Guide to Personalized Corporate Gifting at Events

The event industry globally has suffered considerably due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, hosting or attending live events is a distant dream. Thus, virtual events such as webinars and e-conferences have become the way to go for brands and event marketers alike. 

Events have always been one of the most effective tools to introduce and market your brand to audiences while establishing new alliances. But how do you create personal connections virtually?

While online interactions aren't likely to have the same impact as in-person meetings, organizers can use personalized corporate gifting as a tool for events to dazzle attendees and speakers, making the event more memorable for everyone. 

Online rewards and incentive platforms like Plum make it super convenient for you to get started with digital gifting. Plum gives you access to a global catalog of over 20,000 gift cards, experiences, perks, and exclusive benefits to choose from!

Offering seamless integration with popular existing HRMS, CRMs, helpdesks, and survey tools, Plum supports omnichannel delivery of rewards allowing you to send gifts via email, WhatsApp, SMS, QR codes, and more! 

Corporate gifting is a gesture of gifting valuables to clients, employees, or any other co-habitant within the business space. 

Personalized gift ideas at digital events 

Check out the 5 most innovative corporate personalized gift ideas for your employees, colleagues, and clients that you can give at digital events. 

Pre-event gifting at digital event 

As an organizer, you could leverage pre-event gifts to promote your event and build hype. Personal gifting is an excellent way to drive registrations and attendance. It can also help in establishing a one-on-one personal connection with your audience before the event. Gifts go a long way in making digital interactions seem all the more real and help you deliver a more personalized (and enjoyable) event.  

Below are some simple yet innovative pre-event gifting ideas: 

1. Early bird discounts 

Incentives such as early-bird discounts or running a promotional offer wherein the first 100 or 200 registrations stand a chance to win a prize, could be highly effective in boosting awareness and interest in the event.  

Additionally, creating QR codes and integrating them into these incentives can further amplify their impact, providing a convenient and engaging way for participants to access exclusive content and seamlessly participate in the event. Such strategies tend to attract customers and could potentially lead to a higher number of conversions for your event.  

If you have a high number of registrations in the initial stages, the bandwagon effect also comes into place. People are likely to see it as a positive sign and perceive your event as one that could provide value to them. This could encourage more people to sign up. 

2. Online courses and eBooks 

Present gifts that offer value to your attendees - such as eBooks, audiobooks, and subscriptions to online courses that are relevant to the topic or theme of your event.  

If your conference or webinar caters to digital marketers, you could offer attendees a subscription to an advanced digital marketing course from popular e-learning portals like Udemy or Coursera. After all, there is no better gift than the gift of knowledge! 

3. Subscription to relevant online tools 

You can also gift your attendees a subscription to popular paid tools or platforms that could help them professionally. Let's say you are hosting a webinar on "How HR Professionals Should Use LinkedIn."  

Apart from giving your attendees access to new knowledge, you could send out a one month LinkedIn Premium membership as a gift to each participant. In addition to being a valuable tool for your attendees, the gift could also result in significantly more registrations and turnouts.  

If you are organizing a creative design workshop, gifting your attendees a two or three-month Canva or Adobe Creative Cloud subscription is an excellent option. It would allow your attendees to apply the knowledge they have gained from your workshop in the real world. 

4. Tech enabling goodies 

Un'altra eccellente opzione regalo è quella di offrire ai partecipanti prodotti che possano aiutarli durante l'evento stesso, come cuffie, quaderni o un abbonamento gratuito a un'applicazione a pagamento per prendere appunti. Quando si tratta di fare una buona impressione, i piccoli gesti, anche se premurosi, fanno molta strada! 

5. Coffee hampers 

This one is for all the coffee lovers out there, and there are many! You could send out assorted coffee hampers to the first 50 or 100 attendees (depending on your budget). If you’re looking for that wow factor, you could consider sending personalized ground coffee bags, where you can have the attendee's name or your company logo on the bag.  

This could then be followed up with networking sessions which you can organize post-event, and label them something quirky like ‘Express with espresso’. The options are limitless! 

Mid-event gifting ideas 

To sustain momentum and maximize participation during your virtual event, gifting can be a powerful motivator. Here’s how you can use smart, timely rewards to keep attendees engaged, interactive, and excited: 

1. Rewards for Q&A participation 

Recognize attendees who ask insightful questions or contribute meaningfully during panel discussions or Q&A sessions. Offer digital gift cards or experience vouchers as a thank-you for their involvement—boosting both engagement and discussion quality. 

2. In-session contest prizes 

Run short quizzes or polls during key sessions and reward the fastest or most accurate responses. Whether it’s a trivia question related to the speaker’s content or a fun brand-themed challenge, surprise gifts can add excitement and healthy competition. 

3. Breakout room game incentives 

Host ice-breaker games or collaborative challenges in breakout rooms and award winners with instant digital gifts. This encourages participation in smaller groups, fosters networking, and breaks monotony during longer virtual events. 

4. Leaderboard-based rewards 

Gamify the event by assigning points for actions like attending sessions, visiting virtual booths, or downloading resources. Display a live leaderboard and reward top participants with tiered gifts, encouraging ongoing interaction and exploration. 

Post event gifting ideas 

Here are some gifts to give post event: 

1. Post-event gifts to leave a lasting impression 

Thanking your attendees, guests, and speakers for their active participation goes a long way and earns goodwill for your brand. It shows that you care about your audience and build brand loyalty and trust. Here are some virtual gift ideas to consider at this stage: 

2. A digital vote of thanks 

Personalized Thank You cards are such a rarity these days. They show that you have put in the time and effort to draft a personalized message. Moreover, the recipient will surely appreciate and remember the gesture.  

For a lot of people, this could be a lot more meaningful than material gifts. You could use Appreciate, a personal appreciation & customer loyalty platform for this purpose. Appreciate is an extremely user-friendly tool that allows users to send, receive, and redeem gifts easily! 

3. Seeking and incentivizing feedback 

Feedback, whether positive or negative, is crucial as it helps in identifying strengths, as well as areas of improvement for the future. Most e-conferencing and webinar platforms have built-in poll & survey tools, allowing for the convenient collection of feedback for analysis and improvements.  

Alternatively, you could use popular online feedback tools such as Hotjar and Typeform to collect attendee feedback. The results provide invaluable insights into what went well at the event and what did not.  

Just remember to keep it short and sweet! Do consider offering an incentive to your attendees for filling out the feedback form.  

Personalized gifting at physical events: Making in-person experiences count 

While virtual events continue to dominate the post-pandemic landscape, physical events are steadily making a comeback. Conferences, summits, trade shows, and brand launches offer an unmatched opportunity to build face-to-face relationships. But what truly sets your brand apart in these high-touch environments? Thoughtful, personalized corporate gifts. 

Physical events offer the perfect setting to make meaningful gestures that attendees can connect with immediately. From welcome kits to exit gifts, every interaction can be a touchpoint for brand recall—and platforms like Xoxoday Plum make it easy to scale and personalize these moments. 

Here’s how you can use gifting to make your physical events unforgettable: 

Pre-event gifting at digital event 

Pre-event gifting can include- 

Welcome kits to set the tone 

A customized welcome kit with curated goodies helps break the ice and shows appreciation right from the start. Include branded merchandise, snacks, event agendas, and QR codes linking to exclusive content or reward redemptions. Try using a platform like Xoxoday Plum, where you can combine digital reward links with swag for a seamless experience. 

Personalized notebooks or water bottles

 These essentials combine practicality with a personal touch. When customized with attendee names, company logos, or event themes, they feel thoughtful and exclusive. Notebooks encourage note-taking during sessions, while reusable bottles promote sustainability and daily use—extending your brand’s visibility even after the event. 

Branded lanyards or smart badges 

Lanyards and badges serve a dual purpose: event access and interactive engagement. With embedded QR codes or NFC tags, they can link to digital content, session check-ins, or instant rewards. This transforms a simple ID accessory into a tool that encourages real-time participation and enhances the attendee experience. 

Snacks or energy boosters 

Adding healthy or indulgent snacks—like trail mix, protein bars, or herbal teas—keeps attendees energized throughout the event. It’s a small gesture that makes a big difference in comfort and attention span. Thoughtful packaging (like “Recharge Kits”) can even reflect your event’s theme or tone. 

Digital reward codes 

Give attendees the flexibility to enjoy a coffee, snack, or meal on their terms by including sending digital codes. Using platforms like Xoxoday Plum, you can distribute these rewards instantly and at scale—perfect for hybrid or global audiences. It’s an easy way to delight and incentivize mid-event engagement. 

QR Code cards

 Instead of printed brochures, use sleek cards with QR codes linking to session agendas, speaker bios, event maps, or live engagement dashboards. This reduces clutter while giving attendees on-demand access to important information. Bonus: QR cards can also trigger personalized rewards or gamified interactions. 

Mid-event gifting at digital events 

Keep the energy high during long conference days with surprise gifts that add delight and engagement. Recognize active participants or gamify attendance with on-the-spot giveaways.  

Ideas include: 

1. On-the-spot raffle draws 
   Surprise attendees during live sessions or Q&As with instant raffle giveaways. Rewards like spa vouchers, movie tickets, or online classes add an element of excitement. These perks are easy to redeem globally, creating memorable moments while encouraging participation and attentiveness. 
2. Refreshment reward codes 
   Distribute digital gift cards for coffee, smoothies, or snacks at strategic points during the event—like right before a keynote or after a long session. This small but impactful gesture re-energizes attendees and shows you value their time and presence. 
3. Gamified engagement leaderboards 
   Boost interaction by assigning points for actions like booth visits, polls, or survey completions. Display real-time leaderboards and reward top participants with exclusive prizes—ranging from premium gift cards to branded merchandise. It turns passive attendees into active contributors. 
4. Pop-up trivia or mini-challenges 
   Inject fun and spontaneity with timed quizzes, polls, or social media challenges. Offer instant digital rewards to fast responders or creative participants. It’s a great way to maintain momentum, especially during longer sessions or breaks. 

Post event gifting at digital events  

The final moments of your event are a prime opportunity to reinforce your brand and deepen the connection. Here are some thoughtful closing gift ideas that leave a lasting impression and encourage post-event engagement: 

1. Post-event digital gift cards 

Send attendees a curated gift card after the event ends as a token of appreciation. Choose from popular options like Amazon, Starbucks, or experience-based gifts using platforms like Xoxoday Plum. This gesture not only wraps up the event on a high note but keeps your brand top-of-mind. 

2. Personalized Thank-You kits 

Deliver branded thank-you kits with handwritten notes, premium chocolates, and a small keepsake (like a custom pin or badge). These physical gifts create a tangible emotional connection, especially effective for VIPs, speakers, or long-time clients. 

3. Feedback-driven rewards 

Encourage attendees to complete feedback surveys in exchange for instant rewards. This could include discount codes, reward points, or prepaid vouchers. It helps you gather insights while making participants feel that their opinions are valued and rewarded. 

4. Referral-based incentives 

Nudge attendees to refer a friend or colleague to your product, platform, or future event by offering a referral reward. It could be a tiered reward (e.g., free e-books for one referral, a premium gift for three). This tactic turns satisfied attendees into brand advocates. 

5. Exclusive access or early-bird discounts 

Gift attendees exclusive post-event access to content replays, bonus sessions, or early-bird discounts for your next offering. Package this access as a reward to create a sense of exclusivity and urgency, encouraging repeat engagement and ongoing loyalty. 

Why corporate gift boxes still win at events 

In the digital age, a well-timed physical gesture can make a powerful impact. Sending curated gift boxes straight to your attendees’ doorsteps adds a human touch to your virtual events.

It’s more than just a gift—it’s a statement that says “you matter.” Here's why it works so well: 

1. Memorable, personalized touchpoints 

Rather than relying on standard email invites, a custom gift box—with elements like handwritten notes or items tailored to your audience—creates a lasting impression. These thoughtful gestures show appreciation and help build a genuine connection. In fact, 80% of consumers say they’re more likely to engage with brands that offer personalized experiences. 

2. Drives higher engagement 

When participants receive something tangible and curated, they’re more inclined to actively participate and stay engaged during your virtual sessions. These gift boxes can also spark conversations and encourage attendees to share feedback—helping you improve future events. 

3. Built-in branding and buzz 

Every item in the box is an opportunity to reinforce your brand—from useful swag to eye-catching packaging. Attendees often share their unboxing experiences on social media, offering authentic visibility and turning your event into a conversation starter well beyond the screen. 

Best practices of gifting at events 

Here are some best practices to follow while gifting at events: 

Align gifts with event objectives 

When picking out a gift for your participants or guests, make sure that the gift fits the overall theme of your event. For example, going for custom corporate gifts like gifting traditional diaries at an entrepreneurship conference would not be the best idea.  

Instead, offer a subscription to a motivational or entrepreneurial podcast. The whole idea behind gifting is to leave a positive and long-lasting impression on your attendees. The choice and relevance of the gift, therefore, are of utmost importance. 

Personalize whenever possible 

Personalization adds meaning. Customized gifts with attendee names, company logos, or session-specific relevance make recipients feel recognized and valued—boosting brand recall and emotional connection. 

Time the gifts strategically 

Distribute gifts at moments that matter—pre-event (to build excitement), during the event (to sustain engagement), and post-event (to leave a lasting impression). Smart timing can help boost attendance, retention, and follow-up actions. 

Offer choice & flexibility 

Where possible, let attendees choose their gift. Platforms like Xoxoday Plum allow users to select rewards from a global catalog—ensuring the gift is relevant and appreciated, especially for diverse or international audiences. 

Use digital gifts for instant gratification 

For virtual and hybrid events, instant e-gift cards or reward codes are ideal. They’re easy to distribute, track, and redeem—and help maintain engagement in real time without logistical challenges. 

Keep gifts useful and practical 

Choose items that attendees will actually use—such as tech accessories, wellness products, or notebooks. Avoid gimmicky or low-quality swag that’s likely to be discarded or ignored. 

Match gifting with engagement levels 

Reward attendees based on interaction—such as participating in sessions, completing surveys, or visiting booths. This creates a sense of achievement and encourages active involvement throughout the event. 

Add a surprise element 

Unexpected rewards—like random raffles or gamified spins—can add excitement and boost real-time participation. The surprise factor increases emotional engagement and makes the event feel more dynamic. 

Leverage gifting for brand recall 

Include subtle branding in your gifts without overdoing it. Think sleek logos, brand colors, or themed packaging that enhances, rather than overwhelms, the experience. Good branding turns gifts into long-term brand ambassadors. 

Track, measure, and improve 

Use gifting platforms that offer analytics to track redemptions, engagement levels, and preferences. Post-event analysis helps refine your approach for future events, ensuring better ROI and participant satisfaction. 

Stay within the budget 

When organizing an event, it becomes tempting to overlook the budget and go all out. It is crucial to keep an eye on expenses when picking out gifts for your attendees. Consider multiple gifting ideas but choose the most appropriate ones that fit within the budget.  

Attending events in a virtual world is now the new normal, and digital gifts are a fantastic way of establishing a personal connection with your audience in this new normal.

Be it a seminar, a workshop, or a corporate team-building event, thanking your guests for their time and presence via thoughtful and appropriate gifts will surely make them feel special and strengthen your relationship with them. 

Ready to elevate your virtual event experience? 

As virtual events continue to dominate the business landscape, personalized gifting isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a powerful engagement tool. From setting the tone before your event to making sure attendees feel valued afterward, the right gift can turn a routine experience into something truly memorable. 

Platforms like Plum simplify every step of this process, offering a rich catalog of global rewards, seamless automation, and omnichannel delivery—all from one dashboard. Whether you’re looking to boost attendance, drive feedback, or increase brand recall, Plum helps you create gifting moments that stick. 

Book a free demo and make your next virtual event unforgettable?