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In Appreciation of the Trusty, Dependable Umbrella

BD115C0F-A35E-41D7-978F-D8B7C2114911Did you know that March is National Umbrella Month? Indeed it is, and as it so happens, as I am writing this post it’s been a bit rainy and dreary day here lately in New York, so maybe there’s something to this idea of umbrellas getting some recognition as we transition from winter to spring. Pretty soon we will be arriving in April showers territory, so if you’re not yet stocked up with umbrellas to keep you dry during the rainy season, you may want to take a moment to pick out one or two that appeal to you.

The roots of one word we associate with the umbrella, “parasol,” reveal some interesting history about these accessories we’ve used to protect us from the elements. While para means to stop or shield and sol refers to the sun, linking the parasol pretty directly to its current purpose of protecting its bearer against the sun, the French parapluie is meant to do the same for rain – para again protects and blocks, and pluie refers to the rain. According to Wikipedia, collapsible umbrellas have existed in some form as far back as ancient China, where they may have first been used for ceremonial purposes. Who knew the humble umbrella had such a long and distinguished pedigree?

T4430E89A-8456-4786-BE6C-91E7C933DEF7oday, we still rely on umbrellas to shelter us from the weather when the rain and wind decide to kick up, as they do from time to time. They come in all different forms: compact, hand-held versions, golf umbrellas, vented wind-resistant umbrellas, fashion umbrellas, and even majestic, broad canopies that lend a sense of pomp as you stroll down the street. Here in the Big Apple, it’s not uncommon to see scores of ubiquitous cheap black umbrellas, upended and broken, in curbside wastebaskets after they’ve been overcome by the wind. Even though it’s a bit wasteful, their apparent popularity (no doubt tied to their friendly price point) is enduring.

As the season transitions into spring, it’s always good to keep tabs on the weather, whether that’s through your app of choice or the local news. If soggy showers are in your future, it’s better to know so you can be prepared. It’s thoughtful to give umbrellas away as gifts—they are often popular since they’re so useful and come in handy when skies darken. If your business or its product happens to be directly connected to rainfall, it’s also smart to consider giving out a rain gauge as a gift so that customers will keep you top of mind as they mark this year’s rainfall.

Stay dry as the rainy days approach, and enjoy the spring that’s not far behind!

Wondering if there are other promotional products that might be a good fit for the season or a special project or campaign you might have on your radar? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for advice. If you have an idea in mind that might benefit from some creative brainstorming, we’d be happy to share some recommendations. Connect with us on Twitter and Facebook or call us at 877-881-6845 and we’ll be glad to advise you on custom branded promotional products that can represent your brand with style and grace.

Getting Excited for the Return of Spring!

Peach blossoms

photo credit: Spring! via photopin (license)

Now that we have switched over for Daylight Saving Time, we have another seasonal milestone to celebrate: the Spring Equinox (also known as the Vernal Equinox), which arrives this Sunday, March 20. Although the forecast here in New York indicates that a stubborn cold snap to come our way, lovely weather cannot be too far behind. Some trees are beginning to bud after the balmy temperatures we’ve had, and before long everyone will be out celebrating the return of bright, beautiful flowers like tulips and cherry blossoms.

With everyone soon to be in a good mood, it’s a perfect opportunity to share seasonal gifts that mark the occasion. You might not immediately associate promotional products with springtime, but you’d be surprised how many thoughtful and fitting choices there are to pick from. If you know anyone who has a green thumb, you could outfit them nicely with a little planter kit, a plant watering can, gardening tools, and seeds to grow wildflowers for their home or herbs for their kitchen. There are even neat seeded bookmarks and seeded coasters available for folks who enjoy a good book or a pleasant drink now and then.

BD80E83B-0275-453B-9497-137D6ABD4471For people who love to be out in nature, there are plenty of gifts for the outdoors that would make their day: comfortable folding chairs, picnic baskets, picnic blankets, coolers, and water bottles make for a relaxing outing at the park or beach. You can even stock the picnic baskets with cheese or meat sets to complete the care package. Lightweight jackets, sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen make it more comfortable to be outdoors when the sun is shining brightly or the wind is picking up just a bit. Insect repellent and lanterns will also come in handy if you’re planning to be out in the evening. And last but not least, a trusty umbrella is always good to have at your side once April showers arrive!

Wondering if there are other promotional products that might be a good fit for the season or a special project or campaign you might have on your radar? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for advice. If you have an idea in mind that might benefit from some creative brainstorming, we’d be happy to share some recommendations. Connect with us on Twitter and Facebook or call us at 877-881-6845 and we’ll be glad to advise you on custom branded promotional products that can represent your brand with style and grace.