Custom Sorority Wristbands

A weekend project to sell customized thick wristbands (similar to Livestrong bands but larger) directly to sororities, fraternities, and groups. The business was created as a 48-hour challenge to make $1,000.

Key Points:

• Product:

  • Thick customizable wristbands (called "Fat Bands")
  • Customized with organization names, brands, or group names
  • Sourced from Alibaba/Aliexpress

• Business Model:

  • Cost: 17¢ per band (including shipping)
  • Selling price: $1.50 per band
  • Target: Sell 700 bands to make $1,000

• Quick Launch Strategy:

  • Created simple brand name: "The Fat Band"
  • Basic logo using Impact font
  • Simple website: fatband.com
  • Direct sales through personal networks
  • Found bulk orders through existing connections (e.g., 250-piece order for anniversary party)

• Key Success Factors:

  • No formal business structure needed initially
  • Focused on getting sales before setup
  • Used existing payment solutions (PayPal)
  • Leveraged personal networks for first sales
  • Minimal planning, maximum action

The business demonstrated how to quickly validate an idea and generate revenue without extensive planning or formal business structures.