Category: Uncategorized

[Jacksonville, FL, June 12^th, 2023] – HC Brands (https://www.hcbrands.com/), a leading provider of customizable products, is thrilled to announce its acquisition of StickyLife.com (https://www.stickylife.com/), a niche personalized products company specializing in customized stickers and magnets.

StickyLife.com has carved out a niche for itself as a premier provider of personalized stickers and magnets, renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. With this acquisition, HC Brands gains access to StickyLife.com’s expertise, enabling the expansion of our product assortment, further enriching our customer experience, and allowing us to create more customer connections through personalized products.

Moreover, HC Brands is excited to welcome Natalee Fisher, co-founder, and CEO of StickyLife.com, as part of our leadership team. Natalee brings a wealth of experience and expertise in marketing, print production, customization, and product innovation. Her vision and strategic acumen will play a pivotal role in driving growth and exploring new market opportunities.

In the upcoming weeks, HC Brands will work closely with Natalee and the StickyLife.com team to ensure a seamless integration of operations. By leveraging the collective resources, knowledge, and skills of both organizations, HC Brands aims to deliver exceptional value to customers.

“We are thrilled to join forces with StickyLife.com and welcome Natalee Fisher to the HC Brands family,” said Bryan Croft, CEO of HC Brands. “This acquisition not only expands our product capabilities but also reinforces our commitment to providing personalized and high-quality products that exceed customer expectations. We are excited about the potential synergies that will emerge from this partnership.”

For further information and inquiries, please contact:

David Markle
Chief Marketing Officer
dmarkle@hcbrands.com

2021 St. Augustine Road E.
Jacksonville, FL 32207

About HC Brands:

HC Brands is a leading provider of customized products, including custom stamps, custom signs, name tags, and wall decals produced and shipped out of Jacksonville, FL and West Chester, PA.  With a focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, HC Brands crafts a diverse range of personalized products for events, branding, and décor. Through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, HC Brands continues to expand its product offerings and solidify its position as a leader in the customization market.

About StickyLife.com

StickyLife.com is a niche personalized products company specializing in customized stickers and magnets produced and shipped from Clayton, NC just southeast of Raleigh, NC.

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Starting and running a business is a challenging and time-consuming task. It requires focus, dedication, and hard work, but also comes with its own set of rewards. If you have a friend or family member who owns their own business, you may be looking for a special way to show your support and appreciation for their efforts. Here are some unique and thoughtful gift ideas for those who run their own business:

Customized Office Décor

Customized office décor can take many forms, from personalized wall art to desk accessories. A customized office décor item can help to brighten up the workspace and add a touch of personal style. By choosing items that reflect the business owner’s style and preferences, you can create a unique and thoughtful gift that they will appreciate for years to come.

Coffee Maker or Espresso Machine

High-quality coffee makers can transform an ordinary cup of coffee into an exceptional one, and they are a great way to boost morale in the office. Starting the day with a good cup of coffee or espresso can also help set the tone for a productive day. They are an essential gift for business owners who are working long hours and need an easy pick-me-up. To add an extra token of appreciation, you can even design your own custom coffee mug!

Comfortable Office Chair or Ergonomic Accessories

Comfort is key when it comes to a productive workspace. A comfortable office chair or ergonomic accessories such as a keyboard or mouse pad can help business owners work more efficiently and avoid discomfort or injury. Prioritizing the health of employees is also a great way to improve company culture and ensure that everyone can work to their full potential.

Personalized Planner or Journal

Organizing thoughts and tasks is critical for the success of any business. A personalized planner or journal can help business owners keep track of their schedule and priorities, allowing them to focus on what is most important. Writing down ideas can also ensure that business owners are on the right track toward achieving their goals.

Custom Signage

Custom signage is a highly effective way for businesses and individuals to communicate their messages and enhance their visibility. Whether it’s for advertising, wayfinding, or simply adding a personalized touch to a space, custom signs can be designed to meet specific needs and preferences. It’s a versatile and cost-effective marketing tool that can make a significant impact on any business’s success.

Portable Device Charger or Power Bank

In today’s fast-paced business world where many individuals are working remotely, having a fully charged mobile device is essential. Portable chargers offer a convenient and reliable way to keep electronic devices charged and ready for use. They can help business owners stay connected and productive, even when on-the-go.

Custom Rubber Stamp or Embosser

Custom rubber stamps and embossers are versatile and practical gifts for any business owner. Whether used for signatures, company logos, or special messages, they can save time and improve the professional look of any business document. Personalize the rubber stamp with the recipient’s name or company logo to make it a unique and special gift.

Business Books and Podcasts Subscription

Continuously learning and expanding knowledge is important for any business owner. A subscription to business books or podcasts can provide valuable insights and inspiration, helping business owners stay ahead of the curve. These informational tools are also useful for getting new ideas and thinking about your business differently.

As a business owner I always find myself lending out my books, so a From the Library of Stamp or a Library Book Embosser are both excellent gifts as well!

Custom Koozie® Can Coolers

Custom drinkware can be a great tool for promoting your business. By having your own business logo or tagline printed on the items, you can raise brand awareness and create a more professional image for your company. Custom Koozie® Can Coolers also makes for a great giveaway item or promotional product, helping to spread brand recognition through everyday use.

Bottom Line

Running a business requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and financial investment, and having the support of friends can make a big difference. By giving the business owners in your life a thoughtful gift, you are showing that you appreciate their hard work, and that you believe in their success. Additionally, your gift can help boost their morale and provide them with the motivation they need to continue pushing through tough times.

Browse our corporate gift guide for ideas and inspiration on how to make each interaction count. Our gift guide includes a variety of personalized products that are appropriate for all different occasions and budgets. Shop today and start showing appreciation for entrepreneurs!

The team at HC Brands celebrates any opportunity to give back to the Jacksonville community! For the 2021 holiday season, HC Brands employees supported Englewood high school students in need by partnering with Communities in Schools of Jacksonville.

“The Winter Wishes program gives us the chance to work with underprivileged and at risk teens in the local community,” says Sonia Postema, Chief People Officer.

HC Brands team members excitedly purchased gifts and donated money to brighten the holiday season for 10 teens, and on December 15th, HC Brands joined the Englewood students and instructors on a virtual meeting!

Englewood students, such as 11th graders Jacob McKinnon and April Perez shrilled with glee as they opened their gifts. When teachers announced that lunch would also be served, purchased with funds donated by HC Brands employees, students were extra excited!

Here is the highlight reel from the 2021 Winter Wishes program:

Employees from other HC Brands facilities located in Austin, Texas, Salem, Massachusetts and West Chester, Pennsylvania also donated money to support Winter Wishes!

We collected $650 in addition to a room full of gifts! We used this money to purchase additional individual gifts, stocking stuffers for all the students, and also bought their holiday lunch. I love that we were able to spend time with the older students. I feel like high school is tumultuous and it’s easy to forget how much these students need love and attention, says Sonia Postema.

HC Brands has also worked with Communities in Schools of Jacksonville for school supply donations, and looks forward to a continued partnership! Along with programs like Winter Wishes, HC Brands also supports the Jacksonville Humane Society, Her Song, Rethreaded, and Haiti 180.

A philanthropic pulse is at the heart of our company values, and we strive to make a difference in the Jacksonville community, says CEO Bryan Croft.

Related Blogs:

HC Brands Awards Scholarship to Nebraska Husker

HC Brands and Winter Wishes 2020

Education Opportunities at HC Brands

Meet the HC Brands Team

Congratulations to Grant Smith at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln for being the first recipient of the new yearly HC Brands Scholarship!

In 2020, we established the HC Brands Education Committee and Educational Program which consists of four paid internships, and a yearly scholarship. This year, a proud Nebraska Husker, Grant Smith, was selected because of the inspirational scholarship essay he wrote! In his essay, Grant not only explained why the scholarship would help him continue his studies in marketing and business, he also applied his goals to the HC Brands Core Values.

At HC Brands, we live by these values: Passion, Curiosity, Collaboration, Accountability, Grit and Winning. Grant’s essay proved that he also strives to live by these values!

“HC Brands has an impressive willingness to pay their success forward. I feel blessed and honored to be given this opportunity,” says Grant.

If you are interested in applying for the HC Brands scholarship, or one of our internships, learn more by clicking the following links:

HC Brands Scholarship

HC Brands Internships

Again, congratulations Grant Smith, and thank you to all applicants for your essays! We were privileged to read many great stories and experiences.

 

HC Brands Hosts Winter Wishes Virtual Event for 10 Terry Parker Students

HC Brands partners with Communities in Schools of Jacksonville to bring smiles to the faces of ten local high school students.  Through Communities in Schools’ Winter Wishes program, nearly 30 HC Brands employees purchased gifts for the students. The students, Communities in Schools CEO and staff, and HC Brands team joined a virtual meeting where the kids opened their gifts.  “It’s been a pleasure to organize this event and help these students have a special holiday,” says event organizer and HC Brands employee, Amber Bailey.

The staff and students wore masks and joined the virtual meeting from their own computers. The students received a range of gifts, including a new TV, Air Jordan sneakers, virtual music lessons, and necessities like clothing and bed sheets.

“HC Brands, for the more than 65 years of its operations, has had many Terry Parker alumni help us grow our company, including its owners.  It’s great to give back to the local community and help kids in need,” says Bryan Croft, Owner and CEO of HC Brands.

The partnership with Communities in Schools is just one of many relationships that HC brands has with the Jacksonville community. “Giving back is one of our core disciplines, and a philanthropic pulse will always be at the heart of our company,” says Croft.

In September, HC Brands also organized a back to school drive for Communities in Schools of Jacksonville.

About Communities in Schools

Since 1990, Communities in Schools of Jacksonville has helped more than 110,000 students. Many of their students face serious challenges, from hunger to homelessness. The Communities in Schools staff works inside and outside the classroom to help these students find new paths to success through case management, literacy tutoring, and afterschool programs.

About HC Brands

Since 1954, HC Brands, formerly Holmes Stamp & Sign, has provided essential business products to Jacksonville, FL, but in recent years has grown into a leading ecommerce provider of personalized products ranging from stamps to tumblers. Headquartered in Jacksonville, FL, with 10 web stores and additional distribution centers in Austin, TX, and Salem, MA, HC Brands continues to expand. Visit www.hcbrands.com for more information.

Related News:

HC Brands Establishes Education Committee

HC Brands Partners with CIS Jacksonville for School Drive

Wearing a mask has become a part of what people are calling the “new normal.” Masks aren’t just a means of protection against the novel corona virus, but a symbol of stepping up in hard times to support your coworkers, neighbors, friends and especially those who are most vulnerable. Although many of us are wearing our masks, we may not be wearing them properly. Sometimes our execution is a little off.

Make sure  you are wearing  your mask properly to not only ensure everyone’s safety, but to prevent you from sticking out like a sore thumb.

DOs:

Buy a Mask that Fits!

Carefully measure your face! When buying online, read the measurements of the mask thoroughly. It’s also good to have your measurements handy for in-store shopping since trying on a mask is a sanitary issue.

How to Measure your face for a mask?

• For Height: You want to use flexible measuring tape or even a piece of string & a rule to measure the length between the bridge of your nose to directly under your chin.
• For Width: Use the same materials to measure the length from your right cheek bone, going along the bridge of your nose, to your left cheek bone.

Our masks are made with two-ply 100% polyester material. It fits and secures to your face based on your mask size. You can check this first DO off the checklist!

If you measure for approximately 7″ x 4.75″ in you fit into a large

If you are measure for approximately 6.375” x 4.25″ you fit into a small size

Wear Your Mask Anytime You Go Out in Public

Now that you have a mask that fits, remember that you bought it so that you would actually wear it! Always bring your mask with you, and wear your mask especially indoors.

In indoor spaces (places that are enclosed by walls or windows), wear your mask

In outdoor spaces (places that are fully open to the outside), wear your mask

Whether you are going to your local supermarket  this evening, or you are going to your local park, you never know who you may encounter and what may be in the air, so it is always a good idea to wear a mask everywhere you go. The equation is quite simple: Going anywhere outside of the security of your own home = wear your mask!

Put On Your Mask the Right Way

How to put on your mask properly:

1. Grab the straps of your mask
2. Pull & latch each strap to the back of each of your ears, one at a time
3. Adjust with the edges of the mask so it is secured under your chin and sits directly on the bridge of your nose*

*If you have to adjust your mask after putting it on, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly

Wash or Dispose of Your Mask After Each Use

It is super important that after every use of your mask, that you either dispose of it, or (if you know that it can be used again) that you wash it properly.

Tips for Washing your Mask:

• Make sure that you mask is actually washable (if you are unsure either contact wherever you bought it or just dispose of it and get a new one)
• “Warm water and any detergent at home should work great” – Dr Gabriela Andujar Vazquez in her interview with Medical Xpress
• Don’t forget to wash the filter in your mask as well to prevent build-up of trapped air particles

Make sure to get a face mask that you know you can wash so that you don’t have to continue buying new ones. For example, our masks are 100% washable as you can either throw it in with your laundry or just use soap and warm water.

DON’TS

DO NOT continuously adjust or move your mask

Once your mask is on, try to avoid the urge to adjust or move it unless it is falling off of your face. Make sure that you have a mask that you don’t need to adjust or move in the first place.

DO NOT pull your mask off of your mouth to talk to people

The point of the mask is to protect you from other people and to protect other people from you. When you pull off your mask it completely defeats the exact purpose of why we wear it. Don’t worry, the other person knows how happy you are to see them and you don’t need to pull off your mask to show them your glowing smile.

DO NOT do any of the following:

• Wear your mask under your chin
• Wear your mask under your nose
• Wear your mask above your chin

DO NOT think you are invincible with your mask

A mask is just one precaution of many that you must take.

Never forget to also:

• Stay 6 feet apart from people
• Be careful of what you are touching with your hands
• Wash your hands frequently & have hand sanitizer at your ready

DO NOT put a mask on babies or children under 2 years old

DO NOT share your mask with others

Your mask is yours and yours only. It is one thing that you don’t have to share with others and that no one else probably wants to share with you!

Resources:

https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-05-reusable-mask.html

https://www.facebook.com/The-Man-Cave-1852177261746451/

https://mumcentral.com/

https://www.umass.edu/newsoffice/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/mask.png?itok=Vpqs699E

https://www.nytimes.com/

Table of Contents
▸Why You Should Wear a Mask
▸Non-medical Mask Protection
▸Face Covering Ideas
▸Where You Should Wear a Mask
▸Where You Can Go Mask Free
▸States Requring Masks
▸Who Doesn’t Have to Wear a Mask
▸Finding Out Local COVID-19 Mandates
▸About Our Masks

Wearing face masks has become a daily routine for people all over the world. In the United States, many businesses, cities and states have set strict rules for wearing face masks, especially as America starts to reopen. Face covering rests on a delicate balance between health and safety, and social etiquette. Depending on where you live, work and shop, it’s important to understand when you should cover your face, and why.

Why wear a mask or other face covering?

Even if you’re not fearful of catching the virus, it’s important to remember that wearing a face covering, particularly a non-medical mask or scarf, is mostly intended to protect others from YOU. Non-medical masks, such as the ones we sell, are primarily worn to trap larger droplets from coughs and sneezes, so that people are less likely to spread the virus while in public or in close spaces. Non-medical masks also protect your nose and mouth from dust, pollen, allergies, haze, exhaust, smoke and other substances.

What’s just as important is that wearing a face covering “fosters a sense of faith, a shared or mutual obligation and civic duty.” Read more here. Covering your face shows that you care about public health and you’re following guidelines set in place by the CDC and health officials.

While some cities and states are more relaxed with face coverings and other coronavirus prevention measures, others are implementing strict rules, fines and even possible jail time for non-compliance. Some businesses will not allow customers in without a face mask, and there have been many news reports across the US showing protests against mandates for face covering in public.

Outside of the legal implications, it’s now also a social expectation to cover our faces to protect those around us.

What do non-medical masks protect you from?

As stated above, non-medical masks protect your nose and mouth from dust, pollen, allergies, haze, exhaust, smoke and other substances. In the prevention against the spread of COVID-19, these lightweight face coverings are intended to capture droplets from coughs and sneezes. The more people wearing masks, the less likely COVID-19 can spread from one person to another.

N95 masks and respirators, on the other hand, are examples of personal protective equipment that protect the wearer from airborne particles and from liquid contaminating the face. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend that the general public wear N95 masks. These critical supplies should be reserved for health care workers and medical responders.

People are covering their faces with things like:

• Bandannas
• Scarves
• T-Shirts
• Painter’s masks
• Non-medical face masks
• Homemade cloth masks

Where should you wear a mask?

The CDC recommends that everyone wear a face covering in any setting where social distancing is not an option. Examples of very close spaces include planes, cars (especially Ubers and taxis), elevators and similar spaces. Other indoor spaces you should wear a mask include restaurants, grocery stores, convenience stores and post offices. Most businesses are following social distancing guidelines as they re-open, but customers should protect themselves and staff members of these businesses by wearing a mask indoors.

Face masks are highly recommended, and in some places are required in:

• Grocery stores
• Planes
• Restaurants
• Post offices
• Convenience stores
• Ubers and taxis
• Other close spaces where it is not as easy to maintain 6 feet of distance

Where you can be more relaxed about covering your face:

Most people can relax with face covering etiquette in outdoor spaces that allow air to flow more freely, and where people can easily distance themselves by 6 feet. You can be less concerned with covering your face when:

• Taking a walk or jog in your neighborhood
• Going to a beach or public park
• Visiting your local zoo
• In other wide open spaces that make it easier to maintain a safe distance

What states are requiring people to wear a face covering?

All Americans are recommended to wear face coverings in public places and confined spaces, but some states have taken it a step further. The list of states requiring face masks includes Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island. Moreover, as of April 20^th, essential business customers in Hawaii could face a $5,000 fine, or a year in jail, if they do not wear a face mask and maintain 6-foot distance.

Coronavirus prevention measures can change from day to day, and in places like Palo Alto, California, people are now required to wear a mask or face covering for most public activities. San Mateo, San Francisco, Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin and San Francisco counties also now require face coverings, with violations punishable as misdemeanors. From California, all the way to Florida, there are strict measures to enforce the use of face coverings in public.

If you plan to go out in public or to an essential business, make sure you’re aware of your area’s latest rules for face coverings. You may even want to call your grocery store or other business before you go, to know whether they’re requiring masks for entry.

Who is generally not required to wear a mask in public?

It’s important to check your state and city orders, but generally those exempt from wearing a face covering are:

• Children younger than two years of age
• Anyone for whom a face covering would cause impairment due to an existing health condition
• Those who work in a profession who do not have any face-to-face interactions with the public
• Anyone working in a profession where use of a face covering will not be compatible with the duties of the profession
• Anyone exercising, while observing social distancing in accordance with the CDC guidelines

How can you find out what your local rules for face covering are?

It can be tricky to understand what is a suggestion, and what is a requirement. In DC, for example, a discrepancy between the mayor’s verbal and written guidance has caused confusion for customers of essential businesses. This confusion resulted in grocery shoppers without face coverings being turned away.

You can stay on top of the latest orders and news in your area by checking your city’s website. Your city’s website will likely also offer a COVID-19 dashboard, the latest news updates about the pandemic, and new testing sites. If you are local to Northeast Florida for example, check Jacksonville’s COJ.net.

About Our Face Masks at HC Brands:

• Made of 100% 2-ply polyester
• Very comfortable & easy to wear
• Very soft, breathable and washable
• Feature elastic ear bands
• Protect your mouth & face from dust, cold, pollen, allergies, haze, exhaust emissions, passive smoking, Etc.
• Available in fun designs, colors or design-your-own style

 

At HC Brands and 904 Custom, you can easily create your own face masks with business logos, names or slogans. Head back to work safely, while you make a name for your brand.

You can also find designs that make face-covering fun. Shop emojis, animal prints, unicorns and more!

Our non-medical face masks are lightweight, machine washable and easy to wear. We also offer bulk discounts! Whether you’re shopping for your family or for your staff, you can get comfortable masks that help prevent the spread of germs and viruses.

More Blogs You Might Like:

Living, learning & working in a social distancing world

Holmes Custom is now HC Brands!