Unexpected or unusual promotional products to surprise and delight

By Stephanie Lamie

In psychology, surprise is one of the seven universal emotions opens in new window. It triggers a powerful psychological and physiological response and creates a memorable moment because it activates dopamine, increasing feelings of satisfaction and motivation. The power of surprise can be harnessed to benefit your brand. Fun, unexpected or unusual promotional products can capture your audience’s attention, form long-term connections and leave a lasting impression.

Event swag that sounds like fun

There are countless opportunities to hand out promo products that look like fun. But summer and fall events are particularly great times for promos that sound like fun too. Give tambourine drums to shake things up at an outdoor carnival or concert. Or provide Police Whistles to promote safety at a training event or back-to-school weekend.

Offer paper megaphones to attendees at a race or other sporting event, or hand out thunder sticks to bring the boom.

Quirky promos from head to toe

Outfit them in unusual promotional products that range from practical to playful. Foam cowboy hats can steal the show. For something more functional—but still unexpected—choose beach-ready Flip Flops. They’re a perfect fit for any warm-weather or beach-themed giveaway.

Speaking of sunshine, tropical insulator tumblers add fun to any team gathering or getaway. If your brand is more aligned with the forest than the beach, camouflage sweatshirts might be just the item you’re hunting for. Don’t worry: It might be camo, but it’ll still help your brand stand out!

Fun products to simply spark joy

Some promotions spark smiles that really last. Such is the case with a unique branded item like an extending back scratcher. It’s a fun gift for a chiropractic clinic, massage therapist or any organization that lends a helping hand. A business providing Bubbles at a fall festival is likely to blow families away. Foam putty is sure to be a hit with the little ones, so a nonprofit focused on family or children’s causes is a great match. An organization really looking to score points on the nostalgia scale can opt for a yo-yo.

More surprises on the menu

When you’re hungry for fun promo items , there’s no shortage of tantalizing food-related options. For instance, colour-changing cups are a fun way to serve up tasty lemonade or soft drinks at a festival or farmers market. Or up the cute factor with animal-themed lunch bags—available in any species, from bees and bears to dolphins and ducks.

Looking for something memorable to provide at a company cookout? Dog tag bottle openers are a useful swag idea. Want s’more fun promos? Host a bonfire and give guests branded roasting sticks. Provide a s’mores bar, and the memories—like your unconventional gift—will be cherished for years to come.

Outside-the-box ideas for a pleasant surprise

All promotional products have power. But those that offer a fun surprise can really make an impression. Whether introducing your brand to new customers, celebrating success with your team or looking to make an impression on the community, fun and unusual promotional products can get the job done—and inspire many smiles.

Stephanie Lamie

Stephanie Lamie is a senior merchandising category manager who has been with 4imprint for 28 years, including 21 years in her current role. She oversees several product categories, with her largest areas of focus being writing instruments and tradeshow displays. Stephanie enjoys discovering new products, tracking industry and retail trends, partnering with suppliers and learning more about sustainability. She began her 4imprint career as an expediter before moving into sales, claims and corporate programs—experience that gives her a broad understanding of the business. As an expert in all things pens, she uses her deep knowledge of 4imprint’s departments and customer needs to bring the very best writing utensils and tradeshow products to the market.

All marks are the property of 4imprint or their respective owners.

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