After 10 years working in the corporate world, I’ve attended just about every type of business event you can imagine-trainings, workshops, five-star dinners, team-building activities, and retreats (yes, even the occasional “boondoggle”). I’ve helped plan and execute many of these events and have experienced the full spectrum-from forgettable to phenomenal.

If you’re planning an in-person corporate event, know this: a thoughtful gifting strategy can elevate the experience, impress your guests, and leave a lasting impression on your clients, employees, or partners.

Why Gifting at Corporate Events Still Matters

In 2025, corporate event gifting is no longer a “nice to have”- it’s a strategic brand opportunity. A high-quality, beautifully presented gift can:

• Welcome attendees and set the tone for your event

• Reinforce your company’s brand identity

• Serve as a tangible reminder of the experience

• Build stronger relationships with key stakeholders

Whether you're hosting an executive retreat, multi-day workshop, or an evening appreciation dinner, the right gift can turn a standard event into a memorable one.

3 Smart Gifting Ideas for In-Person Events

1. Simple Welcome Gifts Go a Long Way

Start things off right by offering a curated welcome gift in each hotel room or at registration. These don’t need to be elaborate—just thoughtful and useful. Include:

• Bottled water

• Gourmet snacks

• Travel-sized wellness items (lip balm, hand sanitizer, mints)

• A local touch, like a regional specialty

These small touches show you’ve considered their comfort and experience.

2. Branded Kits for Trainings and Workshops

If you’re hosting a training, seminar, or hands-on workshop, prepare branded welcome kits that help participants feel prepared and appreciated. Consider including:

• Branded notebooks or pens

• Custom name tags

• Printed agendas or resources

• Functional keepsakes like reusable mugs or desk accessories

These kits are also a great opportunity to integrate subtle brand reinforcement without feeling overly promotional.

3. Creative Takeaways That Don't Need a Gift Box

Not every gift has to come in a box or bag. Event-specific takeaways can be simple but meaningful. Think:

• Beautifully packaged chocolates with your event logo

• Mini candle tins with custom labels

• Travel-friendly skincare or wellness products

• QR codes linking to a post-event photo gallery or thank-you message

Leverage packaging design and presentation to make these items feel high-end and thoughtful.

Gifting by Event Type

The nature of the event will naturally influence your gifting choices. Here are a few ideas based on event formats:

• Executive Retreats: Personalized leather goods, luxury spa kits, or travel accessories

• Product Launches: Branded tech gadgets, promotional swag bags, or sneak peeks of the product

• Client Appreciation Dinners: Elegant tabletop items, wine accessories, or local artisan goods

• Team Offsites: Branded apparel, wellness journals, or kits for on-site activities

And if you’re not sure what fits? That’s where we come in.

Need Help Executing an Unforgettable Gifting Experience?

If the thought of planning gifts stresses you out or you simply don’t have time, Lavender + Pine can help. We offer curated and custom corporate gifting services to make your event seamless and impactful.

Our team handles everything-from concept development and sourcing to packaging and delivery. All you have to do is tell us your vision and we’ll take care of the rest.

Explore Our Custom Corporate Gifting Services
Contact Us to Get Started

Let us help you create a gifting moment your guests won’t forget.