Business Cards

July 6, 2021

Do you remember the last time you gave someone your business card?

Do you remember the last time you gave someone your business card? Perhaps it was at a social gathering or local business event. If the experience was like most people’s, the recipient took a quick glance at your business card, said, “Thank you,” and quickly put the card in his wallet or her purse. What do we call this in business? An opportunity lost.

 

All business owners understand their fixed costs: rent, utilities, and equipment. However, more intangible costs are still real, yet often more difficult to discern – like business cards that make no real marketing impact. Most every business owner has a pack or two of their business cards in the drawer. They contain the expected information: name, phone number, address, and more. And many business owners don’t give the cards much thought. To them, they are just a means of communicating basic contact information. Yet, business cards that make little impact beyond simple communication are definitely an opportunity lost.

 

Picture these two scenarios:

 

It’s the third Friday of the month, and business owner Mark Carlson walks into the crowded country club as he has done for years. The monthly Local Economic Meeting will soon get underway. Mark spots some friends – other local business owners – and quickly makes his way to the group.

 

“Hey, Mark. I want to introduce you to Rick Bardman. He was just saying he might need some heating and cooling work done at his office, so I mentioned your name.”

 

“Great,” says Mark and hands Rick his business card. Rick takes the usual polite look at the card and sticks it in a folder he was carrying. Suddenly, someone draws Rick’s attention away, and he exits the group. Later, he may barely remember the encounter. He certainly won’t remember the card. He may not even remember where he placed it.

 

Now picture this same encounter but with a twist: Mark walks into the monthly meeting with business cards provided by Behind Your Design of Fenton, Michigan. These are not your average cards but Akuafoil business cards in two radiant colors with a sparkling half tone foil finish. Mark hands one of the unique cards to Rick Bardman.

 

“Wow, cool card. I’ve never seen one like this before. Very professional.” Now Rick is studying the card more closely. As he does, Mark’s friend leans in to look.

 

“That really is cool. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a card like that either.” Now, the card is being passed around, and several people in the group are looking at it and talking. At this point, Rick Bardman has not left the group. He is still engaged, and he begins talking to Mark.

 

“So, I hear you do heating and cooling. I think I might have a project for you if you’re interested.” In a matter of minutes – sparked by a compelling and professional piece of marketing – a conversation starts, a relationship begins, and a possible project is in the works.

Research shows that 72 percent of people will judge a person or company by their business card. Further, the Statistic Brain Research Institute reveals that 39 percent will not engage a business that has a “cheap looking” business card. First impressions do matter. People will size up a person and his or her company in a matter of seconds based on a variety of factors, and the research shows that the quality of a business card is certainly one of them. According to John Williams of Entrepreneur magazine, a business card, along with a person’s clothing and manners, create a client’s first impression. A well designed, unique card provides a sense of professionalism and pride. 

 

Would a successful business put a boring sign out front? A cheap looking banner to announce its business? No. Someone with great business instincts realizes that every impression matters – from the sign to the person to his or her business card. For example, Behind Your Design can provide special business cards made out of metal or plastic. Cheap and forgettable marketing items quickly lead to a diminished opinion. Yet, with an exceptional business card from Behind Your Design, the first impression will always be favorable and memorable.

 

It’s not only great quality or a unique look, however, that makes a business card stand out, be remembered, and spark further interest. Business cards impress in several ways. First, they are personal. We live in an age of texting and emails. Yet, the most memorable and impactful interaction is a significant one-on-one meeting. Often, that meeting will involve a business card. So, people should make the most of that moment. Rather than a poor quality or lackluster card, business owners should elevate their cards, so that every interaction can be more powerful. Business cards should be part of a marketing plan.

 

An outstanding business card will most likely cost more, however, it is a sound investment – like wearing an impressive dress or suit to a meeting. Images matter. An extraordinary business card – one from Behind Your Design - along with a firm handshake will make a strong impression. Also, people should keep their cards handy in several places, especially in a good-looking card holder. Then business owners will be prepared for any situation, whether a local meeting, neighborhood get-together, dinner with a spouse, or even a sporting event or airport meeting. There will never be an opportunity lost.

 

Further, when potential customers see a great business card, they quickly surmise that this is business person who makes great decisions. From that, they will most likely assume that the business person is quite competent and worth their business. Being prepared with a distinguished business card shows forethought and planning – respected and persuasive qualities in a person and business. When someone has no business card, has to dig around to find one, or produces a cheap looking or unforgettable card, the interaction is not only a lost opportunity but a negative marketing encounter that can do harm.

 

Fortunately, Behind Your Design can supply businesses with unique, special, and memorable business cards. Cards with different colors, finishes, and materials, like Akuafoil, Brown Kraft, Edge, Foil Worx, Luster, Natural finish, Painted Edge, Pearl, Raised Foil, Raised Spot UV, Plastic and Frosted Plastic, Square Shape (silk with spot UV), Flat Spot UV, and even Suede.

 

Of course, these many options are intriguing, so businesses should contact Behind Your Design to learn more. They will help create a great concept utilizing state-of-the-art features. Almost any design, color, finish, and material imaginable can be created by Behind Your Design!

 

People should never suffer a lost opportunity or damage to their professional reputation in the future. Instead, they should be prepared to always make a professional and successful first impression with the best business card possible. Someone who knows a great deal about success, former four-star general and 65th US Secretary of State Colin Powell, said, “There Are No Secrets to Success. It is the Result of Preparation.” So be prepared and be successful. Utilize extraordinary business cards from Behind Your Design. As the saying goes, “Opportunities don’t just happen. You (and Behind Your Design) create them!”

A Journey Overseas: Our Australian and New Zealand Visit

By Chelsea Mills • April 19, 2026
Exploring Sydney and Cairns in Australia and visiting Auckland, Rotorua and Taupo in New Zealand.

Drive Your Brand Further with Custom Golf Balls

April 15, 2026
Custom branded golf balls are one of those promotional items that just make sense. Whether you run a golf course, a tournament, a resort, or simply want a unique way to connect with clients, they offer a fun and practical way to keep your brand in play. Golf balls are naturally tied to relaxation, leisure, and connection . That makes them a powerful marketing tool. When your logo is on something that people are actually excited to use, your brand becomes part of a positive experience. Every swing, every round, and every time someone reaches into their bag, your business is right there with them. For golf-related businesses, branded balls are an easy win. They are great for member giveaways, tournaments, pro shop merchandise, and corporate outings. If you are not in the golf industry, they still make an excellent client gift or a memorable handout that feels personal and unexpected. It is a simple way to say “thanks for your business” while staying top of mind long after the first tee. Behind Your Design has recently created custom golf balls for The Ally Challenge , Epic Machine , and Lewis & Knopf . Each one was designed to reflect the brand while still feeling clean, professional, and ready for the course. And let’s be honest, it is hard to find a promotional item with more staying power. These are not getting tossed in a drawer and forgotten. They are getting teed up, driven down the fairway, and maybe even lost in a water hazard or two. Either way, your brand is along for the ride. When it comes to marketing, combining business with leisure is a hole-in-one strategy. It builds connection in a relaxed environment where people are already in a good mood and open to engagement. That kind of brand association is priceless. If you are ready to put your brand in play, contact Behind Your Design today and start creating custom golf balls that keep your business top of mind from the first tee to the final putt.

Fidget, Focus, and Your Brand Front and Center

April 15, 2026
If you’ve spent any time around kids lately or scrolling online, you’ve probably noticed one thing. Fidget toys are everywhere. From the viral popularity of NeeDoh stress ball style products to satisfying squeeze cubes and rings, these small but mighty items have become go-to tools for entertainment, stress relief, and focus. And right now, they are not just fun. They are a smart branding opportunity. Why Fidget Toys Work Fidget toys hit a sweet spot that most promotional products do not. They are: Used daily and not tossed in a drawer Helpful for focus and stress relief Appealing across ages, especially kids and teens Easy to share and talk about Whether it is in a classroom, at a desk, or during a meeting, people reach for these again and again. That means your brand gets seen again and again too. Real Examples, Real Impact We have recently helped clients turn this trend into something meaningful and memorable. Tanglewood Home Care created custom Sensory Squeeze Fidget Cubes as a thoughtful resource for individuals who benefit from tactile support. These are not just giveaways. They are tools that provide comfort, support focus, and create a positive connection back to the brand that provided them. We also partnered with Kettering University on a custom Orbit Fidget Ring. This is the kind of item students can use in class or meetings to stay engaged and focused without distraction. It is subtle, functional, and something they will actually keep. A Trend Worth Tapping Into Fidget toys are not just a passing moment. They have become part of how people manage stress and stay engaged, especially in environments where focus matters. Because they are already trending heavily online, they come with built-in attention. When your brand is part of something people already enjoy using, it does not feel like marketing. It simply fits into their daily routine. More Than a Giveaway The best promotional products are the ones people do not throw away. Fidget toys check that box easily. They are interactive, memorable, practical, and easy to customize with your brand. Most importantly, they create a positive experience every time someone uses them. Create Something People Want to Keep If you are looking for a fresh way to get your brand into people’s hands and keep it there, custom fidget toys are worth considering. From squeeze cubes to rings and beyond, we can help you create something that is not only on trend, but actually useful. Because when your brand becomes part of someone’s everyday routine, that is when it really sticks.

Picture-Perfect Branding: Why Photo Prop Signage Works

April 15, 2026
There’s something special about capturing a milestone moment, especially when it’s paired with a great photo. Whether it’s the excitement of closing on a new home, celebrating a big win, or marking a major life event, people want to share those moments. That’s where photo prop signage becomes a powerful and often overlooked marketing tool. Take a real estate office providing a custom acrylic sign for new homeowners. It might say something like “Just Sold!” or “Welcome Home,” while also showcasing the agent’s name and brand. Every time a client snaps a photo and shares it on social media, that brand goes right along with it. Celebrating Them While Promoting You The beauty of photo prop signage is that it doesn’t feel like advertising. It feels like part of the celebration. You’re giving clients something fun and share-worthy while naturally weaving your brand into the moment. Instead of a traditional ad people scroll past, you become part of a story they want to share. Built-In Visibility & Repetition Marketing is all about repetition and recognition. The more people see your brand, the more familiar and trusted it becomes. Photo prop signage helps make that happen in an organic way: The same sign shows up across multiple clients and celebrations Shared photos extend your reach beyond your immediate audience Your branding becomes associated with positive, meaningful moments Over time, that consistent visual presence can make a real impact.

A VIP Night to Remember at Medawar's

April 14, 2026
Behind Your Design recently had the opportunity to once again partner with Medawar’s in Flint Township to create a VIP experience for their most valued customers. This is a relationship that means a great deal to us because it goes all the way back to 2009 when we first began working with their team. Over the years, our partnership has grown into one that includes trust, creativity, and a shared commitment to delivering meaningful experiences. For this event, our team handled everything from the initial invitation design and mailing, to the digital Evite and event signage, making sure every detail felt consistent and elevated from the very first touchpoint. The goal was to create something that felt special before guests even arrived. When guests stepped on site, they were welcomed into a fully transformed outdoor lounge experience inside a heated tent. The space was designed to feel warm, inviting, and luxurious , with a hand-rolled cigar station, passed hors d’oeuvres, live acoustic music, craft cocktails, comfortable lounge seating, an ice sculpture, and an interactive luxury vehicle display. It was all about creating an atmosphere where people could slow down, connect, and enjoy the evening. Inside, guests were able to browse and try on beautiful jewelry in a relaxed, social setting while enjoying cocktails and conversation. The experience was intentionally designed to feel personal rather than transactional, giving guests the space to truly appreciate the craftsmanship behind each piece. We also created curated gift bags for attendees that included thoughtful, high-end items like cigar cutters , a premium lighter , stainless steel mugs , jewelry boxes , and watch cases . Guests were entered into a drawing for a stunning diamond necklace, adding a fun moment of anticipation to the night. Inside the showroom, a coffee bar and dessert offerings from CRUST Bakery rounded out the experience. Looking back, this event is a reflection of a long-standing partnership with Medawar’s that we truly value. From their brand refresh in 2023 to years of event design and marketing support, we’re grateful to continue evolving alongside their team and helping bring their vision to life in memorable ways.

From Spills to Squeaks: Promo Products That Save the Day

April 14, 2026
When it comes to branded promotional products, the best items aren’t just eye-catching, they’re useful, trusted, and kept. That’s exactly what makes these co-branded essentials featuring Tide and WD-40 such standout options. They go beyond typical giveaways by becoming everyday problem-solvers your audience will actually carry, use, and appreciate. Practical Products People Reach For A Tide to Go + Oxi pen is the kind of product people need in real-life moments for coffee spills before a meeting, lunch mishaps in the car, or last-minute touch-ups before an event. It’s compact, easy to store, and incredibly effective, making it something users will keep within arm’s reach at all times. Pair that with the WD-40 Precision Pen, and now you’ve covered both personal and practical needs. From fixing squeaky hinges to loosening tight bolts, this kit becomes a go-to solution for quick fixes at home, in the office, or on the road. Built-In Brand Trust = Instant Credibility One of the biggest advantages of these products is the power of co-branding with names people already trust. Tide and WD-40 aren’t just recognizable, they’re relied upon. When your brand is placed alongside them, it inherits that same sense of reliability and quality. Instead of introducing your audience to something unfamiliar, you’re aligning your brand with products they already know work. That creates a stronger, faster connection and makes your promotional item feel more valuable from the start. 
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