Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Is There a "Perfect" Gift?


Everyone’s been there: a birthday or a holiday sneaks up on you, and before you know it, it’s present time. There’s nothing like gift giving to test your familiarity and comfort level in a relationship. Even in long-running partnerships, choosing the perfect gift can be a trial. But during a new connection, being on the giving end can be an especially daunting task: Will they like it? Will it be personal enough? Does the gift make a statement?


Corporate giving is no exception. Being responsible to find the company gift can be somewhat daunting. Many of my clients have expressed the need to choose a gift that will make “everyone” happy. To make “everyone” happy is a goal that is so extremely high, in my opinion and experience, it is unobtainable. My suggestion is to choose a gift that “most” people will like.


A Tall Order


A few years ago I was working with a client who needed a holiday gift. She had the mindset of finding the “perfect gift for every employee”. She had decided that the employees gift should be used at home and should appeal to both males and females. OK, so that’s not so difficult is it? The following suggestions were presented to her and also included were her objections:


Barbeque utensils gift box – “Some employees don’t own a BBQ”


Car trunk organizer –“Some employees don’t own a car”


USB flash drive – “Some employees don’t own a computer”


Emergency flashlight clock/radio – “too safety oriented”


I’m sure you can see how difficult it became to navigate my client toward the “perfect” gift. After careful consideration, she chose a holiday CD and quickly found out that, believe it or not…. Some of her employees did not have a CD player!


Being Choosy


Though gifting is supposed to be a selfless act, in the promotional products world, it should also serve a purpose. Where would you like the gift to be used, home or office? Would you prefer a long lasting gift or a consumable? How obvious do you want the logo, bold and high contrast or subtle and tasteful? What is the budget for the project? How would you like the gift presented, in a plain box with logo ribbon or in a festive gift bag? These are some of the many thoughts that go into choosing a gift.


After all it is the thought that counts….. wouldn't you agree?

Please share with me.....What has been your favorite company gift, or the one that fell flat?



For a gift consultation please call me at 858-565-2963 or email lorraine@RAINpromos.com.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Cozy and Warm Holiday Gifts


Although the Holiday Season is upon us, there is still time for those last minute decisions to show your appreciation to customers and employees.

Tips on the art of business gift giving suggest three things:
· · Pick a gift that is meaningful and functional
· · Pick a gift that exudes quality
· · Pick a gift that will fit with virtually any home

A Kanata blanket is an excellent choice. A gift that will be used and enjoyed – who doesn’t want to snuggle with a loved one? And every home needs a blanket!

Take a look at the ideas below – a selection of styles, colors and prices to fit every budget.

Studio Throw
Priced from $ 22.80 (A) to $ 16.42 (C)
Woven throw with cashmere-like softness and a subtle herringbone design. Size 51” x 75”.
Available in Asparagus, Soft Cream, Venetian Red, Sienna Brown and Tuxedo Black.


Ultra Lambswool
Priced from $ 42.70 (A) to $ 30.75 (C)
The latest edition to the Kanata fabrics, this is one of the softest blankets you will ever touch. Made from premium loft yarn for an exceptionally warm and cozy throw. Size 50” x 60”.
Available in Ivory and Navy.


European Loft Throw
Priced from $ 57.80 (A) to $ 41.67 (C)
Perfect for year round use, this stylish throw has a delicate basket-weave design for warmth and extra softness. Size 50” x 66”.
Available in Chocolate and Oyster.
Package in our gift box with ribbon. Two sizes available to fit most Kanata blankets.

NEED MORE IDEAS? – please call Lorraine at 858-565-2963 or email Lorraine@RAINpromos.com