Don't forget folks, Anime Expo weekend is finally here. In just 2 days, we will be participating in this massive 4 day event at the Los Angeles Convention Center that will start Thurs. (Jul 2nd) and extend all the way out to Sunday (Jul 5th).
2 Scavenger hunts will emerge starting on Friday. A total of 12 prizes will be handed out by us -- which will include various items including our new Nosey Bastard Trucker Hat. Golden tickets similar to Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory will also be handed out! In addition, our close pals from Fat Rabbit Farm will also be joining us and giving away prizes. The other scavenger hunt will be in collaboration with PDFLO -- which will take place by sending out clues from both of our Twitter accounts. In order to participate in this hunt, you need to have a Twitter account and either join ours and or PDFLO's. Film crew will also be onsite. See Flyer below for details. To add to the gamut of prizes, our friends over at Dragatomi have graciously donated some of their designer/vinyl toys as well to giveaway. Therefore, all winners will be...well...hooked up! For all contestants, make sure you bring a camera of some sort since some of the items in the scavenger hunt will need to be photographed! Make sure you see the folks at the show passing out flyers for details. Or, visit our booth #627 or Fat Rabbit Farm at booth#851.
Have a safe trip out to the Expo! Especially those coming from the Bay Area! We'll see you there!
More cool stuff to add from Dragatomi
Note: People on our mailing list, make sure you use that "special coupon" sent to you by this Friday in order to get the Nosey Bastard Trucker discount as the offer will expire on Friday (Jul 3rd).
Introducing a design made specifically for you, "The Nosey Bastard" trucker hat. Not your ordinary trucker, this new lavish headwear piece is equipped with a massive 3D front side embroidery flaunting the Bastard individual with the signature B&F "X" hairstyle accented by another embroidered hit on the side along with a lining that fashionably displays the SF city skyline through the mesh. This hat is finally ready to be rocked to the fullest!
The story behind the concept goes like this: "Why in the world are there people like this? They never seem to understand that there is an A and B conversation going on. These types of people want to always meddle into topics that they are not even asked to be part of. Is the topic so important that you can’t simply resist what is being talked about? Here comes along that spying nosey Bastard who is always wondering what you’re up to. Peeking and investigating everything that you do with the intent of keeping the juicy gossip to themselves or spreading the news to other souls. I mean c'mon, mind your own business as I'm doing with mine and we'll all get along just fine. Have you experienced the bastard...or are you the bastard!?"
Key Notes and Fun Facts: * Limited to only 200 pcs. * Snap back flat brim cap * Accommodates majority noggin sizes: 7 - 8 * Front 3D embroidery Stitch count 15,800s * Side embroidery Stitch count 3,000s * Mesh accented by SF City Skyline on the lining * Designers: Ricky Kwong & LeRoid David
Rock this hat if: A) You're the Bastard B) You're irritated by these types of people or C) Simply just because
Is the Nosey Bastard Trucker hat. It's finally here! I know you guys have been anxiously waiting for the arrival of this cap. This ill headpiece just arrived in our hands yesterday as a matter of fact. So, please no more emails asking about when this will be available because in 2 days the item will be ready to order. j/k :)
As mentioned in one of my past blogs, we will be sending out a special coupon code tomorrow to everyone that is currently on the mailing list that will last for a limited time only. The current list already includes: existing customers, person's that have signed up, and those that have put their info. on our mailing list at previous events/trade shows. The final mailing list will be closed tonight at midnight Pacific time. As always, no spamming Bastards here!
Fun facts about this headpiece will be published this Friday.
All So. Cal natives, mark your calendars and get ready for the 1st annual Funk Rumble Block party held in LA's own historic Chinatown. Organized by our pal Oscar and his team, Half music festival – half block party, The Funk Rumble is a blend of live music, djs, vendors, and artists coming together to celebrate urban soul and create the ultimate summer party! This incredible grassroots event is brought to you through a collaboration of some of LA’s top underground music and art promoters! Peruse the vendor village and you’ll find apparel, accessories, artwork and one-of-a-kind goods presented by up and coming designers and the most creative individuals from San Diego to San Francisco. Don't be a Bastard!...Be there or be square!
Note: This is an all ages event! Click on the flyer for more info.
What I most love about working on the Bastard & Friends project is that we get a lot of support from various individuals and groups. Whether it be from rock bands, skate heads, or even other groups involved in various sub-cultures, there's always a handful that are locked and loaded and fully ready to rock their particular division with B&F gear.
Meet some of the good fellas from the far east land of the Philippines who just sent this video to us displaying another uncut set of rapping, small doses of various interviews as well as entertaining clips from the P.I. Mike Swift and J-Hon, both MC's from Brooklyn N.Y are on a mission to get to the top, that is the Billboard as these boys would say, whom currently reside in the P.I as they vigorously work to capture the attention of 50 Cent and the G-Unit Crew back here in the States aka G-Unit Asia. No stranger to MCing, these 2 guys alone cover miles of terrain stretching all the way from the P.I back to the U.S as they perform at countless amounts of various venues. Whether they are performing in front of a crowd of 50 or a stadium full of people reaching the thousands, these two dudes show no signs of loosing steam and always put on an entertaining act as they showcase their rhyming skills. Bilingual, I might add. These two guys have been around awhile. As a matter of fact, I heard about Mike Swift from a magazine called "YRB" (Issue #80 The Art Issue) sometime ago when he had an exclusive 1 page article written about him (see image below). Incredibly, this man was flown from the P.I over to L.A to meet with one of hip-hop's notorious and scariest producers, Suge Knight. That's what I call some buzz. When Death Row Records' founder calls you and has you flown all the way from across the world to lay out a few tracks, that's what you call some serious noise throughout the hip-hop community.
Attended the Renegade Rockers 26th Anniversary all ages Hip Hop Event yesterday with Leah and Tito over at the City Nights night club in SF. On deck were special guests, the sickest b-girl group on the planet, The Beat Freaks. All 7 ladies (Bgirl Shorty, Outthere, Rino, Maryss From Paris, Lady Jules, Lock N Key, and Teresa) put on another breathtaking and epic performance. Showcasing their raw b-girl talents as what was uncovered on Season 3's America's Best Dance Crew, these ladies are undoubtedly the most amazing all girl group I've ever seen step foot on the dance crew circuit! An ample crowd consisting of spectators/b-boys/b-girls/dance crews and clothing brands were all in attendance.
Hanging out in the VIP area with the ladies was also a fun and exciting experience. All of them were totally awesome to say the least. Very down-to-earth and showed much love and support for us as well. So much support that Maryss, LindseyB aka Outthere, and Rino were rockin' our gear at the show! Much love and props for these ladies and the rest of the crew! We all wish you girls the best! And, more gear will be coming your way in the future...trust me!
Below are some pics as well as a video of the Beat Freaks performing. A professional vid and photo set will be published in the near future by our good pal Victor who shot both days of the event (stay tuned). Also, wanted to give a shout out to our extended family members showcasing their products at the event, Damjn.
Note: Maryss From Paris is rockin' the infamous Bastard & Friends logo hat in the entire performance. Much appreciated! Also, note the non-stop headspinning from Bgirl Shorty. This b-girl goes on for days! Video is also posted on our YouTube Page
Just received an email reminding us that the World of Dance Tour is coming back around to Cali in August (San Diego) and in October (San Mateo) to close out the 2009 Tour. Still tentative about attending the event in San Diego, but we will for sure be exhibiting at the San Mateo Expo center in October. If you didn't get a chance to check out the footage of the Pomona event held back in April that we exhibited at through Vimby's eyes, check it out below. I know this is old news, but it's still cool to watch and enjoy!
Last night a sizeable number of us synched up at one of SF's premiere night clubs, Ruby Skye to celebrate my birthday. Still feeling the long night from the event, I'll keep this blog short and sweet. 'THANK YOU' to all for coming out and experiencing another entertaining and eventful evening! Just like Jay-z said in his song 'Izzo (H.O.V.A.),' 'You could've been anywhere in the world, but you're here with me I appreciate that, uhh!' Below are few pics from last night's affair.
Our friends Kelly and Jenise flew all the way in from Miami a few days ago to hang out under the California sun. Or I should say, under the San Francisco fog. lf you recall, we supplied Jenise a bunch of gift bags for her 30th birthday bash in Miami Beach a few months back. Jenise, a marketing manager for a small technology firm and Kelly whom is a VP over at Whole Foods were generous enough to have Sharon and I over for dinner last night. Many conversations spawned over the course. True believers in saving the planet and eating organic and natural products, these two individuals truly believe in spirituality and the gift of life. To come to think of it, both of their personalities sorta remind me of the character 'Mr. Cheezle' in the movie Grandma's Boy.
Every so often, we receive emails from people praising us. 'THANK YOU!' And more often than not, those same folks come to us for advice on starting their own apparel brand. Today, in our questions@bastardandfriends.com inbox was an email from a person by the name of Amber asking for guidance with her up and coming brand (see email below). Rather than responding to her via email, I thought I'd switch it up and respond on our blog. My response is in red below her email.
'Subject: advice please :-)
Hi bastard and friends,
My name is amber and me and my boyfriend want to start a t-shirt line. I really dig the company and have seen your brand on various youtube peoples videos. I live in massachusetts outside the boston area and have seen people wearing the clothes. I think it's so cool and very unique. We love the website and the don't be a bastard message!!! :-) The videos are also entertaining. I honestly have not come across a company like bastard and friends. Very cool! Would you able able to give me and my boyfriend advice about starting a t-shirt line since it looks like you guys have your stuff together? Thanks bastard and friends keep up the good work!!! :-) Your blog is our daily newspaper!!!!!! :-) sorry for the rambling. I'll be sure to place an order soon. My bf needs that trucker hat!
xxAmber'
Amber,
First off 'THANK YOU' for your kind and generous words! A good majority of our customers are actually out of the Boston area as a matter of fact. Everyone from Mass. are Awesome! We get a lot of love from that side of the country. Anyhow, I admire those that have the drive and vision to be able to start something that they can call 'their own.' It's tough and challenging, to say the least. Especially, during these difficult economic times. As you have experienced already, if not will be, anytime you decide to take the entrepreneur route you'll soon realize that it's more than just passion and the desire that will get you from point A to point B. Although, those are important factors, it takes a lot of energy. And lots of it I might add and sacrifices. Also, understand that there are no shortcuts whatsoever. Just like school, you need to constantly do your homework; make an agenda. Setup goals and objectives and make sure you put deadlines next to each and every one. Be very personable! Networking is key. You'll learn a lot from people who are actually doing it. Surround yourself with those that are in the same industry. I truly believe that the people you hang around with now, will dictate what your future will be like in the next 5 years. Books/magazines/forums etc..are also good to absorb, but interacting with key people will provide you a much more solid foundation. Having deep pockets is also good. By that I mean, you're going to hit road blocks where money is a deciding factor. Make sure that not only you're able to fund your start-up, but also ensure you have the capability to make purchases after you launch. Nobody wants to see a company that does things 1/2 ass. Nor, do they want to see a brand that will only sustain a 1-2 year duration. Moreover, think outside of the box. Don't be afraid to be creative and do things your way. When the industry goes left, you go right. More importantly, make sure you know and understand your demographic! Interestingly, I always here people tell me that their brand caters to everyone. Bull Shit! No it doesn't. It's sad, but that seems to be the blanket/general statement people say about their brand. Another thing that people tend to forget is the marketing aspect. The days of just marketing on myspace and other social community sites, IMHO are gone. Discover alternative avenues; hit the streets; network and attend trade shows; sponsor events, if you can etc. There's also various ways you can market with very little money. But, creativity is key. Further, aim towards not only be a t-shirt line. Honestly, there are thousands of t-shirt lines out there. Whenever you obtain your funds from selling your t-shirts, make sure you turn it around and add other items into the mix. Diversify your inventory. And lastly...have fun and don't give up! Remember, there will be a lot of road bumps ahead, but plow right through each and every one of them in order to fulfill what ultimately will make you and your boyfriend happy in the end. I almost forgot... trademark your stuff. Put in the extra effort and money to engage legitimate trademark and copyright attorneys. I can go on for days, but I'll stop for now.
Thanks again Amber for checking us out and keeping up with us. We're glad that we can entertain you! The infamous Trucker hat will be readily available very shortly.
Just like the majority of our trips, it's the 'get in and get out' type of attitude whenever we leave home to meet with our contacts. Or, even trade shows for that matter. I didn't get much time to explore all of Vancouver as much as I would have liked to. When your sole objective is to meet with partners and suppliers, there's not much vacationing involved. The agenda and calendar is mainly comprised of back-to-back meetings. And, every so often lunch and dinner as well as a few stops at a few tourist spots. Not to mention, a few short hours of sleep (2-4 hours). The next time I'm back in the area, I'm going to have to take the rest of the gang out here and visit a couple tourist spots that I missed during my stint here in B.C Canada.
Until then, it's back to the Bay, ay! ;)
The notorious Olympic rings displayed in the Vancouver area. Interestingly, the 2010 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games will be hosted here. Maybe another trip back here won't be so bad. But, this time the snowboards have to be brought up
The last lunch with the fellas before heading back home. BTW, these dudes are camera shy. I'm sure you got the point already
I thought this sign was humorous. Check out the creativity of letters used
Found that a playground for kids was pretty awesome to have while waiting for your flight. To my knowledge, at all 3 Bay Area airports (SF, Oakland, and San Jose) there is not this type of amusement/structure located inside the terminals. This is genius!
Touched down in Vancouver just a few hours ago after a slight delay in SF. Aside from the minor delay back in the Bay Area and listening to this lady in the next seat over being emotional after a few alchoholic beverages in her system and practically having a nervous breakdown, the trip was quite pleasant. After landing and moving through the customs line at a snail's pace, I had to jump into a taxi to bolt me over to the downtown area in order to meet with a few of our vendors at a sweet seafood spot on the West Side called The Salmon House to discuss current as well as future B&F projects. Projects and tangible items that are so cool, I'm hoping to deliver them to the masses in the near future. But, of course before anything is released to you guys we have to make sure that everything is all in place -- which is the reason why I'm out here in Canada for a few short days; listenining, learning, and participating. Not to mention, I'm trying to change my American accent to a Canadian one so I can master the mild accent by saying words like 'aboat' rather than 'about.' You Canadians know what I'm saying. :) The view and the ambiance at this place by the way, is remarkable and stunning to say the least and highly recommended if visiting the area.
Well, it's getting late and have to wake up early again to have another fun and promising meeting with some great folks before heading back home. So, I'll call it a night.
The Bastard & Friends sponsored and in partnership with Team Stat AIDS/HIV fundraising event happened last night in SF at the Monkey Club. 'THANK YOU' to all for coming out and supporting a good cause. All proceeds will be going towards the fight against AIDS/HIV.
A few hours back Joey Diamond, another YouTube phenomenon whom has a sizeable following of 18,600+ subscribers currently, put together another vocal performance that usually elates his followers and sends shivers down their spines. Just a few days ago, we decked out Joey with some of our gear during our photo shoot held in SF (scroll down to check the post a few days ago). In return, he put together this easing and sincere video for not only us, but his fans and supporters. If you've been following us for awhile now, you'd come to the realization that Joey is one of the handful of talented and acclaimed YouTuber's that we have on board with us. We are honored to have these individuals supporting the 'Don't be a Bastard' project!
Right on, Joey! Now go respond to your stalkers and admirers on YouTube who want you so desperately.
Going on the road yet again to exhibit at another show in the LA area. For all you Anime and Manga fanatics, and I know there are packs of you, we will be at the massive 4 day Anime Expo show located at the Los Angeles Convention Center from July 2nd - July 5th. As of yesterday, our rep positioned us in booth#627 near the front entrance and adjacent to some of the big guys (Funimation, Crunchyroll, and Digital Manga).
For this show we will be doing our traditional every hour on the hour prize giveaways. To further add to our own prizes -- which will be some of our new 'Nosey Bastard' Trucker hats (see blog below), we will also be including designer toys courtesy of our counterparts Dragatomi. That's right folks, those that received prizes at Wondercon SF 2009 know what I'm talking about.
Also our brother from another mother, PDFLO will also be guest appearing in our booth for a few hours each day. Not to mention, we will be doing a contest/treasure hunt utilizing our Twitter as well as PDFLO's. So, join ours or PDFLO's before the show in order to get additional prizes at the show.
More information will be published as we near the event. Also, flyers with raffle tickets will be made and handed out for the show. So, make sure you pick one up at the location from one of our Street Team members.
Will be arriving and stocked on our shelves in just 2 weeks. That's right ladies and gentlemen, the much anticipated sickest trucker hat that a lot of you have been anxiously waiting for will finally be available in no time. Over the weekend, we did a photo shoot with one of our very own. Another YouTube sensation, Joey Diamond. As soon as we release this hat to the public, I'll note the fun facts about this highly detailed and custom trucker. Not your ordinary trucker, this particular hat boasts intricate stitching, design and a profound story behind it. As our manufacturer mentioned to us: 'sickest trucker hat we've ever made...fact!'
MORE IMPORTANTLY: * Join the mailing list. We will be emailing a 'unique' coupon code to all existing customers as well as those that are signed up on our mailing list before the sale is kicked off in order to receive 30% off. No worries, we are not spamming Bastards! Note: coupon code will only be available for 1 week after you receive the email.
* This hat will come in sizes ranging from a size 7 to a size 8 in order to accommodate both the small and big headed noggins.
For now, you can have treat yourself to an eyegasm by enjoying a few of the pictures of below:
