Start with the Story

Your merch should capture the narrative of your event and extend its message into the real world. What do you want people to feel when they see it? What do you want them to remember?

Our client’s global roadshow had a theme of travelers setting sail towards a shared destination. So for the event’s merch, we designed custom luggage tags. Practical, memorable and perfectly in step with the event’s story.

How to do it: Before you dive into product ideas, ask yourself: What story are we telling? What feeling do we want to leave behind? Let your answers guide your design.

Designed for Everyday Life

Great merch lives on. The most-loved pieces are the ones that blend into daily life, while still being a reminder of a moment in time. That’s why you should choose items that people will genuinely use, but add a design-forward or customised touch to keep your brand top of mind.

At our recent team offsite, we handed out sleek reusable coffee cups designed with a branded slogan: “Brainstorm brew, served hot.” Our team used them all week, then took them home for their daily flat white fix!

How to do it: Think simple, but elevated. A classic notebook feels special when it’s embossed, wrapped in textured paper and paired with a quote that makes you smile.

Make It Personal

There’s something powerful about receiving something that feels made just for you. Personalised items are special, exclusive and worth keeping, while showing your attendees you care about them individually.

At our 2024 Von Peach offsite, we teamed up with designer Awkward Aron to create a custom artwork series inspired by the zodiac. Each team member received a T-shirt featuring a bold, playful illustration based on their own star sign, as well as a tote bag decorated with the full set of artworks. Personal, unexpected and very Von Peach!

How to do it: Depending on your time and budget, personalisation could be as simple as a name card tied with ribbon, or as luxe as a monogrammed accessory.

Lean into Local

Locally made merch adds soul. It reflects the place and people behind your event, and it’s often more sustainable too. Whether it’s handmade ceramics, artisanal snacks or prints from a local illustrator, partnering with local creators can turn a simple giveaway into a heartfelt gift.

How to do it: Seek out makers and small businesses in your event location to create something with heart. You’ll give guests a tangible memory while also supporting the community that hosted you.

Sustainability Isn’t Optional

If you aren’t thinking green in 2025, you’re about to be left behind. More and more guests expect (and appreciate) merch that aligns with their values, so that means thoughtful sourcing, reusable formats and minimal waste.

For our Von Peach and client event merch, we source most of our event items from within Europe. It cuts down on shipping emissions, shortens lead times and lets us collaborate closely with suppliers. Good for the planet and the process!

How to do it: Think beyond the product. Consider the packaging, the quantity and the life cycle. Fewer, better things go a long way.

Memorable merch isn’t about slapping a logo on something and calling it a day. It’s about telling your story, showing you care and making people feel part of something bigger. When done right, these small objects can become meaningful touchpoints - little reminders of a moment, a message or a brand that truly gets it.

Ready to create event merch your guests will actually love? Let’s make it happen!