150+ Custom Units in Record Time
How We Created ACL 2021's Most Functional Festival Accessory
The Topo Chico bolo tie that went viral at ACL 2021 | Photo: Nigel Elliott
The Challenge: Reinventing Festival Merchandise
When Topo Chico Hard Seltzer approached us for Austin City Limits 2021, they didn't want another forgettable promotional item. They needed something that would:
- Stand out among thousands of festival giveaways
- Create authentic social media moments
- Actually be used during and after the event
- Represent their brand's playful, refreshing identity
Our solution? A functional silicone straw bolo tie featuring a custom 3D-printed Topo Chico logo - combining fashion, function, and sustainability in one innovative product.
Precision 3D-printed logo detail
Innovation in Every Detail
- 3D-Printed Precision: Custom logo manufacturing in-house
- Dual Functionality: Fashion accessory + reusable straw
- Festival-Optimized: Hands-free drinking solution
- Sustainable Design: Eliminates single-use straws
- Rapid Production: 150+ units delivered on deadline
Our Process: From Concept to Festival Floor
Week 1: Design & Prototyping
Our team developed multiple prototypes, testing different silicone grades for optimal flexibility and durability. The 3D-printed logo went through 5 iterations to achieve perfect brand representation.
Week 2: Production & Quality Control
Manufacturing 150+ units with consistent quality required precision tooling and rigorous QC. Each piece was individually tested for functionality.
Week 3: Packaging & Distribution
Custom packaging design, influencer kits preparation, and coordinated delivery to multiple ACL activation points.
The Results: Measurable Impact
150+
Custom Units
3 Weeks
Concept to Delivery
100%
On-Time Delivery
Viral
Social Reach
Festival-goers using the functional straw feature throughout ACL
Why Brands Choose Neon Cowboys
✓ Rapid Prototyping & Production
From concept to 10,000+ units in weeks, not months. Our in-house capabilities include 3D printing, custom molding, and electronics integration.
✓ Innovation-First Approach
We don't do generic. Every product is designed to solve real problems while creating memorable brand moments.
✓ End-to-End Project Management
Design, prototyping, production, packaging, and distribution - all handled by our experienced team.
✓ Proven Track Record
Trusted by Apple, Google, Adobe, Topo Chico, and 50+ other brands for their most important activations.
"The bolo ties weren't just merchandise - they became part of the festival experience. People were actually excited to wear and use them, which is rare for promotional products."
- Topo Chico Marketing Team
Your Next Activation Starts Here
Whether you need 100 units for a VIP event or 10,000 for a nationwide campaign, we deliver innovative solutions that get people talking. Our capabilities include:
- Custom Electronics: LED integration, smart features, app connectivity
- Rapid Prototyping: 3D printing, laser cutting, CNC machining
- Material Innovation: Silicone, sustainable materials, smart fabrics
- Full Customization: Colors, logos, packaging, functionality
- Scalable Production: 10 to 100,000+ units with consistent quality
About Neon Cowboys
We're an innovation-driven company specializing in custom products for experiential marketing, festivals, and corporate events. As a woman and minority-owned business, we bring fresh perspectives to every project while maintaining the highest standards of quality and creativity.
Recent Clients: Apple • Google • Adobe • Topo Chico • Amazon • Meta • TikTok
All photography by Nigel Elliott | Featuring products designed and manufactured by Neon Cowboys
#ExperientialMarketing #BrandActivation #EventMarketing #CustomManufacturing #FestivalMarketing
