Bags of swag. Bags of goodies. Welcome bags. People always seem to get excited about event bags, no matter what you call them. Imagine it: You stroll into a gala, seminar, or fun run, and after you’ve signed up, someone gives you a strange package. As you look inside, you feel a slight thrill of excitement. Sometimes it’s just pens and booklets, but other times? A bag of magic.
What do event bags mean? People want souvenirs, no matter how small they are. This is something that event planners know. Think about the strangest thing you’ve ever gotten in a swag bag. It may be a branded rubber duck or a stress ball that doesn’t seem like a ball. You remember it, right? People snap pictures of, text about, and share online those oddities. The impression lasts much longer than any keynote address.
You don’t need a lot of money to make a great event bag. Every time, creativity beats expense. Maybe you’re filling reusable water bottles that also double as conversation starters. Or seed packets that will grow on a desk long after the event is over. Sometimes it’s about getting something useful right away, like a portable charger, snack bars for when you’re hungry, or a funny notebook that people grab before lunch.
Let’s discuss about the box. The bag itself can get a lot of attention, whether it’s a tote, drawstring, messenger, or jute. Options that are good for the environment? Always thank you. Reusability maintains the name of your event in the news for months, maybe even years. Also, less trash equals fewer landfills, which is good for the environment.
Curation is more important than content. Putting in random filler? A definite way to be called boring. People talk about a curated bag because they compare the flavors of mini-coffees, try to solve brain puzzles, and swap lapel pins. One person gets a badge that is only available for a short time, and another gets a fluorescent highlighter that looks like a pineapple. People suddenly come together over loot. One strange object at a time, the community grew.
Don’t forget about the unsung hero: local flavor. Regional delicacies or products are much more memorable than corporate flyers that you can throw away. Some people might even pull the local artisan soap out of the bottom of their luggage and question where they can buy more. That link? It’s great for sponsors.
Logistics can be very tricky. Do you give out the bags when people check in or when they leave? Do you throw them on the seats or give them out with style? Each method has its own tone. The element of surprise may make a boring event exciting, or, if you’re unfortunate, cause a rush at the registration desk.
Lastly, if you want people to remember your event fondly, don’t just give them things to hold. Give them things to think about. A narrative in a bag is an event bag. Sometimes food and socks. Sometimes, they’ll remember things that will make them chuckle for years. The real secret? It’s the thought that counts, and every little weird, loved thing inside shows that.