Michael Kazma

At 22, Michael Kazma is a young entrepreneur focused on retail. He owns Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats in Des Moines, Iowa. He opened his first retail location at 18 and has since opened an additional store, with a third location on the way. The company also operates online, serving customers across the United States.

Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats offers same-day custom apparel and accessories. These include T-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts, polo shirts, hats, tumblers, bags, keychains, and other customizable items. The business provides custom printing and embroidery on high-quality products. Customers can choose from existing designs or upload their own designs or photos.

The stores are located at 3800 Merle Hay Road, Suite 300, Des Moines, and 4444 1st Avenue NE, Suite 216, Cedar Rapids. Both locations are open Monday through Sunday for customer convenience.

When Michael started the business, his goal was to help customers bring their ideas to life exactly as they imagined them. He also aimed to provide strong customer service through features such as no minimum order, same-day service options, high-quality products, a 100% satisfaction guarantee on custom apparel, no hidden fees, and flexible design options. This approach has supported continued growth, with a third location planned.

The ordering process is straightforward. Customers select their product and color, add a custom design either online or in-store with help from the team, review the product, request final adjustments if needed, and place the order.

As the owner of Iowa Custom T-Shirts & Hats, Michael Dean Kazma hires and manages a full-time staff of four across the two current locations. He oversees client service, weekly purchase orders, and inventory management. He operates the business as an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Before opening his business, he worked several retail and service jobs, gaining hands-on experience in small-business operations. He served as a Head Shift Leader at Cold Stone Creamery, a Barback at Summit Bar, and a Team Manager at Panera Bread, where he managed staff, inventory, customer service, and daily operations.

Kazma graduated from Valley High School in West Des Moines and attended the University of Iowa from 2021 to 2023, where he studied Business Management & Marketing. During that time, he participated in organizations such as the National Retail Federation.

An Iowa native, Michael Kazma lives in Des Moines and enjoys spending time with family and friends. He plays recreational hockey in Cedar Rapids and Des Moines and previously competed as a speed skater. He continues to expand his business knowledge and is committed to giving back, donating $1,000 in merchandise each month to local organizations through his stores.