Earlier this week, I was fortunate to attend a conference called Digital Summit right here in Atlanta. The conference featured a number of speaker sessions, technology showcases, and networking opportunities, and it was impossible to ignore the unique promo items that took center stage throughout the 2-day event.
From pre-event contests publicized through social media to distinctive promotional monkey hats handed out at the show, sponsors and attendees relied heavily on promo items to spread the word about their brands’ products and services.
One of my favorite things to do in Atlanta is attend the festivals and shows that come to town in the spring and summer. From art events, such as the Inman Park Festival, to music festivals, like Corndogorama where up-and-coming bands can be showcased (and of course – a corn dog eating contest!), I love getting out of the house and walking through these festivals. Regardless of the event, I enjoy the good food, great music, artistic talent and festivities that come along with these festivals.
Secretly, I also love checking out the promo items companies are giving away!
My friends tease me when I look at the bottom of a mug or the tag in a bag and recognize the product, but I also enjoy seeing what products people go crazy over. Whether recipients appreciate the brand – a popular beer or alcohol drink, an insurance company, or a small publication or radio station – or the item itself, it’s fun to see the products in action and to see people’s response to the items first hand.
I’ve seen everything from cardboard speakers to coconut shot glasses and retro slap-bracelets to full-size custom camping tents and sleeping bags (those were incredibly hot with everyone trying to win the items!) Recently, I attended a festival and actually stood in line to win a promotional item an airline was giving away; the item was so timely that I just couldn’t resist. It was a rainy day and a company was distributing nylon, water-resistant cowboy hats – perfect for people that forgot an umbrella.
I’m actually working on a project for a customer now where I’ve attended the event for the last three years. I have seen the items this customer gives away, as well as items from the other sponsors of the event. I am able to put my experience to good use while brainstorming unique items that I know people attending the event will love.
I think it’s official: I’m a promo-junkie and I love it.
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