I am sure you know exactly how much planning goes into a conference or an event. You know that there are meetings, deadlines, and budgets to manage. Then there is the packing and unpacking of bags, the travel arrangements…you get the picture. The last thing you want to have on your mind while you are in the middle of all this is what gifts to bring as swag bag giveaways at conferences and events.
Fortunately for you, we have done our research on some great ideas that will make your guests happy and keep them coming back for more!
Thoughtful gifts stay out of landfills.
Swag bags are a great way to promote your business. They’re an inexpensive way to offer gifts or items that make the attendees feel special, which can be useful for generating goodwill and showing attendees that you value their time.
However, swag bags can be wasteful if not planned correctly. Consider the environment when planning swag bags and use recycled materials whenever possible. At most events we attend, there are usually several small items in each bag that aren’t always necessary or wanted by all attendees. These extra items tend to end up being tossed out after the event because they weren’t needed or wanted! We recommend going with keepsake and useable items instead of single-use one use items such as branded bottles of water, cards with logos, etc., they don’t have longevity and in turn neither does your brand impression.
Books make incredible keepsakes
You’ve got the swag bag, now think about what to put inside. Books make great gifts, they educate, inspire and educate. What a valuable and rewarding gift. Consider books such as business books, books related to your industry, inspirational books, books about your city.
Reward Your Appetite has the perfect book. Entertaining and Celebrating: An Elegant Feast for Every Season is a guide to help individuals entertain their loved ones with an elegant style creating the perfect atmosphere for people to disconnect from technology and reconnect with their community. Making it the perfect gift for upcoming conferences or tradeshows, give aways to support your branding efforts, employee gifts for rewards or recognition, or that special gift to show your clients how much you value them. We have so much customizable options, brand with your logo and connect with a personalized message in stunning calligraphy.
Handmade items, like soap or food.
Handmade items are a great way to support local businesses and find unique gifts that can be more personal than the store-bought variety. They’re also more affordable than many products on the market. If you’re already familiar with the artisanship of your local community, this is a good chance for you to share it with others in an uplifting way.
Something people use at home, like a plant or pet item.
If you want to give something that will be appreciated and used, consider a plant or pet item. This could be anything from flowers to an indoor succulent garden or a basket of dog treats. If your conference is in the summer, consider giving out bug repellent or sunscreen to attendees who might not have thought about preparing for this kind of weather! Consider also giving out gift cards to local stores so attendees can pick up something they need after spending time at your event.
Something edible and special that they might not be able to get easily, like Mexican Candy.
Something edible and special that they might not be able to get easily, like Mexican Candy.
An item that fits your brand’s aesthetic, but is a fun departure from the norm—like a koozie or survival bracelet.
A reusable water bottle with your company logo on it! We love these ones from Hydro flask because they’re lightweight, stainless steel, and come with an insulated sleeve so drinks stay cold for hours. These are great for the environment plus you can always add some personalization with stickers or screen printing.
A gift card to a locally owned restaurant or clothing store that you like.
A gift card to a locally owned restaurant or clothing store that you like is always a good idea. Your guest will enjoy the flexibility of getting exactly what they want, and they’ll appreciate your thoughtfulness even more since it’s not just another swag bag filler. If you’re able to include a coupon for half off or 2 for 1 on their next visit, it’s really going to add up!
Another option is to include any other coupons or deals at your own business in the swag bag; if there’s something special happening soon, let them know so they can save some money!
A magnet with artwork on it created by someone local.
A magnet with artwork on it created by someone local. This is a great choice for conferences and events because it’s something people will want to keep. It’s also something that can be used, so you’re giving them something they’ll use every day. Plus, this is a great way to show off your brand—because the magnet portrays your logo or slogan!
Swag bags can be helpful and not wasteful, but planning is necessary!
Swag bags are a great way to promote your business, but they can be wasteful if not planned well. The items you choose for the swag bag should be useful and not disposable so that recipients will actually use them.
Plan ahead! Make sure there is enough time to order things from different suppliers in order to avoid running out of stock on one or more items. In addition, spend some time deciding what would best fit into your clients’ needs and wants.
Be honest with yourself, if you received the item would you be happy or throw it out. You don’t have to give away a ton of items, remember the point is to be remembered. The best way to be remembered is to include unique items, that will be cherished and can stand the test of time!
A swag bag is not just about giving out free stuff. It’s also a way to show appreciation for the people who came to your event or conference. You can use it as an opportunity to truly connect with people and share something they will love and keep for years to come, and in turn always be loyal to the company that cared enough to gift with thoughtfulness.
For more information on the book, check out our store. For more corporate events and corporate gifting ideas, check out our elegant inspirations blog.
