Count the cost of business coffee mugs

Consider your advertising budget. If you're a small business owner, it may be smart to look for the best deals on generic ceramic mugs rather than the flashy stainless steel variety. There's a difference of several dollars per imprinted coffee mug right off the bat. You'll also want to decide who among your customers is "mugworthy." Face it -- if you start handing out mugs indiscriminately, you might not have any left when you really want to impress someone. Take a look at your customer base, and count up how many you want to treat to a gift.

I recommend: Look for companies that will print small quantities of bulk coffee mugs. Branders has a minimum order of 79 mugs for the white 11-ounce cafe mug, but includes the silkscreen cost in their low cost per piece. Or check out Discount Mugs, with a minimum order of 12 advertising coffee mugs. Their online tool allows you to input different quantities to see the best price. 

Build brand recognition with logo coffee mugs

Download your own design directly from your computer. If you don't already have a logo, your mug supplier can help you choose a standard icon that represents your business, such as a hammer or a hard hat for a construction company. Some promotional coffee mug suppliers may have an in-house design department, so let them help you with your customized coffee mugs.

I recommend: NEBS helps you with the design process with easy online ordering and live chat with a representative to help you choose the best design for corporate coffee mugs. If your current logo may not translate well to a coffee mug, with small lettering or details that may get lost, check out DK Specialties for custom full-color mugs and advice on the best imprinting options for your logo.

Make your imprinted coffee mug stand out with color

You're excited to just have a promotional coffee mug with your business name emblazoned on it. But don't stop there; open up your own cupboard. What is the dominant color? What custom coffee mug do you reach for the most? Consider how your logo and color combinations will help keep your mug in the hands of your customers -- or push it to the back of the cupboard.

I recommend:  Consider making an impact with a bold color from the Odyssey line at WestSky Promotions,  If you need design help for your promotional coffee mugs, Hackworth Design can help you figure it all out, from logo design to selecting your corporate coffee mugs.