Determine the types of gifts and awards needed for the conference:

Select the types of gifts and awards needed:

• Attendee
• VIP
• Speaker
• Sponsor
• Award winner
• Contest
• Drawing
• Door prize
• Pillow or room gift
• Organizer

Look at various ideas for gifts and awards:

• Apparel (e.g., shirts, hats, jackets)
• Bags, totes, backpacks, luggage and briefcases
• Binders and portfolios
• Pens, pencils, journals and other writing supplies
• Alcohol
• Gift baskets
• Food items such as branded candy or mints
• Locally made products
• Bottled water with special labels
• Mugs, sports bottles, glasses, cups and cup holders
• Clips and pins
• Computer accessories such as USBs, cord holders
• Phone accessories such as cases, portable chargers, pop sockets, wireless earbuds
• Portable music devices such as iPod, Bluetooth speakers
• Calculators, clocks, watches, radios and flashlights
• Travel and first-aid kits
• Branded hand sanitizer
• Items that relate to the event’s theme
• Sporting items like golf balls, tennis balls and Frisbees
• Games, toys and puzzles
• Gift cards
• Donations to relevant charity or local organization

Find out what has been given out in the past.

Determine the budget for gifts and awards.

Check for any restrictions for gift-giving from both the client and venue.

Make decisions on quantities.

Do research, price comparison and check vendor references.

Select and order the gifts and awards.

Provide logos and personalization.

Decide when and where the gifts and awards will be distributed.

Decide how any requests for additional gifts will be handled.

Package or wrap gifts/awards if necessary.

Verify shipment and arrival of gifts and awards.

Note:  Large or heavy gifts or awards may require special return shipping arrangements.  Be prepared to provide this service onsite by having shipping forms and materials available.