Corporate bLogo - Karen Butler

Editorial Gag Order for Promotional Products?

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:51:47 PDT

Occasionally, I use our blog or print mag to share information about products I really enjoy. Companies don’t ask me to do so and I don’t offer. However, when I come across products that are worth talking about, I make it happen. As of Dec. 1, 2009, those unsolicited editorial opinions may disappear – or become the victim of clunky ...

Cool Drinkware Idea, Unsolicited Kudos to ETS

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:52:09 PDT

I got a mailer from ETS (the express line) today, and I’m extremely impressed with their 2010 Total Branding program. It’s a collection of sweet, ready-made designs and matching collateral for their h2go stainless-steel drinkware. The design colors can be changed to match your customer's identity and brand – all you have to do is choose the design, specify the ...

How to Decrease Industry Shows

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 10:49:39 PDT

I’ve been sitting on the sidelines for quite a few years now, occasionally sharing my two cents about the excessive amount of trade shows in the industry. Now I’m no rocket scientist, but it seems to me that the best way to decrease the number of shows is to only support the ones you feel bring real value to your ...

Social Media: Be Relevant or Forget It

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:37:14 PDT

A couple articles I read this week reminded me that social media is alive and well – but that brands better use it to bring relevant content.One pseudo-organization that’s maximized its effectiveness through social media is the Yes Men – a collaboration of activists that recruits masses of accomplices to pull off public stunts. Recently, they got 2,000 volunteers to ...

Private Shows – The Way To Go?

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 10:48:17 PDT

Years ago, I had the opportunity to attend Kaeser & Blair’s Annual Convention. I was nothing short of astonished at what a top-notch event it was (not that I’d expect anything less of the company). There was a solid education program, a fancy awards banquet, a kick-butt party at Paul Brown stadium, receptions, prizes, recognition, limos, a river cruise with ...