It’s 2021 and in-person events are starting back up. The excitement to get together in real life is mounting and many are looking for any opportunity to attend a conference or other face to face event. If your company is hosting an event, why not make it a memorable one by providing some killer swag bags?
How to Make a Memorable Swag Bag
Swag bags are a perfect way to make events memorable and leave a lasting impression on attendees. They are also great for other aspects of your business such as the hiring process and special employee appreciation giveaways. Let’s take a look at what to toss, what to take, and how to make it meaningful.
Toss It!
Cheap, low quality items.
Cheap items get tossed right away. People know what’s good quality and aren’t interested in junk. It’s easy to want to go the economical route, but remember, you get what you pay for.
Super branded items.
In most cases, nobody wants your branding plastered all over giveaway items. Yes, you want to use swag bags as a marketing tool, no that doesn’t mean your logo needs to always be front and center. Think of creative, funny, or meaningful phrases or graphics to include that can then tie into your larger brand.
Printed collateral.
There’s not much that’s more disappointing in a swag bag than a bunch of print collateral. Even if it’s coupons or other deals, a lot of that stuff just gets tossed. Usable items go over better. It’s okay to put a few print items in, but make sure you’re selective and that they are eye catching, clear, and not too wordy.
Take It!
Attractive clothing.
High quality shirts or hats are always a hit. Remember our tip above about getting creative with your branding and not just plastering your logo all over something. Think about messaging or graphics that will actual resonate with the recipient and not just your logo.
Electronics.
These are some of the most popular giveaway items as they provide a lot of perceived value for recipients. People appreciate getting things like headphones, earbuds, portable chargers, a mini-mouse, or a usb pre-loaded with event/audience-specific information.
Items for the kids or the child in you.
Think games, lego sets, pool floats, etc. Something that could be fun still for an adult, but also a gift that would make the children in their lives giddy.
High-use items.
Think about the things that people use often. Snack and drinks are often appreciated as well as personal, household or travel items (blankets, quality water bottles, notebooks, blue light glasses, notebooks, etc).
Theme It!
Think about what you are using this swag bag for and come up with a meaningful theme to help guide you.
Some examples include:
New Employee Bag
More branded items might be appropriate in this type of bag. You would want to include things that might be useful for them getting started and build excitement:
- Quality apparel
- Water bottle
- Coffee mug
- Pens and notebooks
- Earbuds or chargers
- A backpack or laptop bag
Time off/Mental Health Bag
Perhaps someone is taking a parental leave or has time off for another reason. Bags that show you prioritize their physical and mental health are a great way to promote a positive workplace culture:
- Blankets/pillows
- Personal care or relaxation items like candles, oils, soaps, face masks, etc.
- A journal/book and pen
- Tumbler
- Baby items or other milestone specific apparel/item
- A plant
Client Appreciation Bag
Think about your specific company/industry and what is meaningful or useful for your clients. Some general items to consider include:
- Thank you notes/referral program info.
- A useful household or office item related to your industry.
- Snacks and drinks/wine.
Event Swag Bag
Your event swag bag should work to make a lasting impression and give visibility to your sponsors. Give sponsors the opportunity to provide items for the swag bag and encourage them to follow the guidelines above one toss it or take it items. Think about your event theme and try to build a cohesive offering around it with the help of your sponsors.
The possibilities are truly endless. If you are unsure about whether an item should be included, ask yourself honestly if you would toss it or take it. Let’s stop giving away things that just end up in a landfill and start offering meaningful swag that your recipient will actually use. It’s worth the investment.
