7 effective marketing materials for small business

Marketing materials for small businesses are essential for growth and success. They can help increase brand awareness, attract new customers, and improve sales. Let's take a quick look at seven effective marketing materials for small businesses and how you can use them to power up your brand. 

From elevating your [podcast marketing strategy](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/boost-your-podcast-marketing-strategy-with-branded-giveaways "improve podcast marketing campaigns") to creating an entire brand aesthetic, these materials can help promote your brand profile online and offline.

![custom buttons for effective marketing campaigns](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0243248c-5f5c-4535-b4a7-77ebfa110259)

###Custom buttons
Round, colorful, friendly. A [custom button](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-buttons "fast custom buttons printing") can be all that — and so much more. Most importantly, it can pin your brand to a customer's shirt, jacket, or backpack. 

Add a neat, quality-looking button to a product shipment, hand out buttons at an event or party, or give them as a memento to customers visiting your physical store. However you use them, custom buttons are a quiet, but stylish way to promote your brand. 

###Custom t-shirts
Really, who doesn't love an extra tee? We wear [custom t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom shirts printing online") often, and not just for doing some yard work on a hot Saturday afternoon. If you design your custom t-shirt well, your customers will happily flaunt it out and about.

Custom t-shirts are the perfect swag for say, expressing your thanks to event participants. But you can also sell them as branded merchandise and add them to special offers and promos. Trust us: nobody ever says no to a nice, comfy tee.

###Custom stickers
You can't expect us not to bring up [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom sticker printing"), but we have the best of reasons: they're a proven, time-tested marketing strategy. Use branded stickers to create a [marketing pack](https://www.stickermule.com/en-in/blog/your-guide-to-creating-the-ultimate-marketing-pack "custom marketing pack for businesses"), in giveaways, or to decorate your shipping boxes. Or any other way you can think of — we don't hold a monopoly on sticker usage ideas!

Whatever you do, we're sure your customers will love those crispy, smooth and oh-so-sleek custom stickers.

![custom wall graphics printing for small business](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/dc1b3d7f-8832-4018-b422-b69978f0ebcf)

###Custom wall graphics
[Custom graphics](https://www.stickermule.com/products/wall-graphics "custom wall graphics for small business") are the sticker's big brother, and a little bit too conscious of their importance, too. That's why they tend to make fewer appearances — but when they do, it's to impress.

Also known as wall decals, our custom wall graphics can be used as an out-of-the-box way to add style to homes, businesses, schools, or pretty much any environment you can think of.

###Custom flyers
When you think 'handing out' you think 'flyers'. Of course: these bad boys are just about the easiest, most cost-effective way to put your brand out there. [Custom flyers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-flyers "custom flyer printing") are great for giving out at events, on the street, or in your office, they can be a perfect mix between sharing useful information and bringing attention to the services and products your company has to offer.

###Custom magnets
I honestly think the childhood magic of playing with magnets never fully goes away. And perhaps, just perhaps, that's why [custom magnets](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-magnets "custom magnets for small business marketing") work so well as part marketing packs or [branded giveaways](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/boost-your-podcast-marketing-strategy-with-branded-giveaways "podcast marketing branded giveaways") — people just like them, like I know we both do.

So when you think of marketing materials to promote your brand, remember a custom magnet can go a long way. And it's the only thing that'll get your brand right into the center of anyone's house: the fridge.

![custom package stickers for small business marketing](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/ff7aeb6e-eab6-4399-b1e4-329774b84fc9)

###Custom packaging
Yes, packaging is one of those practical things we wish we could avoid. But it doesn't have to be practical in the way of dull or boring — [custom packaging](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-packaging "custom packaging for small businesses") can also be practical in the way of promoting your brand with very little effort or cost.

Don't believe us? Then check out these [5 ways to make your packaging stand out](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/5-inexpensive-ways-to-make-your-packages-stand-out "5 ways to make packaging stand out"). From inserts to custom tape, there's a solution for every budget and taste.

###Capping off
The above marketing materials ideas are just some of the many ways you can leverage your small business marketing strategy. The best thing about them: they're a cost-effective way to draw new customers to your brand, improve your sales, and push brand awareness to a whole new level.

And well, I'm sure you'll have noticed Sticker Mule gives you access to a range of high-quality printing services for marketing materials. T-shirts, stickers, wall graphics, flyers, magnets, buttons, packaging — all that and a good deal more. So, if you've read this far, it's your move: try out these materials and start shaping a memorable customer experience to boost your brand's success.

<ButtonCta text="Start printing online today!" href="https://stickermule.com" />


There are a lot of marketing materials out there for small businesses, but which ones are the most effective? Here are 7 tried and tested marketing materials that can power your marketing campaigns.

Boost your podcast marketing strategy with branded giveaways

Podcasting has exploded in recent years, with more than [100 million Americans listening to podcasts](https://www.insiderintelligence.com/insights/the-podcast-industry-report-statistics/ "podcast statistics") each month. This growth is great for the industry, but it also means competition is higher than ever. Podcasters looking to attract new listeners (and keep their existing ones engaged) face a significant challenge. 

![podcast marketing strategy](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f3c7f590-fced-45d7-b9d1-b419d3e5e127)

Today we'll discuss how launching giveaways of [custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers "custom stickers printing"), [magnets](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-magnets "custom magnets online"), and [t-shirts](https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts "custom t-shirts") (sometimes called “swag” or “merch”) with your branding can be a powerful podcast marketing strategy, rewarding current listeners and gaining new ones at the same time.

## Why launch a giveaway?

Giveaways are a tried-and-true marketing tactic that’s been used for decades by businesses to attract new customers and keep existing ones engaged. They provide an incentive for people to take a specific action — sign up for a newsletter, follow a social media account or, in this case, listen to a podcast.

Launching a giveaway of branded merch has a number of benefits for podcasters:

1. __It rewards your listeners:__ By giving away something of value to your listeners, you're showing them that you appreciate their support and are invested in their experience.
2. __It generates buzz:__ Giveaways generate excitement and can help get people talking about your podcast. This can lead to more word-of-mouth recommendations and a larger audience.
3. __It increases brand awareness:__ Custom stickers, magnets, and t-shirts are all items that people use and wear in public. By putting your branding on these items, you're increasing your visibility and building brand recognition.

## How to launch a giveaway

Launching a giveaway is relatively easy and doesn't require a large investment. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get started:

1. __Choose your item:__ Custom stickers, magnets, and t-shirts are all great options for podcast giveaways that listeners still get excited about receiving. But do consider which item will resonate most with your audience and align with your branding.
2. __Design your item:__ Work with a designer or use an online design tool to create a design that features your branding and is visually appealing.
3. __Determine the rules:__ Decide on the rules for entering the giveaway. For example, you could require people to follow your podcast on social media, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, or share a specific episode with their friends.
4. __Promote your giveaway:__ Use your podcast, social media, and email newsletter to promote your giveaway and encourage people to enter. Be sure to use SEO-friendly keywords like "podcast marketing strategy" and "how to promote a podcast" in your promotions to increase visibility.
5. __Choose your winners:__ Once the giveaway has ended, choose your winners and notify them via email or social media.

![custom stickers for podcasts](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/f33c2b2b-9c25-4cec-93bd-725e48487f3c)

## Tips for a successful giveaway

To ensure that your giveaway is a success, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. __Make it easy to enter:__ The more hoops people have to jump through to enter your giveaway, the less likely they are to do so. Keep the entry process simple and straightforward.
2. __Set a clear deadline:__ Giveaways should have a clear end date, which should be prominently displayed in your promotions.
3. __Follow through on your promise:__ If you promise to give away a certain number of items, be sure to follow through on that promise. Failing to do so can damage your reputation and make it less likely that people will participate in future giveaways.
4. __Collect feedback:__ After the giveaway has ended, ask your listeners for feedback on their experience. This can help you improve future giveaways and make your podcast more engaging overall.

## Conclusion

Launching a giveaway of custom stickers, magnets, and t-shirts with your branding can be an effective podcast marketing strategy that rewards listeners and gains new ones. By providing an incentive for people to engage with your podcast, you're building a loyal audience that will be more likely to recommend your show to others. 

But keep in mind that giveaways are just one tactic in a broader podcast marketing strategy. To promote your podcast effectively, you'll need a multi-channel approach that includes social media, email marketing, guest appearances on other podcasts, and more.

And of course, what ultimately matters most is that you’re putting out high-quality content that resonates with your target audience. Giveaways can be a great way to attract new listeners, but it's the quality of your podcast that will keep them coming back for more.

Finally, be sure to track your results and adjust your strategy as needed. Use analytics tools to measure the success of your promotions and engagement metrics to see how your audience is responding to your podcast overall.

Follow these best practices to create a successful podcast marketing strategy that rewards your listeners and expands your audience. 

## Ready to get started!?

<ButtonCta text="Create your own custom stickers" href="https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers" />
<ButtonCta text="Create your own custom magnets" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-magnets" />
<ButtonCta text="Create your own custom t-shirts" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/custom-t-shirts" />


Podcast marketing strategy doesn't need to be hard. Leverage giveaways to build your brand and generate buzz to gain new audiences!

What is upscaling and how is AI revolutionizing it?

For decades now, upscaling has been an important and even [sometimes contentious](https://www.wired.co.uk/article/history-colourisation-controversy "controversy about upscaling historic videos") part of image and video processing. It refers to the process of increasing the resolution and quality of an image or video, making it look sharper and more detailed. Note that while upscaling is often used interchangeably with the term ‘upconversion’, but upconversion typically refers to the conversion of one video format to another, while upscaling is more commonly used to describe the process of increasing the resolution of an image or video.

While there are many different methods for upscaling images and videos, they generally involve a complex series of algorithms that analyze the image or video data and interpolate additional pixels to create a higher-resolution image or video. In some cases, these algorithms may also use information from surrounding pixels to help predict the content of missing pixels.

![free image upscale online](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/241e5caf-c1d9-4195-bd7e-2c547ae428ca)

## What is image upscaling?

[Image upscaling](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale "upscale images online free") has been a key part of digital imaging for many years. With advancements in technology, it has become easier to upscale images while maintaining the quality of the original image. In general, there are two main methods for image upscaling: interpolation and super-resolution.

Interpolation is a relatively simple method that involves adding new pixels between the existing pixels in an image. This is done by taking the color values of surrounding pixels and using them to create new pixels that fit seamlessly into the image. While this method is quick and easy, it often produces images that are blurry or lacking in detail.

Super-resolution, on the other hand, is a more complex technique that uses algorithms to create additional pixels based on the content of the original image. This method involves analyzing the image data to determine the structure and texture of the original image, and then using this information to create additional pixels that match the existing content. This generally produces higher quality images that are more detailed and sharper than those produced through interpolation.

There are a number of image upscaling services that are available, allowing users to [upscale their images for free](https://www.stickermule.com/upscale "enhance photos for free online"). These services typically use interpolation methods to add new pixels to an image and can be a great option for individuals who need to upscale a small number of images. While these services may not produce the same high-quality results as more advanced upscaling methods, they can be a convenient and cost-effective option for individuals who need to upscale images for personal or non-commercial use.

## What is video upscaling?

Video upscaling is a more complex process than image upscaling because it involves analyzing and processing multiple frames of video data. Like image upscaling, video upscaling typically involves interpolation or super-resolution methods, but it also requires additional processing to ensure that the video data is consistent from frame to frame.

One of the challenges of video upscaling is that it can introduce motion artifacts or other distortions if the upscaling process is not done carefully. To avoid these problems, many video upscaling algorithms use advanced techniques such as motion compensation, which can help ensure that the video data remains smooth and consistent even when upscaling is applied.

![ai robot upscale photos](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/572a2e7e-9cb5-42ae-bc1c-ef20fdc82fd4)

## How does Artificial Intelligence fit in with upscaling?

One of the most exciting developments in upscaling technology is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance image and video processing. With AI, it became possible to analyze image and video data in much greater detail than was previously possible, and to use this information to create higher quality upscaled images and videos.

There are several different types of AI algorithms that are commonly used for upscaling, including neural networks, deep learning, and machine learning. These algorithms work by analyzing large amounts of image and video data to learn patterns and structures, and then using this knowledge to improve the quality of the upscaled images and videos.

The use of AI in upscaling is still a relatively new field, but it is already producing impressive results. With AI, it is possible to create upscaled images and videos that are nearly indistinguishable from the original content, even when the resolution has been increased significantly.

## What are the future implications of upscaling?

The use of upscaling technology is becoming increasingly important in a wide range of industries, including film and video production, gaming, and virtual reality. As the demand for higher-quality images and videos continues to grow, upscaling technology will play an ever-more fundamental role in helping to meet this demand.

The use of AI in upscaling is also likely to transform the industry in significant ways. AI algorithms are becoming more and more sophisticated, and are able to analyze and process data at an unprecedented level of accuracy and detail. The future of upscaling technology is thus likely to involve even more advanced AI algorithms that can produce even higher quality images and videos.

Another key area where upscaling technology is expected to have a significant impact in the future is in virtual and augmented reality. These technologies rely heavily on high-quality images and videos to create immersive experiences, and upscaling technology will be critical in delivering these experiences to users.

In addition, upscaling technology is likely to have a major impact on the gaming industry. With the growing popularity of 4K and 8K gaming, the demand for high-quality upscaled images and videos is likely to grow exponentially. The use of AI in upscaling will be essential in meeting this demand and providing gamers with the high-quality visuals they crave.

## In summary

- Image upscaling is the process of increasing the resolution of an image. Upscaling methods include interpolation and super-resolution. The use of AI in upscaling is transforming the industry, producing higher quality images that are nearly indistinguishable from the original content.

- Upscaling is a key part of digital imaging and video processing. While image upscaling typically involves interpolation and super-resolution, video upscaling is more complex and requires additional processing to ensure that the video data is consistent from frame to frame. AI is revolutionizing the upscaling industry, allowing for the creation of higher quality images and videos.

- With advancements in technology, upscaling has become easier and more accurate. Interpolation involves adding new pixels between existing pixels, while super-resolution analyzes image data to create additional pixels based on the original image. Upscaling technology is becoming increasingly important in industries such as film and video production, gaming, and virtual reality.

- Upscaling technology is a critical component of virtual and augmented reality. These technologies rely heavily on high-quality images and videos to create immersive experiences, and upscaling technology is key to delivering these experiences to users. The gaming industry is also reliant on upscaling technology to meet the demand for high-quality visuals.

- There are a number of free online image upscaling services that use interpolation to add new pixels to an image. While these services may not produce the same high-quality results as more advanced upscaling methods, they can be a convenient and cost-effective option for individuals who need to upscale images for personal or non-commercial use. The importance of upscaling technology is only going to increase as the demand for high-quality images and videos continues to grow.

<ButtonCta text="Try upscaling images today for free!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/upscale" />


Image and video upscaling is growing in popularity, but what exactly is it and how is it a benefit for you? Find out more as we discuss how AI is transforming image/video upscaling.

How to create a new hire kit your team members will love 

For most new hires, the first day in a *new* office at a *new* company with *new* coworkers is exhausting. 

From HR paperwork to meeting 20 people in 20 minutes, it's overwhelming for someone to change companies — and that's before the work even starts.

Creating an attractive company culture and welcoming new hires to your team doesn't mean you have to offer free massages, unlimited vacation, and an in-office movie theater.

Instead, we want to show you __how to make onboarding your new hires fun, easy, and inexpensive__.

Below, we're going to introduce you to a startup who hacked the onboarding process and developed an effective (and unique) way to welcome new team members aboard.

Meet [Boxed](https://www.boxed.com/), an online retailer with 117 employees and a seriously fun and effective onboarding process.

![How to create a new hire kit](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/92e601f58aba6a5e5a6e2164d0ed161e346ac0d8 "New hire kits from Boxed, with custom stickers")

Boxed was founded in 2013 by an experienced group of tech pioneers with a simple idea to make bulk shopping easy, convenient, and fun.

When Boxed brings a new hire into the company, they want them to feel passion for the organization and the brand. So when Boxed started their new hire checklist, they made sure all the basics were set.

__Laptop configured?__ *Check.*

__Day one meet-and-greet with the team?__ *Check again.*

__Rundown of the business process and workflow?__ *Check and check.*

Boxed had all the "normal" checkboxes filled...but they wondered if they were really setting their new team members up to succeed and love the Boxed mission.

It was around this time they came up with an idea to add an exciting new step to their onboarding process.

## The Boxed new hire kit

![The Boxed new hire kit](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/894fbb6cc6abf62113d97ac1182e5efd4a08bd36 "Boxed new hire kits")

They wanted to give each new employee something special to show they were part of the team. The first question was, What goes into the kit?

Then, a lightbulb went on.

Earlier this year, Boxed used [Sticker Mule’s die cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) for a conference. Grace, a Recruiter at Boxed, was obsessed, "I liked them so much I said 'gimme more stickers.'"

Stickers were the perfect place to start the new hire kit — simple, cost-effective, and beautiful.

Catherine, a Business Analyst at Boxed, agrees, "The first question is cost, and stickers are the best option."

Immediately, the Boxed team decided stickers would be the heart of the Boxed New Hire Kit. Without hesitation, they jumped on [250 roll labels](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-labels), [200 die cut stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers), and [200 clear stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/clear-stickers) for their new hire kits.

> The kit has helped Boxed create a friendly, welcoming culture where new hires feel comfortable to do their best work."

Happy with the stickers, they moved to the next steps of the kit. What else would new employees at Boxed need to feel welcomed and succeed from day one?

The team settled on 6 other "must-haves" for new hires to start on the right foot:

1. Welcome letter signed by the team
2. Branded water bottle
3. Pens
4. Customized notebook
5. Small case of Post-Its, rubber-bands, and paperclips
6. "Love that bulk" T-shirt 

They carefully placed all six items ([plus some extra custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-stickers)) in a personalized box, and then sealed the box with a [circle label](https://www.stickermule.com/products/circle-roll-labels).

![How to create a new hire kit](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/73912ea93cb06b4d52881b1d54feb1d1347bd5c3 "What to place in an onboarding kit")

Every new employee receives a kit — even summer interns!

Best of all, it has helped Boxed create a friendly, welcoming culture where new hires feel comfortable to do their best work.

When you walk into the Boxed office, you’ll see stickers on phones, laptops, and anywhere else the team can show their passion.

As one new team member said: "Getting company swag is really welcoming. It should be a requirement for startups. When I wear branded shirts, have stickers on my phone and laptop, I feel like I’m representing the company."

Grace agrees, "The reactions from our new hires are always positive. The interns particularly were surprised when they walked into a room with gifts prepared for them."

__No more overwhelming first days. No more exhaustion. No more confusion, frustration, or doubt for a new hire when they join a new company__.

Instead, there is a warm atmosphere where new hires __feel part of a unique, motivated and growing family__.

Compared to a normal new hire onboarding process, it's like night and day. 

![Custom company logo stickers on laptop](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b41a899de3ba5f4e1256a41e196f441d05cdef4b "Custom company logo stickers on laptop")

> Creating an attractive company culture and welcoming new hires to your team doesn't mean you have to offer free massages, unlimited vacation, and an in-office movie theater."

Never one to settle, Boxed is now planning to make the kit even better. They let us in on a secret — in version 2.0, they're planning to add a sweatshirt and a bottle opener.

## To create your own new hire kit, here are 3 pillars from Boxed to follow:

### 1. Start with custom stickers. 
Easy to order, cost-effective and beautiful, Grace has seen the custom stickers she gives out to new hires everywhere — on monitors, the back of phone cases, even in wallets to hand out to friends. It's the easiest way to turn any object into company swag. Here’s Grace’s advice: "If you’re on the fence, [try 100 circle roll labels for $49](https://www.stickermule.com/products/circle-roll-labels)."

### 2. Don't worry about the details. 
Boxed could have had back-and-forth debates about what the kit should include until their faces turned blue, but they started with a "Minimum Viable Kit" and put custom stickers, pens, a notebook, and a few other items that they knew would add value. Starting was more important than wasting time trying to get it 100% right the first time.

### 3. Make your new hire kit unique to your company. 
Maybe you don't care about Post-It notes. What can you substitute instead? For example, if you’re a travel company, you can give a new hire a new laptop bag to bring on flights and include [custom buttons](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-buttons) to show off the company. Bring out what is unique to your business and brand.

## Start your own new hire kit

As Grace said, "Stickers are a necessity." Sticker Mule makes it fast and easy to get custom stickers like [die cut custom stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) or [roll labels](https://www.stickermule.com/custom-labels).

![Custom company logo stickers on iPhone](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/0dfc7a36898c7d913e62a1355fcfd498d185f848 "Custom company logo stickers on iPhone")

Why not [turn your company logo into a custom sticker](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/logo-stickers) so your employees (new and seasoned) can apply it to their own favorite items like their laptops, phones and water bottles. 

If you're ready to start your own new hire kit and order custom stickers, we want to help. [Get $10 off your first Sticker Mule order](https://www.stickermule.com/unlock?ref_id=7980330701&ref=blog) when you sign up by clicking the button below.

<ButtonCta text="Get $10 credit" href="https://www.stickermule.com/unlock?ref_id=7980330701&ref=blog" />

Creating a new welcome kit is an important part to create a welcoming work environment. Learn how one startup, Boxed, used custom stickers to bring smiles to their employees on the first day.

29 ways on how to come up with a good business name

Starting a business can be an exciting and challenging experience, and that also goes for one of the first decisions you’ll need to make — choosing a name for your business. 

![custom business name stickers](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/6f9ecb41-1825-47b5-9879-e81682b126b9)

But what’s in a name? Would not an Apple by any other name taste as sweet? 

Well, the jury is out, but we know one thing: A well-chosen, memorable name can make your business stand out. If it’s catchy, it’ll help grab the attention of potential customers and establish your brand. Ultimately, your brand name can be a key factor in your marketing strategy and overall success in business.

So, to help you come up with a good name for your business, we’ve compiled a list of 29 ideas to inspire you and guide you through the process, complete with examples of famous brands to illustrate each case.

1. __Create mash-ups__: Combine two words to create a unique name that is memorable and easy to remember. Example: Microsoft. Good for: Technology, Business Services.
2. __Use foreign words__: Use a foreign word to create a unique and exotic business name. Example: Toyota. Good for: Automotive, Manufacturing.
3. __Talk about beliefs or sentiments__: Use your values and beliefs to inspire your business name. Example: LG (Life’s Good). Good for:Technology, Business Services.
4. __Look at a map__: Inspiration can be found in geographic locations. Use region, city or street names for your business name. Example: Patagonia. Good for: Retail, Outdoors.
5. __Use Latin__: Latin words or phrases can help create a sophisticated and exotic business name. Example: Novartis. Good for: Healthcare, Beauty.
6. __Use an alliteration__: Use [alliteration](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alliteration) to create a catchy and memorable name. Example: Coca-Cola. Good for: Food & Beverage.
7. __Find a spirit animal__: Harness names of animals to convey the qualities of your product. Example: Red Bull. Good for: Food & Beverage.
8. __Get fruity__: Leverage the power of symbolic objects such as fruits for a catchy and visual title.. Example: Apple. Good for: Technology, Personal Care.
9. __Inspiration from Nature__: Find inspiration in the natural world and choose a name that evokes a sense of wonder and tranquility. Examples: The Nature’s Co, Earth’s Best. Good for: “Green” products, Food and Beverage.
10. __Different perspective__: Consider using a different perspective or angle to give your business a sense of grandeur, even when it doesn’t directly connect to its nature. Example: Amazon. Good for: Retail, E-commerce.
11. __Use a sound__: Choose a business name that includes a sound that’s easy to say and sticks to the memory. Examples: Twitter, Bing. Good for: Technology, Search Engines.
12. __Play on words__: Use puns, rhymes, and wordplays to create a pleasant-sounding name your clients won’t forget. Examples: 7-Eleven, Hotmail. Good for: Convenience Stores, Technology.
13. __Use a name generator__: Try a [name generator tool](https://www.shopify.com/tools/business-name-generator "business name generator tool") to quickly come up with a few interesting ideas. Example: Stickers and Stones. Good for: Technology, Entertainment, Communications.
14. __Use a quote__: Incorporate a quote or famous phrase into your business name to evoke emotion and connect with your target audience. Examples: Just Do It (Nike), The Quick Brown Fox (digital marketing agency). Good for: Sports, Marketing.
15. __Use your passion__: Reflect your personal interests or passions in your business name. Examples: The Yoga Room, The Artful Peddler. Good for: Wellness, Art.
16. __Partner with another company__: Consider partnering with another company to create a new name that represents both brands. Examples: Adidas Porsche Design Sport (sportswear and accessories). Good for: Fashion, Retail.
17. __Mythology and literature__: Use characters or themes from mythology or literature to create a unique business name. Example: Mercury (communications). Good for: Communications, Marketing.
18. __Tweak the spelling__: Slightly altering the spelling of a word is a great way to catch the eye. Examples: Flickr, Fiverr. Good for: Technology, Photography.
19. __Use numbers__: Incorporate numbers into your business name to make it unique and memorable. Examples: 7-Eleven, 101 Domain. Good for: Retail, Technology.
20. __Abbreviate__: Use an abbreviation or acronym for your business name. Examples: Intel (technology). Good for: Technology, Manufacturing.
21. __Use your own name__: If your own name is unique, it can help create a personal instantly recognizable  brand. Example: Oprah Winfrey (media). Good for: Media, Personal Care.
22. __Pop culture inspiration__: Draw inspiration from popular movies, TV shows, music, and celebrities to create a memorable and relatable business name. Example: Nike (named after the Greek goddess of victory). Good for: Fashion, Technology.
23. __Use acronyms__: Easy-sounding acronyms can be perfect for brand names Example: IBM (technology). Good for: Technology, Business Services.
24. __Mix things up__: Create a unique name by combining two words or phrases that aren’t typically associated with each other. Examples: AirBnB (hospitality). Good for: Travel, Hospitality.
25. __Tell your story__: Use your personal story or history to inspire your business name. Examples: Ben & Jerry’s (ice cream). Good for: Food, Beverage.
26. __Make it descriptive__: Use a name that clearly relates to what your business does. Example: Dropbox (cloud storage). Good for: Technology, Business Services.
27. __Pick a word from the dictionary__: Choose a little-used word from the dictionary that conveys a quality (such as wisdom or power) connected to your brand. Example: Oracle (technology). Good for: Technology, Education.
28. __Names of minerals and rocks__: Use mineral and rock names to project stability and authority. Examples: Diamond Bank (finance). Good for: Finance, Banking.
29. __Use a symbol__: A symbol can help make a business name more memorable and visually appealing. Example: Starbucks (coffee shop). Good for: Restaurants, Beverages.

While coming up with a brand name is never an easy task, it’s one well worth your time and attention. Whether drawing inspiration from mythology, literature, or Mother Nature herself, the name you settle on can help you lay the bedrock for a successful enterprise.

So take your time and look for something that resonates with your audience. Extravagant and instantly memorable or commonplace, but relatable — there’s no wrong approach. Somewhere in the universe of possibilities a perfect name is waiting for your brand. Time to go find it.

<ButtonCta text="Make custom business logo stickers" href="https://www.stickermule.com/uses/logo-stickers" />



Find 29 examples, methods, and best practices on creating a business name that stand out

Where to print UPS shipping labels? Try Ship!

At Sticker Mule, we’ve long been making it easier to print custom stickers, labels, and other branding materials. And now we’re excited to announce our newest service to simplify your shipping even more: [Ship by Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/ship "shipping label printing free online")! 

Ship is a brand new way to get your own custom shipping labels without additional printing fees, while also tracking your shipments on a single platform. It’s a game-changer for businesses as well as individuals, offering a more convenient and cost-effective way to manage your shipping needs.

![print shipping labels online at ups](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c54af081-047b-4546-a346-fdf5ab9fa32c)

One of the [biggest challenges for businesses](http://www.retaildive.com/news/its-a-ho-ho-horrible-shipping-season-for-small-businesses-too/608947/ "holiday season business challenges shipping and printing labels") when it comes to shipping is the cost. Traditional ways to print UPS shipping labels can be expensive, with hidden fees and other costly additional services adding up quickly. This can be a significant barrier to entry for small businesses and individuals, as it’s hard to find alternatives of where to print shipping labels.

Ship changes all that. With our new service, users can easily print shipping labels for UPS — no need to break the bank with service fees or monthly memberships from other online shipping services. Shipping packages of all weights and sizes just got a whole lot more affordable, whether you’re an individual or a business.

But Ship isn’t just about saving money. It's also about convenience: print labels from the comfort of your own home or office and avoid extra trips to the post office while also keeping track of your shipments over a single, easy-to-access platform.

And to make things even better, Ship is incredibly easy to use. Simply go to Ship by Sticker Mule and follow the prompts to create and print your label. You'll be able to customize your label with your own information, as well as choose from a range of shipping options, including printing UPS shipping labels.

The launch of Ship is big news for Sticker Mule and for our customers, offering a more convenient and cost-effective way for people to manage their shipping label printing needs. A few clicks and — voilà! — you’ll soon get your own print UPS shipping label on its way to you. 

If you’re one of the thousands looking for a better way to print shipping labels, be sure to check out [Ship from Sticker Mule](https://www.stickermule.com/ship "Print shipping labels on ship") today!

<ButtonCta text="Print shipping labels at Ship!" href="https://www.stickermule.com/ship" />

We've provided some additional resources for small business owners.

- More details on [how to get the most from Ship](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/how-to-print-a-ups-shipping-label-and-save-big), including money-saving tips
- [A guide to shipping for small businesses](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/shipping-for-small-businesses-a-comprehensive-guide)
- [Our recommendations for equipment](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/small-business-shipping-tools-tips-and-cost-saving-strategies) such as scales and boxes




Print UPS shipping labels online without any additional fees! Get ship done with Ship today!

Top 7 photo background remover apps & services in 2022

There are a lot of services out there promising to remove backgrounds automatically from photos. Most do a pretty good job for basic and heavily contrasted background colors. But which one is the best of the best? Which one can remove the bg from a tricky photo and pick out just the item focused in the middle?

Well to answer that, we set our mules out on a quest to see which service did reign supreme and the results are telling! 

To test each service to the limit we picked a photo that we wanted to make some [custom die-cut (custom shaped) stickers](https://www.stickermule.com/products/die-cut-stickers) out of. We used a photo with a gradient background (since we found those are a bit trickier for some services) and used the same photo to test out all the background removing apps out there.

We tested close to 20 services and we've narrowed it down below to the top 7 places to remove backgrounds online;

__1) StickerMule.com/trace__ (Best Free App)
![sticker mule remove bg](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/b4bb18bf-21f9-49d6-bef2-becb12a60228)

*ahem* Did we mention we have a tool to [remove backgrounds online](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "trace bg remove") all for free? It's called Trace and it definitely performed well under the pressure of our test. It was able to figure out that the person was the main focus of the photo and remove all of the background smoothly and correctly. That would make Trace a great service by itself, but combined with the fact that I can download the processed image in full HD for free makes a compelling case that Trace is indeed the best tool for removing a bg from a photo online right now.

__[Visit Trace](https://www.stickermule.com/trace "remove background online free at trace")__


__2) Photoscissors__
![photo scissors background remove](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/62a92d6b-eabb-4400-8f5f-192dd4e0b593)

Photo Scissors was able to do a perfect cut out of the background for basically every photo we tried. Why isn't it #1? While the service was excellent, the downloading was a bit tricky. The non-paid download didn't want to open up in Photoshop for some reason and copying it from the photo preview app resulted in a black background. The pro version worked perfectly though. If paying is not a deal-breaker, then this is an excellent service to remove backgrounds automatically.

*Visit PhotoScissors.com*

__3) PhotoRoom__
![photoroom background remover](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c6e9a44e-a31e-45d2-bbab-058d7eed047a)
Photoroom was one of the easiest apps to use to remove the bg from a photo. You just had to drag and drop the photo and press the download button to get the full-sized image right away. There is no cost associated with it from what we can tell, so there is no doubt that this service is a top 3 photo background remover

*Visit Photoroom.com/background-remover*

__4) Removal.ai__
![removal ai background remover automatic](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c543f8b1-1e81-4147-95c8-dd0867485f49)
Removal.ai was a quick process and it was able to remove all the background without much issue. Just like Photoroom above, it looks pretty snazzy but you only get 1 free full HD download per account. It costs only $0.20 per image (at the cheapest level) for additional images, so it's one of the best priced paid apps out there.

*Visit Removal.ai*

__5) Remove.bg__
![remove bg background removing service](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/c12fd1df-82a8-4fa1-93b1-a4dc6e2e13d0)
Remove.bg is the service that started it all. It was the first mainstream service that allowed you to remove the background automatically without the need of using photoshop or other image programs. For the most part, this service is still great. The cheapest plan churns out images at $0.23 so it's still pretty affordable. Like every service that made it on this list, they do picture background removing very well.

*Visit [Remove.bg](https://www.remove.bg/ "remove bg from photo")*

__6) Retoucher.online__
![retoucher bg deleter online](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/5b423044-3069-4b4d-a1b1-b52aa8f25353)
Retoucher did better than a lot of other services we tried, so it definitely deserves a spot on this list. They also allow one free HD image download per day, so you can get some fair use out of this service. However, if you plan on doing a bit more than that, it may get pricey without a monthly subscription. The pay-as-you-go plans start at $0.60 which is on the higher level of these services. But they do have cheaper options if you opt in for a monthly plan.

*Visit Retoucher.online*

__7) Experte.com/background-remover__
![experte background removal online](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/8690c2d1-bed7-4efe-bfb3-72622ac95be5)
Last but certainly not least, is Experte. They handled this test great, but with some other tests we did, it did struggle a bit. However, it looks like this is a totally free service for both personal and business use, so it's definitely great to know about since it won't set you back anything!

*Visit Experte.com/background-remover*

________

Well there you have it, the top 7 best background removing apps & services in 2022. Each one of these services is a great tool to have in your toolbox, but some may be a bit cheaper or a bit more effective than others. We hope you learned a bit about all the great background remover services out there and found some new ones out too!

________

<ButtonCta text="Remove backgrounds from photos for free @ Trace" href="https://www.stickermule.com/trace" />


See the results of our testing of the best photo background remover apps

How Roman Pizza uses Mule Sauce

We asked [Roman Pizza](https://www.romanpizzamenu.com/) #HowDoYouMuleSauce - this is how they answered. 

<YouTubeVideo videoId="bYITOrMmyAg" />

Pizza is the perfect partner for [Mule Sauce](https://www.stickermule.com/hot-sauce). Try it on a classic white [pizza with broccoli](https://www.stickermule.com/blog/spicy-broccoli-pizza-recipe) or add some snappy flavor to a cheese or Margherita pie.   Mule Sauce packets are just the right serving size for your slice-to-go. Need more to dip your crust? Opt for a bottle of Mule Sauce to make a pool of hot, sweet flavor.

We want YOU to tell us #HowDoYouMuleSauce. Post a photo or video of your favorite way to use Mule Sauce on social media, and don’t forget to add the hashtag #HowDoYouMuleSauce and tag @StickerMule in your post.

<ButtonCta text="Get Mule Sauce" href="https://www.stickermule.com/hot-sauce" />

Learn how local pizza place, Roman Pizza, does Mule Sauce.

How to make a classic beer cocktail with Mule Sauce

We asked [Frog Alley Brewing Company](https://frogalleybrewing.com/) #HowDoYouMuleSauce - this is how they answered.  

<YouTubeVideo videoId="N4x1evNpKl8" />

Make a Michelada, a classic beer cocktail, with a kick of heat from [Mule Sauce](https://www.stickermule.com/hot-sauce). Here’s how:

__Ingredients:__

- Light-bodied beer
- Lime
- Salt
- Mule Sauce

__Steps:__

1. Take your favorite light-bodied beer (like a lager, pale ale, or Frog Alley’s kolsch). Pour into a glass, or feel free to mix it up right in the bottle or can
2. Add a squeeze of lime from 1-2 lime wedges (add as much as you like)
3. Shake some salt into your beer - equal to a small pinch
4. Spice it up with as many dashes of Mule Sauce as you like
5. Drink up!

We want YOU to tell us #HowDoYouMuleSauce. Post a photo or video of your favorite way to use Mule Sauce on social media, and don’t forget to add the hashtag #HowDoYouMuleSauce and tag [@StickerMule](https://www.stimulus.com/stickermule) in your post.

<ButtonCta text="Get Mule Sauce" href="https://www.stickermule.com/hot-sauce" />

Learn how to make a Michelada, a classic beer cocktail, with a kick of heat from Mule Sauce.

How to perfect your DIY home office decor 

With working from home more common than ever before, the humble home office is finally getting the attention it deserves. Home office decor can be tricky, requiring the perfect balance of coziness, personality and functionality, but we’ve shared a few tips below to get your home office looking so good you’ll never want to work anywhere else.  

## Home office decor: where to start?

![office-wall-graphic](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/1c89667567f9de77593f374a928450aea1b9d26e)

To begin creating the perfect home office, define your workspace. Whether you have an entire room or a tiny nook, it’s best if your home office space is set up in one specific zone of your house. Next, the fun part – you can start thinking about what kind of home office decor you’d like. 

### Get inspired with great home office decor ideas 

When it comes to home office decor ideas, thinking about how you want to feel while you’re working is a great place to start. Do you want to feel energized and creative? Or would you prefer a calm, serene workspace? The vibe you want to create during your work day is a great launchpad for allowing home office decor ideas to flow. 

### What do I need for decorating my home office? 

Every home office decor requires some essentials. 

- __Desk__ \- opt for the largest desk you can fit in your home office space. For tiny spaces, foldaway desks are a great option
- __Comfortable chair__ \- Whether an office chair or simply your favorite comfy chair, it’s important that you can sit for hours without hurting yourself
- __Work equipment__ \- Laptop, computer, monitor, mouse, keyboard, headset: whatever you need to get the job done, make sure it fits comfortably in your home office space
- __Storage space__ \- Somewhere you can safely store files and papers, books, and any other work equipment you need

### Choose the right desk and chair for your home office

A functional desk and comfortable chair are the foundation for a great home office decor, and crucial for productivity during your working day. 

__How do I choose a home office chair?__

Your chair needs to be comfortable enough to sit on for roughly 40 hours per week, so it’s a pretty important part of your home office decor. Look for a chair with plenty of back support that’s adjustable and upholstered in a comfortable, breathable fabric. 

__How do I choose a home office desk?__

The desk you need depends mostly on the work you do – do you need to put large monitors or a lot of equipment on it? Or is it just you and a laptop most working days? If in doubt, get the biggest desk you can fit in your workspace and look for designs that have storage built in. 

### What other equipment do I need in my home office?

Again, the equipment you should include in your home office decor depends on your job, but there are a few must-haves that everyone working from home should have in their reach. 

- __Stationery__ \- Pens, pencils, notebooks and planners, a good stock of stationery awards any home office decor major organizational points
- __A lamp__ \- Good lighting is crucial to our eye health and our productivity alike
- __An extension cord__ \- For reaching far away sockets or plugging in extra electricals
- __A desk organizer__ \- With space for files, extra stationery and whatever else you need to store

### How do I bring some color to my home office decor?

Sure, a workspace is functional, but that’s no reason for your home office decor to be sterile. Adding some color and personality will go a long way in making it a space that you’ll actually enjoy spending time in, which in turn will boost your mood and productivity. 

__Add plants to your home office__

On top of looking great, plants and flowers breathe instant life into a space. Look out for air-purifying plants, like snake plants or aloe vera, to keep your home office decor as healthy as can be. 

__Add coziness and warmth with textiles__  

Textiles go a long way to add a feeling of coziness to a space; soft furnishings not only make your space more comfortable, they also help absorb sound, which can be critical in a work environment. A stylish rug under your desk will keep feet warm in the winter months, too. We recommend going for a flatweave rug under your home office desk – if your chair is on wheels, you’ll still be able to glide over it easily. 

__Add color to your home office walls__

The easiest way to add some effervescence to your home office decor with a pop of color on the walls. Your home office decor gives you a chance to really play with color, too, as it’s one specific, personal area in your home, so get creative and try that bright color you’d always dreamed of, or take inspiration from the interior design world with some home office wall decor – wall decals and wall hangings work great to add a little liveliness to the space. 

### I don’t have a specific room, how can I make my workspace my own using home office decor?

Having a separate area for your workspace is essential for creating a focused atmosphere, but can be tricky if your home office is part of another room in your home. Using home office decor to zone off this area is the perfect solution, and the simplest way to achieve it is using wall color or [wall decals](https://www.stickermule.com/products/wall-graphics). Try painting a wall or using home office wall decals in the space around your desk to build a dedicated workspace within another room. 

## How do I keep my home office organized?
![home-office-decal](https://storage.googleapis.com/sm-content/blog/80e15485dd0df109f75ec95e1d02d1299eec5a52)

Organization is key to productive home office decor. Papers, files, documents, planners – they all build up in your home office and need well-considered solutions to stop things from getting messy. 

### Home office decor ideas for an organized space

Storage depends largely on two things: how big your space is and how you decorate your home office. If you have plenty of space, opt for large filing cabinets or shelving; for smaller spaces, a small set of drawers under your desk can work wonders. Perfect your home office organization with some custom-made stickers to label each drawer and file. 

### Top tips for a tidy home office desk

Your desk should stay as neat as possible to keep your mind clear and focused, so follow our top tidy desk tips below. 

1. Get a desk tray to keep any papers you need on-hand nice and tidy
2. Buy a nice stationery holder – you can also use your favorite mug or pot
3. Maximize your use of wall space: home office wall stickers will keep you on track and keep planners and post-its off your desk

## Home office decor ideas to make your space more personalized

Choosing your home office decor is your chance to design the office of your dreams, so why not make the most of it? 

### How do I bring some color to my home office decor?

When it comes to adding color to your home office, now is the time to really play around and go for shades and designs you truly love. If you’re not ready to commit to paint, or you’ve already painted and want to take your decor to the next level, [home office wall decals](https://www.stickermule.com/uses/wall-decals) are the way to go. Available in any style, size and shape you can imagine, home office wall decals add instant flair to your home office decor. 

### How to make home office decor cozier

Nobody likes a cold, stark room, and your home office should be cozy and comfy enough to spend the whole day in. Toss a blanket on your office chair to cuddle up in on chilly evenings, and make sure you’ve got a great rug under your desk to keep toes warm. Adding warm, earthy colors using home office wall decals works a charm to cozy up your space, too. 

### Don’t forget the desk – here’s how to personalize home office equipment

Now that your home office decor looks great, it’s time to shine the spotlight on your equipment. After all, why go to all the effort of designing a space you love only to have an unattractive monitor as the centerpiece? Decorating your home office equipment with stickers is a fun, effective way of adding temporary color and pattern. 

## Home office decor FAQs

Still wondering how to decorate a home office?

### My home office space is tiny! How do I make the best use of it?

If your space is truly tiny, look for home office decor that can easily fold away at the end of the working day. Folding desks and chairs work great in tiny nooks! Add further coziness and style using soft textiles and fun accessories. 

### My home office desk is facing a plain wall, can I make it less boring?

Absolutely! Just add some color. Home office wall decals are a great way to add some style and liveliness to a space, or opt for home office wall stickers to make the most use of the wall – calendars, planners, inspirational quotes and project maps are all great choices for your home office wall stickers.  

### How can I make a desk in my bedroom feel like a dedicated workspace?

Create a specific zone for the space using home office wall decals – it’ll help it feel separate to the rest of your bedroom. Go for lively, energizing colors like yellow and green to help fight off any desire for midday naps!

### I don’t work from home all the time, can I make my home office decor less permanent?

Yes, home office wall decals are perfect for adding style and color to your home office decor, but can be easily removed with no damage at all to your walls when you’re finished with the space. Check out our guide to wall decals to find out all you need to know. 

<ButtonCta text="Create your own wall decals" size="large" variant="secondary"  align="center" href="https://www.stickermule.com/products/wall-graphics" />


Get ideas for your home office decor even if you’re on a budget! Read our guide on how to decorate a home office with stickers and decals! 

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