 

Ready to get up and go? Give us a call here at The Dunstan Group and we’ll get you and your team set up with the backpack or bag that’s a perfect fit for your branding needs and your budget. 

Made in the USA

There’s no argument that we’re living in a global economy. Whether you’re talking shoes, groceries, or computers; the odds are pretty good they’re coming from somewhere other than the states. Even “American cars” aren’t necessarily made in the USA. If this patriotic time of year has you pining to keep your marketing dollars close to home… well, we’ve got some good news. The list of great branded merchandise options that are made in the USA just keeps growing! Here are just a few of our favorites here at The Dunstan Group.

Americana(™) Journal

US-made journals with linen cloth hard covers, black satin ribbon bookmark, and thread-sewn book binding. Features include blind deboss imprint and 80 sheets of white ruled paper. Available to upgrade with full-color Tip-In’s, elastic privacy closure, digitally-printed color pocket, pen loop, Gift Packaging and more!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=BVNIK-MBRDL

Veil 22oz. Color Change Bottle

We love this 22 oz. Cool Color Change Bottle! Add ice cold water and watch the color change blue to violet frosted to blue green to blue pink to violet yellow to green! BPA free, so no worries there. Push-pull lid that’s easy to use.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=+RUKLH-KAFPG

Full Color Coasters

Fun and functional, and a great way to take your brand out on the town. Coasters pair well with restaurants, pubs or bars, and company parties because they provide plenty of opportunities for you to toast to your success!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=GRKHH-ISVHW

Custom Classic Temporary Tattoo

Create a classic custom temporary tattoo with any logo or design. Our tattoos are made in the USA with cosmetic-grade inks and are easily applied with water. Small enough for an adult’s cheek or hand; large enough for a child’s arm or leg.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=VSNHI-IKVEJ

Custom Post-it® Notes

Full color notes with your name, brand, logo, and more! Full color printing with process inks for one low cost. The low cost, full color choice for branding they’ll use every day. Same great Post-it® Brand, too. With 4-color process you can print as many colors as you need or want.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=DXLGC-EKKJX

12oz. Stemless Wine Glass

Shatterproof plastic wine glass has thin flexible walls allow for full wine flavor. A perfect pick for outdoor festivals, parties, weddings, picnics, or any event where you’ll want simple but elegant branding!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=KSFIJ-JADJW

No matter what time of year, The Dunstan Group is committed to bringing you the best in branded merchandise and logo’d apparel. Call, email, or pop by our Charlotte, North Carolina showroom for some great ideas to celebrate your brand, business, or not for profit.

Dunstan Group Helps CharBar No. 7 Celebrate 7 Restaurants in 7 Years

Everyone likes a party, and we’re no exception. Last Saturday, The Dunstan Group had fun helping our pals at CharBar No. 7 celebrate their 7th birthday at their original location on Carmel Road. CharBar No. 7 even went with a throwback menu that brought back the onion rings—and brought out plenty of friends and fans of the Charlotte-born restaurant brand.

But knowing it takes a little extra to celebrate a big day, The Dunstan Group pitched-in with some party supplies, too. Hats, mini-footballs, sunglasses, T-shirts, bottle openers, and koozies all sported the CharBar No. 7 logo that has grown from its first location on Carmel Road in 2011, to 7 restaurants in Charlotte, Mint Hill, Matthews, Greensboro, Asheville, Southern Pines, and Mountain Brook, Alabama. Congrats, y’all!

Co-owner and founder Tyler Hager named the restaurant “CharBar No. 7” because of a simple-menu concept that he liked in his college town of Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Hager’s concept of “7” was born, but he soon realized that offering a menu with just 7 items would limit the skill and creativity of his great chef and operations manager, Gregg Bibik. Together, Hager and Bibik and their team have curated a menu of quality steaks and tasty burgers, in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere that’s known for its outdoor patios and laid-back comfort.

The Char Bar No. 7 team routinely tries new menu items to keep regular customers coming back, and let chefs be creative. Customers know they can get cold beer with wings and burgers, or enjoy a steak paired with the perfect glass of wine. The mantra is “where quality meets casual,” says Hager.

If you missed out on this party, mark your calendar for July 7. That’s when all 7 locations will throw an all-day party — and you’re invited, too. Congrats again, and happy anniversary, CharBar No. 7!

 

Kicking it (Old School) with Cam 


If you’re convinced there’s no school like the “old school,” then you’d be hard pressed to kick it more old school than a kickball game. But when that kickball game goes tournament style, the players are pros, and their ringleader gets paid to toss balls for a living… well, the stakes get a whole lot higher. 

In all fairness, it’s a charity tournament, and the money on the line goes to support The Cam Newton Foundation. Yes, Panthers’ players and other local athletes and celebs are on the rosters. And yes, some are just happy to be there— and to savor the opportunity to play any sport alongside these guys. With all that, it’s no wonder the Kicking it with Cam kickball tournament is such a blast, nor is it any surprise so many brands and fans don’t hesitate to jump in with their support. 

“It’s a partnership that makes sense,” said Todd Dack, from Uncharted Creative.  His company fields a team every year, and helps the Cam Newton Foundation with marketing and design work. 

But this year, Team Uncharted wanted a little more from the arrangement. Specifically, they were gunning for the championship. Todd wanted to stack the squad with ringers, and “drafted” The Dunstan Group’s Director of Business Development, Brian Young. 

Who knew there was an underground market for kickball talent. 

“It’s a great event, and a hell of an opportunity to play ball with the pros,” added Brian. “Talk about a unique way to raise money, have fun, and get the community involved!” 

Brian wasn’t able to turn his professional kickball dreams into reality, but the tournament did give him and Team Uncharted the chance to play along with NFL pros like Julio Jones. The same Julio Jones whose now-infamous “whiff” during his first at bat went seriously viral. Well, at least he looked good doing it. The event tees were from The Dunstan Group. Clearly, we’ve got game in that department. 

https://thefalconswire.usatoday.com/2018/06/02/watch-julio-jones-completely-misses-pitch-at-charity-kickball-game/

Nearly two dozen teams played in the fourth annual tournament at American Legion Memorial Stadium in Charlotte. Storms cut the day-long event short before the championship round, but the team from Uncharted Creative left the tournament undefeated. 

Caption: Storms rolling in, Cam rolling, too, in the annual Kicking it with Cam charity kickball tournament. Photo credit: Carolina Panthers

No matter the final score, the real winners were the kids, of course. Find out more about the Cam Newton Foundation and its work to improve young people’s lives academically, physically, and socially. Just click here: 

https://www.cam1newton.com/

 

Friday Finds: Memorial Day 2018

The “unofficial” start to summer has us daydreaming of sun, sand, and getting outside. Just because it’s summer vacation for the kids, it doesn’t mean your business — or branding will take a holiday, right? From where we’re sitting, there’s no better time to talk cool ideas for warm-weather marketing! Here’s our Memorial Day edition of Friday Finds from The Dunstan Group. 

Fold-Up Seat Cushion 

Whether you’ll be sitting in the stands for summer soccer, lacrosse, or baseball, or  looking for a clean, dry, and comfortable seat around the picnic tables, we’ve got you covered with this fold-up seat cushion. Packs easy, too! 

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/GQONC-JBLEL/fold-up-stadium-cushion

 

Insulated Lunch Tote 

Need small, reliable, personal cooler? Gotcha! Ours features a rollmop and buckle closure to keep the goods inside cold and clean. Plenty of room for your brand and logo on the easy-access outer pocket!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=EPIGK-MBZHT

 

Best. Coaster. Ever

There’s no better coaster for the beach or poolside. This one elevates your canned drink or bottle off the scorching sand or pool deck, to keep your drink cold AND clean. Plus, they stack easy for packing and come in loads of great colors to match your brand!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=HPHGF-LOICY

 

Copper-Infused Cooling Towel 

That’s right, copper. The same stuff that pennies were once made of is scientifically proven to reduce odors. That’s why it’s woven into the very fibers of this sweat-absorbing cooling towel. Science is very cool! 

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/SPIGI-MBZHR/eclipse-copper-infused-cooling-towel

 

H2go DJ Bottle

An incredibly fresh find right here, the new H2go DJ bottle is super lightweight, BPA-free, single-walled Tritan poly, with a threaded lid and carry handle. It’ll be their summer go-to. Tons of cool colors, too. 

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=ZRLFD-MJHCM

“Big Saturday” is a Big Deal for Charlotte Country Day School

There’s a reason Charlotte Country Day calls it “Big Saturday.” The springtime carnival is one of the biggest events on campus—and one of the school’s biggest fundraising events. Now in its 57thyear, Big Saturday also included a first-time charity “Run For Good” on Friday, April 19. All proceeds from the run were given to The Learning Collaborative, a tuition-free preschool for at-risk children in Grier Heights.

The Dunstan Group donated 1,600 drawstring bags printed with the Big Saturday logo, and produced a unique collection of items that were sold as part of the fundraiser. Children’s sunglasses, stainless steel tumblers, water bottles, t-shirts, caps, and vests, all showed school pride, and were carefully selected by The Dunstan Group and parent volunteers.

“I can’t imagine working with anyone else,” exclaimed Charlotte Country Day School parent volunteer Chrissy Bianchi. She held high praise for both the quality of the merchandise and the customer service from MacLean Helbein, The Dunstan Group’s vice president/brand specialist.

“MacLean worked non-stop behind the scenes to go above and beyond to make sure our day was special, and all of the merchandise was perfect. Her customer service was unbelievable!” wrote Bianchi. “We received so many compliments on the merchandise, and it is such great quality that people will be using these products for years! I’m so glad (The Dunstan Group) was able to be a part of our community event.”

Bianchi says everyone especially loved the T-shirts and the bright green bags.

“Every little investment, be it financial or intellectual, can yield great returns for our community and beyond,” said Scott Dunstan, president of The Dunstan Group. “We’re stoked to be a part of that.”

Charlotte Country Day School, located at the corner of Fairview and Carmel roads in south Charlotte, was the region’s first independent school. It also offered the area’s first International Baccalaureate and International Studies programs, first afterschool programs, and provides teachers assistants in every lower school classroom.

Founded in 1941, Charlotte Country Day School continues to be a big part of Charlotte’s education community. Big Saturday and branded merchandise provided by Dunstan Group help foster the school spirit that continues the school’s longstanding traditions.

“We can’t change the world alone,” added Dunstan, “but we can certainly make lots of ripples.”

No matter what day of the week, The Dunstan Group can help make your event a long-lasting success with branded merchandise and apparel that tells a story, supports your mission, or your fundraising efforts. Give us a call—we’d love to hear about your event!

 

 

 

Golf Season is Here

Around here, it’s practically possible to play golf year round. With some of the best country clubs and public courses in the southeast, there are plenty of options out there. You don’t have to be on the pro circuit to find a great place to play — or to get your brand seen on the links this season. With hundreds of local charity and club tournaments on the calendar, now’s the time to hook up with The Dunstan Group and score some of our tournament faves!

Tees and Golf Balls:

Can’t play the game without these essential elements! Golf balls and tees can be easily personalized with your company, event or brand logos. A spot on choice for productions of any size, they’ll use these every time they hit the links!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/golf-balls.htm

Golf Towels:

Guaranteed to be used over and over again, they’ll wave your company or event colors long after the event with these branded golf towels! Available in a range of sizes and a rainbow of colors to match your budget, theme or brand.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/golf-towels.htm

Shoe Bags:

Want to really step it up a few notches? Embroidered golf shoe bags are sure to be a hit. A one-of-a-kind “thank you” gift, presentation, award, or a great bachelor party golf outing gift for your groomsmen, too!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/golf-shoe-bags.htm

Caps and Visors:

No limits on how “pro” you can go with customized caps and visors from The Dunstan Group! From great-looking caps with event or company colors and embroidered logos, to full-on, one-of-a-kind, YOUR-label-on-the-hat-band custom, ask us how to make it happen!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/golf-caps-and-visors.htm

Phone Chargers:

Chargers make it easy for friends, clients and participants stay connected while they play, and STILL have enough power to post pictures from your event! Branded with your company or event logo, and available in a range of sizes and colors, too!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=chargers

Awards:

Someone’s got to come out on top! After they hoist these etched crystal models on the podium, they’re sure to earn a place of honor in the trophy case or mantle. 

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/awards-golf.htm

Umbrellas:

Rain or shine, umbrellas come in handy. Available in personal sized, collapsible models to the pro-style size they carry on the tour, they’ll be throwing shade (in a good way!) or staying dry and showing off YOUR company colors!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=golf+umbrella

We can’t control the weather for your golf tourney, but we CAN guarantee they’ll remember your business, brand or event long afterward. It all starts with a call to The Dunstan Group for the best bet in branded merchandise and apparel!