The Dunstan Group

News

New Name, New Look, for 24 Foundation 

There’s something new this year at 24 Hours of Booty. Actually, there’s a whole lot that’s new! Yes, the locally-grown fundraising ride will go on. Not just in Charlotte, but also in Baltimore, and again in Indianapolis. In a move to unite the entire effort and make space for each location’s unique event under one brand, 24 Hours of Booty is now 24 Foundation. And with the new name comes a whole new look for the foundation that’s got a 16 year history of raising millions of dollars for cancer survivorship and navigation.

As a long-time sponsor, friend, fundraiser, and rider at 24 Hours of Booty, The Dunstan Group was humbled and honored to again be part of the design and selection of the store goods and fundraising incentives that incorporate the new 24 Foundation look at logo. Here’s just a peek at some of the all-new gear and goods!

We think you’ll love this year’s 24 Foundation store and swag. And wait until you see this year’s fundraising incentives! More on that coming soon. And yes, The Dunstan Group can create the same sort of thoughtful and impactful branded merchandise and apparel for your business, event, or non-profit program. Let’s talk!

Tees:

All-new tees with the updated “Gary” logo design, plus check out the 24 Foundation online store for hometown colors and styles representing each 24 Foundation event host city.

Stickers and Magnets:

Make a statement without saying a word, with stickers and magnets sporting the all new 24 Foundation logo.

Mugs:

Inspired, caffeinated, and ready to roll. What more would you want from your morning joe, or this fully custom coffee mug?

Socks:

These 24 Foundation socks are all business and all for showing off your 24 Foundation support in a more professional setting.

Lapel Pin:

Short, sweet, and to the point, the new 24 Foundation lapel pin will class up any jacket, sweater, backpack, or bag. The orange enamel “24” really pops!

Friday Finds: June 9th

Is it Friday already? Even with summer just starting, we’re always ready to celebrate the weekend here at The Dunstan Group. We’ve spent the week working with clients and friends, and we’re happy to share some of the ideas that got their attention – and we know will get good looks for you, too!

Check out this Friday’s Finds from The Dunstan Group:

Tech tees:

Color, style, AND the perfect piece for spring and summer! Snag-resistant technical fabrics provide UV protection, temperature control, and moisture management, plus a ton of space front and back for branding and messaging. Plenty of color options to collaborate with any logo or promotion.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/DUKGI-JVCNR/m-omi-short-sleeve-tech-tee

Sport Belts and Packs:

“Fanny packs” are what your grandma wears to Disney World… Sport belts and packs are back and crazy popular all over again! From affordable, single zipper models, to multi-pocket packs with reflective bits and other options, there’s a way for them to take YOUR brand and logo along for the ride. (Or walk, hike, or run!)

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=fanny+pack

OGIO Messenger Bags:

We love a great bag, whether it’s a simple grocery-getter, an easy-breezy string bag, or something more sophisticated like these OGIO messenger bags. OGIO takes the “everyday carry” concept and kicks it up with all the extras that make for great-looking, seriously functional, and infinitely brand-able bags.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/WQHLJ-KIKEG/ogio-jack-pack-messenger-bag

Herb Gardens and Seeds:

Whether they’re the “green thumb” sort or not, these herb gardens, mini planters, and seed pods are fun, simple, promos they’ll actually enjoy engaging with. A spring and summer branding opportunity that’s a perfect fit for office environments and windowsills, too!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=mini+herb+garden

Beach-Ready Bluetooth Speakers:

From the beach to the lakefront — or even to the shower — portable, wireless, Bluetooth enabled speakers are a year-round hit. They’ll love the long-lasting battery life, quick charging capacity, and BIG sound from little speakers like these. You’ll love that they’re taking your brand and logo along with!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/ZUHHG-LSAGP/waterproof-speaker—water-resistant-bluetooth-speaker

Can’t wait for Friday Finds to show up in your email inbox? We understand. Follow The Dunstan Group on Instagram and Facebook and see great ideas there every day!

Former Food Truck Puts Down “Roots” in South End

From their start as one of Charlotte’s favorite food trucks, to one of the most unique catering companies in town, our friends at Roots are now planted firmly in historic South End.

Roots goes “full service” starting this Saturday, June 10th at their new shop at 2135 Southend Drive, just off of South Boulevard and Magnolia Avenue. They’ll do breakfast and brunch from 8am to 1pm on Saturday and Sunday, before opening full-tilt Wednesday.

They’ve come a long way since food trucking and catering, and in their new permanent digs they’ll serve up breakfast, lunch and dinner options, as well as brunch on the weekends. Roots keeps the menu mighty local, too, with locally-roasted coffee, breakfast sandwiches, house-made sweets, sandwiches and salads.

Friends of The Dunstan Group probably recognize the Roots brand already. They’ve been a partner and player in a long list of big events and do-good affairs, including the “Pink to Drink” fundraising event benefiting the 24 Foundation. (You did get your hands on some of those wings this year, didn’t you?!)

And the news gets better! Along with the new sit-down space in South End, they’ll offer to-go options. and keep up their catering game, too. We love to see a homegrown brand thriving. Save us a seat at Roots!

Friday Finds: June 2nd

After a long weekend, why does it always feel like we’re trying to squeeze six days worth of work into the four day week? Not sure how that all goes, but there’s always time for Friday Finds from The Dunstan Group.

We promise that in this less than two-minute read you’ll always find something new, something different, and a new idea or two to make branded merchandise and logo’d apparel the part of your marketing program that gets results!

The clock’s running. Here are this week’s Friday Finds!

Team Schedule Magnets

It’s never too early to get excited about next season! Our Team Schedule Magnets can show off your team schedule, or even your kid’s little league schedule. Now THAT’S pro-style!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=LPNJD-HMNMI

Magnetic Name Badges

Trade shows or sales staff, team, group, or tour guides… if you want your guests to know who’s who, then these clean, classic – and magnetic – name badges are your ticket! As always, 100% customizable!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=RSOLE-GTAFD

Custom Webcam Cover

Yes, even Mr. Zuckerberg puts a piece of tape over that laptop webcam. So, why not let them see YOUR brand and logo when the eye the top of their screen? Simple, slide-over cover keeps the camera covered AND functional.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=NQKNJ-JXASS

Super Deluxe Folding Chair

At the beach, at the lake, on the sidelines; there’s practically no place you don’t see portable fold-up chairs this time of year. Make it easy for them to take your brand and logo along for the ride with the these Super Deluxe Folding Chairs. Lots of colors with plenty of space for logos and branding, too!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=OVIHK-JRPZN

Lanyards

Not just for school anymore, our 100% customizable lanyards are everyday essentials for office, trade shows, sales floors, and more. They’re a long-lasting and fun way to keep your brand “hanging around!”

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=DTHIG-EKAXD

The Dunstan Group’s Friday Finds is a fun way for us to introduce you to product and merchandise we’ve successfully used, and new ideas to make your branding more creative. And that’s something we’re serious about! Give us a call and let’s have some serious fun!

Friday Finds: May 26th

Heading into a long weekend, we weren’t going to leave you short on our list of Friday Finds from The Dunstan Group. This week’s selection has options that are fun, useful, and all about business when it comes to showing off your brand!

Inflatable Lounger Chairs

These are as much fun on the beach, the deck, the dock, or even the sidelines! Lightweight, easy-to-carry, and easy to fill, too. Eye-catching colors and matching carry bag, these inflatable loungers are as laid-back as bean bag chairs but minus the beans.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=AQMOK-LHLTL

Umbrellas

With the unpredictability of spring and summer weather, count on an umbrella for branding with serious purpose. From small, convenient fold-up models, to big, wide golf-style umbrellas, The Dunstan Group can find a model that fits your mission, your message, and your budget.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=VOGKG-GWPSJ

Stand-Up Banners

Spring and summer are busy times for travel and trade shows, golf tournaments , fairs, and festivals. We love these new stand-up banners for showing off indoors and our! With a full-color customizable front and a lightweight x-frame back, your display will be a real head-turner. Simple, one-person set-up, too!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=KQJHD-JVXBS

Expanding Phone Wallets

It’s even easier to travel light when you’re on the move this season. These expanding lycra phone wallets fit cards, cash, and identification, keeping everything neat and close at hand. Let’s face it: no way you’re forgetting your phone, right? Let them see your brand every time they text, call, snap, or post!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=LXOOD-JYJIC

Tote bags

Whether they’re headed to the beach or the mountains, or even some place less exciting (like grocery-getting!) durable, reusable tote bags are just that. Bags make a long-lasting impact and create thousands of impressions. It’s no wonder they’re one of the most popular products for marketing and branding.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/:quicksearch.htm?quicksearchbox=SXIKB-GWRMI

Want to see our Friday Finds before the end of the week? That’s easy! Follow The Dunstan Group on Facebook and Instagram and you’ll get the news first.

Is There a Fountain of Youth?

We read a lot about marketing, advertising, and branding. For starters, there’s always something new in this business. Equally important is learning new ways branded merchandise and apparel can be part of successful business and marketing strategies. What worked years ago isn’t necessarily a guarantee today.

In our business, we’re often asked about how to market to millennials, up-and-coming markets, or others who may be less-than-in-love-with more traditional advertising.

Be authentic.

Yes, we see this word used all over the place, too. To us, authentic means “real.” It’s tough to be all things to all people, and still be true to your brand, your goals, and your mission. Do what you do and do it well. That’s as real as it gets.

Collaborate.

Teamwork makes the dream work, as the saying goes. Partnering up with other labels, organizations, etc., can be a great way to lift both brands while introducing yourself to a larger audience along the way.

Be Useful.

Sounds simple enough, but utility is an overlooked brand-builder. Want longevity from your branding? Consider everyday opportunities that can make you invaluable and keep you top-of-mind.

Create value.

How does your brand, product, or service make your client’s business, workday, or everyday a little bit better? People want to work with people who add something to the process.

Have Fun!

No matter how serious your business, if you like what you do, your work reflects that passion and your clients will see the results. Yes, enjoyment is tied to longevity in business and in life.

Want to continue the conversation? Let’s do it. Give us a call here at The Dunstan Group and let’s talk about how branded merchandise and logo’d apparel can be a part of your success story.

Friday Finds: May 19th

We’ve got the weekend in our sights, like most of you. But no matter the day, we’ve got our brains wrapped around great new ways to boost your brand, and tell your story in creative ways. And we love ending the week sharing our Friday Finds here at The Dunstan Group!

Suede’ish Sunglasses Case

Your sunglasses never had it so good. We absolutely love the feel of these faux suede accessories, and were immediate fans of the Suedeish Can Koozie. Now these incredibly soft – and infinitely brand-able bits can cradle your expensive shades, make your “cheaters” look cool when you slide them from these head-turning cases, or even add a little something to your cheap sunglasses. (Nod to ZZ-Top, there.)

Custom Cutting Boards

We’ve had these created for several of our clients here at The Dunstan Group. These one-of-a-kind pieces make great corporate gifts, or “thank you” gifts, too. Any shape, with laser engraving makes for a long-lasting logo, message, or other graphic that won’t wash or wear away. Pair it with a bottle or other specialty foods selection and you’ve got a combo we think is tough to beat.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/ZQLJI-LGWWV/custom-shaped-cutting-board

Soft Sided Coolers

Easy to carry, and always in demand, our personalized soft-sided coolers make a great gift, incentive, or premium giveaway. In “snack size,” just perfect for lunch; or with pockets, straps, or shock cords and room enough to stock a serious tailgate, there’s an option to fit your marketing goals. And colors? Oh, yeah. Skittles would be jealous if they knew there were so many options.

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

This Guy

Equally as fitting in a “Throwback Thursday” post as here in The Dunstan Group’s Friday Finds, we got a kick out of these little wind-up walker toys! Yes, they’re still a hit at trade shows, expos, and even as a fun, inexpensive leave-behind. These little guys always seem to find a home on the desks of the folks that matter – your clients and friends!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/KVMJD-GEAWU/happy-face-wind-up-walker-toy

Fidget Spinners

Everybody’s talking about them, and everybody wants one. Why not deliver a fidget spinner with YOUR name and logo on it? Get ‘em while they’re hot and get them with your name on them, too. Loads of colors, plenty of options, too. Just ask us here at The Dunstan Group and we’ll tell you – and show you what’s hot!

 

Friday Finds 

We’re asked all the time about impactful leave-behind items, client gifts, or other bits of branded merchandise that fit up and down the sales cycle. Truth is, there’s always something new out there in the promotional products world, which keeps it exciting for both the giver and the receiver!

Here are some of the new bits we’re putting to work for clients and friends here at The Dunstan Group!

Car Coasters

For less than a dollar, they can take your brand and logo along for the ride – and keep things nice and neat on the inside of the car, too! Customized car coasters fit into most car, truck, van, or SUV cup holders.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/CPOOG-IDAOF/absorbent-car-coaster

Cooling Towels

They’re hot, because they really work! And you’ll be the coolest brand around with your name or logo on these cooling towels. Double down on the “cool factor” with exclusive packaging with a branded insert!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/ZWHJE-KUOTP/very-kool-cooling-towel

Gadget Grips

No more mobile phones slipping and sliding around on slick surfaces… and they’ll have you to thank! Gadget Grips are brand-able bits they’ll see as often as they use their devices. In other words, all the time!

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/LQKKD-GWNIS/gadget-grips-pearl-rectangle-non-slip-device-holder

Best Beach Towels

Sure they’re good-looking, but what makes them the “best” is that they’re fully-customizable with your name, business, brand, or logo! It’s like getting your billboard right on the beach.

http://shop.dunstangroup.biz/p/CVIGG-EXPDP/promotional-loop-terry-beach-towel-color-imprinted

Friday’s not the only day we’re thinking about fun, creative new ways to get your brand in front of fans and friends – or make new ones. Ask The Dunstan Group for ideas that make an impact!