Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup Manly Bands started with a problem familiar to founder John—a lack of compelling men’s wedding bands. Now a thriving DTC jewelry brand, Manly Bands offers unique rings made from materials like meteorite and deer antler. In this episode, John discusses how he and his team scaled rapidly, especially during the pandemic, and why recent years have focused on profit optimization. Key Insights Include: Building with Customer Input: Testing creative designs through direct customer feedback to ensure resonant products. Expanding Lifetime Value: From women’s rings to groomsmen gifts, diversifying product lines has helped boost average order value. Mastering Tech and Optimization: Moving to a headless Shopify site and utilizing AI-powered tools to streamline operations and enhance the customer experience. Creative Licensing Partnerships: Unique brand collaborations with Jeep and Jack Daniels to appeal to men’s individual personalities. Timestamps: 00:00 - The Importance of Perceived Value in Wedding Rings 02:00 - The Manly Bands Origin Story 05:00 - Unique Designs and Alternative Materials 08:00 - Early Success with Facebook Ads 11:00 - Navigating the COVID Wedding Boom 14:00 - Optimization Strategies Post-Pandemic 18:00 - Expanding Top-of-Funnel Channels 22:00 - Bringing Manufacturing In-House 26:00 - Leveraging Collaborations with Big Brands 30:00 - Black Friday Strategy and Q4 Trends 35:00 - Using AI for Review Management and Efficiency Hashtags: #ManlyBands #WeddingRings #EcommerceGrowth #BlackFridayDeals #CustomerExperience #SmallBusiness #MensStyle #UniqueDesigns #DigitalMarketing #AIinBusiness #DirectToConsumer #MadeInAmerica #BrandCollaborations #ShopifyOptimization #CreativeMarketing #DTCPodcast Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signup Advertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertise Work with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouse Follow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletter Watch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video