How to Pick the Perfect Attendee Gift for Any Event

Everyone loves receiving gifts and your event attendees are no different. Your goal as the planner is to use a gift to your advantage and make a positive lasting impression. This seems easy - it isn't. Trust me, I've been there. I was once asked to order thank you gifts for our keynote speakers and thought it would be my easiest task that day. In reality, it wasn't. I spent time picking out just the right gift because the one I chose would be what they remembered. You can give your attendees gifts before, during, and after your event. Depending on the timing, your gifts will look different. For instance, a welcome gift should convey a very different message than a thank you gift. Who your attendee is will also have an impact on your gift. With all that being said, these are my tips for picking out the perfect attendee gift.

Make sure your attendee gift is...

Relevant

First things first, make sure your attendee gift makes sense. The purpose of your gift is to leave a positive lasting impression on your attendees, and you won't accomplish that with a confusing gift. One way to stay on track is if you have a solid theme, consider playing into it. You can do this with any theme. For example, if your theme is The Great Gatsby you could gift something 1920s inspired. However, don't get carried away and give something your guests won't use. Think about who your attendees are and why they came to your event. Take this knowledge and then give them something they want.

Personalized

Use personalization! Whether you decide to personalize with your company information or theirs, it's a good idea. If you want your gift to make your attendee feel appreciated then this is the easiest way to do it. There are plenty of different ways to personalize gifts. One way is to monogram or engrave their present, another is to send a personal note with the gift. By taking the time to personalize each gift with their information (name, company, title, etc.), your attendee feels like they made an impression on you.

Affordable

Gift giving gets expensive. Lock down your gift budget before you pick anything out or your ideas could run wild. Additionally, understand the quantity versus quality factor in your budget. Within your budget define the amount you need, who is receiving the gift, and the time frame you need it in. Shipping and customization can add up, so beware.

Size Appropriate

This one might seem self-explanatory, but it's something to think about. If your gift is during the event then you need to consider your attendees potentially carrying it around with them. You don't want to gift something that becomes a burden. On the flip side, if your gift is cheap and small it could disappoint your attendees. Put yourself in their shoes and think about what you would want at that event. This will help you decide the size.

Attractive

Stating the obvious with this one, but it's important. The presentation of the attendee gift is just as critical as the gift itself. People are attracted to things that have a sharp presentation. Take the extra time to make sure it looks just right before you give it out. That might mean adding fancy gift wrap, a ribbon, or a note. Now that you have these tips, you're sure to make the right impression on your attendees!