5 Ways to Mix Up the Merch Table

 Indy wrestling fans worth their salt understand that  buying Merch is a great way to support their favorite  wrestlers. But what happens when people have 50 black tshirts? Or they already have an 8x10 or two from you? Then the buying decisions get a little harder. Do I need this shirt? Do I have room for another photo?

The solution: mix it up! What better than offering unique and personalized options to showcase your character? Almost anything can be branded, and having an array of options helps capture new fans and keeps existing fans coming back for more. Below are five new items you can bring to your Merch table to stand apart (without bogging down your bag!):

• Beverage coozies: Compact and useful, especially if your show is at a location with a bar. Can easily have your logo or catchphrase, and it's something useful. Just imagine - next time someone is enjoying a beverage, they have your name in front of them and tell their friends about this awesome show they were at and their new favorite wrestler (psst - that's you).
  
• Bandanas: Accessories are always a plus - the tshirt is king, however can easily be overlooked when someone has an extensive collection already. Bandanas are small, but not small enough to get lost. It's a good wearable alternative to a hat, and can be customized in a variety of ways depending on if you want them worn or carried in a pocket. Plus, a bandana always looks badass.
  
• Buttons and stickers/decals: Because who isn't gonna grab a button? Having a smaller quick grab kind of item can be beneficial for fans on a budget. It's like the impulse buys at the checkout counter. Someone may want to still do a show of support without breaking the bank - when it comes to buying one larger ticket item (a $20 shirt) or several smaller items (bandana, button, sticker, photo) most people will opt for the several smaller items because it makes them feel like their money went further. They got "more" out of it. 
  
• Best Of or Interview DVD: Can be self produced (or we can help, contact us!) - A perfect way to introduce others or have existing fans share your work. If a fan sees you for the first time at a show and it piques their interest, being able to go "If you liked tonight you should see THIS" will be an easy way to keep them coming back to shows, and opening a door to your full body of work or other promotions. For existing fans, it's a great way to have them share the love. Invite friends over, drinking out of a coozie with your name on it, and saying "you have got to see this" as they pop in your DVD.
  
• Flyers: Okay, so this one isn't exactly a "merch" item, but I feel it's pretty darn important and something that should be had at and around the merch table. I'm terrible with names - not even kidding, and most people aren't going to go through the trouble to search for your Facebook page while they're standing in front of you. Having a postcard sized flyer can act as your business card for both promoters and fans. Include some promo and action shots of you and your social media/contact info/website/store info. Even if someone doesn't buy something from you but they take a flyer, they may very well order something from your online store (or FullyGimmicked.com!) or LIKE/Follow you on social media so they can stay informed of your upcoming shows.

Let us know what's worked for you! Or if you're interested in any and all of the above, contact us through social media or fullygimmicked@gmail.com. I'm no expert certainly, though from a fan and consumer's perspective I hope to illuminate some options you may not have considered.