News

You can drink a lot of coffee over two days, and you can do a lot of good, too. Count The Dunstan Group among the hundreds of men and women who did both this week at the Isabella Santos Foundation’s Coffee For A Cure fundraiser.

This is the 3rd year Coffee For A Cure has brought folks together to hear Isabella’s story and to learn more about the work the Isabella Santos Foundation is doing in her honor to fund cancer research. The Dunstan Group donated 600 branded tumblers for participants, and stepped up as a Gold Level sponsor for the two day event at Carmel Country Club.

“When Erin Santos reached out to me and asked if we wanted to be part of this event, I said, ‘absolutely,'” said Scott Dunstan, owner and president of The Dunstan Group. Two of Scott’s closest friends have lost children to cancer, and signing up as a Gold Sponsor of Coffee For A Cure is just one way The Dunstan Group lives its commitment to the community.

“The foundation serves a great purpose — to fight for children by fighting pediatric cancer,” added Scott.

Isabella Santos was just 2-1/2 years old when she was diagnosed with stage 4 Neuroblastoma. Her little body fought the disease with every treatment doctors could find until June of 2012, when Isabella lost her battle with this rare pediatric cancer. It’s also when Isabella’s dream of a world with “No More Cancer” took hold and the Isabella Santos Foundation was born.

“Not a day goes by where I don’t miss her,” writes Isabella’s mom, Erin, in her blog. “I look at what she has accomplished in the last 5 years since I last saw her and it makes me so proud. It makes me think that we really must have done something right.” Coffee For A Cure is just one of many creative events the IS Foundation hosts each year to raise money for families and research.

The IS Foundation announced a $5 million donation this week to Levine Children’s Hospital to fund the Isabella Santos Foundation Rare and Solid Tumor Program, which will research and treat a wide range of pediatric cancers, including Neuroblastoma. The donation is one of the largest in the hospital’s history, and will allow it to expand its clinical trials and fund a national expert for an endowed chair.

Want to be a part of the story? You still can by donating to the Isabella Santos Foundation at this link:  https://isabellasantosfoundation.org/donate-to-isf/

Fifth Annual “Pink to Drink” fundraiser is set for May 10

It’s one big party at four great venues – and you’re invited – to the 5th annual Pink to Drink! It’s Charlotte’s biggest bloc party to turn LoSo PINK with hundreds of good people, great food, beer, and entertainment at four popular breweries in lower SouthEnd. And all the money raised by the three co-hosting 24 Hours of Booty teams supports the 24 Foundation mission for cancer navigation.

“Pink to Drink started just as an idea with a couple of friends who wanted to support our family,” says Josh Jones, co-founder of Team LIBSTRONG, who lost his 3-year-old daughter to cancer in 2014. “The idea was to host a party where everyone wore pink.”

The night was a surprise success, with more than 300 tickets sold. Pink to Drink was born and has grown every year, selling more than 600 tickets and raising $35,800 in 2017. Sponsorship has grown too, with four venues and ROOTS Catering providing the food.

“It’s incredibly uplifting to see a sea of pink when I look down Southside Drive and Yancey Road,” says Jones. “The event grows every year as people hear our story and want to help.”

Three teams are co-hosting this great party this year: Team AmWINS, Team LIBSTRONG/Drew’s Crew, and Team REEB. The event will be held at four popular LoSo venues: Sugar Creek Brewing Co., The Broken Spoke, Queen Park Social, and Olde Mecklenburg Brewery.

“Pink to Drink is a one-of-kind event,” says Scott Dunstan, owner of The Dunstan Group, who lost his mother to cancer when he was 10. Dunstan has ridden in 24 Hours of Booty and supported the 24 Foundation for many years as a fundraiser and sponsor. “We hope you and friends will come out and enjoy a fun evening while supporting the incredible work the 24 Foundation is doing locally for cancer navigation and survivorship.”

If you want to take part in a great event everyone will be talking about Friday morning, here are the details:

WHAT:  Pink to Drink benefitting 24 Foundation

WHEN:  Thursday, May 10, at 6 – 9 p.m.

WHERE:  Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, 4150 Yancey Road

TICKETS: $40 available here

More Info: http://pink-to-drink.com

 

You know what they say about the weather around here: if you don’t like it, wait a bit. It’ll change. One thing we’re pretty certain you’ll like, is this selection of new product for spring here at The Dunstan Group. Our Friday Finds is fresh and new— check it out!

Presidio Collection

A nod to vintage design that embodies simplicity, practicality, and minimalism. From backpacks computer sleeves, caps and organizers, the Presidio Collection was meant for the everyday traveler, the adventure seeker, the explorer of less traveled paths, and those who simply need an escape from the daily grind.

 

Custom Coasters

Practical and functional, our custom coasters are large enough for most any drink ware — and feature a big, bold imprint area for your brand, logo, or message. We liked them so much we chose them for one of our signature 10th anniversary products featured in The Dunstan Group showroom!

 

Flyington Selfie Drone

Made to go above and beyond and remotely controlled through an app on your smart device, the Flyington drone does so much more than just fly. It takes real-time pictures (including selfies) and videos, features aerobatic flight, real-time camera transmission, and phone-tilt control. Small in size but big on thrills, the Flyington is loaded with a ton of flying fun!

 

Budsies Bluetooth Earbuds

Outfitted with silicone ear tips and connected by a single sports performance-style cord, these buds rest comfortably in your ears and will never lose each other. Show off your brand while you rock out wherever life may take you. Whether listening to music, talking on the phone, or going for a run, we think the Budsies are the perfect pair.

 

Stormtech Ozone Lightweight Shell

The perfect partner for those evening runs in low light, but early-risers will appreciate every little detail in this one, too! With a fashion-forward heathered design, this showerproof D/W/R lightweight shell features an elasticized hood, cuffs and hem and reflective tape detail for added visibility.

Want to see more? (Of course, you do!) Call or stop by The Dunstan Group showroom and find out what else is “in” this season!

 

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.”

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.