The Dunstan Group

News

A Quack-Tastic Cause: KinderMourn’s Hope Floats Duck Race

The Whitewater Center hasn’t gone fully “quackers,” but on May 4, you might have done a double-take when you witnessed a tidal wave of yellow bobbing down the rapids. Actually, it was more than 57,000 rubber ducks dumped lovingly into the water as part of KinderMourn’s annual Hope Floats Duck Race. And The Dunstan Group was proud to be in the middle of it all, cheering on the cause, supporting the community, and this year, claiming victory in the ever-competitive Sponsor Duck Race.

In its 21st year, the Hope Floats Duck Race is now one of the largest in the country. It’s also one of KinderMourn’s biggest fundraisers, raising a record-breaking $400,000 this year. Here’s how it works: Every rubber duck—adopted in honor or memory of a loved one—represents the mission of KinderMourn to offer hope and healing to grieving parents, children, and teens across the Charlotte area.

“We’re grateful to have community partners like The Dunstan Group,” said Staci Brown, Community Relations Director at KinderMourn. “They’ve been incredible in helping us with branded items for events like our golf tournament and now the duck race. It’s meaningful to have local support from just two doors down.” (Yes, the KinderMourn office is just a couple doors down from us here at The Dunstan Group!)

“I think the coolest part is that our families are such a big part of the fundraising,” said Kaela O’Donnell, Executive Director. “They’re the ones creating the teams … and sharing with friends and family and coworkers because it’s been like so special to them.”

Started in 1978 by bereaved parents Bill and Lucy Christopher in a church basement, KinderMourn has grown to include individual counseling, support groups, and an innovative outreach program called Helping the Hurt, which provides grief support directly in Charlotte-Mecklenburg and Fort Mill schools.

“I don’t think people always realize the scope of what we do,” added Brown. “We’re talking with students after school tragedies, providing comfort when it’s most needed, so we’ve really expanded our services.”

The Dunstan Group lent a hand—and a few creative ideas—to this year’s race-day gear and giveaways. From reusable duck-themed race bags and koozies to co-branded magnets and holographic stickers; KinderMourn’s event was stocked with fun, functional swag that also served a purpose.

“This year, we also did a bag which is something we’d never done before,” said Brown. “People were buying tons of merchandise—plushy ducks, t-shirts, all of it— and we realized so many people were buying a lot of duck merchandise and didn’t have any way to carry it!”

And then there’s the matter of the event itself. The Dunstan Group took home the coveted “Quackiest Duck” award for winning the Sponsor Duck Race, in which giant decorated ducks are launched into the water before the BIG rubber duck drop. That trophy will soon have a special place in The Dunstan Group showroom.

Beyond the laughs and the floating plastic fowl, the Duck Race serves a greater purpose: helping KinderMourn provide essential grief support services to those who need it most. With more than 100 volunteers on race day, hundreds of fundraising teams, and tens of thousands of adopted ducks, it’s a true community event – and one The Dunstan Group is honored to support.

“I think the magic of the Duck Race is that it brings joy to a really heavy subject,” said Brown. “It’s a fun way to honor someone they love, and for our community to get involved.”

To learn more about KinderMourn or get involved in their upcoming events—including their Tee Off for Hope Golf Tournament this fall—visit www.kindermourn.org.

Doggett Concrete Charity Golf Tournament: Community Impact and Branding Excellence

Doggett Concrete partnered again with us at The Dunstan Group for their 5th annual charity golf tournament. This well-established event held at Ballantyne Country Club benefits Roof Above as well as the Autism Strong Foundation. Melissa Sorensen is marketing director at Doggett Concrete, and played a large part in organizing this successful event. “We had such a great year that we’re donating over $75,000 to these causes,” she told us.

In 2024, Doggett Concrete undertook a full rebrand of the tournament and enlisted The Dunstan Group to elevate the event’s look and feel, Sorensen explained. “We brought them in and they’re doing all our stuff to make us look amazing.” The Dunstan Group produced a variety of items including custom flags for every golf pin, polos for staff, hats, cups for the bar sponsor, and unique prizes like custom etched glassware. “We have reusable flags that they did… they’re not dated so we can reuse them every year,” Sorensen said, highlighting the cost-saving that allows them to contribute more to their charitable causes.

The prizes stood out as a special touch. Sorensen pointed to the custom glassware and the 1st place prize, which was a decanter and highball glasses, all etched with the tournament logo. She added, “What we really love about those is that they are an item that’s super custom and looks really high end — it’s just outstanding.” This bespoke approach reflects The Dunstan Group’s ability to deliver high-quality, unique products tailored to client needs.

Sorensen also praised The Dunstan Group’s collaborative process: “They worked with us, helped design everything, consulted with us on what would be the best thing. A lot of color matching to a new brand—what looks good in thread, what looks good in print—sending us samples, helping get all the custom sizes for everyone.” This attention to detail created a cohesive and professional look throughout the event.

Beyond just prizes and apparel, Doggett Concrete’s branding extended throughout the tournament grounds. Sorensen described the comprehensive branding effort: “We really try to brand everything at the event. Even inside the golf cart windows we have a decal with our logo and with the title sponsors’ logos, we wrap the bar carts, have sponsor signage at every hole… it’s all the same branding.” She also mentioned the charming detail of “little teeny poker chips” that contributed to the event’s cohesive and memorable atmosphere.

Doggett Concrete is expanding the tournament to Raleigh, with the inaugural event scheduled for September 10, 2025. The Dunstan Group will be on board for that one, as well! For those interested in sponsorship or participation, the Raleigh tournament details are available at doggettconcrete.com/golf-raleigh

Decorating Methods to Level Up Your Promotional Products

Branded merchandise and apparel are more than just products—they’re a canvas for your brand’s story. At The Dunstan Group, we know that how your logo or message is applied can turn everyday items into memorable brand experiences. That’s why we offer a variety of decoration methods to match your vision, material, and budget. Here’s a closer look at just some of our most popular and impactful decorating techniques!

4-Color Process

For vibrant, photo-quality images and designs with intricate gradients, the 4-color process is the gold standard. This technique uses four transparent inks—cyan, magenta, yellow, and black (CMYK)—layered in precise patterns to create a full spectrum of colors. The result? High-quality prints that can reproduce everything from detailed photographs to complex graphics with smooth color transitions. It’s perfect for designs that require multiple shades and realistic imagery, making your branded merchandise truly stand out in a crowd!

Debossed

Looking for a subtle, sophisticated touch? Debossing presses your design into the surface of the material, creating a recessed effect that you can see and feel. This method adds tactile elegance and a sense of permanence, perfect for leather goods, notebooks, and portfolios. The understated finish elevates the perceived value of your item and ensures your brand leaves a lasting impression—literally!

Glossy Tone-on-Tone

Glossy tone-on-tone decoration is all about understated style. This method uses a glossy finish in the same or similar color as the base material, resulting in a sleek, intriguing look that’s visible when the light hits just right. And when it does… wow! Glossy tone-on-tone is a fantastic choice for goods and accessories where you want branding to be present but not overpowering. It’s like something “secret” that everyone will be wanting to get a look at!

Dome

Add a dimensional, high-impact look to your brand or logo with dome decoration! Just like it sounds, this technique involves applying a clear, durable, resin-like “dome” over a printed logo or design. Very slick! The result is a glossy, raised effect that not only protects the print underneath but also catches the eye with its 3D appearance. Dome decoration is especially popular for keychains, badges, and tech accessories, offering both durability and a modern visual appeal.

Patches

Patches are a classic and versatile way to showcase your brand. Whether stitched, woven, or printed, patches can be created in virtually any shape, color, or style. They can be attached to apparel or bags—either sewn on for permanence or with adhesive for flexibility. Patches add texture, color, and a handcrafted feel, making them perfect for hats, jackets, backpacks, and more. They’re also a great way to add personalization or commemorate special events.

Find the Perfect Fit – and Decoration – for Your Brand

Every brand is unique, and so is every project. Whether you need to stand out or be subtle, The Dunstan Group’s wide range of decoration techniques ensures you can find the perfect method to match your brand’s personality and your marketing project. From bold, full-color impact or subdued, tactile sophistication, we can help you choose the right process to make a statement.

“Sport a Shirt” Fundraiser is a Year-Round Hit

Every year, the Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte rallies the community around its mission in a unique and colorful way with the “Sport a Shirt” fundraiser. At The Dunstan Group, we’re proud to have been the creative and production partner behind these shirts for many years, helping turn a simple T-shirt into a powerful symbol of hope and support for families in need.

What Is the “Sport a Shirt” Program?

The “Sport a Shirt” campaign is more than just a T-shirt sale—it’s a movement! We talked with Darrell McGill, Corporate Relations Manager for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte, who said each year, over 5,000 shirts are sold throughout the Charlotte to support the Ronald McDonald House’s mission.

“Those T-shirts serve as a walking billboard or storytelling for us. Every year we try to make sure that the print on the T-shirt tells a story.”

Each design is carefully crafted to reflect the charity’s programs and milestones. McGill said last year’s shirt celebrated 50 years of Ronald McDonald House Charities, while this year’s features icons representing the organization’s diverse programs, ensuring every shirt is a conversation starter and a centerpiece for one of their biggest community fundraisers.

Celebrating with the Charlotte Knights

A highlight of the campaign is the annual partnership with the Charlotte Knights. Supporters can purchase a bundle—this year, a T-shirt and a game ticket for $35—and join in a family-friendly Friday night at the ballpark, complete with fireworks and a special on-field countdown featuring families and major donors. “It’s a family fun day,” says McGill. “Every year our families and supporters tell us they look forward to attending that event.”

This Year’s Shirt: Another Crowd Favorite

This year, the “Sport a Shirt” campaign introduced its first-ever white T-shirt, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. “Our supporters definitely loved the softness of the T-shirt. It was really something different. We haven’t had this nice of a quality shirt before,” McGill said. The vibrant colors and icons stood out on the crisp white fabric, and the comfort and style of the shirt helped drive even more sales. “It really helped us sell more as this campaign is continuing going, because not only do we highlight it in this current time, but we kind of emphasize it’s a year-long campaign.”

The “Sport a Shirt” program is a major fundraiser, bringing in roughly $200,000 each year, McGill told us. These funds directly support three core programs, including the Ronald McDonald House itself, the family room at Novant Health Hemby’s Hospital, and the Happy Wheels Cart program, which delivers comfort items to families at Atrium Health, Novant Health, and Judge Gordon General Hospital.

How to Get Your Shirt

Like McGill said, the campaign runs year-round, so it’s never too late to show your support! Shirts can be purchased by contacting Darrell McGill directly via email ([email protected]), by phone at (704) 288-5319, or by stopping by the Ronald McDonald House at 1613 East Morehead Street between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily.

Looking Ahead: Growing the Movement

With plans already underway for next year’s design, the Ronald McDonald House team is eager to build even more excitement and awareness. As McGill notes, “We’re trying to figure out a different way to be early and get the sales in,” with hopes of even earlier promotions and new ways to engage the community.”

At The Dunstan Group, we’re honored to help bring this kind of vision to life, one shirt at a time. When you “Sport a Shirt,” you’re not just wearing a T-shirt—you’re supporting families, spreading hope, and being a part of Charlotte’s giving spirit —one shirt, one family, one community at a time.

5 Ways to Make Your Summer Marketing Outshine the Competition

Spring is fully here! And that means summer break, vacations, and the distractions (and competition) that come with them are on the way. We see it as prime time for brands, businesses and nonprofits to connect with audiences in fresh, fun, and memorable ways. Whether your goal is to boost awareness, deepen engagement, or spread some seasonal good vibes, here are five easy, breezy strategies to outshine the competition.

An Unforgettable (and Easy) Get-Together
Take advantage of the weather with some easy get-togethers that’ll get your audience involved with your brand in an easy way. There’s no need to overthink it. You don’t have to produce a Coachella-style festival to get your clients interested or connected. Consider a pop-up happy hour on your office balcony for a list of favorite clients, popsicles or a round of beers after run club, or even renting an ice cream or food truck. 

Volunteer
Is there a nonprofit or community cause your business supports? Odds are they’d welcome a helping hand any time of year. Or maybe there’s a nearby creek or public park that could stand a little TLC? There’s probably a weekend charity run that could use a group to hand out water. We could go on, but you get the idea. Outfit your volunteer squad in matching tees and caps or headwear to let them know they’re part of a team that cares.

Be a GREAT Neighbor
When’s the last time you connected with the business or company next door or down the street? Is there an opportunity to collaborate or simply create some goodwill? A reference, recommendation, or even your next client could be the result of sending a “welcome to the neighborhood,” or other introduction gift to the business next door. When we say we can put your name on practically anything, we mean it! 

Seasonal Gift With Purchase
Who doesn’t love a freebie, a little something extra, or a gift with purchase? It’s a proven sales driver, and most customers who receive them say they’ll likely do business with that company again. Practicality and utility win the day in this category. This time of year, think picnic blankets and beach towels, coolers, and other “active” items! 

Meet Them on Their Terms (and Turf!)
Is your audience or customer base headed for the ballfield, festival, or concert series this season? Depending on the size of the event, a vendor booth or tent may be a surprisingly affordable opportunity to meet your clients and friends in a fun and casual atmosphere where everyone can have a good time! Don’t forget your koozies, totes, stickers, and other event-ready gear! 

The Dunstan Group Welcomes Tori Chipchase as New Account Manager

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHARLOTTE, NC — The Dunstan Group is pleased to announce the addition of Tori Chipchase as Account Manager. Tori brings a lifelong connection to the promotional products industry and a strong track record in sales, account management, and client relations. Her experience includes driving growth and supporting clients at Hub Promotional Group and Pinnacle Promotions, where she was recognized for her creativity, problem-solving, and dedication to client success.

Tori’s passion for delivering outstanding service and innovative solutions aligns perfectly with The Dunstan Group’s commitment to making brands shine. “I’m excited to join a team that values doing the right thing and building strong relationships,” said Tori. “Helping clients bring their brands to life is what motivates me every day.”

A graduate of James Madison University, Tori has an industry reputation for creativity, resourcefulness, and the ability to make things happen even under the tightest deadlines. Tori will be based in Wilmington, North Carolina.

About The Dunstan Group

Headquartered here in Charlotte, NC The Dunstan Group is a leading provider of customized apparel and promotional merchandise. Our reputation for inventive and thoughtful design, quality product and on-time delivery have allowed us to grow, and continue to exceed our customers’ expectations. https://dunstangroup.com

Spring’s Most Popular Promotional Product Categories

We’re just a month into the new season, but we’re always interested in what’s hot and now. And not just at the donut shop. If endless choices and thousands of options have you wondering where to start, we’ve got you covered. Here are the most popular promotional product categories so far this spring!

Bags 

Custom bags, especially reusable ones, are a standout promotional product thanks to their blend of practicality and high visibility. Every time a customer carries your branded bag—whether at the grocery store, gym, or work, or vacation—they effortlessly expand your brand’s reach. Bags also align with sustainability trends without even trying, since they’re used over and over again. Their long-term utility sets your logo and message on repeat, making bags a cost-effective way to boost both brand awareness and customer loyalty in any season.

Shop bags: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Bags 

Shirts

Branded apparel – especially shirts – are always on this list. A high-quality t-shirt is one of the most effective promotional items because they turn customers and employees into mobile billboards for your brand. Every time someone wears your shirt, your logo is displayed to a wider audience. And isn’t that the point? Shirts are practical, fun, appreciated, and offer endless design possibilities to reflect your brand’s personality. Think about the t-shirts at the top of your stack. The best ones get worn over and over again!  

Shop shirts and apparel: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Apparel 

Pens

Promotional pens are a classic favorite for loads of good reasons! They’re affordable, useful, and keep your brand top-of-mind every day. Your customers and clients and team members use them everywhere —at work, home, or on the go—with your logo attached. Their cost-effectiveness allows for wide distribution at events, trade shows, leave-behind tokens, or other campaigns. High-quality pens foster goodwill and trust. And let’s be honest: even in this digital age, a great pen is still a keeper! 

Shop pens: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Office&SubCategories=Writing+Instruments 

Tumblers and Drinkware 

Branded tumblers are fan favorites for their practicality and everyday use. Whether it’s for coffee at the office, water at the gym, or beverages by the pool; quality tumblers and drinkware keep your brand in hand and in sight throughout the day. Their durability and perceived value make them a premium giveaway or gift, encouraging folks to use them over and over. That translates into ongoing brand exposure for your company, business, or nonprofit. Can’t go wrong with that! 

Shop drinkware: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Drinkware

Caps and Hats

Custom caps are a versatile and stylish promotional item that appeals to a just about everyone. Worn outdoors, at events, or as part of a casual outfit; caps provide prominent placement for your logo and message. Their fashion appeal and functionality pretty much guarantee they’ll get worn, turning recipients into brand ambassadors wherever they go. Caps are also great for team-building and fostering a sense of unity, making them a perennial smart choice.

Shop hats and caps: https://shop.dunstangroup.com/search?Categories=Apparel&SubCategories=Headwear 

 

Each of these top promotional product categories offers a unique blend of visibility, practicality, and lasting impact. Plus, they’re all excellent choices for building brand awareness and customer loyalty throughout spring and into the summer! 

Summit Funding: Rewarding Peak Performers

There’s an old saying about work-life balance that serves up a warning about, “all work and no play.” It’s important to work hard in your chosen profession, and equally as important to play hard and reward yourself and your team!

The folks at Summit Funding know how to do it right. Their team is always on the job; working tirelessly to provide a fresh, effective path to purchasing, financing and reaching their clients’ homeownership goals. To thank them for their passionate efforts, Summit Funding developed the Peak Performers Program; an incentivized, all-inclusive trip to Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cabo awarded to their top sales performers and loan officers. To up the ante for this year’s cream of the crop, Summit Funding partnered with The Dunstan Group to develop a thank-you loot box filled with all kinds of goodies and Summit-branded swag.

Makayla Foss is the Event & Marketing Coordinator at Summit Funding, and takes a great deal of pride in providing an engaging, relaxing experience for her coworkers. We caught up with Foss to chat about the program, and her experience with The Dunstan Group.

DG: Tell us a little bit about the Peak Performers project!

Makayla Foss: We have our top producers attend this trip as a thank you message to them and their spouses. We get to take them somewhere that most of them have never been before, and really say thank you for all the hard work that they put into Summit, their branches and everything they do for us. It’s our turn to give back to them and it’s a great opportunity for our team to get that creative outreach too. It’s fun to branch away from our corporate branding for an event like this and really spice it up; make them feel special.

DG: What was the initial reaction to the Peak Performers Loot Box?

Makayla Foss: I had the pleasure of working with Gigi Mains. She’s been my girl for everything Summit-wise so far, and she was just awesome. It was so fun to work with her on all the back-and-forth getting the visuals on that gift box– that’s definitely the most ‘wow’ factor item we’ve been able to give to our attendees. Having that show up on their doorstep was really something special, and something we haven’t done in the past.

DG: How were you and The Dunstan Group involved in the development of the Peak Performers Loot Box?

Makalya Foss: Everything that was developed by me, Kaylee Still and Trey Rigdon. Trey, he’s got a great eye for those types of visuals and Kaylee was able to just help make sure the event came to life. Our team has been so blessed to be able to work [The Dunstan Group], because they have taken our vision for our branding so easily and taken it to the next level.

DG: How would you rate your experience working with The Dunstan Group on this project?

Makayla Foss: Oh, five stars, for sure, it was absolutely great! We’re so excited to see what they can come up with in the future. We know the more we work with them, the more they’re going to be able to align with our brand goals. This project has sparked us opening a whole project in terms of potentially opening a marketplace at The Dunstan Group, which gives us the availability for our loan officers to dropship all kinds of swag all the time. This was just a great experience to kick off a long-term relationship. We are so grateful for everything they’ve done so far and we look forward to what we do together in the future.