Promo-Mojo

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-21T10:15:00.004-05:00

In the Congo, Christmas Day begins with carolers going through the village singing praise to God. The most important part of their worship service is the love offering given in honor of the Christ child. In Alaska children wander from house to house carrying a star on a long pole and singing carols. Christmas comes to Australia in summer, so many families enjoy Christmas dinner on the beach. "Silent Night" was first sung in Obendorf, Austria. Today they tell the story of how Christmas was almost spoiled there because the church organ was broken. The priest showed the organist Fritz Bauer the Christmas hymn he had written. Bauer quickly set the words to music played on a guitar, and "Silent Night" was played and revered. Farmers in Holland blow Longhorns each evening during the season to announce the coming of Christmas. In Spain after the midnight Mass, people dance the Jota, a special dance with song lyrics people have been singing for a hundred years, accompanied by guitars and castanets. In Switzerland, a tinkling bell announces the arrival of Christkindl. Christian children in China have what they call "The Tree of Light," adorned with paper flowers, chains and lanterns.

All over the world there are Christians celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior. Let us pray that Jesus' message can bring peace to this troubled planet, so that nations may live together in love and harmony according to God's plan for his children.

Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men of good will. Luke 2:14

“Prayerful Living” devotional messages are written by Jane Douglass White and Rev. Ryan T. Nace.

Business Cards: Staying Alive

2011-08-29T11:33:00.012-04:00

"You can use your business card to get the other person's business card. As far as I'm concerned, this is the one truly legitimate benefit of business cards." ~ Bob Burg

Are Business Cards Dead?
After shaking hands, one of the rituals of meeting in business is to exchange business cards. It's almost a reflex reaction. But in the world of electronic communication are business cards now dead? Have the e-mail signature line and smart phone apps replaced a card? Most people say that a business card is still necessary even just because it is a tough habit to break when meeting new people. So what information should still be on a business card or in an e-mail signature line?

Still important: Name, Company Name, E-mail Address, Website address, Office phone and cell phone, Mailing Address (List a real street address, even if it is the home office. P.O. boxes are creepy), Slogans (Your slogan separates what the company does from the rest of the market. Think of it as your unique selling proposition)

Newly important: Social media handles for Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn: This makes it easier for customers and prospects to connect with you; QR codes: a great way to tell a bigger story right on the mobile device.

Not important: Fax number: Almost as dead as paper stationary; Titles: Be careful of being a one-man band and having the title of CEO. It looks pompous; Pagers: Unless you are a doctor or a bicycle messenger, leave it off.

Gotchas: Misspellings: Ask someone to proofread your card. Handing out a card at a networking event where the person’s title is printed as “principle” instead of “principal” is a fatal mistake; Print that is too small: 95 percent of the population over age 35 needs reading glasses. The reader shouldn’t need to put glasses on to read your business card; E-mail: It’s fine to use a free service such as Yahoo! as a back-end mail server, but spend some money to get an account that looks more professional. While barry1995@yahoo.com may be functional, it is amateurish. Get an address that includes the company’s domain name and forward it to your Yahoo! address if necessary; Home numbers: It sets a bad precedent.

Remember that the business card is not an art installation. Don’t reinvent what has worked for years. Grab 10 favorite examples of business cards. Study them by noticing their font choices including type size and color combinations. Although the logos and paper stocks vary, good business cards are very simple. Forget the gimmicks. Simple business cards still work.

And when you are ready to order, contact 1st Coast Printing for great prices on full color business cards and expert design assistance. sales@1stcoastprinting.com 904.716.4800 www.1stcoastprinting.com

Compiled by Cassandra Johnson & sponsored by:PPEF
Provided by Tina Berres Filipski: Promotional Consultant Today
Source: Barry Moltz is a small business speaker, consultant and author. He gets business owners growing again by unlocking their long-forgotten potential. He is also the author of You Need to Be A Little Crazy: The Truth about Starting and Growing Your Business, Bounce! Failure, Resiliency and the Confidence to Achieve Your Next Great Success, and BAM! Delivering Customer Service in a Self-Service World. Â He hosts his own radio show, “Business Insanity Talk Radio”, and writes regularly for the American Express Open Forum, Allbusiness.com, The Huffington Post, the Chicago Tribune’s Chicago Now and Crain’s Chicago Enterprise City.
ur “unique selling proposition.”

Deal of the Day!

2011-08-28T12:48:00.000-04:00

Act quickly to take advantage of super specials posted daily! Order information including payment and clean artwork must be received by 2:00 p.m. EST. You can also take a sneak preview at tomorrow's Deal of the Day!

Great Close-Out Specials!

2011-08-28T11:36:00.001-04:00

http://www.bulletline.com/clearance/

....another link to more great savings! Check back regularly for closeouts on more promotional products!

Clearance Promos

2011-08-28T11:30:00.000-04:00

Many of our suppliers have product specials and clearance times on sale all the time. Click on the image to shop from one of our favorites! Choose from totes, desk products, travel products, bar-b-que and outdoor products, coolers and drinkware, games and flashlights, eco-friendly and high tech.....it's all here, all available with your logo and all on sale!

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Don't forget Friskey

2011-08-02T07:34:00.000-04:00

....and also receive FREE setup and FREE delivery!

It's almost that time of the year when rural and urban dwellers alike start planning a family garden. Be a hero and remember their four-legged friends too! Order custom printed seed packets designed just for pets!

Pet Grazing Garden Seed Mix:

• Rye Grass, Catnip and Cat Grass seed
• Great for many pets - and especially cats!
• Eco-friendly packaging made from post consumer waste
• Flat and lightweight - easy to store, distribute and mail
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Economical promotional product with high perceived value
• Generous area for your custom imprint

Order now - and receive a FREE set-up for your custom imprint, plus FREE delivery!

Free ground delivery to Continental U.S.
Offer expires December 31, 2011

Visit www.promo-mojo.com

or contact us

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Fashion Trends - Gone to the Dogs

2011-07-27T07:30:00.001-04:00

Neck scarfs are the latest must-have fashion accessory. We saw all the celebrities with them all winter long - and gauzy cotton versions all summer.

It is important to remember that our four legged friends want to be "in" as well. And while they might have a hard time defending themselves from a jealous peer-dog who wants their 3' long pashmina, doggy bandanas are the perfect pooch accessory .

Doggy bandannas, aka pet triangles, make great, inexpensive give-away items. Available in two sizes and 23 colors, we can help you create a design that will enhance your image and promote your business.

They are perfect for dog spas and ranches, pet salons, veterinarians, dog parks, dog-friendly hotels, resorts and restaurants - and any other business that welcomes Fido along with the rest of the family.

Promo-Mojo is offering FREE shipping to the continental U.S. with your order of only 144 dog bandanas. Contact us or visit our website to see color choices, stock dog paw and dog bone borders and complete pricing information.

High Cotton

2011-02-17T10:12:00.005-05:00

The inexpensive custom printed t-shirt continues to be more expensive. Don't' misunderstand - it is still a great bargain that delivers long term exposure and great visibility. But with the ever increasing cost of cotton, the price continues to inch upwards.

We have all gotten used to low clothing prices over the past 10 years. Lower overseas prices and little inflation have kept cost low. But, cotton prices doubled in 2010 and surged another 20 percent in January, with U.S. cotton prices hitting a 150-year high just last week. Bad weather, import restrictions and rising global demand are expected to raise clothing prices up even more in 2011.

Polyester, which used to be a cheap alternative to cotton, is also rising in price. Polyester is a petroleum product, and the price of oil has been rising. Bamboo, once considered the "it" eco-material, has lost some of its' luster once it was realized that the processes involved in transforming it into fabric and then transporting it halfway around the world are not so green after all.

So what to do? We continue to shop for the best available prices for our inprintable apparel, without sacrificing quality. At the same time, many of our suppliers are offering lighter weight t-shirt options which are lower in price and also appeal to a younger consumer.

I will always prefer 100% cotton over any synthetic blend. It may cost a little more, but it is still a quite a bargain.

One Word: Plastics

2011-02-01T07:23:00.001-05:00

"One word. Plastics. There's a great future in plastics. Think about it. Will you think about?"

Mr. McGuire in The Graduate

When looking at today's trends in advertising specialties, there remains an ongoing emphasis on utility, with drinkware, bags and things that you use in your everyday life....products that are "useful". While we see more and more upscale products being branded with our client's logo, products priced under $2.00 each remain most popular.

Which brings me to plastics. It can be molded into so many fun and functional products that are sure to keep you business name in front of your clients for years to come.

Click on the image and take a look at a small sampling of what's available.

Promotional Products Beat Prime-Time TV

2011-01-31T08:30:00.000-05:00

ASI (Advertising Specialty Institute) recently released the results of a landmark study that proves advertising specialties beat out prime-time TV, radio and print advertising as the most cost-effective advertising medium available.

The most significant findings show advertising specialties are less expensive per impression than most other media – just a half a cent! – and are very affordable and effective when compared to other forms of media.

Among key findings, results show:

Cost per Impression. In the U.S., the cost per impression of a promotional product stayed virtually the same from 2008 to 2010, at .005 cents.
Product Usage. Bags have the highest number of impressions in a month, over 1,000, and over one-third (36%) of those with incomes under $50,000 own bags.
Gender Preferences. Males are more likely than females to own shirts and caps, while females are more likely to have bags, writing instruments, calendars and health and safety products.
Identifying the Advertiser. Eighty-three percent in the U.S. say they can identify the advertiser on a promotional item they own.
Influencing User Opinions. Forty-one percent of U.S. respondents say their opinion of the advertiser is more favorable after receiving a promotional product.
Popular Products. The most commonly owned promotional products among U.S. respondents are writing instruments (46%), followed by shirts (38%) and calendars (24%).
Promo Product Capital. Los Angeles has the highest average number of items owned, at 12.7.

This study shows us is that even smaller companies can deliver the kind of high-impact punch enjoyed by multi-million-dollar companies.

It’s also important to note that the pass-along rate has actually increased 11 points from just two years ago – which speaks directly to the global recycling trend. Not only do ad specialties make impressions on everyone who sees them, but messaging is reinforced every time the item is used. No other form of media can allow the advertiser to so closely tie a benefit to the recipient.

Krazy in the Kitchen

2011-01-24T11:57:00.003-05:00

Make routine food prep duties the happiest part of your day! These light hearted conversation-generating kitchen utensils will put a smile on your face as you create the next masterpiece.

Every kitchen and cook will enjoy the company of these new whimsical and krazy measuring cups, measuring spoons, cheese slicer, pizza cutter, vegetable peeler and pasta server. Available with your logo in February!

Contact us:
promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Don't Lose The Dreams Inside Your Head

2010-12-31T12:47:00.027-05:00

Yes, my blog is primarily about promotional products (swag, if you will), marketing and advertising. But, the “marketing umbrella” covers a whole lot of things, so really, this might be a little bit relevant.

Any one that know me knows that I am a HUGE fan of the Dave Matthews Band. My iPod is loaded with 5.5 GB and 850 tunes and they are all Dave Matthews or the Dave Matthews Band with the exception of a few tunes from Bonnaroo and a favorite local musician, Billy Buchanan.

Yes, you may think I may be one dimensional when it comes to music but not really. First of all, through DMB's guest, shared performances and cover songs, I've been introduced to music I would have otherwise never known. Secondly, the Dave Matthews Band has it all.....a little jazz, a little country, a little blue grass, a little hip hop, a little – make that a lot of – jam and rock & roll. There is something for every one of my personalities and every one of their moods. I can be tense and stressed, hop on my bike with my iPod and come back with an entirely new outlook. I may be down or worried, and listen to their more upbeat songs and gain fresh optimism. I can be in a mellow mood and wrap myself in softer, bluesy DMB tunes. Even when I need to do housework, a little DMB in the background makes me dance my way through my chores. They never perform the same song the same way twice. There seems to be something fresh and unexpected with every song and with every show.

So, there. I love music and most of all I love DMB. I think you either get it or you don't. They either get inside of you in a way that is very personal – or, for reasons I will never understand, I guess they just don't.

This brings me to the reason I had to write about DMB. Their closest regular tour stop for me is in Tampa, which was this past July 28th. It has become an annual tradition to meet up with my concert companion, Julie, in Orlando and head over to the show. Since I first met Julie (at a DMB concert), she has had her first and second novels published. In the first, she included the Dave Matthews Band in her acknowledgments for providing inspiration while she was writing. I thought I was a huge fan until I met Julie.

For the Tampa show, Julie bought two tickets and I bought two tickets. Neither of us were bringing anyone else so we picked out the best seats and sold the other two on the Warehouse (the Dave Matthews Band fan club that offers benefits to loyal fans including early purchase of concert tickets, fan networking and exclusive merchandise..... another benefit is that you can buy, sell and trade tickets at face value). My seats weren't bad...dead center in the pavilion, but Julie always gets the best tickets – I suppose since she's been a member for longer and goes to a lot more shows. This year, they were in the Orchestra Pit! It doesn't get better than that – or so we thought.

The afternoon before the concert, I answer the phone and there is a voice from Music Today asking me “How would you like to meet Dave?” Thank goodness for caller ID, or I would have never believed it. Even still, I needed a little convincing. I knew that Dave Matthews has frequent “meet and greets” before shows, but what are the odds? Pollstar just listed them in their top ten concert tours in 2010 .....and as the #1 band in 2010 in North America tickets sales...1.27 million to be exact. Julie and I had discussed it before.....how it would be a dream come true, but also that the likelihood of being one of the 'chosen few' was pretty slim.

I completed my call with Music Today and immediately called Julie. She didn't believe me. However, my excitement could not be contained nor manufactured. Her poor daughter was in the car with her while we were screaming and acting like teenagers! (read her blog about the event). I had forgotten what it felt like to get that excited! We decided then that if we had to die that day, let it be after the show and we would be okay.

We weren't alone..we had to share our time with a few other lucky fans – but Dave was very gracious and considerate with all of our requests for autographs and photos. He also seemed very moved by Julie's acknowledgments in her book (he signed a copy for Julie and of course, Julie gave him a copy to keep). It all seems like such a blur now and I still can't believe it.

It is amazing – after so many years of touring and so many shows every year, they still really seem to truly love and enjoy what they do and seem to genuinely love and appreciate their fans. In return, they have an intensely loyal fan base.

Earlier this year, DMB announced that they were taking a break and not touring next year – a first, in over 20 years. They pacified anxious fans already worried about withdrawals with a few extra shows this winter. The “last stop” was where it all began in Charlottesville, Va on November 21. No, we couldn't miss it....Julie and I were there (in the Orchestra Pit again, no less) singing and dancing the night away with joy and appreciation – and wondering just how we'll get by without our DMB fix in 2011.

To bring this back around to business, I think the core to DMB's success is their 'customer' loyalty. Wouldn't it be great if we could all generate this same kind of passion, loyalty and enthusiasm for our own business? Of course, it would help if we all had the same talent, drive, creativity and love for what we do as DMB. If there are steps to success that all of us can replicate, they include:

Love what you do and do what you love – your customers will know.
Always, be grateful and appreciative.
Be accessible, regardless of how successful you become.
Reward your best clients with added benefits.
Don't get stale or function on “auto-pilot” – mix it up, try new things, keep it fresh.
Dream. Always dream - and never give up on your dream.

Cheers! Happy 2011!

Lipstick Diaries

2010-07-14T13:06:00.002-04:00

.....or anything else you want to write. I don't know how many times I have dug around in my purse searching for a pen...and the only thing close that I can come up with is a tube of lipstick or a lip liner pencil. This little cutie might better my chances. It just looks like a tube of lipstick - but under that colorful cap is a pen that writes with a little bit finer line than the real stuff!

It's a fun little give away that is sure to get attention. Prices range from $1.40 to $1.70 each. And yes, I know....when I really need the lipstick, I will pull out the lipstick pen! But every time that happens, it is additional exposure for the custom imprint!

Tunes and Blooms

2010-06-25T11:15:00.001-04:00

When you want it to grow...Seeded download cards are quickly becoming the promotional card industry's answer to "Going Green."

Your client can redeem the card by going online and choosing from millions of M3P downloads. The card is packed with handfuls of the highest quality seeds, when planted and watered, the paper biodegrades away and the seeds are left to germinate into a garden of growth. Yes, they really grow!

Seeded card printing is available as 4/1 color process. A hearty mix of annual and perennial wildflowers that is sure to grow across all growing regions.

Top 25 Promo Business Hot Spots

2010-06-24T12:15:00.002-04:00

Yes! Jacksonville, FL made the list!

Advertising Specialty Institutes’s Counselor magazine today revealed its inaugural list of the 25 metro markets working the hardest to promote their communities and businesses via branded giveaways.

Bridgeport/Stamford ($316 million), Minneapolis/St. Paul ($484 million) and Miami/Ft. Lauderdale ($114 million) lead the exclusive list of markets where businesses are investing the most per capita in promotional products.

“The list unveiled some surprising hot spots,” said Counselor’s Editor, Andy Cohen. “While New York City is the advertising capital of the world, businesses in lots of unexpected places like Little Rock and Jacksonville (#4 on the list) are spending a lot of time marketing themselves using promotional products. In addition to providing a terrific snapshot of the ad specialties business, our list offers a real look at the economic health of cities across America.”

For the complete story, as well as an expanded listing of the top 100 markets graded A-F, along with interactive video reports, go to www.counselormag.com

Promotional products, also known as ad specialties, range from pens and ball caps to apparel and electronics. The items are imprinted with logos or slogans to market a company, organization, product, service, achievement or event.

Pop Up Post-It

2010-06-24T11:06:00.000-04:00

Keep notes anywhere you need them - and keep your business name with them!

This new Post-it® Custom Printed Pop-Up Note with a wall mounted dispenser can be custom printed in up to 4 colors. It comes with a 3" x 3" 50-sheet Post-it Pop-Up Note Pad in Canary Yellow and includes two (2 sets) Command Picture Hanging Strips for easy wall- mounting.

Additional options include adding a Post-It Flag writing tool- and even custom printed Post-it notes.

Contact us now for free set-up and reduced pricing through August 2010!

It just looks like a paper cup...

2010-06-23T08:21:00.004-04:00

Don't be fooled.

This is one of the hottest promotional products on the market. This double wall white Porcelain Cup comes with a Silicon lid which prolongs beverage temperature and prevents spills. It's available with your logo in spot color printing or sublimated for full color impact. It's Reusable and Eco Friendly....and it's on sale at below end-quantity-pricing! Contact us for details: promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Born In the USA

2010-06-22T07:50:00.003-04:00

With the 4th of July just around the corner, it seems only appropriate to feature promotional products Made In the USA! Click on the image above to flip through our on-line catalog featuring awards, drinkware, sports bottles, koozies, mugs, glasses, golf products, frisbee type flyers, health and wellness products and a whole lot more swag available with your logo.

Or contact us:
promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com.

Come On Baby....

2010-06-17T13:38:00.007-04:00

New for June, Bic is introducing three new lighters available with your logo and custom imprint....and along with their grand introduction is special introductory pricing!

The new Electronic Light provides reliable ignition and is available in blue, black and white. With a minimum order quantity of 200, it is priced at $2.34 each.

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The thin and elegant Slim Lighter comes in white, black, light blue and yellow and priced at $1.36 each.

The convenient and portable Mini Lighter comes in light blue, black, white and green. It also has a mini price of only $1.28 each for a minimum order quantity of 200.

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Sale prices are good through December 2010.

The classic Bic lighter is still available ...in colors of forest green, blue, navy, orange, black, white, red and yellow. And don't forget the Multi Purpose Lighter, perfect for year-round use.

Yes, lighters are good support for bad habits...but they also make great give-aways for grocery stores, bakeries, restaurants, bars, company safety programs, music and sports related business and colleges.

Flip-Flopping

2010-06-16T14:24:00.000-04:00

It can be good, you know.......as long as you are not running for re-election!
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This version is good for your soul, good for your attitude and good for your clients....in fact, on a hot summer day, there are few things better than shedding the corporate attire and slipping your feet into a comfortable pair of flip flops. Okay, I can think of quite a few things better (like being in Key West when you do it), but you get my drift.
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With adult and youth sizes available, and a minimum order quantity of only 50 pair, why not put your logo on these products that are as hot as the temperature outside?

Design Your Own Seed Packet

2010-05-25T09:11:00.004-04:00

Seeded paper and custom printed seed packets are some of my personal favorite promotional product...I love swag and I love gardening so I guess it only makes sense!

Now, you can design your own seed pack with 4 color custom graphics! You choose the variety of seed, you choose the packet size, and you tell us exactly what you want printed.

The seed packaging is made from recycled paper. These are easily mailed and easy to distribute.....and always appreciated.

Patriotic Petals

2010-05-20T08:58:00.004-04:00

Memorial Day is around the corner and the 4th of July is not too far away either. Along with our patriotic celebrations, we have a slew of elections that mean plenty of candidate's campaign events. With these, come the opportunity to promote your name, your business or your message to thousands of attendees. An always appreciated and unique way to do this is to give out Seed packets designed with the American Spirit in mind!
We offer patriotic themed packaging with seed for a red, white and blue flower mix. The back side is available for your custom imprint. Your message will only grow, well after celebration.

Or shop online: http://www.promo-mojo.com/

and visit the Garden Center.

Do You Already Reuse?

2010-05-11T09:41:00.003-04:00

Poor bottled water! It's not welcome anymore. Concord, Massachusetts has banned the sale of bottled water in their town beginning in 2011. My all time favorite, the Dave Matthews Band, uses more positive reinforcement by encouraging their fans to join along in conserving plastic by offering refilling stations at their concerts.

You too can pledge to reduce your plastic bottle consumption and encourage your clients to do the same. Switch to a reusable container. Better yet, let us customize your reusable water bottles with your business name and logo!

Shop online!
Go to www.promo-mojo.com and then to the sports bottles page.

Boost Health, Save Cash

2010-04-20T12:47:00.000-04:00

And yet another article that talks about the benefits of growing your own........

Growing Veggies Can Boost Health, Save Cash

some excerpts:

Tending a garden helps the whole family improve nutrition.

"First, you are likely to eat more fruits and veggies, because they taste so good when eaten fresh from your garden," said Alice Henneman, a registered dietitian and extension educator for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. "It adds some physical activity to your life as you plant, weed, pick and prepare fresh produce. Just the fact of standing in your kitchen while you are preparing fresh produce versus driving through a fast food place for a quick meal (that may be high in calories) burns extra calories."

There are more health benefits to gardening. Colorado State Extension Service found that, "Gardening is also a key tool for improved health by providing exercise, stress reduction and relaxation. From the medical perspective, researchers have documented that people who interact with plants recover more quickly from everyday stress and mental fatigue."

Gardening gives you control of your "inputs," too, meaning fertilizer, pesticides and the like, according to Garrett. "With more food coming from all over the world, it becomes harder to know that food is safe," Garrett said. "For example, pesticides that were banned years ago in this country are commonly used in other areas of the globe."

Don't Have A Yard? Don't Feel Left Out

Community gardens are popping up in urban areas across the country. The American Community Gardening Association lists them on its Web site, and Garrett said her group is inundated with requests for help from people who want to start community gardens.

By taking a plot at these cooperative gardens, even apartment and condo dwellers can grow their own meals. Research from the National Gardening Association shows there are more than 1 million community gardens in the U.S. and up to 3 million people who would like to garden in a community garden if it were possible. NGA reported that Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced the goal of creating a community garden at every USDA facility worldwide.

In his book "Chef's Garden: Fresh Produce from Small Spaces," Terence Conran describes how to make even the tiniest spaces bear fruit.

Seeds of Tomorrow

2010-04-19T13:24:00.009-04:00

I just posted an article talking about one community's fight against obesity and for healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle. It seems only appropriate to promote herb, flower and vegetable seed packets as an excellent choice for your promotional product...after all, I am in the promotional products business :-)

We offer a kid's series that feature children's drawing of various flowers and produce.....like tomatoes, carrots, radish, cucumbers, zinnia and sunflowers. These are great for after-school programs, summer camps, vacation Bible School, parade throws, goodie bags, clubs and so much more. On the back side of the packet is your custom imprint.
We also offer mailable seed packets. Your marketing message is on the front side. Your return address is on the backside. Just add a mailing label and you can be sure that you direct mail message will be read (and planted!)

We offer an old-fashion series that features images of vegetables and flowers with a more traditional look.

Custom printed seed packages are great for weddings gifts, wedding announcements, baby announcements, political campaigns....the applications are only limited by your imagination.

Shop online:

www.promo-mojo.com

or contact us:

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Fruits of your Labor

2010-04-19T12:39:00.005-04:00

This story, underscores the value of custom printed seed packets as an invaluable way to promote your business while giving back to your community.

Poverty, but obesity: The hunger paradox of Northeast Florida
Being poor makes it easier to be obese. It can be traced to the cost, availability and distribution of healthy food.

This dusty corner in Springfield used to be a parking lot. Now, lettuce and strawberries grow in a lush garden. The dusty lot in Springfield belongs to the Bridge of Northeast Florida, an after-school program on the front lines of many battles in Jacksonville's urban neighborhoods.

The garden has doubled in size, carefully tended by a group of students. There are strawberry plants, onions and a variety of lettuces. There are also earthworms that eat the garden trash and turn it into compost, explained Rodnecia Smith, 12. She loves sunny afternoons digging in the dirt: "I don't like to stay inside."

A neighborhood volunteer, Dan Bradford, started the garden, and it expanded with a grant from the Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida. There are few places to get fresh produce in the neighborhood, so when the students recently sold some of their harvest at an impromptu farmer's market, it was successful beyond their dreams.

But at first, Bradford said, the garden was a hard sell. "They didn't want to be here," he said. But as the students began to see the fruits of their labor, something changed. Now, he said, they argue over taking home broccoli. Rodnecia's mother, Alicia Smith, said her daughter now makes healthier choices - at home and at the fast-food restaurant her father manages. "When she goes there, she says, 'Dad, can I just have the chicken and a salad.' She doesn't eat the fries too much," Smith said.

Branded Protection

2010-04-16T12:24:00.001-04:00

Birds do it, bees do it....even educated fleas do it. While abstinence programs do show success, it is also important to recognize the importance of safe sex for those that just won't wait. And yes, you can promote your business along with your public service announcement.

Custom Printed Condoms are a great promotional giveaway item for Universities, Conferences, Rallies, Radio Stations, Conventions and Night Clubs. Each Condom Wallet includes 1 lubricated condom and a full color custom imprint. Prices range from $0.32 each to $1.32 each with a minimum order quantity of 250. Condom Use' instructions will be printed on the inside flaps at no additional charge.

It's a Wrap!

2010-04-15T11:52:00.006-04:00

This just has to be one of my most favorite new promotional products!

It's designed to keep your beverage cool, but unlike other bottle and can koozies, this one has your image embroidered into the design!

Have your logo embroidered in up to nine colors on these neoprene can and bottle wraps with a velcro closure.

Take it 'over the top' and with your own custom shape. This is the insulated can cooler that will be used....giving you years of brand exposure.

Minimum order quantity is only 50!
Contact us: promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Spring Into Action

2010-04-05T06:33:00.003-04:00

Wow! The weather has been fantastic. And after the coldest winter that I can remember, this must be the most welcomed springtime ever!

As spring arrives and the weather gets warmer, people begin to venture out to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Likewise, spring also provides a unique opportunity for advertising and promoting your business or organization. Choosing the right seasonal promotional product is critical, as it will be more likely displayed, used, and recognized. A properly selected promotional product is timely and functional, with a high perceived value in relation to its cost.

So with the warmer weather in mind, let's see some ideas for spring;

Water Bottles - An imprinted sport bottle is sure to be carried around, used, and appreciated.
Can and Bottle Coolies / Koozies - If they are not drinking from your bottle, then these insulated holders still offer you exposure while keeping beverages cool.
Flying Disks / Frisbees - Flying discs as a promotion always garners attention. We have dog safe flyers as well!
T-shirts - T-shirts are a great way of getting your message worn around town.
Coolers - Imprinted coolers are used and seen by just about everyone at the park or the beach.

Start planning your promotions today! When it comes to advertising and giveaways, try some of the most powerful spring promos around. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Have You Hugged A Tree Today?

2010-04-04T13:48:00.002-04:00

75 trees were saved to bring you this online "think green" catalog. And what's inside is even more friendly to our environment.

Flip through the pages to view a selection of great promotional products that are designed for the environmentally aware client.

Here's a sneak preview: Biodegradable Products including bags, padfolios, portfolios, pens, luggage tags and stapler / letter openers; Art glass crystal, magnets, memo boards, notebooks, sticky flags and jotters - all made from recycled materials; Reusable products including bags, coolers, flash drives and totes; Conservation Items such as LED lights, staple-less staplers and water, energy and fuel conservation kits; Sustainability Products like serving boards, coasters and cheese boards made from bamboo.

Just click on the image above.

The Answer is Bowing in the Wind

2010-03-31T11:41:00.003-04:00

...at least the solution to being noticed and getting attention!

A sister product to feather dancer flags, these wind directional bow flags always stay open so your logo or message always stays visible. Mounted to a sealed bearing-loaded Swivel Stake, the Bow Flag will rotate with the wind like a wind vane. Available 100% custom printed or with stock designs. You can fly your flag from a ground stake (shown above) or along a parapet wall along a roof. Ask us about our sidewalk solutions when walls or ground just aren't available.

Bio Business Cards

2010-03-30T11:30:00.002-04:00

Sowing Seeds.....

This business card is made from a biodegradable material and has seeds attached to back with special dissolvable glue.

Your full color imprint is on front and planting instructions are on back. Your customer keeps the front of the business card and tears off back to plant. The card itself will biodegrade and disappear in about 6 months. Seeds available for Bio-Business Cards are Money Plant or Forget Me Not.

Spring Fever

2010-03-19T09:17:00.000-04:00

After what seems like the longest winter ever, the shiny happy colors of these aluminum sports bottles are sure to brighten your day!

These 22 oz light weight aluminum water bottle come with carabiner clip on loop cap and fit in most auto cup holders. Priced at $4.50 each for a minimum order quantity of 72 bottles, and $3.75 when you order 1200.

Steel Life

2010-03-18T21:04:00.003-04:00

This sports bottle is made to go and made to last. This 20 oz stainless steel bottle has a new shape and a new cap - actually a dual cap that includes a wider mouth for adding ice cubes!

With the carabiner clip, it's a snap - easy to carry, easy to access and easy exposure of your business name.

These bottles are BPA free, reusable and recyclable. In addition to the stainless steel silver color, they are also available in blue and red - and with your logo, of course!

Minimum order quantity is 75 bottles at $5.69 each; order 500 or more at $4.99 each.

Shop online at www.promo-mojo.com (go to the sports bottles page) or contact us at promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Grow Your Own

2010-03-17T20:45:00.000-04:00

Not only do garden seed have a high perceived value at a low cost, they literally can yield huge results!

This article appeared on msn.com in their money section recently. It touts a headline bragging on a windowsill garden yielding $200.00 worth of vegetables. This maybe a bit optimistic, but the message is the same. Grow your own and save money. And have a little clean fun by getting your hands a little dirty.

Visit our garden center to shop for vegetable and flower seed and other garden promotional products that are available custom printed with your logo.

Ready To Grow Your Business?

2010-03-17T20:17:00.000-04:00

We can help make it happen!

These grow kits make great give-aways for city and suburban dwellers alike. Who wouldn't appreciate flowers blooming and fresh herbs for cooking?

The kits featured on the top row below have a little something extra going for them....the pots are made from bamboo! The decomposition of a bamboo pot is a slow process in which the pots begin to age and small cracks become visible. Once the pot begins decomposition, you can plant the pot and the plant into the ground which prevents transplant shock. Don't worry though - this takes up to 3 years to happen indoors and 2 years outside - which still gives your business logo a whole lot of exposure. Each blossom kit comes with your logo on the front, peat pellets (which expand into a pot full of 'dirt'), instructions and a seed packet. Available seed include marigold, Coleus, Basil, Money Plant, Forget-me-not, sunflower, parsley and tomato. Prices start as low as $2.74 each.

Contact us and get growing: promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Sublimation Hydration

2010-03-16T00:18:00.000-04:00

Sublimation allows you to print full color imprints that are vibrant and colorful. They are ideal for depicting buildings, service teams, sports teams, anniversaries, people, nature scenes and any color picture or logo. The selection of promotional products available with your sublimated logo continues to grow.

Our favorite sports bottle supplier recently introduced Sublimated Aluminum Sports Bottles

- Full Color, Full Wrap and available with individual personalization!

Minimum order quantity is only 40 bottles. Prices vary depending on bottle style and order quantity and range from $6.00 to $9.00. Order before June 25, 2010 and receive reduced pricing or free personalization. Contact us for details. promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

H2O 2 go 4 Fido

2010-03-15T11:23:00.007-04:00

Man's best friend needs to stay hydrated too - and this is the most way cool product for man and pup.

This 24 oz stainless steel water bottle has a roller ball flow top so dogs can lap the water as needed and where needed. It is BPA free and features a carabiner clip for easy transportation and easy access. It's available in 6 colors with a generous 5" x 3" area for your imprint

Minimum order quantity, with your logo in one color, is only 36 bottles, priced at $8.99 each. Order before the end of April and receive a $1.00 per bottle discount. Order 144 or more for additional savings.

Contact us: promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Free is Good

2010-03-14T11:51:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend, I was reading this article on msn.com talking about how the weak economy has shoppers searching for deals and has merchants with special offers to entice. Obviously, the consumer wants to save money and the business wants to get his share of the money the consumer does spend. Competition is good and can be a win-win for those that play the game.

As one consultant is quoted in the article: "Free works well when it introduces someone to a company and the introduction leads to profitable new sales.”

One study by the Promotional Products Association found that consumers made a purchase after receiving a free item substantially more often than after viewing a print ad, TV commercial or online. It doesn't have to be expensive and the return on your investment has been proven.

Guess what? We can help! www.promo-mojo.com

How does your garden grow?

2010-03-07T20:20:00.000-05:00

The first day of spring is just days away. The weather is warmer and I know I want to be outside messing around in my garden. As more and more people are spending their leisure time closer to home these days, custom imprinted seed packets make a great and useful promotional product.

Seed can symbolize new beginnings, faith, hope, potential and growth.

Varieties and packing options are plenty. You may choose flowers to beautify surroundings, or herbs for flavorful recipes or vegetables that can add a nutritious and inexpensive supplement to a family meal. Our kids series offers a great way to encourage tweens and younger generations to get outside and get their hands dirty. They are a much more eco-friendly and healthy alternative to candy, toys and other popular give aways. Imagine the thrill as they watch the life cycle from sprouts to plants to blooms to harvest day.

With community gardens growing in popularity and more people finding even a small spot for a pot on their porch or patio, seed products can appeal to almost everybody. As a promotional product, they are great because they are inexpensive, easily stored, easily mailed or distributed and offer a generous space for your logo and marketing message.

Let it can be your business that your clients and prospects

will fondly remember as they break new ground.

Top Dogs

2010-03-05T11:07:00.000-05:00

All of the coolest dogs wear bandanas.

Pet Bandannas are great for promoting pet products, animal charity functions, dog parks, agility and disc events, veterinarians and pet friendly hotels, resorts and restaurants.

Choose from 23 100% cotton colors. Use our custom art borders or create your own design for a one of a kind bandana.

Pet triangles are available in small for small dogs and cats. Large triangles are more suited for bigger dogs.

For a limited time, Promo-Mojo is offering FREE shipping and FREE Set-up for a one color custom imprint. Minimum order quantity with your custom imprint is 144 bandanas.

Visit Promo-Mojo for additional details

or contact us!

Dazzle with Spazzles

2010-03-01T06:01:00.000-05:00

Promoting your brand, team or cause is now easier than ever with Spazzles! Like mini-mobile-marketing, each spazzle features a CMYK full color imprint that has a large visual impact despite it's compact size.

Made from high quality polished brass, these comfortable little billboards are weather proof and get the job done. Let us customize some for your next event and give you the street power of a specialty item that really gets noticed. As low as $1.00 each and special discounts are available now through March 20, 2010.

Contact us: promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Extraordinary Uses for WD-40

2010-02-27T06:29:00.001-05:00

We've all seen those list......you know, the ones that list hundreds of useful things you can do with WD-40. Well, now there is one more to add to that list - and it is pretty exciting!

Now you can use WD-40 to promote your business! Yes, WD-40 has, after 57 years of being on the market, made it to the promotional products industry.....arriving March 31, 2010. Just let us add your logo and business information to the WD-40 No-Mess Pen and let WD-40 work for you!

The pen-sized dispenser now gives the consumer the freedom to use WD-40 anywhere, anytime,” said Tim Lesmeister, vice president of marketing for WD-40, San Diego. “The marker-like tip allows for easy, controlled application in thousands of places and uses. It’s a fantastic dispensing method for a product everyone loves, and we believe it will be a tremendous success in the promotional industry.”

To be one of the first to offer this to your clients, contact us: promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Be Effective

2010-02-26T12:42:00.000-05:00

A late 2009, two-part study designed by Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) evaluated a cross section of the American consumer population about television, print, online and promotional products advertising. The study surveyed more than 1,000 consumers who recalled receiving a promotional product in the past 24 months.

The first part of the study, titled "Effectiveness Of Promotional Products As An Advertising Medium," focused solely on promotional products and evaluated the action, reaction and relationship of products and their recipients. The study found that:

– 94 percent could recall a promotional product they had received in the past two years
– 89 percent could also recall the advertiser
– 83 percent reported that they liked receiving promotional products
– 48 percent would like to receive promotional products more often
– 69 percent generally keep the promotional product

.....The second part of the study, titled "Promotional Products and Other Media" compared promotional products to mainstream media (television, print and online advertising) and evaluated their reach, as well as the consumer recall and reaction to each.

REACH
When compared to the extensive reach of television, there is an obvious disadvantage in this area for print, online and promotional products advertising. However, promotional products were the only media, despite this disadvantage, that showed staggering results in recall and reaction, areas that are often dependent on reach for success.

RECALL
Promotional products--compared to TV, print and online advertising--consistently delivered on higher recall rates of the company/brand, the product/service or both.

REACTION
This section asked consumers which particular action they took after viewing and/or receiving the advertisement. The study found that:

– Consumers made a purchase after receiving a promotional product (20.9 percent) more often than after viewing a print ad (13.4 percent), TV commercial (7.1 percent) or online ad (4.6 percent).

– More than half of promotional products recipients had a favorable impression of the advertiser, as opposed to 33.2 percent who had seen a print advertisement, 27.7 percent who had watched a TV commercial and 11.9 percent who had seen an online advertisement.

– Nearly 60 percent of consumers reported using the promotional product several times, while 7.6 percent let someone else use the item and 4.4 percent passed the product on to someone else.

– 14.7 percent of participants reported contacting the promotional products advertiser--a reaction rate nearly three times greater than other media, which generated a 3 to 5 percent response.

Source: http://magazine.promomarketing.com; www.ppai.org

Bright Ideas

2010-02-26T06:43:00.000-05:00

Under the Energy Independence and Security act, most incandescent light bulbs will be phased out and replaced with compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL). These CFL bulbs represent longer life and greater savings to the consumer. Now CFL inspired promotional products can be used to convey your own marketing message. Selections include a "Stress Bulb", a light bulb key tag and a Light Bulb Bank, where savings can really add up.

Whether your are promoting efficiency, energy conservation, savings or just your own bright ideas - these are great products to make your message shine!

BPA-Free: The best for less!

2010-02-02T09:35:00.004-05:00

All reusable water bottles are not the same - and these are the absolute best!

These BPA-free, 25 oz. Aluminum Water Bottles feature a split key ring and stainless steel carabiner clip that attaches to book bags, purses and backpacks. They are made of lightweight aluminum construction and have a sleek design that is great for hiking and staying hydrated at school, work and play. Available colors: Lime green, Orange, Pacific Blue and Red.

Plus they are on sale through June 2010!

Order at least 144 of these reusable bottles, custom printed with your logo, at the 640 quantity price break of $3.69 each.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Good Scents

2010-02-02T08:05:00.004-05:00

Research proves it is the smell that sells......

*A new study in the Journal of Consumer Research says scent helps consumers remember product information. Scent enhances a product's distinctiveness, which helps consumers remember it down the line, the authors found.

Studies show that product scent significantly enhances recall of product information, and that this enhanced memory for product information persists over time

* Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/12/091214143732.htm

New to the promotional product's line-up is a "scentsational" selection of pens, with the upper barrels scented with enticing aromas of lemon, vanilla, meadow, strawberry, coffee and chocolate chip! Not only are they pleasing to the senses, they are made of 50% renewable plastic and made in the USA! And they are available now, with your custom imprint.

Bag Debate Comes to Florida

2010-02-02T07:48:00.003-05:00

So far, around 40 communities around the country have banned disposable plastic bags - or impose a tax for consumers that choose them in the check-out line. According to this story in Jacksonville's Times Union, the debate is back in Florida.

Ideas the state has considered range from outright banning throwaway bags to improving consumer education about the importance of recycling.

I am all for consumer education over more laws and taxes to control behavior. And a reusable shopping bag remains an all-time favorite for promoting your business image and promoting the wise use of our resources. They provide a great return on your investment and are a useful product that your customers will use over and over again. And yes, we have tons from which to choose - in all price points and and all customized with your logo.

Shop online: www.promo-mojo.com

See Spot Run

2010-01-26T14:23:00.000-05:00

Exercise. We all need it! Lack of activity is, unfortunately, too often a fact of modern life for humans and canines. Nature designed us for constant activity. Exercise leads to a longer life, increased strength, endurance and flexibility. Exercising with your dog offers a way to lose weight and decrease behavioral problems – for Spot, as well as Dick and Jane!

Shake up your bones, shake up your feet! Dog friendly Frisbees and flyers are great way to encourage your clients to get out into the fresh air and get some blood flowing. Let us add your logo and marketing message to our large selection of pet-friendly, people-friendly and earth friendly flyers. Your image will soar with long-term, on-going exposure to your brand.

Now through February 28, 2011, we are offering FREE delivery with your order of 200 or more custom printed, dog safe flying discs. Selections include our 9" flyer and our 9 5/8" pro style flyer. Both are available in 6 colors (white, red, royal blue, yellow, neon orange, black) and with a generous area for your logo and custom imprint. Both of these styles are made dog safe, biodegradable materials and here in the USA.

Let us create a design for you!

Visit our website for details or contact us at promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com / 904.716.4800.

Start Growing Your Business!

2010-01-16T07:45:00.000-05:00

These new and unique custom Grow Kits printed with Hi-Definition, 4-Color Process let you really showcase your brand as your business grows along with these fun plants!

Each kit includes:

Durable White Plastic 12 oz or 16 oz. Cup Custom Printed in 4-Color Process with your logo
Wonder Soil (TM) expanding soil wafer
Burpee (R) Seed: Marigold, Pansy, Zinnia or Sweet Basil,
Lid that doubles as a saucer
Instructions

Minimum order quantity is 250 kits and prices start at $1.35 each. This makes a great GREEN promotion. As we enter into a new year and a new decade with hope and optimism, this is a great way to get your business growing.

Flu Protection Sale

2010-01-15T07:32:00.002-05:00

Order before February 10, 2010 and receive special pricing on a variety of antibacterial hand sanitizers.

Our credit card style dispenser is available with your custom imprint at prices starting at $1.33 each. Small antibacterial gel packets are great for easy distribution and can include your logo in up to 3 colors. Prices start at $0.25 each. Get more value plus a full-color custom imprinted label with a 1 oz bottle of antibacterial hand gel with prices starting at $0.82 each.

Act now. Contact us: promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Clean Advertising

2010-01-14T08:44:00.004-05:00

We hear it every day, but even more so during the cold and flu season and especially with the ongoing H1N1 Swine Flu concerns - Wash Your Hands!

And businesses are quick to catch on. Hand sanitizers have become a hot advertising medium. Who wouldn't appreciate it? And who wouldn't appreciate the business that gave it to them? So when you are looking for an inexpensive item that will make a favorable impression on customers, think about adding your logo on anti-bacterial hand sanitizers.

According to the Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI), hand sanitizer ranked behind only longtime champ pens among searches of its proprietary database by distributors. Searches for “hand sanitizers” were up 439 percent between October 2008 and October 2009.

Pens are No. 1 and Hand sanitizers are No. 2 and according to ASI, the next-most-popular searches were for tote bags, mugs, and lanyards. If this is what people are buying, it is because (1) it is what consumers most appreciate (2) it delivers 'bang for your buck'.

We have hundreds of hand sanitizers in all shapes, sizes and price points - all available for your custom imprint.

or shop online: www.promo-mojo.com

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-17T08:17:00.010-05:00

May the wonder
of that first Christmas,
the joy of
God's abundant blessings,
and the peace

of Jesus' presence

be with you always.

Merry

Christmas!

Online Gift Catalog

2009-11-23T11:36:00.004-05:00

Start shopping now with our online catalog and Gift Guide from our most trusted supplier of drinkware, crystal and awards.....

Product selections include: Custom Printed Ceramic Mugs, Glassware, Stainless Steel Drinkware, Sports Bottles, Optical Crystal Awards, Etch Paperweights, Custom Printed Stemware, Customized Gift Sets, Fine Cut Lead Crystal and Award Plaques. There are perfect gifts for the holiday season and beyond. Just click on the image above and start shopping!

Or contact us:

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com / 904.176.4800

Direct link - http://www.glassamerica.com/index.cfm?disref=A00670

Prime Advertising Space - Don't miss it!

2009-11-12T12:16:00.001-05:00

Every December 31st, the ideal advertising space becomes available. No, it is not a billboard, newspaper or magazine. It is space on a clients desk or wall that houses your client's calendar. Claim this prime space! Keep your name and marketing message in front of your current and prospective clients all year long.

If you have not ordered your 2010 calendars, do not delay any longer. We have a huge variety of styles and themes from which to choose - many with year end close-out prices while supplies last. At a time when we are all careful with every dollar that is spent, a calendar represents an economical and effective way to promote your brand, express your appreciation and generate customer loyalty.

Contact Promo-Mojo today at promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com -

or click on the link below and shop for

calendars & planners by style or by theme.

Styles include: Wall Calendars, Pocketed Wall Calendars, Fabric Wall Calendars, Academic Calendars, Calendar Greeting Cards, Pocket Planner, Desk Planner, Year-on-a-page, Pocket Card Calendars, Self Adhesive / Stick on Calendars, Magnet Calendars, Mouse Pad Calendars, Post Card Calendars and Computer Calendars.

Themes for custom printed calendars include Agriculture / Farming, Almanacs, America, Cars / Automobiles , Flowers, Gardens, Swimsuit, Golf, Humor, Inspirational, Landscapes / Scenic, Motivational, Norman Rockwell, Patriotic, Pets: Dogs & Cats, Recipes / Food, Recycled Content, Real Estate / Homes, Religious, Spanish, Sports, Western, Wildlife and World Scenes

Flag It

2009-11-11T08:30:00.003-05:00

Have your logo silkscreened or debossed on these Deluxe Sticky Note Organizers.......

The leatherette organizer is 5" x 4 1/2" and contains four 1-1/2" x 1" sticky notepads, multi-color sticky note flags in 8 colors and a 4-year removable calendar. Minimum order quantity is only 100 and prices start at $3.99 each, if you buy before December 31, 2009. This represents up to 20% discount off of the regular retail price!

Did you know that you can also get Post-It notes custom printed with your logo? We have super low minimum order requirements ,even for full color, 4-color process printing.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Survey: Holiday Gift Budgets To Remain Steady

2009-11-10T20:19:00.002-05:00

A new American Express OPEN survey shows nearly half (47%) of small businesses plan to give gifts to clients this holiday season, similar to results in 2008. However, the survey also shows fewer small business owners (35%) expect to give gifts to their own employees compared to last year (46%), opting instead to provide time off. "Entrepreneurs understand the importance of showing appreciation for customers’ business especially during tough economic times," said Alice Bredin, American Express OPEN business advisor. "While the gifting emphasis may be on customers, employers recognize the gift of time as a way to give to employees without breaking the bank."

....Nearly six in 10 entrepreneurs (57%) say the economic downturn has changed their holiday gift-giving behavior. Among those who plan to send gifts to clients, cards and calendars remain the most popular recognition items, followed by retail and restaurant gift cards and fruit and food baskets. Gifts like wine, liquor and flowers are expected to be popular as well. In contrast, business owners appear less likely this year (7%) than last year (19%) to provide high-end gifts.

By region, business owners in the western U.S. are most likely (51%) to gift clients this holiday season. Meanwhile, business owners in the north central states have bigger holiday budgets for clients and customers ($566) than those in the Northeast ($513), West ($446) and South ($356).

source: asicentral.com

Online Gift Catalog

2009-11-09T17:49:00.001-05:00

Save a tree and leave the catalog online. Now you can flip through a large selection of holiday gift products while not adding to that pile in the corner of your office. Let us know what you find! promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com / 904.716.4800

(Paper) Pen to Paper

2009-11-08T06:33:00.000-05:00

Oh, it's all so confusing now.....don't just put your pen to paper. Put your recycled paper pen to recycled paper. Now, kick it up a notch and put your logo on that recycled paper pen! We can help. It's all for a good cause - a healthier and greener earth and an eco-friendly reflection of your business.

The eco-friendly dual point paper pen featured below has a medium point black ink pen on one side. On the other side, you choose the ink color - blue, red or green ink (and green ink pens are not so easy to find!). Prices range from $0.49 to $0.69 each, with a minimum order quantity of 250.

The middle pen featured in the image above is a new design - the same recycled materials are molded into a straw top pen. These are available with black ink in natural or green colors. Prices range from $0.58 to $0.78 with a minimum order quantity of 300.

Rounding out this selection is the eco-friendly peewee paper pen - available with black ink and blue, black or green trim. Prices range from $0.39 to $0.49 each; minimum order quantity is 500.

For a quote, custom printed with your logo, contact us:

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

ROI for Your Advertising Dollars

2009-11-07T08:04:00.004-05:00

The Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI) recently completed an exclusive study about end-buyer expectations for promotional products compared to other forms of advertising, the types of programs that use promotional products and the products they’re using for those programs. Of course since everything is about “the economy, stupid” they asked about how marketing spending and promotional product spending has changed this year as well.

It’s amazing what you can find out by just asking:

Nearly one-half (48%) of respondents said that promotional products are expected to deliver positive ROI. The higher the expectations, the more end buyers are spending. Those who have the highest expectations for promotional products ROI will spend nearly nine times more on them than those who believe promotional products are simply “nice to have but…”
And when it comes to delivering the best ROI, nearly two-thirds (64%) of end-buyer respondents told us that promotional products were second only to the internet as the most effective advertising medium.
But it isn’t all about the bottom line, as creativity is the number one trait end-buyers look for in the specialty advertising. So consider teaming an ad specialty promotion with the internet to deliver a real one-two punch. That’s creative, and it’ll have the ROI you are seeking.

source: www.asicentral.com

Grow Your Business Image

2009-11-07T07:44:00.003-05:00

Seed paper products remain one of my personal promotional products. I guess they combine my love for all kinds of swag with my love for gardening and the great outdoors. And this year, we offer more products made from seeded paper than ever before!

Greeting cards and note cards are available in hand-made papers or with seed paper ornaments attached. Other seed paper products include gift tags, ornaments, mini gift packs and desk calendars.

Choose from a large assortment of stock shapes that include mittens, doves, trees, stars, snow flakes, stockings, the earth - or have seeded paper molded into your own custom shape.

To take a peek, enter "seed paper" in the search field and you can fine-tune your selection from there.

Or contact us at promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Your business image will grow :-)

Battle of the Sexes

2009-11-07T07:23:00.004-05:00

Which is the smarter sex, men or women? Hasbro is conducting an online experiment to find out. Players log in and join your team for an interactive game of Trivial Pursuit. Be prepared - your incorrect answer will be treated with a challenge and an image of some of your sex's 'blonder moments'.

My inner genius must be buried deeper than I thought. See how you do: http://www.trivialpursuitexperiment.com/

City Sidewalks

2009-11-07T05:42:00.003-05:00

The world just keeps geting smaller, and our acquaintances are no longer just down the street but scattered all across the country, even all across the world.

The Holiday days are a great time to reach out and touch family, friends, clients and business associates in a good ole' old fashion kind of way.......a real Christmas Card that you can touch and feel, and have and hold.

Now, you can show your pride in your place of work or residence by choosing to send a Holiday Greeting that features scenes from your favorite region or city. Options include Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Texas / South West, Tropical, Washington, DC.

You can view all of the selections by clicking on the image or following the link below:

Visit www.1stcoastprinting.com >Cards & Invitations>Christmas Cards>City Scenes

Useful Swag

2009-11-05T15:21:00.003-05:00

If you are going to have your logo printed on a give-away product, why not let that product be (1) something that you know your clients will use (2) something you know your clients will keep with them and see your business name continuously and (3) something that has a high perceived value but relatively low cost?

Here are some great products that fit all of the above criteria - and they are on sale through December 2009.

Product selections include a Slim Line key light and a mini flashlight, both with a split ring key chain and LED light.

You can't go wrong with a pocket knife. I have a pocket knife given to me by a client years ago and I can't believe how many times it has come in handy..... and of course, when I see the engraved imprint, I also think fondly of the President of the Credit Union who gave it to me.

To round out this selection is a Maglite type of heavy duty flashlight complete with 2 AA batteries and a gift box....and a Leatherman type of multi-purpose tool with a pouch - and with your custom imprint, of course.

If you click on the image, you can get a better view of these great products - available now at great prices.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com / 904.716.4800

Amber Alert

2009-10-21T20:16:00.004-04:00

It's a headline that has been in the news much too frequently lately, here in Northeast Florida and all across our nation. A child is missing. And way too often, it is a worse case scenario.

As a result, a local television station just posted an article titled Building a Child Identity Kit on their website. It's a great reminder of how important it is for parents to keep basic information on hand should they become a victim of this terrible tragedy.

A great way for you to be part of a solution is to offer Child Identity Kits to your clients and prospects. We offer many different styles of ID kits, available with your custom imprint and many for less than $1.00 each.

Most kits make it easy to record important, necessary information such as the child's name, age, height, and other recognizable characteristics such as birthmarks or glasses. Most have a space for a photograph and one version even includes a camera. There's a space for the child's fingerprints and most include ink strips to make the process easier. We have kits available in English, Spanish and Polish.

Child Identity Kits make great a great promotional product and are an excellent way to show that you care.

To view our selection, enter "Child Identification Kit" in the search field....or you can always contact us at promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Baby Boomer's Babies

2009-10-19T20:20:00.005-04:00

Boomers have long been viewed as the ultimate target market, both because of their strength in numbers and strength in dollars. But, guess what? Those boomers had babies … and those babies are growing up.

Millennials, which consist of teens to under-30 adults, are a burgeoning buying power, outnumbering the boomers at 70-plus million strong. Experts say their earning power is growing faster than any other age group. So they matter … big time.

Here are two rules for relating to your next top clients.

Rule #1: Be Cool, Be Clever

Carol Phillips, president of Brand Amplitude LLC, says the number one rule of selling to millennials is that the product must fit seamlessly into their lifestyle. "They are very much about function," she says. "Be quick, shiny and meaningful. It's about being efficient."

Anup Gupta, president of AG PrintPromo Solutions,says customized flash drives fit that bill. "They're looking for something cool and trendy," he says. Other hot high-tech-related items, such as earbuds and laptop skins, are also big sellers with this crowd, and you can't go wrong with carabiners. They were one of five products that Gupta offered to a local university that was putting together a no-smoking campaign. ..... For this no-smoking campaign, Gupta provided carabiners along with lip balm, silicone bracelets, and popcorn bags. Each item came in several different colors and featured the anti-smoking Web site that the client had set up.

Gupta also supplied T-shirts that contained a clever anti-smoking message on the front and back, such as, "We're sick of staring at your butts," to encourage students to actually wear them. "That kind of stuff works with college students," he says.

Rule #2: Use Your Connections

When Jay Kapadia, certified multimedia specialist for Proforma On Point Marketing, thinks about the right promotional products for Millennials, he considers his own preferences....."I believe I have a specific advantage in this industry because many of my clients range from college groups like Greek organizations, to youth organizations, to social networking groups," he says. "I'm also an avid user of social networking and I see what my peers are purchasing, and we come aboard and promote these to our clients."

Kapadia has no problem getting creative. He provided purple drawstring backpacks for a parade for Pride for Youth, a New York-based advocacy group for gay and lesbian teens, and threw in a purple T-shirt for kids to find inside the backpack. "My client was thrilled at the product selection and they had other people asking where they got the bags from," he says. One of the most popular apparel categories among millennials, according to Kapadia, is T-shirts from leading apparel brands that feature some of the latest embellishments.

...The key to this kind of success in the millennial market is to stay as fresh as possible, and your ability to stay on top of trends is crucial. "A product could be in and hot one minute, and by the next week, the hype is over," he says, "so in an ever-changing marketplace, you always have to be on top and see what's hot or not in the market."

source: asishow.com.

Clean Hands Save Lives

2009-10-19T09:13:00.004-04:00

Major health organizations,including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend that hand washing and -- when soap and water may not be available -- hand sanitizing, are critical to minimize the spread of germs during illness outbreaks, such as the Swine Flu. More handwashing means lower rates of infectious disease: Clean Hands Save Lives!

If you are looking for a useful, healthy promotional product for upcoming events, tradeshows or school functions, click on the link below and browse through some of the anti-bacterial hand sanitizers that we have available - custom printed with your logo and marketing message, of course.

http://www.sanitizer-catalog.com/index.php

Need A Hand?

2009-10-18T13:36:00.004-04:00

Ever feel like you need a third hand? With these party trays, only one hand can hold snacks and a glass of wine. Several styles and designs are available with your copy screened printed on the bottom surface where your message is always in view. A special-event keepsake that can be used again and again, they are perfect for wedding receptions, stand-up parties and for that special wine and cheese party.

Make the party complete with an attractive Wine Glass. This one fits comfortably into each of our attractive Party Trays or set it on the table. Your message receives double exposure. With a universal design and a capacity of over six ounces, you can taste and toast with red or white wine.

Prices vary and start at $1.34 each, with special pricing on select products through December 2009.....contact us for details!

Powerful Branding

2009-10-18T13:19:00.005-04:00

Whether you agree with the messenger or not, the lesson is still here.....great examples of the power of imagery and iconography:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdtqtfXdR-c

Know When To Fold 'em

2009-10-18T12:59:00.005-04:00

It's game time. And this travel poker set will always be there when it's time to wind down with a good cigar and a few best buddies.

The black padded nylon case has a zipper closure, webbed carry strap and your business logo front and center. Unzip and find a quality, fitted-foam liner, 100 Casino-grade clay chips, five dice and two decks of playing cards.

Pricing is around $21 to $22 each, with a minimum order quantity of only 25! Get up to a 3 color imprint for one low setup fee of $70.00

Contact us:

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

The Snuggie

2009-10-09T13:21:00.005-04:00

I am not a TV watcher at all, but there are a couple of shows for which I will go to the trouble to locate the remote on a weekly basis. It just so happened that I missed one of these last week and in my effort to locate the 'weekly recap', I stumbled across a blog about a TV commercial.....a few excerpts are below.....

The Snuggie Has Become Self-Aware
New "blanket with sleeves" commercial is in on the joke
Posted by Nick Prueher on Saturday, October 3, 2009 4:51 PM

It is so rare in this media-saturated, meta-critical age to find anything that is absolutely pure, untainted by this cynical world, and completely unaware of how ridiculous it is. That's why the blissfully obtuse commercial for the Snuggie, the "blanket with sleeves," was so refreshing last year. It was raw, unadulterated cheese.

....But last night on TV, I caught the new commercial for the Snuggie, available in Royal Blue, Forest Green and Soft Rose, and I'm sorry to report that they're now in on the joke. The same lame families are wearing the Snuggie while lounging around the house, but now they're also dancing while making coffee, playing Win, Lose or Draw, snuggling babies and dogs, laughing in a movie theater, and cheering on their favorite sports team at an outdoor stadium. That's right, the Snuggie is being worn in public. In other words, they've deliberately turned up the cheese factor in the hopes of becoming "viral."

Watch for yourself....

And now, that you are completely sold....
get in on the joke. Hugme blankets, a blanket with arm holes / sleeves, are available for corporate give aways and come complete with your logo and custom imprint.

To view the promotional product version of the Snuggie, just enter "hugme" in the search field...or contact us at promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Promoting Where Most People Spend Their Holidays

2009-10-09T13:11:00.002-04:00

....or where most people spend their time period, during family gatherings or when entertaining at home.

Useful, appreciated, attractive, Pot Holders have a long history of happy users and satisfied advertisers. Large in size (50 square inches) for secure gripping of big or little handles, these pot holders feature a convenient, corner, hanging loop and a smooth, fabric side for clean, crisp imprints of your business logo. They are made of all cotton construction and available in a selection of modern, kitchen colors. We recommend your copy be printed diagonally as illustrated. Prices start at $1.58 each. These same features are available on our popular oven mitt, with prices starting at $2.08 each with your custom imprint.

Window Shopping?

2009-10-03T09:43:00.004-04:00

More signs of the times, for sure. Contrary to what this article says, I can see one down side. The advertements are an easy target for street graffiti artists, as evidenced by the photo.

Ad campaigns more than window dressing
By Gertha Coffee - The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

An empty store with a “for lease” sign in the window is of no value to a commercial real estate landlord. It usually means the retailer has moved or gone out of business — and the landlord is left with utilities and maintenance costs.

Enter Inwindow Outdoor, a New York-based firm that works with landlords to convert empty retail windows into advertising displays as a way to offset revenue losses. The company recently launched its first campaign in Atlanta using space in Underground Atlanta at 80 Upper Alabama St. — formerly Kid’s Profile, between Athlete’s Foot and Metro PCS.

The ad is part of a national campaign for Sony Pictures’ “2012” — a movie slated for release in November.

....Inwindow is in 18 markets; 10 were added since 2006, including Atlanta, said Ray Lee, managing director of real estate. While business has been steady since the company was founded in 2002, it “really picked up” as the recession forced scores of retailers to close, Lee said.
Typically, a deal covers 20 percent to 25 percent of the asking rent, he said, giving landlords “a nice stream of income” on empty property.

.....“There is no downside,” Lawrence said. “It’s a great opportunity for advertisers as well as the property management company and our visitors. It serves as additional revenue for us. You can certainly see people taking a look at it, see them checking it out.”

source: http://www.ajc.com/business/ad-campaigns-more-than-152335.html

Cold or the Flu?

2009-10-03T09:00:00.006-04:00

The flu remains on all of our minds these days - causing waves of panic and changes in procedures for schools, churches and other social gatherings. And with the onset of flu season comes the never-ending question "Is it a cold or the flu?"

This "Flu Fever Kit" can help! It includes a reusable thermometer that can be used over and over again. Or another kit option is a disposable thermometer with an adhesive back applied for continuous monitoring, one-time use.

This kit also come with instructions that include a Cold/Flu Symptom Chart for easier diagnosis. It comes in a snap-together case for convenient storage and your custom imprint on the clear lid. Prices range from $1.62 each to $2.19 each, with a minimum order quantity of 250.

Fight the Flu!
Be safe. Be sure. Be prepared.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.

The BIG Gulp

2009-10-01T06:01:00.006-04:00

No need for re-fills with these huge 44 oz. resusable water bottles!

These BPA Free sports bottles are made with food safe 18/8 stainless steel. The duo-tone finish construction features a satin body and polished chrome neck and colored lids available in blue, black, purple, lime and orange. A big bottle comes with a big imprint area - giving you a 3" x 5" area for your logo and marketing message.

AND they are on sale now through December 2009. Order at least 144 bottles with a one color imprint and get the discounted price of $6.99 each. Contact us for a custom quote today.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com / 904.716.4800

Obamamania Over?

2009-09-30T10:46:00.007-04:00

T-shirts Measure Success Despite Dip in Approval Rating,

President's Face Still Sells - But So Does Anti-Obama Merchandise (AP)

.....For Barack-in-the-Box creator Heather Courtney and her husband, David Manzo, the Obamamania that drove sales so fast they could barely keep up during the inauguration is over now. Sales have slowed to a "sporadic drizzle," the 36-year-old artist said, in part because the president's just not as popular. "The sort of rock-star-making-history thing had its peak," Courtney said. "It seemed like people said 'That's all done now, let's get down to business."'

Back in January, it was nearly impossible to escape the Obama commercial boom. His image and words were on millions of T-shirts, posters and commemorative plates. Even Corporate America got in on the Obama blitz with PepsiCo and Swedish furniture store Ikea joining the chorus.

.....Then came the bailouts, the stimulus, the summer of health care hollering - all bringing Obama's approval rating down to about 50 percent - and simply the passage of time after any president's honeymoon.

Sales have slowed considerably from the inauguration, when a line of customers snaked around the corner. .......On Sept. 12, the store's other location on Pennsylvania Avenue had to bring a usually popular sidewalk cardboard cutout of Obama inside as thousands of protesters crowded the street. "They were tearing him up," Caleb said.

....The only posters selling that day were ones the protesters could draw on to show their distaste. Kathy Kelly, a Republican from Starkville, Miss., recently visited the shop and found only a few trinkets to suit her political tastes, including a "Friends Don't Let Friends Vote Democrat" mug. She said she wouldn't mind finding an anti-Obama store because the hype is "getting tired."

....Not so, says another souvenir store manager in Washington, where 80 percent of the merchandise is still all Obama. ..... For one day only - the recent "tea party" protest against the president's economic and health care agenda - the store brought in some anti-Obama T-shirts.

That's been the biggest shift in Obama merchandising - the rise of anti-Obama sales in recent months. Online retailer CafePress.com, where users can make and sell their own shirt designs, saw anti-Obama sales boom since June. "When it comes to political or pop culture we can become somewhat of a barometer of what's going on in the world," said Amy Maniatis, vice president of marketing for CafePress. "Our T-shirt sales now are much more reflective of the opinion polls - about 50-50 pro vs. con." The numbers were in Obama's favor 99-to-1 during the inauguration. ..... The site raked in more than $20 million in political sales last year, thanks mostly to Obama. It now carries about 3 million different Obama designs - with about 2 million singing the president's praises and 1 million making fun of him.

Socialist and communist themes are most popular, such as "Obamunism" and "Comrade Obama." And in one night, "You Lie!" became a big-selling T-shirt topic after South Carolina Rep. Joe Wilson let loose on Obama during his speech to Congress about health care.

Read entire article:

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/09/29/national/main5350595.shtml

A Sticker For Freshness

2009-09-22T08:44:00.003-04:00

Dubious color? Funny odor? This label eliminates any confusion about ambiguiously fresh meat by telling you when it's really gone bad.

Japanese design firm To-Genkyo invented this clever label that helps tell the buyer beware of spoiled meat. Featured at this year's Good Design Awards in Tokyo, the hour-glass shaped label is printed with a special ammonia-detecting ink that darkens according to how much of the chemical is present in the meat. The more ammonia it contains, the less fresh the meat. The darkened label also effectively obscures the product's bar code, making it impossible for it to be scanned at the checkout counter when the meat is past its prime.

Source: creativity-online.com

Better Letters (for the environment)

2009-09-21T09:50:00.010-04:00

We make it easy for your Envelope and Letterhead to be GREEN.

Our envelope and letterhead manufacturer is now certified to sell SFI and FSC Chain of Custody Certified products. It is now easy for you to go GREEN! We realized that you want to be a responsible steward of the environment but in this economy you can’t effort to pay more. We make it easy and cost effective to go green by providing certified papers for your orders at no additional cost as long as we have the paper in stock. Please contact us for a list of certified papers.

Our envelope and stationery manufacturer has active programs in place to:

Minimize production waste
Recycle used dies, plates and paper used in job set up
Use biodegradable soy based inks
Paperless electronic proofing methods
Offer and encourage the use of environmentally sustainable (recyclable) or eco-certified (SFI or FSC Certified) materials

What does SFI and FSC Chain of Custody Forestry Certification mean?

Certification guarantees that the fiber used to produce paper has been harvested from a properly managed forest. Responsible paper procurement is currently the major concern for environmentally-friendly printing and our manufacturing facility is required to adhere to strict, widely accepted standards to obtain and maintain their certification.

Contact us today about the availability of certified SFI and FSC envelope and stationery products.

Do Bamboo

2009-09-19T13:58:00.014-04:00

Bamboo is a fast growing and ecologically sustainable material.....it is the green alternative for all things wood. It is the fastest growing plant on our planet and does not require any special care to grow. In fact, it is a grass that produces more oxygen than a hard wood forest of comparable size, it helps to reduce carbon dioxide gases blamed for global warming and it helps to prevent soil erosion through it's widespread root system and large canopy.

Now your custom imprint can be engraved into dozens of beautiful and unique household items. Bamboo naturally inhibits bacterial growth and is harder than maple so it can't be beat when crafted into useful cutting boards. Other kitchen aids and accessories available in bamboo include bowls, salad hands, chopping bowls, utensils, sushi trays, crumb boards, cheese boards, rolling pins....and more!

Do the earth a favor - Do Bamboo!

Click on the above image to shop online

or contact us

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Pigskin Addiction

2009-09-19T12:35:00.007-04:00

It's September - and it's the weekend. Are you ready for some football?

Pigskin is not just for the field any more. Now your business name and logo can be printed or debossed onto everyone's favorite leather of the season. Support your favorite sports team in the home and in the office with these unique products. This sports material feels so authentic it will make you want to punt.

Choose from leather pigskin coasters in square, football and basketball shapes, starting at $1.65 each. Padfolios, with pigskin embossed leather, start at $12.50 each.

Score big and let us add your logo to these products made from authentic football material. Order before September 29th, and receive your setup for free!

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Clunker for a Cooper and a Cool Bumper Sticker

2009-09-15T07:08:00.005-04:00

Mini Cooper had a little fun with our Government's Cash for Clunkers program....

Customers trading in their clunkers for Mini's received a special bumper sticker:: "My other car was demolished by the government".

Go Green. Save Green. Be Healthy.

2009-09-14T07:53:00.006-04:00

Pop, Soda, Cokes (they are all called 'cokes' in the deep south)....whatever you call it, most are at best just empty calories -- and an expense -- that we don't need. The average U.S. household spends about $650 annually on carbonated soft drinks. Plus, there's been a lot written about the possible health consequences of drinking too much soda. Why not cut them out of your diet and your budget!

Take it one step further and skip the store-bought bottled water, too. Did you know that over 60 million plastic bottles are disposed of daily in America alone? It takes millions of gallons for fuel each year to haul bottled water. It is no friend to the environment and if you drink only bottled water, you'll spend about $1,400 annually to get your recommended daily amount of H2O.

So what is the solution? Reusable water bottles! Add your logo to one of our hundreds of sports bottles for a healthy and helpful give-away for your clients and prospects.

For those tap-water haters, home water filters are available at mass merchants at very affordable prices. Or contact us about custom imprinted sports bottles with built in filters! You will get a lot of miles out of your investment and your customers will thank you!

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Move Over Plastic

2009-09-14T07:38:00.003-04:00

Choices, choices, choices.....clearly aluminum is becoming the consumer choice for reusable water and sports bottles - and now so many shapes, sizes and styles are available at plastic prices!

Featured here are a few versions that are available with your business name and custom imprint. These are available in 16 oz, 17 oz and 24 oz, in a variety of colors including black, red, blue, silver and green. With prices starting at $3.25 each and low minimum order quantities starting at 50, there is sure to be a hydration solution for your need and for your budget. All include a carabiner clip and all are BPA free, recyclable and reusable.

Shop online

or contact us for a custom quote:

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Offer good through October 31, 2009

Music To Your Ears, Savings To Your Wallet

2009-09-12T09:23:00.005-04:00

Don't Miss This Limited Time Offer!

These colorful MP3 and WMA players are very simple to use and double as USB Flash Drives.

Accessories included USB cable, CD and Manual, Headphones and a AAA battery. High impact plastic bodies are available in Silver, Red, Green, Yellow and Blue. They come with a one year warranty and your logo screen printed on the front or on the back of the cap.

For a limited time, you can get the 2 GB version at $36.99 each or the 4 GB model at $39.99 each.....Both priced much less than what is typically charged the the 128 MB model.

Don't wait until the last minute! Delivery time is approximately 3 weeks. Minimum order quantity is 100.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Fight The Flu

2009-09-11T07:52:00.005-04:00

Yes, our Health and Human Services Secretary, Kathleen Sebelius, has already demonstrated how to cough ....but we all know it's best not to be sick enough to cough in the first place!

With cold and flu season upon us, and especially with the threat of H1N1 Swine Flu, antibacterial gels and hand cleaners are an excellent way to promote your image and show that you care.

We offer branded solutions in all shapes, sizes and price points. Choose from sprays, gels, foams and lotions - packaged in individual packets, tubes canisters and bottles - and available with clips, lanyards and carabiners.

New to our product selection is this 8 oz counter size antibacterial hand gel. It is FDA approved, hypoallergenic, quick drying and non-sticky. Add your logo and custom imprint on the label in 1 to 4 colors. Minimum order quantity is low - just 150 bottles. Prices start at $3.21 each.

Shop for these and other Health Care Promotional Products

or enter 'antibacterial' in the search field...

or contact us at promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Go Beyond The Pen

2009-09-09T09:42:00.004-04:00

ASI Promotes Industry on MSNBC

ASI publisher Rich Fairfield made like a TV star last week during a lively appearance on MSNBC’s “Your Business.” The hot topic was the proven value of using ad specialties to market your business at trade shows.

Trade shows are a great way to get the word out about your business and premium giveaways that “go beyond the pen” are a sure bet for maximum marketing exposure.

Here are the products in this short 4 minute video:

Talking T-shirt - heads will turn when this shirt whistles, and emits 19 other stock sounds. It can also play MP3s.
Light saber sword - tech and electronics companies will love a light saber sword stamped with their corporate logo.
Light-up stress balls - a flashy new look to a standard seller ensures this product will be used and discussed.
Jute bag - stylish, roomy and eco-friendly, this bag can also be used at the beach after the show and is made from jute plant fibers.
Non-woven bag - eco-friendly, inexpensive and reusable, this bag is ideal for replacing paper and plastic shopping bags.
Slinky notepad - this variation on a business staple adds a touch of fun to any desktop.
Hand sanitizer - a smart and appreciated giveaway in light of recent events with the H1N1 flu virus.
Personal sunscreen - a trade show located in a warmer climate is an event that demands a personal sunscreen stick.

Source: ASIcentral.com

Forever In Blue Jeans

2009-09-09T08:13:00.003-04:00

No bell bottom blues with these 750 ml stainless steel sports bottles!

These 24 oz capacity bottles feature a cool jeans design, stainless steel construction and a screw off lid with a carabiner. This healthy alternative to plastic bottles is FDA Approved and B.P.A. Free

These are great for students, as well as aging hippies! Your business logo may be screen printed or laser engraved!

Enter "jean bottle" in the online catalog search field

or contact us:

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Light On The Budget

2009-09-09T07:39:00.002-04:00

Save over 50% on these Crazy Closeout Specials - available while supplies last...

Access Crank Flashlight
When you need quick and easy lighting rely on the Access. Featuring crank power, 3 LEDs, large carabiner clip, lightweight construction, decorative compass, and a mobile phone charger with Nokia charging cord. WAS: $9.90, NOW: $4.95. Min Qty: 50

Companion Crank Flashlight
Trying to find the perfect gift for nearly everyone? This handy 3 LED crank flashlight fits perfectly in a glove compartment, purse or seat pocket. Colors: Blue, Pink ONLY
WAS: $9.90, NOW: $4.95 Min Qty: 50

Other close-outs include a 1 watt, waterproof Crank Flashlight, Crank Headlamp, Rechargable Spotlight and a 2-in-1 screwdriver and crank flashlight....all available with your custom imprint and all priced up to 50% off of the regular retail price!

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Promos With a Little Kick

2009-09-09T06:37:00.002-04:00

Summer may be winding down - but there is still plenty of warm weather left, soon to be followed by the peak tourist seasons for South Florida, the islands and other holiday destinations.

This professional kick board is an excellent item for hotels, pool sides and the beach front. This unique promotional product is super for meeting and event planners, corporate give-aways, hotels, resorts, point-of-purchase and co-branding opportunities.

The size (1 1/2" x 11" x 19) allows for a generous imprint area that can be used for multiple imprints and even kid's menus! Kids and adults will love it and want to take it home - where your image continues to work hard on your behalf.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Awareness Ideas

2009-09-03T07:47:00.004-04:00

There are so many ways that you can promote Breast Cancer Awareness, give your clients something they can use and promote your business image at the same time! Here are just a few ideas...
The Snap-and-Go Tote Bag is reusable and recyclable. Your logo is prominently displayed when the bag is folded for convenience and also displayed with the bag is working at full capacity. Prices as low as $1.80 each.

"Mood" Stadium cups are always a hit! They change colors with the temperature of the beverage. Prices start at $0.81 each.

Bookmarks are always useful and have a lot of staying power. These feature a full color background, your business imprint and prices as low as $0.25 each.

Take a look at these pencils - they feature a full color wrap, free setup and prices as low as $0.364 each.

These hand fans promote early detection and your business on a colorful stock design. Priced at $0.59 and up.

Round compact mirrors are perfect for the purse and create a great reflection of your business...priced from $0.84 each.

The pink ribbon grip pen is priced at $0.50 and up, and includes your business name on the barrel.

Finally, we all need to know how we measure up. These 12" wooden rulers feature a pink ribbon background, your logo and a price as low as $0.41

To Order, Contact us -

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

Or shop online

for these and more pink promotional products

Don't Get Lost In The Crowd

2009-09-02T20:03:00.010-04:00

Yes, we all know that a business card is the most basic necessary for any business and yes, they do have their place in our world. We all go to prospecting events and networking socials and the business card is the 'must have accessory'. But then ask yourself, how many times have you been able to find the 'one' that you were looking for? With stacks and stacks of cards collected over the years, who really feels like looking through them all to find the card from that nice person from that respectable business who all of a sudden has something that you need?

To me, this is why a magnet printed with your business card information is one of the best investments that you can make. Your target market may be students, home owners, mothers, other businesses...who knows? If your business information is printed on a magnetic surface, you are sure to be up front and visible on refrigerators, filing cabinets and memo boards.

Where will you be found?

Just consider the photos above....actually the cards on the top are just a sampling of my supply that has been stashed away in a desk drawer because 'you never know when you might need it'. The photo below it is an illustration of how your business name will stand out, be useful and be in your prospects face when they need your product or service. Plus - they are easily mailed with any other document that you may be sending out anyway.

One color or four color process - we have them at in all shapes and sizes and at very reasonable prices. Our business card magnets are made from 70% pre-consumer waste so they are also eco-friendly! And for a limited time, we will pick up the setup and the delivery charge.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com
or

visit our website for pricing and details

P.S. We can help you with your traditional business cards too!

Cool Breezes

2009-08-26T08:16:00.008-04:00

The dog days of summer: The hot, sultry period between early July and early September. I'm feeling it. I think it is this time of year that helps us all look forward to the end of summer and welcome in the crispness of fall.

We still have hot days ahead and this gadget is designed to cool things off a bit. It is a personal fan with a spray mister. Each fan comes with 2 AA batteries, a refillable water bottle and your logo prominently displayed on the front.

Act now and you can get these at Summer Sizzling prices: Price each for a minimum order quantity of 250 is $2.27, discounted from the original price of $3.03. Order now. This offer expires at the end of September.

e-mail: promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

or shop online

Signs of Inspiration

2009-08-26T07:54:00.007-04:00

Funny the way it is....it seems billboards and other forms of outdoor advertisements keep popping up in the news and therefore, on my blog.

This past weekend, there was a column in the Jacksonville Times Union by Mark Woods. The story was about the man and the company behind a billboard that sits on I-95 through the downtown area. I have often been inspired and amused by the quips that appear and are updated weekly.

Tom Trout is 82 and the patriarch of a local contracting company. For more than two decades, he has been coming up with 3 line messages to post on a sign that has been known to attract nearly 100,000 views a day. You can view a selection on their website: www.tomtroutinc.com.

Here is a sample:
Horsepower was much safer when only horses had it.
Forbidden fruit is responsible for many a bad jam.
You make your choices but your choices make you.
Exposure to the Son will keep you from getting burned.
If you want to leave footprints in the sands of time, wear work shoes.

Thank you Tom Trout.

Tricks and Treats

2009-08-21T10:10:00.006-04:00

Almost 70% of adults rate Halloween a "popular" holiday within their household, and over 50% think it is as much a holiday for adults as for kids. Parents enjoy celebrating with their kids and their friends, we all like to dress up in costumes and then, of course, is the good old tradition of trick-or-treating. I will always remember, as a kid, coming home and dumping my loot on the floor...and somehow, my older sister would always convince me to trade all of my good chocolate candy with her in exchange for something that she didn't want (and neither did I).

As far as the promotional product industry goes, there are so many cool products that can be branded with your logo, while increasing the mystery and the safety of All Hallow's Day. Glow products are always fun....things like frisbees, stadium cups, even business cards. Glow in the dark pencils make a great give-away replacement for sugary candies and snacks. On the safely side, we offer snap-on reflective bracelets and draw-string backpacks with reflective stripes.

And we have bags galore....many available with free setup and a one color free imprint, for a limited time. Choose from oversized, gusseted non-woven polypropylene with standard or glow-in-the dark ink, die cut plastic glow in the dark bags, eco-friendly bags and bags made of reflective material....all recyclable and all available with your custom imprint.

Bagging The Tax

2009-08-21T08:31:00.010-04:00

This week, Seattle residents soundly voted against adding a 20-cent fee for every paper or plastic bag used in checkout in supermarkets, drug stores and convenience stores. The vote nullifies a city ordinance that was set to take effect in January. Supporters had argued the fee would have cut down on pollution and encouraged more reusable bags, providing suppliers and distributors a greater market for eco-friendly bags.

I don't think this means that Seattle residents are not "green" and environmentally focused. It does mean that they are not interested in another tax in an already troubled economy. I'm all for a more positive approach in the effort to change behaviour.

Reusable and recyclable totes remain one of the most popular give-away promotional products on the market. They can be hard-working, multi-functional, stylish, trendy and inexpensive - and they give your business name ongoing, year-round exposure to your clients and prospects and everyone they encounter while shopping.

Take a look at this big shopper.... It is 15" high, 13" wide and with a 10" gusset. It has reinforcements to carry the heavy stuff and a 5"x7" area for your logo. Prices range from $1.78 to $2.39 with a minimum order quantity of only 100.

Or you might prefer these all natural jute grocery tote bags - Generous in size (17.75" x 13.75" x 4") and your logo and marketing message printed in up to 3 colors in a 7" x 8.5" area. With prices beginning at $3.49, you get eco-friendly products and pocketbook friendly prices.

Let us know what you have in mind.

We'll find the perfect tote for you!

Pencil This In For BIG Ideas

2009-08-20T13:41:00.006-04:00

Let's just get write to the point.....
Pencil us in as your super source for big ideas when size matters. We see the larger than life, big picture. This is the write choice, so call on us for big ideas for school awards & writing contests. Say it big and make a big name for yourself by making a big impression. Speak softly and carry a big pencil.

I think you get the idea....there are so many ways to use these giant pencils to get your message across. Just their size gets attention and makes a lasting impression!

These are real wooden pencils with real pink erasers. They are 15 inches long and 1 3/8 inches in diameter, which allows for a giant 7" x 3/4" area for your custom logo and marketing message. As an option, we can also pre-print a ruler or 12 month calendar onto the shaft of the pencil. Prices start at $4.53 each and the minimum order quantity is only 50!

Missed Targets

2009-08-20T12:05:00.005-04:00

Most marketers are well aware of Ad-words type of target marketing.....key words in a search or on a site will determine what should be the most appropriate placement for promoting your product or service.

Here's proof that some things still need a little of the human touch. Click on the image below to view 23 ads that don't quite fit the article that appears next to them.

Drink Pink

2009-08-20T08:12:00.006-04:00

Now is the time to be planning ahead for October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Among so many other pink promotional products designed especially for these events, we offer many pink sports bottles, tumblers and travel mugs available with your custom imprint.

Water bottles are perfect for walk-a-thons and road races organized to raise money and awareness of breast cancer prevention, research, treatments and cures. As an organization that sponsors these events, you can get year-round exposure of your brand and of this most important cause.

promomojo@1stcoastprinting.com

or shop online

If you can think it, we can pink it.

Lose The Blubber

2009-08-20T07:34:00.007-04:00

This PETA billboard in Jacksonville, FL and other locations, is stirring things up a bit - which is exactly what most of their ads are designed to do.

Those that are overweight say their message has little to do with eating meat and more to do with slamming fat people. Jacksonville did come in at an impressive #8 in Men's Fitness recent list of the top 25 fattest cities, so I suppose there are plenty of people in the area to offend.
,
UPDATE!
After all the attention and controversy, Peta has replaced the "Save the Whales" ad, with a new billboard that simply says, "GONE. Just Like All the Pounds Lost by People Who Go Vegetarian."

Hmmm...... you just have to believe that was their intent all along and everyone fell right into their marketing ploy.

photos from ja cksonville.com

Tobacco-nomics

2009-08-19T07:11:00.000-04:00

Brazilian site tabaconomia.com.br demonstrates the impact of smoking on personal finances.

One of the images features a car cleverly fashioned as a big cigarette butt. The tagline for the ad reads: Do you know how much you really spend on cigarettes?

A visit to their site shows what looks to be an online calculator in which you can shock yourself with you own calculations. An obstacle for me is.....No Hablo Espanol...but I get the message.