Product Spotlight: Hello Apparel x State Bicycle Co.

Born from Hello Merch, an independent company started in 2008 as an outlet for artists to sell merchandise online and on tour without sacrificing the major-label cut, is Hello Apparel -- an Arizona-local brand with design savviness catering to the outdoor lover, fashionable fitness junkie, and couch potato alike. We talk with founder, Sam Means, local legend songwriter of The Format, about his brand success, dedication to artists, affection for cycling, and Einstein's relativity.

 

You've had quite a run with Hello Merch since massive success with your band, The Format. It's clear that some industry insight motivated you to lift other artists up in their careers.  

Definitely.. I’ve been through most of the lame experiences one might expect from the music business, so I’m very opinionated on all surrounding topics. But with merchandise specifically, back when I started Hello, it was actually pretty difficult to get an online store going. Getting shirts on the road could be nearly just as tough at times and good luck ever getting out of debt! So we threw that mentality out the window and do everything we can to help the artists we’re fortunate enough to work with.

Your designs are so catchy and appealing to both the work-hard and play-hard. Is it a sort of synergistically whimsical rock-stardom that inspires the fun in your brand identity?

“I’d like to think I have an eye for details.”

We're stoked on the collaboration with Hello and like to think here at State Bicycle Co. we too don't take ourselves too seriously. Can you give us your top 3 wise wizard secrets to fun life?

I'm stoked too!

1. You're on the right track.. Never take yourself too seriously.
2. Surround yourself with awesome people.
3. Be creative with everything.

A wise wizard by the name of Albert Einstein said, "I thought of that while riding my bicycle." What inspired you to ride a State bicycle, and do bike rides also provoke your next-level thoughts?

Actually, the design is what caught my eye! So simple, yet so, so classy.. Just like me. JK, but really my bike is awesome and I can honestly say, I’ve had many next-level thoughts, while cruising around Central Phoenix on my State Bicycle.

A good cardio workout is also important on the bike. Are you more likely to eat American, Mexican, Italian, or Asian cuisine after a workout?

Mexican, 100%!

What is the exact meal assembly you dream up on the last mile home?

Chips. Salsa. Burrito.

Flex your Einstein smarts and pick up the Hello x State Bicycle crewneck HERE