Mikayla Marini
Sales Representative
Archer & Hound Advertising
PPAI 649260 / Silver
Fresno, California
For clients eager to showcase their brand at large events, Marini knows custom canopies are a surefire choice. “They provide excellent coverage and branding options,” she says. With versatile setups that scale effortlessly, canopies create an impactful branded footprint.
The 10’x10’ Dye Sublimated Canopy Kit pairs a heavy-duty 600 denier polyester top – printed edge to edge in full color – with a professional-grade aluminum frame featuring sturdy 2-inch hex legs. An optional 10-foot-by-7- foot back wall adds even more real estate for messaging, while the 11-foot peak height and 17-inch valances maximize visibility. The included nylon bag makes transportation stress-free, and lightweight ropes and stakes make setup quick and simple. Setting the branding bar has never been easier.
Premier / PPAI 591611, Standard-Plus / premiercanopies.com
When in doubt, start at the top. Complete Custom Headwear offers customizable options that seamlessly align with any brand’s identity. As Marini puts it, “They bring our clients’ ideas to life.” With endless ways to mix and match materials – plus standout finishing touches like sublimated patches, 3D embroidery, laser-cut perforation, woven loop labels and adjustable snapback closures – there’s no doubt these caps are built to make an impact.
Cap America / PPAI 111597, Gold / capamerica.com
When clients need packaging that packs a punch, Marini turns to Printed Logo Boxes. “Unique and innovative packaging designs can enhance product presentations and experiences,” she says.
Made from durable materials and designed for easy assembly, custom printed boxes offer full-color, edge-to-edge printing that brings logos, messaging and bold designs to life. Available in styles like mailers and product display boxes, they’re a go-to for retail packaging, influencer kits and welcome gifts. For brands looking to make a statement before the product is even opened, this packaging delivers every time.
Yebo / PPAI 624710, Standard-Base / customboxesandpackaging.com
Made in the USA from recycled water bottles, the USAECO RePen is the go-to choice for eco-conscious clients who won’t compromise on quality. The retractable pen offers a smooth writing experience with a premium feel – perfect for large-scale programs.
Marini calls the pen “the perfect solution” for her longtime credit union client, who orders upwards of 120,000 units every year. “It looks and feels amazing every time.” With the oversized, one-color imprint on the barrel, the pen ensures a clean, consistent look with sharp branding, checking all the boxes.
All American Writing Instruments / PPAI 113946, Silver / garlandpen.com
Rod Parker
Owner
Out of the Box Marketing Solutions
PPAI 596335 / Standard-Base
Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada
When Parker wants a guaranteed win with clients, he turns to the Sherpa Lined Micro Mink Throw Blanket. “It’s a great quality blanket that has allowed us to do some very cool custom graphics,” he says.
Blending plush comfort with standout customization, the 50×60-inch sherpa-lined micro-mink blanket delivers both style and warmth. The ultra-soft front – made from 100% polyester micro mink – is perfect for full-color, edge-to-edge sublimation, allowing for detailed artwork, gradients and bold branding. The faux wool sherpa backing adds cozy weight and a luxe feel, making it a favorite for work-from-home gifts, team events and client appreciation kits. With vibrant color options and the ability to match brand aesthetics with precision, this blanket consistently earns a spot on the reorder list for clients looking to impress.
FIEL / PPAI 190714, Silver / fiel.com
With Crocs a Gen Z favorite, Custom Charms seem like an obvious option, and Parker is eager to give them a try. “I think they’re a great trend right now and something different for a smaller budget item,” he says. He sees major potential for youth programs and campaigns looking to stay on trend without overspending.
Made from high-quality, waterproof PVC, these durable charms are nontoxic and designed to stay put. With full customization and vibrant designs, they’re a fun, low-cost way to add personality to giveaways, school kits or event merch with small details but big impact.
Souvenir Matters / PPAI 769755, Standard-Base / souvenirmatters.com
The Aspen Tumbler is a reliable pick that Parker’s clients love. Designed for both style and function, its ceramic-coated interior eliminates the metallic taste some stainless steel creates, delivering a smooth drinking experience. “It’s like drinking from a ceramic mug, but with the insulation of a vacuum tumbler,” says Parker. “It’s been my go-to product for the past six months.”
Its dual-function, leak-proof lid offers flexibility – sip from the flip-top for hot drinks or use the built-in straw for cold ones. The 20-oz. tumbler has an easy-carry handle and is sized to fit standard cup holders, from cars to golf carts and everything in between. With generous imprint space and everyday practicality, this bottle is a dependable and well-crafted option for customizable drinkware.
Ad-N-Art / PPAI 236926, Standard-Plus / adnart.com
With its sturdy feel and clean, modern look, the 12-oz. Big Gulp Mug With Deep Etching has become a client favorite. Parker notes that products considered “staples for most people” will always be useful. “It feels great to drink out of, and clients have consistently been happy with it as their favorite mug, he says.
The deep etching delivers a crisp, permanent design that won’t fade or flake, whether opting for a one-side imprint or a full wrap. Each mug comes packaged in a black gift box, making it ready to gift straightaway. With weight and a modern shape, this is one promo item that won’t get pushed to the back of the cabinet.
Ad-N-Art / PPAI 236926, Standard-Plus / adnart.com
One of Parker’s most well-received products is the Belgian Chocolate Cookie With Debossed Logo. “These are a staple many of my clients,” says Parker, who sees an annual reorder rate of 80%. “Over the years, many have introduced me as the guy that does the chocolates – they’re that good.”
Each sugar cookie is topped with a thick layer of rich Belgian chocolate—available in milk or dark—and features a custom debossed design that brings logos and messages to life in an elegant (and delicious) way. Individually wrapped in clear cellophane to lock in freshness, these cookies are ideal for events, direct mail campaigns, corporate gifting and branded giveaways. With multiple packaging options and a premium look and taste, they’re an easy win for brands that want to leave a lasting impression in a small but memorable way.
Chocolate Chocolate PPAI 111668, Standard-Base / chocolate2.com
Luna is a marketing copywriter at PPAI.
