When I first opened MGP Direct, Inc. almost 22 years ago, (Man, doesn’t THAT seem like a really long time ago), one of the must have items that every new business had to have, next to letterhead and business cards, were nice shipping labels.

 I, however, couldn’t afford to custom design nice shipping labels, so I had to make do with one of the generic label formats – with pin feeds, no less – from the Quill Office Supply Catalog.

(At the time, they were the only game in time as there wasn’t any Staples or Office Depot … and yes, soon I’ll tell you how I  Davy Crockett and I courted and sparked, cooking wieners over an open fire in the Kentucky Hills. But I digress … J

Since then I’ve gone through several corporate image facelifts. In fact, I’m probably due for another. That’s why I was intrigued enough by Frontier Label to accept a Sponsored Review assignment. Perhaps now, finally, I’ll treat myself to a custom designed label that is easy to order and takes advantage of the way-cheaper digital printing technology.

The site is well-designed and easy on the eyes. With a very intuitive interface, I found it very easy to get quotes, review samples and testimonials. Their inventory of label and sticker material is extensive, the shapes and sizes seem as complete as anyone could want – large enterprise of micro-entrepreneur , like me.

What I especially liked as a non-graphic artist is the step-by-step instructions of artwork preparation. Customers will get a lot of useful information and even more importantly, the reasons why art needs to be prepared just so. If there’s anything that will hang a print job faster it’s poorly prepared artwork. (You online-only types, take note!) Got a quick question? They have Live Chat so you can get your answer and head back to InDesign to finish your print-ready label art.

Frontier Labels has also embraced the digital age is some unexpected ways. Their blog is embedded right on their home page and they have their own Facebook presence and fan base.

 But what I especially like about this business, and I learned about this on their FB page, is their commitment to their South Carolina community. They donate 10% and I imagine in times like these, that 10% means a lot.

Look, you can order labels and stickers just about anywhere – even the Quill Catalog if you’re so inclined. But I encourage you to take a look at Frontier as I did. If you’re in the market for labels – as I hope to be – definitely add them to your printer review list.