Crawfish for a Cause Presents Mental Awakening in Atlanta

Prepare to stimulate your senses and set off on an enlightening adventure at Mental Awakening, taking place on April 5th from 5-11 and April 6th from 12-12. Presented by Crawfish for a Cause and supporting Nuci's Space, this two-day festival will showcase nine bands, craft vendors, delicious food, beer, and an abundance of crawfish!

Use promo code Westside20 for 20% off two day passes.

Westside Motor Lounge is Atlanta’s newest indoor-outdoor food, beverage and entertainment experience. At just under three acres, the expansive venue houses a full-service restaurant, two bars, a private event space as well as an expansive outdoor courtyard featuring a fully wired stage, beer garden, shuffleboard courts, firepits, tons of seating plus its very own vintage Airstream travel bar and food trailer.

4th Annual Drifter Fest Announced in Charleston

The 4th Annual Drifter Fest: Bert Griggs Memorial Jam will be on Saturday, September 14th at the Refinery Amphitheater. A pre-jam will take place on Friday, September 13th at Home Team BBQ. Both events will start at 7pm and end at 11pm in Downtown Charleston. There will also be after parties each night at The Commodore. While the musical line up and ticketing will be announced soon, sponsorship and vending opportunities are available now.

Drifter Fest celebrates the life of the late Bert Griggs. A huge fan of live music, he turned his passion into a well-received apparel and accessories company, Drifter Merch, that was inspired by his favorite bands. Additionally, Bert was an amazing father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He had an innate ability to make everyone he met feel like they were the most important person in the room. Bert never met a stranger. In fact, he was everyone’s best friend. He had the sweetest soul and a tender heart that loved hard and deeply. Bert had a unique sense of humor with an infectious laugh and smile that could light up the darkest room.

For more information about the 4th Annual Drifter Fest: Bert Griggs Memorial Jam, visit www.drifterfest.com. 

Moontime Market Welcomes Artisan Vendors to Rock in the New Year in Atlanta

As the countdown to the new year begins, Moontime Market plans to bring unforgettable experience on Saturday, December 30th from 12-4PM at Westside Motor Lounge. This is the ultimate celebration to kick off the new year in style with an epic line up of live music, a varied artisan market at a super cool venue with TVs to watch the bowl games along with a full bar and comfort eats. Moontime Market will also offer a raffle of vendor goods to give back to a non profit to make a meaningful impact. 

“After successful events in Charleston, Huntsville and Savannah, we are excited to bring our curated, artisan market to Atlanta with a mix of talented vendors in different industries,” said co-organizer Lorrie Dixson Griggs. “Our mission is to uplift and turn the spotlight on creatives by offering a platform to showcase their work in a promoted and organized environment.”

Event Highlights:

Live Music: Patrons will be blown away by the electrifying sounds of local band Cosmic Debris. Known for its high-energy performances, improvisation skills, and a generous sprinkle of funk, the rockin’ band will bring an unforgettable musical journey that will have guests dancing all afternoon!

Artisan Market: Guests will indulge in a shopping spree with an amazing artisan market featuring a curated selection of diverse vendors including Drifter Merch, HoneyCreek Pottery, Reba’s Dancing Dyes, The B’alam Shop, Magic & Glory, Blue Girl Show Shades, Om Grown Art, Butterflies & Bombs, Zinnialou Jewelry, The Horti-Culture, Rasta Batik, Covy’s Love Swag, Shamelessly Alive, Cool Attire Co., Happy Mountain Tie Dye, Lucky Lany, Satisfied Labs, Wild Earth Mamá, GinaRenay Designs, Midland Ghost and Tripp’s Prints.

Venue: At just under three acres, Westside Motor Lounge houses a full-service restaurant, two premium bars, a private event space as well as an expansive outdoor courtyard featuring a fully wired stage for bands, beer garden, shuffleboard courts, firepits, tons of seating and vintage Airstream travel bar and food trailer. 

Raffle for a Cause: At this event 100% of the proceeds will be going to Conscious Alliance, an organization dedicated to bringing food and essential goods directly to economically-isolated communities across the country. 

Drifter Merch & Zinnialou Jewelry Holiday Trunk Show in Charleston

Stop by Lorrie's house at 801 March Grove Avenue in Mount Pleasant on Thursday, December 14th from 5pm-9pm for some holiday cheer, hors d'oeuvres, drinks and live music from Just Groove. Drifter Merch, Zinnialou Jewelry and Just Groove books will be on display for some holiday shopping. Kids and friends welcome!

Drifter Merch features vintage-style apparel and accessories inspired by music. Zinnialou Jewelry is Shelly Lynch's original handmade jewelry with semi-precious stones and metals. Just Groove is Robert Corbett's autobiography on how to rock stress, anger, and sadness into joy.

Please RSVP here so we can have plenty of refreshments and food!

Understanding Minimums in Screen Printing: What You Need to Know

Screen printing is a popular and versatile method of printing used for a wide range of applications, from custom t-shirts to promotional products. If you're considering screen printing for your project, you may have come across the term "minimums." In this blog post, we'll delve into the concept of minimums in screen printing and explain what you need to know to navigate this aspect of the printing process.

Understanding Minimums:
In the context of screen printing, minimums refer to the minimum quantity of items that a printer requires for a specific design or order. Printers often impose minimums to ensure that the production process is efficient and cost-effective. These minimums can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the design, the type of item being printed, and the capabilities of the printing facility.

There are several reasons why screen printing minimums exist:

1. Set-Up Costs: The screen printing process involves creating custom screens for each color in the design, preparing the printing equipment, and aligning the screens accurately. These set-up tasks require time, effort, and materials. By setting minimums, printers can distribute these costs over a larger quantity of items, making the process economically viable.

2. Efficiency: Screen printing is a sequential process, where each color in the design is applied separately. To optimize production time and resources, it is often more efficient to print multiple items at once. Minimums help printers maintain a workflow that maximizes efficiency and reduces downtime.

3. Profitability: Printing businesses need to cover their costs and make a profit to stay sustainable. By setting minimums, printers can ensure that each order meets a certain threshold of profitability necessary to run their operations successfully.

Here are a few tips to help you navigate minimums in screen printing:

1. Communication: When considering screen printing for your project, it's essential to research potential printing companies and their minimum requirements. Reach out to the printers directly and discuss your specific needs. Clear communication will help you understand the minimums they have in place and explore any potential flexibility based on your requirements.

2. Cost Considerations: Minimums are often tied to the cost per item. As the quantity increases, the per-item cost tends to decrease. Evaluate your budget and determine the optimal quantity that strikes a balance between affordability and meeting the printer's minimums.

3. Group Orders: If you don't require a large number of items yourself, consider joining forces with friends, colleagues, or community groups who may have similar printing needs. By combining orders, you can collectively reach the printer's minimums and share the cost, making it more feasible for everyone involved.

Minimums in screen printing serve a practical purpose, helping printers streamline their production process and maintain profitability. By understanding the reasons behind minimums and effectively communicating with printing companies, you can navigate this aspect of screen printing and find the right balance between quantity, cost, and quality for your specific project. If you are interested in screen printing, please reach out as we offer custom orders.

Savannaween Moontime Market

Join us on Saturday, October 28th from 12pm-4pm for the next Moontime Market Pre-Party at Southbound Brewing Company during the Widespread Panic Halloween run in Savannah, GA. We will have a fantastic lineup of artisan and lot vendors, jammy live music, football on the TVs, craft beer, delicious Lowcountry eats and to top it off, a raffle benefiting Nuci Space.

Band:
Drifter’s Escape featuring William “Drifter” Kirkwood of The Jam Cooperative, Daniel Berman & Billy McIntosh from Charlie Fog Band

Food:
B Local Catering

Vendors:
Honey Creek Pottery
Drifter Merch
Reba’s Dancing Dyes
Butterflies & Bombs
Amber McRae Art
Miss Brown’s Tee House
Cool Attire Co.
Shamelessly Alive
Covy’s Love Swag
Ashley Apothecary & Dispensary
Nothing Too Fancy Designs
The Paisley Fig
Fluidity Art
Team Japanic
Tie Dyed Twice
KP Reverie
Shaun's Show Shirts

Fundraiser:
We will be having a raffle with goods from the participating vendors with 100% of proceeds going to Nuci Space, a non-profit proving depression awareness and suicide prevention for musicians as well as offering support and resources. Raffle tickets will be $5 each or five for $20 with one winner taking all prizes. If you cannot attend and would like to make a donation, click here: www.nuci.org/donateform.

Catch Drifter Merch at these October Events

We are buzzing with excitement for October as we have a jam-packed schedule filled with tons of fabulous vending events alongside awesome music. It's going to be a whirlwind of activity and exciting opportunities to connect with other vendors, showcase our products, and network for custom orders.

Five Points JerryFest, a FREE outdoor Columbia, SC concert, returns on Sunday, October 1st from 11:30 am-8:00 pm. The fun-filled event will have more music and regional acts on two stages this year featuring Jerry Garcia and Grateful Dead music from Stillhouse and The Reckoning along with the addition this year of some other jam-band favorites that includes Phish-inspired Runaway Gin and Widespread Panic cover band Machine Funk. In addition to food vendors and beer trucks, there will be family fun activities along with artisan vendors creating a Shakedown Street atmosphere. Merchants include us, Bravefriend Apparel and Design, Bright Star Designs, Grizzly Belle, Hippy Do-Da Creations, HoneyCreek Pottery, Reba’s Dancing Dyes, Revyved Records, Ruffled Rooster Co. & Mercantile, and Zinnialou Jewelry. Guests will enjoy eats and drinks from Senor Burrito, Zosh, Kombucha Bus, Bang Back Pinball Lounge, Publico Kitchen + Tap, Home Team BBQ and Crowntown.

The 6th Annual Day of the Dead will be held on Saturday, October 7th at the Big Winston Warehouse, presented by Fiddlin’ Fish Brewing Co, Pesca Muerta, Broad Branch Distillery, and Celestial Wellness! Day of the Dead is the party of the fall in Winston-Salem featuring live music from Cosmic Charlie, Athens GA’s high-energy Grateful Dead tribute. This year, Dr. Bacon will be kicking the party off with a little Appalachian funk at 5:00. Get here early and check out the lot scene. We’ll have vendors, a tie-dye station, and good vibes all afternoon!

The Palmetto Park Jam will be held on Sunday, October 15 from 12-4:30 p.m. at Palmetto Islands County Park in Mount Pleasant. Get ready to jam with the ultimate Allman Brothers tribute band, Idlewild Revival. Grab your tickets now, and secure your spot for an afternoon of tunes. Whether you're a die-hard Allman Brothers fan or simply love great music, this tribute will blow you away!

The 10th Annual Tribute to the Band will be held on Sunday, October 22 at the Pawleys Island Tavern. 30-plus musicians will gather to pay homage to the music of The Band. This is a free show that will benefit All4Paws animal rescue in Pawleys Island, SC. Artists from near and far sing and play a song or two with the eight-piece house band. It's a beautiful setting under the oaks and the stars. Come listen to the music of The Band in what has become a community tradition for the musicians and audience, alike.

As Widespread Panic will be back in Savannah for Halloween, Drifter Merch will be set up in the lot with many talented Shakedown vendors. Check us out before and after the shows on Friday, October 27 and Saturday, October 28th at Enmarket Arena.

Rock Your Style with Jam Band Merch: A Guide to Finding the Perfect Gear

If you're a fan of jam bands, you know that the music and the community surrounding it are unlike anything else. Beyond the mesmerizing tunes and improvisational jams, jam band culture is characterized by a unique sense of camaraderie and self-expression. One way to showcase your love for this genre and connect with fellow fans is through jam band merchandise. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of jam band merch, exploring its significance, popular items, and where to find the perfect gear to rock your style.

1. The Power of Jam Band Merchandise:

Jam band merchandise serves as a powerful symbol of identity and belonging for fans. By donning apparel featuring their favorite bands, fans express their passion and create connections with like-minded individuals. It's not just about wearing a t-shirt or hat, it's about celebrating the music, embracing the community, and sharing the experience with others who understand the unique vibes of the jam band scene.

2. Popular Jam Band Merchandise:

When it comes to jam band merch, there's an abundance of options to choose from. Here are some popular items that fans often seek out:

a. T-Shirts and Hoodies: These staple items feature band logos, album artwork, or custom designs inspired by the music. They are versatile, comfortable, and perfect for showcasing your love for jam bands in everyday life or at concerts.

b. Posters and Art Prints: Jam band concerts often feature stunning visual art, and many artists create limited edition posters to commemorate these shows. These prints not only serve as collectibles but also add a vibrant touch to your living space.

c. Accessories and Jewelry: From pins and patches to bracelets and necklaces, accessories allow you to express your love for jam bands in subtle yet stylish ways. They provide a unique flair and can be conversation starters among fellow fans.

d. Vinyl Records and CDs: For collectors, owning physical copies of albums is a must. Vinyl records and CDs not only offer high-quality sound but also serve as tangible mementos of your favorite jams.

3. Where to Find Jam Band Merch:

Finding authentic and high-quality jam band merchandise can sometimes be a challenge. However, with the rise of online platforms and dedicated merchandise websites, it has become easier than ever to explore and purchase your favorite gear. Here are a few places to start your search:

a. Official Band Websites: Many jam bands have their own official websites where they sell merchandise directly to fans. This ensures authenticity and supports the band directly.

b. Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Bandcamp offer a wide range of jam band merchandise, including creations from independent artists and sellers.

c. Live Shows and Festivals: Attending live shows and festivals is not only a fantastic way to experience the music but also an opportunity to find exclusive and limited edition merchandise available only at these events.

d. Fan Communities and Forums: Engaging with fellow fans through online communities and forums can lead you to valuable recommendations and insider tips on where to find the best jam band merch.

Jam band merchandise allows fans to proudly display their love for the music, connect with a vibrant community, and express their unique style. From t-shirts and accessories to posters and vinyl records, the world of jam band merch offers a variety of options to suit every fan.

Learn Differences Between Printing Processes

When ordering t-shirts, it's important to understand the different printing methods. Our website and Etsy offer screen-printed designs using plastisol ink, while Amazon purchases come with DTG printing. Our custom flags and tents are created through sublimated printing. What does this mean? Screen printing, heat press, vinyl, DTG (Direct-to-Garment), and sublimation are all different printing methods, each with its own advantages and considerations.

1. Durability: Screen printing often provides excellent durability and long-lasting prints. The ink used in screen printing is typically thicker and more robust, making it more resistant to fading, cracking, or peeling over time, especially when compared to heat press and vinyl transfers.

2. Vibrant Colors and Opaqueness: Screen printing allows for the use of vibrant and opaque colors. The ability to apply multiple layers of ink during the printing process produces vibrant and eye-catching designs, even on dark-colored garments. In comparison, heat press and vinyl transfers may have limitations in color vibrancy and opacity.

3. Cost-Effective for Large Orders: Screen printing becomes cost-effective when producing large quantities of printed items. Once the screens are set up, printing multiple items becomes relatively efficient, making it a preferred choice for businesses that require a high volume of printed products. Heat press, vinyl, DTG, and sublimation printing may have higher costs per unit for larger orders.

4. Versatility: Screen printing can be performed on various surfaces, including fabrics, paper, plastics, and wood, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Heat press and vinyl transfers are primarily used on fabrics, while DTG and sublimation printing are more specialized for fabric applications.

5. Customization Options: Screen printing offers a wide range of customization options, including the use of special inks (e.g., metallic or glow-in-the-dark inks), specialty finishes (e.g., foil or flock), and textured effects. This flexibility allows for unique and creative designs. While heat press and vinyl transfers offer some customization options, they may have limitations in terms of effects and finishes. DTG and sublimation printing also offer customization options, but they may have limitations in terms of special effects and the type of fabrics they can be used on.

It's important to note that each printing method has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the better option depends on specific requirements, such as desired print quality, quantity, fabric/material, complexity of the design, budget, and available equipment. It's always recommended to consider these factors and discuss with us or your printing professional to determine the most suitable method for your specific needs.

Port City Jerry Day

The 5th Annual Port City Jerry Day is a charitable event presented by the City of Wilmington in support of the United Way of the Cape Fear Area. The event, celebrating the life and music of the Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia, will be held on Saturday, August 19th from 6pm-10pm at Greenfield Lake Amphitheater. The successful event last year raised $20k for local charity with 100% of proceeds again going to the non-profit. Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with fantastic music by The Garcia Project with Maria Muldaur & Buzz Buchanen (original Jerry Garcia Band members). Additionally, local Dead cover band The Possums will start at 5:30pm. Mayor Mike Purzycki and the Peguin’s Beau Gunn with also make a special appearance singing on stage. Doors open at 5 pm, allowing patrons to explore the offerings of live artists and vendors. Artists include Nugget, Brandon Besecker, Kaichica Loca, Kosmic Kev, The Tying Alchemist and Bee Jones while craft vendors are Drifter Merch, Viola Lee Tees, Nothing Too Fancy Designs, Love That Baby, Hopkins Creative Group, T-Shaw Designs, Tink-A-Belle, Cosmic Carolina Dyes, Mountain Soul Designs, Homegrown Market, Settle Down Easy Goods, Barefoot and Brazen and more. Don’t miss the $5 raffle with items from various vendors raising additional funds.

100% of the proceeds will directly benefit the United Way of the Cape Fear Area that works with its community to leverage resources and improve the lives of local people. By partnering with local agencies across the Cape Fear region, the non-profit is able to continue to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in its community. United Way of the Cape Fear Area empowers its neighborhoods by building strong foundations to have a stronger, united, more resilient community.

Come be a part of this meaningful event and help make a positive impact. Get your $10 tax deductible tickets now to enjoy a night of incredible music, charity, and community spirit!

Port City Jerry Day poster by T. Shaw Designs