by Melissa Summers, Marketing
If you’ve recently started a T-Shirt business and are concerned about the name and branding you are going to stand behind, have no further worry. Stahls’ is here to give you some quick tips and pointers in starting your marketing campaign and how to identify important variables specific to your business model to help maximize your brand awareness and growth right from the start.
T-shirts are a wardrobe staple for men and women around the world. In fact, 62% of Americans own more than 10, and they aren’t wearing blank T-shirts, they want stylish, custom shirts that stand out from the crowd.
You can meet the need for unique customer T-shirts with your own business and it’s easy to get started. All you need are screen printed transfers, a heat press, blank T-shirts, and a business license. But before that, your business needs a name. The right name can give your business a leg up, and the wrong name can doom it to failure.
Here are 5 mistakes to avoid when naming your T-shirt business:
1. Not identifying your target market and niche.
To choose a name that appeals to your target market, you need to know who they are. The world of T-shirts is large and to stand out you need to narrow in on the business you want. Think, “T-shirts for dog lovers”, “T-shirts for sassy kids and their parents”, or even “T-shirts for teachers”. When you know what your market is you can choose a name that will appeal to the people you want to attract.
2. Choosing a unique spelling.
At first glance a unique spelling of a common name, “Mary’s Kreationz” seems like a great way to stand out and be memorable. But unique spellings make it difficult for potential customers to find you online with a search engine.
3. Picking a name that limits your product offering.
Even though today you’re only selling T-shirts, eventually you may want to add to your catalog. With a heat press you can customize hats, bags, uniforms, and even shoes. Beyond apparel, you can decorate many promotional items like umbrellas, laptop cases, and more. Using a product category as part of your name will stop your business from expanding right from the start.
4. Not checking for trademark conflicts.
Your business can end up in hot water if your name infringes on someone else’s trademark. You can be sued and even bankrupted by this oversight. Make sure you check for these conflicts by consulting a trademark attorney or utilizing government databases. The free eBook, The Ultimate Guide to Starting a T-Shirt Business, shows you where to find these resources. You don’t necessarily have to trademark your business name, but it’s worth considering doing so as you check for conflicts.
5. Not having a marketing strategy.
Any name can be effective with the right marketing strategy to back it up. This means planning how and where you’ll talk to your target market about your business. Is it social media? Web or print advertising? The Ultimate Guide to Marketing Your T-Shirt Business is a great place to start.
Learn more about starting your T-shirt business, including tips for naming your business, with The Ultimate Guide to Starting a T-Shirt Business.
From my point of view, people who are planning to sell shirts online must at least work with a reputable garment printing shirt service. Well, I also agree with you that businesses must opt for a name that will appeal to their niche. You’re right that coming up with other promotional items such as hats, and shoes is a great idea too.
Thanks for reading along and sharing your perspective, Rachel!