20 Fresh Alternatives to Swag: Meaningful Gifting Ideas for Your Next Event

Corporate gifting can be a tricky endeavor, especially when the goal is to make a lasting impression on attendees without resorting to the usual branded merchandise. From pens to t-shirts, these predictable offerings often lack the personal connection or utility that makes a gift memorable.

So how do you show appreciation, create impact, and align with your brand’s values in a way that stands out?

At Groups360, we believe that a well-thought-out gift goes beyond its physical form—it enhances the event experience and leaves a lasting emotional connection.

Below are 20 thoughtful, fresh alternatives to traditional swag that are sure to make your next event gifting more meaningful and memorable.

1. Experience-Based Gifts

Experiences over possessions—that’s a principle that resonates with today’s audiences, especially younger generations who value personalization and unique memories. Instead of giving physical items, consider offering your event attendees an experience they won’t forget. This could range from tickets to a local event (such as a sports game or concert) to more tailored experiences like spa vouchers or adventure trips.

Some creative experience ideas include:

• A virtual cooking or mixology class where attendees receive ingredients in advance
• A guided local tour that highlights the culture and attractions of the event location
• Access to an exclusive online workshop or webinar relevant to their interests

These gifts leave a lasting impression and are a perfect opportunity for your brand to create meaningful moments tied to your event.

2. Charitable Donations in Their Name

Incorporating a social good component into your event gifting can be incredibly impactful. Attendees today, especially millennials and Gen Z, are drawn to brands that demonstrate corporate social responsibility.

Instead of handing out traditional swag, consider making a charitable donation on behalf of each attendee. Allow them to select from a list of causes aligned with your brand’s mission.

For instance, offer donations to environmental charities, education initiatives, or health-related causes. This not only avoids unnecessary consumption but also reflects positively on your brand as one that cares about making a difference. Plus, it adds a feel-good element to your event that attendees will remember.

3. Personalized Photo Gifts

In today’s digital world, personalized photographic content can be more valuable than any physical item. After your event, consider gifting attendees with something uniquely curated for them. This could be a digital photo album from the event, printed photo gifts or something they can use beyond the event.

Take your photographic gift a step further by creating personalized content for the attendees. For example:

• Hire a photographer to take headshots during the event and send the digital files to attendees for their use
• A digital frame pre-loaded with photos from the event
• An event photo album or book that captures memorable moments

Photographic content can be highly personal, leaving a far more lasting impression than traditional swag. 

4. Eco-Friendly Gifts

• Reusable water bottles made from sustainable materials
• Zero-waste starter kits with bamboo utensils, reusable straws, and beeswax wraps
• Plantable seed kits or indoor herb gardens
• Plant a tree in their honor through an organization like the Arbor Day Foundation

5. Subscription Services

Gift a subscription that keeps on giving! One of the best alternatives to traditional swag is offering access to a subscription service, tailored to the interests of your attendees. These can range from industry-specific magazines and journals to more personalized services like streaming platforms, audiobook subscriptions, or fitness and meditation apps.

Some thoughtful subscription ideas include:

• An online learning platform such as MasterClass or Coursera
• A meditation or mindfulness app like Calm or Headspace
• Access to exclusive streaming content or personalized playlists on platforms like Spotify

By gifting attendees something they’ll use month after month, your brand stays top of mind, creating a long-lasting connection.

6. Wellness Products and Kits

As corporate wellness becomes increasingly important, consider providing wellness-related gifts that help your attendees recharge, both mentally and physically. 

Wellness gifts promote self-care and can include:

• Aromatherapy kits or essential oils
• Yoga mats or fitness accessories
• Guided meditation journals or self-care planners

Wellness kits allow your attendees to prioritize their well-being, and because this is a growing focus for many businesses, such gifts reflect well on your company’s forward-thinking approach.

7. Custom Digital Art or NFTs

In an increasingly digital age, art is evolving, and so are the ways we gift it. If your audience is tech-savvy or interested in innovation, consider gifting custom digital art or NFTs (non-fungible tokens) as unique event keepsakes. NFT art pieces can be created specifically for your event, giving your attendees something exclusive and personal to remember the experience.

For example:

• Commission digital artists on sites like Etsy to create custom pieces that reflect the event or your company’s branding
• Gift unique digital badges or certificates for event participation
• Offer collectible NFTs that attendees can hold onto or trade, depending on the value over time

Digital art and NFTs are cutting-edge alternatives to traditional swag, allowing you to stand out as a forward-thinking and innovative brand.

8. Personalized Gourmet Gifts

9. Gift Cards with a Twist

10. Tech Accessories

Tech is an integral part of everyone’s lives, so why not offer gifts that make it easier? Instead of pens and notebooks, consider practical tech accessories that will see everyday use.

Some tech gift ideas include:

• Wireless chargers or portable power banks
• Bluetooth speakers or headphones
• Travel cases for charging cables and other small accessories 

Tech gifts are not only highly practical but also help position your brand as modern and forward-thinking while making life a little easier for your attendees.

11. Local Artisan Products

Supporting local businesses is a trend that resonates with many attendees. Rather than mass-produced items, consider sourcing gifts from local artisans or makers. These could be anything from handmade soaps and candles to locally sourced gourmet food items.

Not only do these gifts support small businesses, but they also provide a unique, authentic representation of the location where your event is held. These selections could be favorites from your leadership or event planner. Some ideas include:

• Handmade pottery or locally woven textiles
• Artisan honey, sauces, or jams with a note about the producer
• Locally brewed beer or craft coffee blends

Personalized and authentic, artisan products connect attendees to the local culture and ensure your event stands out from the crowd. 

12. Post-Event Surprise Deliveries

Imagine the surprise and delight of your attendees when they receive a post-event gift that reminds them of the valuable time they spent at your event. This not only extends the engagement but also leaves a lasting impression long after the event has ended.

Some creative post-event gift ideas include: 

• Personalized snack boxes or wine selections, delivered directly to their door
• Access to additional e-books or presentations that expand on the event’s sessions
• Exclusive interviews or content relevant to their industry
• Personalized playlists or motivational digital resources used at the event

This gesture creates an opportunity to follow up with attendees in a meaningful way and strengthens the bond between your brand and the recipient.

13. Personalized Stationery and Journals

While traditional swag often includes generic notepads and pens, you can elevate this concept by offering high-quality, personalized stationery or journals. Customizing these items with the attendee’s name or the event theme adds a thoughtful touch that will make these gifts stand out from the crowd.

Consider:

• Luxurious, leather-bound journals with custom embossing
• Eco-friendly stationery sets made from recycled materials
• Personalized planners that help attendees stay organized long after the event 

By providing attendees with something both functional and personal, you’ll ensure that they keep your gift on their desk and in their daily lives, creating continued brand awareness and appreciation. 

14. Mindfulness and Relaxation Kits

In today’s fast-paced world, corporate professionals are often in need of stress relief and relaxation tools. Mindfulness and relaxation kits are a thoughtful and practical gift that helps attendees recharge after a long event. These kits can include:

• Scented candles or essential oil diffusers with scents that are meaningful to the event location
• Stress-relief gadgets like fidget spinners or stress balls
• Guided meditation cards or calming playlists

Such gifts show that your company cares about the well-being of its attendees. By offering tools that encourage mindfulness, you’re promoting a work-life balance that resonates with modern professionals, leaving them with a positive impression of your brand.

15. Sustainable Travel Accessories

For events that attract attendees from across the globe, consider gifting sustainable travel accessories that make their journeys more comfortable and environmentally friendly. With more people conscious of their carbon footprint, offering eco-friendly travel products is a great way to align your brand with sustainability efforts.

Some eco-friendly travel accessory ideas include:

• Reusable silicone travel bottles or bamboo toothbrushes
• Eco-friendly luggage tags made from recycled materials
• Compact, foldable tote bags or backpacks

These practical gifts are not only useful but also demonstrate your commitment to sustainability, which is increasingly important to today’s audiences.

16. DIY Kits

There’s something deeply satisfying about creating something with your own hands. DIY (do-it-yourself) kits provide attendees with the materials and instructions needed to craft a unique item, and they are a fun and engaging alternative to traditional swag.

DIY kits could include:

• Terrarium or succulent planting kits for nature lovers
• Candle-making kits or soap-making kits with custom scents
• Craft kits for painting, embroidery, or pottery

DIY gifts are interactive and offer attendees a creative outlet while associating your brand with a fun, hands-on experience. Plus, the finished product serves as a long-lasting reminder of your event.

17. Customized Apparel with a Personal Twist

While branded t-shirts are one of the most common forms of swag, you can add a creative twist by offering customized, high-quality apparel that goes beyond the basic logo print. Consider giving attendees the option to personalize their apparel or choose from premium options that are more versatile and fashionable.

Some creative apparel ideas include:

• Custom-made scarves, hats, or socks featuring the attendee’s name or event logo in a subtle, stylish way
• Personalized sneakers or eco-friendly jackets
• Soft, premium materials like organic cotton or bamboo blends

By offering apparel that’s both stylish and personal, you ensure that attendees will actually wear these items, extending your brand’s visibility.

18. Interactive Virtual Gift Bags

As virtual and hybrid events continue to rise in popularity, virtual gifting has become an increasingly viable option. Instead of sending physical swag, create interactive virtual gift bags that attendees can enjoy from the comfort of their own home.

Some virtual gift bag ideas include:

• Discount codes for online courses or e-learning platforms
• Virtual access to exclusive content, such as behind-the-scenes footage or keynote sessions
• Digital coupons for popular apps or services, such as food delivery or fitness memberships

Virtual gift bags are not only convenient and eco-friendly but also offer immense flexibility, allowing attendees to choose what they find most valuable. This ensures a highly personalized gifting experience without the logistical challenges of shipping physical items. 

19. Artisanal Food and Drink Kits

For those who appreciate fine food and drink, consider gifting artisanal food and drink kits that allow attendees to indulge in a premium culinary experience. Whether it’s a gourmet coffee-tasting kit, a craft cocktail kit, or a DIY charcuterie board set, these gifts cater to foodies and offer a sense of luxury.

Some ideas for artisanal kits include:

• A mixology kit complete with ingredients to create signature cocktails
• A gourmet coffee sampler set, featuring beans from around the world
• A cheese-tasting kit or charcuterie board set with premium meats and cheeses

Food and drink gifts offer an interactive and sensory experience, making them an excellent alternative to traditional swag. These indulgent kits also add a touch of sophistication to your event, creating a memorable and delicious connection to your brand.

20. Exclusive Memberships or VIP Experiences

For high-end events, consider offering exclusive memberships or VIP experiences as a luxurious alternative to swag. These gifts can provide long-lasting value and a sense of prestige for your attendees, aligning your brand with a premium experience.

Some exclusive membership ideas include:

• VIP access to industry conferences or webinars
• Memberships to exclusive business or networking clubs
• Year-long subscriptions to services like LinkedIn Premium, Audible, or The New York Times

Offering attendees an exclusive experience makes them feel valued and connected to your brand on a deeper level. These gifts not only create immediate excitement but also offer long-term benefits, ensuring that your event is remembered fondly.

Meaningful Gifts Make Lasting Connections