Food & Beverage for Events

Are you trying to think of a tradeshow or event giveaway that won't end up in your attendees' trash can within a few days? Take some advice from the experts.

I recently came across a blog post on Reid All About It that details a Twitter chat among association professionals discussing what's good and what's bad when it comes to tradeshow swag. Here are some of the favorites:

• Reusable shopping bags
• Wine cooler bags
• Wine/beer/drinks with custom labels
• Hand sanitizer
• Golf tees/balls
• Travel mouse with retractable cord
• Drawstring backpacks

One really interesting idea that came about was to use experiences, such as massages or facials, as a giveaway.

What items are more likely to fall short?

• T-shirts with too many logos/generic sizing
• Pens with your company name
• Stress balls

Keep in mind, of course, that these items can sometimes be great when done right, for example, when you design a really funny t-shirt.

What are your thoughts? I'd love to hear your favorite things to give to your attendees at events, and the ones that did not go over too well!