The “What Happens in Vegas” Issue
A Little Big of Luck, A Whole Lot of Merch
Letter from the Editor
This marks the 24th, no 30th, no 28th—hell, I don't even know how many times I’ve been to the product show every January in Las Vegas. I didn’t track it in my history, but it’s been too many to count apparently. Each year brings something different, and yet, some things never change.
One thing that did change—The Tropicana is gone. Built in 1957 and featured in the 1971 James Bond movie Diamonds are Forever (where Sean Connery stayed in a luxury suite), it was my hotel of choice for years because, well, Hilton Honors Points! But, now it’s making way for a new baseball stadium. While some parts of Vegas are looking tired from years of experiences, other parts are rebuilt, shiny, new, and thriving.
Ever faithful is Mandalay Bay, where our PPAI Expo takes place and has since—well, whenever it used to be at the convention center. Honestly, I gave up on doing math from my years in Vegas—this place has that effect on you! But this year felt different. Last year, I went it alone. Cola was about to have her second baby, which doesn't lend itself well to a plane ride, trade show, or, let’s be honest, Vegas. Tammie and Jackie had their flights canceled due to weather, and even though Tim was there for the first couple of days, once he left, Vegas wasn’t all that great on my own.
This year, however, was a game-changer. We took in all the expo had to offer—products, conversations, designs, strategies, and more. It was a great show, and we’re thrilled to showcase the new samples and ideas to our clients and future clients. And yes, we threw a few bucks at the craps table and roulette wheel at New York-New York, just to assure they can keep their lights on. (You're welcome, Vegas!)
The best part? We didn’t split up. We stayed together, ensuring our conversations were deep, our ideas were shared, and our timeline to achieve everything we set out to do was met. And guess what? Mission accomplished.
While we won’t share everything that happened in Vegas (because where’s the fun in that?), we are eager to share the exciting things we found with you in the coming weeks and months. So, if you're ready to dive into the latest and greatest in merch, let’s set up an appointment and roll out products you’ll absolutely love!
Angie H
Hey Vegas! - What You Got?
PPAI Expo 2025
Our recent trip to Las Vegas for the PPAI Expo at Mandalay Bay was nothing short of exhilarating! From gaining valuable insights to discovering new products and design ideas, we left feeling inspired and energized to continue building a community within our industry that truly cares about the future. The clients we serve deserve more than just merchandise; they deserve sustainable, meaningful merch that leaves a lasting impact.At MYLO, we’ve always aimed to change the narrative in an industry that has long accepted cheap trinkets as the norm. It’s our mission to ensure that marketing and procurement teams invest in their brands with responsibly sourced products, incredible design, and memorable experiences. We are here to enhance value, not just provide products.
One of the most rewarding aspects of our journey has been the relationships we’ve cultivated over the years. Attending industry events feels like a family reunion, filled with familiar faces and new opportunities. The connections we build continue to grow and inspire us, and it's this strong foundation that drives our passion for what we do.
The First Big Pink Box is in the Mail
We are thrilled to announce that our Big Pink Box is out the door and should be arriving this week!
As a reminder - in case you missed it, this exciting pilot program includes 30 of our lucky clients, along with some amazing friends who are helping us evaluate and promote this unique 12-month gifting experience. Inspired by Jackie's holiday gifting suggestion last fall, we took the concept of a "12 Days of Christmas" gift and turned it into a year-long engagement.
Each month, our top 30 clients receive a Big Pink Box in the mail featuring our motto of the year: "Connected and Engaged." With a retro 1950s and 1960s lounge vibe, the MYLO Lounge has come to life beyond just our bar—and it wouldn’t be surprising if Dean Martin popped out to sing a tune!
Every box is thoughtfully curated (of course, that's what we do) with products and design elements that encourage recipients to stay connected and engaged throughout 2025. Our December mailing included a BIG ASS CARD, setting the stage for the program, and each month, recipients will collect a unique sticker to add to the back of the card. By year's end, they’ll have a full set of stickers revealing the MYLO 2026 word of the year—a little touch of excitement that keeps them guessing and engaged month after month.
We are beyond grateful for our incredible supplier partnerships who are helping us create phenomenal experiences all year long. Cousin Eddie would be proud!
The colors, fabrics and designs are bringing retail back!
Inflatable Paddle Boards featuring your brand design - OH YA!!! We got ‘em and we have one coming to our studio soon!!!!!
A Moment of Reflection: MLK Day and Inauguration Day
As we publish this issue, we recognize two significant moments in our nation's history—Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Inauguration Day. MLK Day is a powerful reminder of the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead in striving for equality, justice, and unity. It is a day to reflect on how we can contribute to building a better, more inclusive society.
Inauguration Day is a time of transition, tradition, and national pride. No matter one’s political stance, witnessing the swearing-in of our next president is a profound reminder of the democratic process that defines our nation. However, it is disheartening to see the division that often accompanies such events. In today's world, friendships and business relationships can be strained by political opinions, yet we believe in honoring our differences and embracing a society that encourages standing firmly in one’s beliefs without fear or hatred.
The media has a powerful influence, and in a time when it’s hard to discern fact from fiction, it's important to remember that everyone sees the world through their own lens. Rather than feeding into fear and division, let us focus on hope, love, and unity. We are all survivors of the challenges life presents, and no matter what higher power we believe in, we can all choose to believe in a better future.
So today, and every day, let us choose light. Let us choose love. Let us choose hope. As humanity, we have endured and evolved through generations, and our commitment to kindness and connection will shape the path forward for future generations.
Here’s to a hopeful and inspired 2025!
