About Michael Kazma

At just 22 years old, Michael Kazma is carving a remarkable path in the retail industry. As the founder of Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats, he began his entrepreneurial journey at the age of 18 when he opened his first store in Des Moines, Iowa. Fueled by passion and a deep understanding of retail, he expanded with a second location and has a third store in development. Beyond his local operations, he has built a robust online presence, offering personalized apparel and accessories to customers throughout the United States. With strategic growth and an unwavering commitment to service, he continues to establish himself as a leader in the retail sector.

About Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats

Michael's business, Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats, is a one-stop destination for personalized apparel and accessories. Specializing in same-day custom printing and embroidery services, the company offers an array of products, including T-shirts, hoodies, sweatshirts, polo shirts, hats, tumblers, bags, and keychains. Whether customers need a design for a special event or branded merchandise for their business, his stores provide flexible options for every need. Customers can choose from ready-made designs or upload their photos and artwork, ensuring they receive products that reflect their unique vision.

Both retail locations are strategically placed for easy access. The Des Moines store is located at 3800 Merle Hay Road, Suite 300, and the Cedar Rapids store is at 4444 1st Avenue NE, Suite 216. Open seven days a week, the stores cater to customers' schedules, offering exceptional convenience alongside their wide range of services. As Kazma prepares for the grand opening of his third location, he is focused on continuing to deliver quality and innovation to his growing customer base.

Customer-Centered Approach: Turning Ideas into Reality

Michael Dean Kazma's mission is to empower customers by bringing their stories and ideas to life through high-quality custom products. His business model is built around customer satisfaction, ensuring that every individual or organization receives personalized service. Key aspects of his approach include same-day service, no minimum order requirements, transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. These features create a seamless and enjoyable shopping experience that has quickly earned Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats a loyal following.

The ordering process is simple and accessible: customers select the product and color they desire, upload or create a custom design, and place the order online or in-store. He and his team guide customers through the design review process, offering adjustments as needed before production. This hands-on assistance ensures that every product meets or exceeds expectations, cementing his reputation for customer service excellence.

Managing Operations and Leading a Growing Team

As the owner and manager of Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats, Michael wears many hats. He hires, trains, and manages a dedicated team of four full-time employees across his two current locations. In addition to overseeing daily operations, he handles purchase orders, inventory management, and client servicing, ensuring smooth business processes. Committed to creating an inclusive work environment, he operates as an Equal Opportunity Employer, fostering a positive atmosphere where each employee contributes to the company's growth. His leadership and hands-on involvement have laid a solid foundation for future expansion, positioning him for continued success in the retail market.

Michael Kazma’s Work Experience: Learning the Trade from the Ground Up

Before founding his own business, Michael Kazma gained essential experience in retail and customer service through various jobs, which provided him with firsthand knowledge of business operations. His career began as a Head Shift Leader at Cold Stone Creamery in Jordan Creek Mall, where he managed a staff of twenty employees, promoted sales goals, and maintained financial operations such as cash handling and credit terminal batching. He also developed customer service skills by creating personalized ice cream products and ensuring that every guest experienced "The Ultimate Ice Cream Experience."

Kazma later worked as a Barback at Summit Bar in Iowa City, where he supported bartenders with stock management and customer service. This fast-paced environment taught him the importance of efficiency and teamwork. His role as a Team Manager at Panera Bread in Coral Ridge Mall further refined his leadership abilities. At Panera, he supervised a team of up to 13 employees, managed food inventory, analyzed daily reports, and ensured that service standards were consistently met. These roles equipped him with the skills and insights he needed to launch and manage his own retail business successfully.

Education and Professional Development

Michael is a graduate of Valley High School in West Des Moines, where his interest in business first began to take shape. After high school, he enrolled at the University of Iowa, pursuing studies in Business Management and Marketing from 2021 to 2023. Although he chose not to complete his degree, he actively participated in several organizations, including the National Retail Federation (NRF), the largest retail trade association in the world. His involvement with the NRF provided valuable insights into the retail industry, exposing him to trends and networking opportunities with professionals across various sectors. This experience has proven instrumental in shaping his approach to business.

Life Beyond Business

While his entrepreneurial pursuits keep him busy, Michael Kazma also values the importance of balance. He enjoys spending quality time with family and friends in his hometown of Des Moines. A former competitive speed skater, he traveled the country with his team, gaining discipline and determination that have carried over into his business career. Today, he stays active by playing recreational hockey in both Cedar Rapids and Des Moines, finding joy in the sport and the camaraderie it offers.

Kazma also dedicates time to personal development, continuously expanding his knowledge in retail and business. As his company grows, he is committed to learning new strategies and best practices to navigate the challenges of scaling a business. His passion for lifelong learning ensures that he remains adaptable and ready to meet the demands of his expanding enterprise.

Giving Back to the Community

Success, for Michael, is about more than just profits—it's about making a positive impact. Through Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats, he donates $1,000 worth of merchandise each month to local organizations, reflecting his commitment to supporting the community. He believes that businesses should play an active role in giving back, and this philosophy drives his charitable efforts. As his business continues to grow, he is determined to increase his contributions and inspire others to do the same.

A Bright Future Ahead

With two successful stores, a flourishing online presence, and a third location on the way, Michael Dean Kazma is on a trajectory of growth and achievement. His journey from a teenager with a dream to a young entrepreneur leading a multi-location business is a testament to his vision, hard work, and dedication. As he continues to expand Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats and give back to the community, he remains focused on creating meaningful experiences for his customers and empowering his employees. His story is a powerful example of how ambition, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence can lead to extraordinary success.