Alice McCalla
Owner
Fully Promoted of Houston SE and Houston NE
PPAI 240143, Gold
Houston, Texas
McCalla points to the Sport-Tek Sport-Wick Stretch 1/4-Zip Pullover as a go-to choice and one she’d like to receive herself. Offered in men’s and women’s styles with a wide range of sizes and colors, it’s versatile enough to fit just about anyone and align with any brand palette.
“It’s cost-effective and flexible enough for everyone,” McCalla says. The pullover features raglan sleeves, a tapered neck and open cuffs and hem for easy movement. A soft-brushed backing and smooth-faced finish give a polished look, while moisture control keeps it wearable all year. With multiple branding locations, it offers plenty of ways to showcase client logos or messaging.
SanMar / PPAI 110788, Platinum / sanmar.com
Another item McCalla recommends to clients is the 3-in-1 Chi-Charge Snap Wireless Charger. “With remote workers, it’s important to ensure they have the right tech gear so that they can connect with other team members,” McCalla says.
Compact and travel-friendly, the charger easily powers a phone, Apple watch and AirPods simultaneously, making it a smart solution for work on the go. It also includes a compartment to store an adapter.
Twintech Industries / PPAI 261545, Silver / twintechpromo.com
“It’s important to stay hydrated, whether you are working at your desk or enjoying your time off,” McCalla says. A versatile product that fits the bill is the Urban Peak 25-oz. Portage Flip Straw Water Bottle. With a copper lining and vacuum-insulated liner, “it keeps drinks cold or hot as long or longer than those name brands with the sky-high price tag,” she adds.
The dual-walled stainless-steel construction, sweat-free powder-coated finish and lead-free vacuum seal make this bottle durable and reliable, while the twist-off lid with built-in flip straw and carry handles adds to everyday convenience. Two detachable internal straws and a one-year limited warranty are also included. “With the laser engraving or TruColor imprint, any brand really pops,” McCalla says.
Starline / PPAI 112719, Platinum / starline.com
Backpacks have been a great option, McCalla says. “Not only do they allow remote workers to pack all their essentials for work in one place, but they can also be used for personal travel.” A standout is the OGIO Roamer Pack, a client favorite for both business and leisure.
The bag is checkpoint-friendly with a drawer-style laptop compartment that lays flat for faster airport screening, meaning no need to remove devices. It also features a large main compartment with mesh pockets, a secondary pocket for accessories and a deluxe organization panel with a key clip. With padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel and a side mesh pocket for beverages, it’s designed for all-day comfort and purpose.
SanMar / PPAI 110788, Platinum / sanmar.com
Another product McCalla says does double duty for both work and play – and one she’d love to receive herself – is the HangTune Magnetic Wireless Speaker. “Computer audio isn’t always great, so connecting an external speaker helps keep team members engaged during meetings,” she says. “And this one is also perfect for downtime.”
The speaker delivers 10 watts of sound with about three hours of playtime and a 33-foot operating range. With an IPX7 waterproof rating, it’s built for rugged use, and its magnetic backing means it can snap onto golf carts, workbenches or even the side of a car for an instant branded party.
Handstands / PPAI 111285, Standard-Base / hpgbrands.com/handstands
“Surprisingly enough, throws or blankets have been a big hit,” McCalla says. “It shows you recognize that they have a life outside of work. And for those who occasionally come into a chilly office, it’s a nice perk.”
One standout option is the Tahoe Microfleece Throw. Measuring 50×60 inches and weighing only 22 ounces, it’s substantial and plush without being bulky. The ultra-plush microfiber polyester fleece is finely sheered, giving it a soft, cashmere-like texture. Each throw comes packaged in a zippered vinyl pouch, making it easy to present as a thoughtful gift.
Terry Town / PPAI 230911, Gold / terrytown.com
The Mix Siena Heathered Bound Journal proves that a notebook can be much more than blank pages. With custom tip-in sheets, it transforms into a continuous message to employees, whether that’s a note from leadership, a history of the company or even a simple organization chart for new hires. McCalla says one client uses the journal to reinforce their “golden rules” for safety in the field.
Sized at 5.5×8.5 inches, this journal includes 80 cream lined pages of FSC paper from responsibly managed forests, plus thoughtful extras like a ribbon page marker, elastic pen loop and both front and back document pockets. The heathered cover adds a polished finish, while branding options provide a meaningful tool for connection.
PCNA / PPAI 113079, Platinum / pcna.com
Long virtual meetings can make it tough to sit still, and that’s where a playful tool comes in handy. McCalla points to the Fun Spinner Bottle Opener as a favorite that keeps hands busy during the workday and comes through again after hours. Available in black, blue or white, it’s simple to match with almost any brand.
“It can help employees stay focused, and I’ve even heard of teams holding contests to see who can keep their spinner going the longest while waiting for a Zoom meeting to start,” she says. With stress-relieving benefits and a built-in bottle opener, it’s a small piece that brings big versatility.
Hit Promotional Products / PPAI 113910, Platinum / hitpromo.net
Luna is a marketing copywriter at PPAI.
