This Smart Shopper Deal of the Day is all about sharing Arizona pride for everything this amazing state has to offer, not just here, but wherever you go!
State Forty Eight was created in March of 2013 by three guys who grew up in Arizona. Co-Founder Michael Spangenberg from Chandler said, "we didn't know what the heck we were doing, but we had the passion... Arizona is the 48th state (hence the name), and ultimately, we want to represent Arizona in a positive and fashionable way."
Spangenberg continued, "The ultimate goal is going to be the cooler I heart New York for Arizona. We want to be everywhere. Again, it's more than selling t-shirts hats, and license plates. We have all kinds of different things... But, really, just to be that iconic symbol of Arizona where you promote love and fun products throughout Arizona."
State Forty Eight is part of all kinds of collaborations, creations and causes. Spangenberg said, "That's been our niche, and that's what is most rewarding. Just being involved with so many non-profits, it's a way for us to get involved in the community," Spangenberg continued, "To represent Arizona in a positive way and an impactful way."
For example, State Forty Eight is teaming up with Luis Gonzalez, a legend here in The Valley, to help with his Hometown Heroes non-profit that supports first responders here in Arizona. A kickback of each Hometown Heroes shirt goes back to support the cause.
State Forty Eight works with the the Arians Family Foundation and American Cancer Society. They're partnering with Phoenix Children's Hospital for a third year in September to raise awareness and money for childhood cancer through their shirts and new design.
State Forty Eight works with shops and boutiques, but also sports teams too like the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury, and Phoenix Rising.
The D-backs actually recognized State Forty Eight out of all their corporate partners at an annual event. Spangenberg said, "Winning Rookie of the Year! That was an amazing experience for all three of us, for our team. Just the fact that the Diamondbacks we grew up loving recognized us... It was incredible for all three of us to go on stage and receive this award from Torey Lovullo, who is an awesome person and manager, and Derrick Hall, the CEO."
So, where did the passion begin? Spangenberg said, "It all started with a passion of being from here, wanting something cool to wear on your chest whether you're traveling or out and about here in The Valley."
Tell us more about the humble beginnings. Spangenberg shared, "At first, we just created our main logo, and just put it in a ton of different color combinations. The goal was the get the brand out there, and it still is, but then, we started evolving to creating some designs and collaborating some designs- stuff that represents Arizona, but it's not just always a big logo on your chest."
Where did you grow up out here? Spangenberg said, "I was born and raised in Chandler, went to Chandler High School. That's why we kept our business here in Chandler because it's important to us, and the city was great to work with and they really want us to stay here."
What do you love most about Arizona? Spangenberg smiled and said, "What I love most about Arizona is being the under dog. Growing up here, in high school, I was the weird guy who would root for the Cardinals and go to Sun Devil Stadium. The stadium was filled with opposing fans, but it was just a sense of pride. And to see the community evolve, and now, so many people do care about Arizona or now people who are from Arizona. That's what I get excited about. Let's show the world why. There's a reason why people love and live here."
Ultimately, why should people check out State Forty Eight? Spangenberg said, "We really love our community, and it's something you'd be proud of. We stand by our customer service and our quality. If something ever goes wrong, we're going to replace it... More importantly, there's a reason why you live here, and this is the shirt or hat to be able to show that off- whether it's here in Arizona or while you're traveling and going on vacation."