Promote like a Pro: Tweetups, Contests, and More...

This week we're brainstorming ideas for how to combine promotional products with online marketing strategies. 
Here's what we've come up with so far:

Organize a Tweetup: Tweet the time and place for your next Tweetup, and encourage followers to attend by offering a free tote bag, travel mug, or padfolio for the first 10, 20, or 50 guests who show up.  

Stage a photo contest: Distribute t-shirts, mugs, sunglasses, hats or cuddly plush toys to be used in an online photo contest. Fans and followers take pictures with your promotional product and share them on Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest. The more creative the better! 

Reach more readers: Expand your email list by using promotional products as an incentive to opt in. Offer a free travel mug, iPad case, messenger bag, or desk organizer for new subscribers to your email newsletter.

Get 'liked' at trade shows: Give away smartphone accessories imprinted with your logo at your next trade show for visitors who 'like' your Facebook page on the spot.

Have an idea for how to use promotional products online?
Leave us a comment below! 

Oscars 2013: The Swag in the Bag...

Photo credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN via Aceshowbiz.com

Ever wonder why the wealthiest celebrities always get things for free? Like tonight, for example, at the Academy Awards, some celebrities will walk away with gift bags worth over $45,000 (and in other years worth over $90,000!!) Businesses compete for a spot in the swag bag to promote their products and gain exposure. Even if the product is not publicly flaunted by a celebrity, it still gets a piece of the limelight when everyone asks: “Hey, what’s in that bag?” This is why businesses pay to give away their products: prime publicity and media hype. 

Believe it or not, this Hollywood marketing tactic can work for you too. When planning your next special event, fundraising gala, or corporate function, consider putting together a swag bag of your own. It won’t cost you $45,000, and you’ll generate some Oscar-worthy buzz. Things to keep in mind:

The bag: This is important because--first of all--you'll need something to hold the swag, but--second of all--a bag is the perfect product to promote your brand or message. Choose a bag that fits with the theme of your event and offers eye-catching features. Style and functionality will ensure that the bag (along with your brand) is enjoyed long after the event is over.

What's in the bag: This is where you get to choose what goes in the bag. Think of other promotional items that will generate a lot of use and attention from participants. Include products that fit with your brand and the specific event. 

Who gets the bag: Decide who will get a swag bag. Will everyone attending the event get one? Or will only special donors, supporters, or contributors get one? Swag bags could be raffled off or given away as prizes during the event. 

If you're not sure which products to use, let us know. We can put together a customized swag bag for your event. If you need a little inspiration, take a stroll around our Pinterest page. We're always posting new items to our collection of favorites.