Why Hands-On Events Matter for Apparel Decorators

In 2025, apparel decorators are facing uncertainty, shifting technologies, and more noise than ever before. That makes hands-on learning, real conversations, and in-person events more valuable than ever. In this episode, Cassie Green from Apparelist and Printing United Alliance joins the 2 Regular Guys to share why face-to-face training and networking give decorators an edge and how in-person experiences differ from what can be learned online. She also provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Apparel Zone and the new AI Pavilion at Printing United Expo 2025, while keeping the focus on the bigger picture of how decorators can apply these lessons whether they attend Expo or not. Listeners will walk away with practical insights into vendor selection, sustainable growth strategies for DTF, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in a year filled with challenges and opportunities. Tired of bouncing between SanMar, S&S, and alphabroder just to compare prices? PromoHunt’s free browser extension does the work for you—automatically showing you price and inventory comparisons across your favorite suppliers while you shop. Join 7,000+ decorators already using PromoHunt daily.PromoHunt.com News https://youtu.be/6hfruGAVnTs If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to [e-mail]. Use the subject line “Weekly News.” Dad Joke Terry: My grandkids asked me what I used to play on the iPad as a kid I told them I used to talk into a fan to sound like a robot In-Person Events for Apparel Decorators Terry: Welcome - Give us a brief Cassie 101… Aaron: You know we love education here, and that has something you have always been very close to in the industry. Why do you think hands-on learning is especially important for decorators right now? Terry: Speaking of hands-on / in-person, the Apparel Zone at Printing United Expo has become a hub for decorators. What makes it a useful model of hands-on education? Aaron: AI is buzzing everywhere—what’s the real takeaway for decorators when it comes to AI tools in business and production? Aaron: We’ve had a tumultuous 2025—how do in-person events help decorators find clarity and direction? Terry: What role does networking play in shaping a decorator’s long-term business success? (Maybe share a story where attending an in-person event directly helped a business shift or grow?) Terry: What would you say to the shop owner who thinks, “I can’t afford the time or cost to attend an event”? Aaron: At the Apparel Zone, I get to chat with Rob Super of American Print and Supply about - What to Look for in Your Digital Vendor. We are both excited about the topic. Why is this important to think about for apparel decorators? Aaron: If decorators took just one mindset shift from events like these, what should it be? Terry: From your point of view, what lessons can decorators take home even if they don’t attend Expo this year? Terry: Let people know how they can register to attend the Expo, learn more, connect with you, and check out the amazing content you share through Apparelist all the time? - https://www.printingunited.com/attend/ - Use code 2RG25 The Secret Sauce We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our 'Secret Sauce' for insights that can help you soar. https://youtu.be/Cx3Zh3Yyf1Y OTHER EVENTS Small Business Saturdays - Saturdays at Noon Central Time and then available to watch any time. Rising Tide Talks!