Inevitably, around this time of year we are flooded with requests from advisors in a panic over what to give their clients for holiday gifts. Many times, we have to talk them out of “gifts” like logo wine glasses, logo coffee mugs or calendars.
We often go back to basics with them and ask the questions: What is this gift for? Is it a marketing piece? Or is it to say, “thank you, we love working with you and your family?” Logo items should not be seen as gifts. Many times, they end up in the charity donation pile or tossed in the garbage. If you want to make an impact with a real gift, it’s time to get creative and put some thought into it. I always start by asking what YOU would want to receive as a gift. Would you want to receive a logo hat? Probably not. Logo items have their place, but the holidays is not where they fit.
Here are some creative ideas we’ve found to be successful over the years. These ideas may not be exactly right for your clients, but at least it will get you thinking…
Something personal
For valued clients, nothing says, “I appreciate you” like something personal. Whether it is a jersey signed by a favorite sports team, an experience (ex. a trip, gift certificate to a favorite restaurant, sporting event, etc.), these gifts communicate that you listen, you care and you appreciate their business. This type of gift would be appropriate for your top 5 or 10 clients.
Something that will be used often
Recently, I was in a conversation with an attorney who genuinely loves YETI products. He has YETI coolers, YETI travel cups…even YETI bottle openers. Why? The products work, and they’re considered “bougie.” He often gives YETI products as gifts for holidays and for referrals. Because these products are extremely high quality, they’ll be appreciated and used. Without a logo, they’re not self-serving. So if you’re going to give a gift, consider something you love yourself because chances are, your clients will love it, too (but remember that not everyone loves to collect 70s disco albums, so choose wisely). And a YETI cooler with a logo could be the only exception to the logo rule. A YETI never gets tossed. Same with a Patagonia vest, Peter Millar Quarter Zip, or Vuori jacket would all be well-received.
Something handmade
For firms that serve a small number of families, we really have to think outside of the box. These families can afford anything they want, and are probably bombarded daily with retail giveaways. We have had great success with gifts that are handmade and thoughtful, like gifts from a local pottery studio such as these. Or a hand-made cutting board. Or a knife. Elegant, classic design, yet functional and practical, these gifts are always well-received. Also, an added bonus you would be supporting a local, small business.
Subscription Gifts
These gifts are great. They keep coming month after month for the year, reminding your client that you appreciate them! And there are so many to choose from, you are sure to find something your clients will love and appreciate all year long. You can choose from subscriptions for foodies, for techies, for beauty addicts, fitness gurus or outdoorsmen. Whichever subscription you land on, you can rest assured it will be the gift that keeps on giving. Here are a few we think are amazing.
NY Times Wine Club Subscription
Burlap & Barrel Spice Subscription
Breo Box - Tech & Lifestyle Subscription