Start a Store with Biography Apparel
How It Works
From first conversation to live store in about 2–4 weeks. Here's what the process looks like:
1. Consultation
We'll hop on a quick call or email thread to talk through your goals — what kinds of items you want (tees, hoodies, hats, etc.), who's buying (players/families only, or fans and staff too), order volume, distribution preference, and any branding you already have.
2. Apparel Selection
You have as little or as much input into apparel selection as you like. We're happy to run the apparel selection start to finish, based on our experience and the information you share about your group. Alternatively, you're welcome to check out our online catalogs and select items that work for your group. We have samples available in-store if you'd like to see and feel options in person. We source from three main distributors, so there's a lot of flexibility on brand and budget:
We offer both printing and embroidery, and can work across a wide range of price points depending on your budget and audience.
3. Design
A typical store includes 1–2 primary designs, plus 1–2 additional item-specific designs if needed (hats, outerwear, etc.). We can design from scratch, replicate an existing look, or work from your direction. Embroidery is available in addition to printed designs. If you're asking us to print a logo, you must have explicit rights to usage for that logo or design.
4. Store Launch & Fulfillment
Once designs are approved, we build your custom online store and get it live. You choose the fulfillment model:
- Ordering window + bulk print: Store stays open for a set period, then we print in bulk for group pickup. Great for teams and events.
- Print as ordered: Items are printed as orders come in and shipped direct to each customer. Great for ongoing or open-ended stores.
Print turnaround is typically 10–15 business days for both options.
Timeline at a Glance
- 2–4 weeks from first conversation to live store (from final design/product approval: 1–2 weeks)
- 10–15 business days per print run, for both bulk and print-as-ordered fulfillment
The sooner you reach out, the more runway we have — especially for seasonal or event-specific stores.
Fundraising: 15% Giveback for Non-Profits
Built into every store for groups and non-profits, with zero extra work required:
- The first $500 in sales each year covers setup and production costs.
- Beyond that, your organization earns 15% of the retail price on every sale, automatically.
- The threshold resets each year. For long-term stores, we send donation checks and sales reports quarterly.
| Total Store Sales | Amount Given Back |
|---|---|
| $500 | $0 (covers setup) |
| $1,500 | $150 |
| $3,000 | $375 |
| $5,000 | $675 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an order minimum?
No minimums for print-as-ordered stores. For ordering window + bulk print stores, we recommend a minimum of around 12–24 pieces per design to keep unit costs reasonable, but we'll talk through what makes sense for your group.
Can items ship directly to buyers, or does everything go to one place?
Both options are available. With print as ordered, each item ships directly to the buyer. With an ordering window + bulk print, everything is printed at once and distributed to your group (pickup at our store or delivered to your location). We'll help you pick the model that fits your situation.
Do you help source items, or do we have to know what we want?
We handle sourcing. You tell us your budget, audience, and general preferences — we'll pull options from our three distributors and walk you through what makes sense. In-store samples are available if you want to see and feel blanks before committing.
How long does the store stay open?
That's up to you. Common options:
- Event-specific / short window: 2–3 weeks open, then bulk print and done.
- Seasonal: Open for a season (fall, spring, etc.) with one or two print runs.
- Ongoing: Store stays live indefinitely with print-as-ordered fulfillment — great for booster clubs, schools, or organizations that want a permanent merch presence.
What if we already have a logo or existing designs?
Bring them. We can work from your existing files, replicate a look you've used before, or refresh something that needs updating. Vector files (.ai, .eps, .svg) are ideal, but we can work with what you have.
Ready to Get Started?
Fill out the form below and we'll follow up within a couple business days.
It helps to know: your target open date, whether you have existing designs, and any current inventory you're working through.