Setting a budget and planning for trophy purchases doesn't need to be tough. Here are some simple steps to help you:
**Step 1: Know Your Needs**
List the events or achievements for which you need awards. Consider how many and any unique designs. Is it by extraordinary achievement like setting a new record, 1st, 2nd & 3rd place, or by recognition like MVP or leadership? Take the time to think about whether this is a seasonal or a yearly award. A small committee of 3-5 people can help delegate duties. Be sure to assign one highly detailed person with spelling and grammar, then have a second person proof their work.
**Step 2: Set a Budget**
Once you have the total number of awards needed, decide how much you can spend on awards. Consider your total budget and how vital each trophy is to your event. Remember you don't need to buy the most or the least expensive, just appropriate for the occasion.
**Step 3: Choose the Type of Award**
Different materials cost different amounts. Plastic is much more affordable, while metal, glass, and crystal are pricier. Pick what fits your budget and event tone. Awards do not need to look like they did in the 70s and 80s with marble and gold-painted plastic figures at the top. Quality engraving services can make custom awards that look expensive while falling within your budget.
Does a four-inch plastic award properly recognize their achievement if someone just broke a long-standing record? Conversely, do you need a two-foot-tall hand-blown intricate glass award as a thank-you recognition? Will the award you selected positively impact the recipient based on their achievement? As a committee, take the time to examine all the awards needed and compare the awards to the significance of the recognition given to the recipient. Size does play a factor. If there are 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places, first place should be the largest, third the smallest, and second in the mid-size range.
**Step 4: Selecting an Engraving Service**
Search engines are a great way to find an engraving service in your area. What is their Google review numerical average? How many reviews do they have? What is the content of their reviews?
While an online-only engraver may offer better pricing, staying local lets you view the shop and awards in person; you will see the quality of their craftsmanship firsthand. They have a live person answer the phone rather than email-only customer service.
Utilizing a local engraving service involves a higher level of attention to detail. Reviewing details with a live person can be valuable, saving you time rather than emailing back and forth for days or weeks. Picking up the awards locally can also reduce your expenses.
Note: Engravers vs Trophy Shops
An engraving service can personalize a much wider variety of items, whereas a Trophy shop sells trophies with text. A great example is Evo. When your business sells hair salon supplies, it makes for a unique experience to utilize one of their premier hair brushes as an award for their employees. Be Creative!
**Step 4: Costs & Written Estimate/Invoice**
Unique customizations such as logos may cost more. Some engravers charge by the letter, some by the object, and some highly customized awards may require additional fees (like engraving a complex logo). Be sure to write down all of your questions before your consultation.
A quality engraver will provide you with an estimate, including sample photos or a sample of digital or physical proof of your project. They should set expectations and document the scope of the work in writing, as well as in both your estimate and invoice.
**Step 5: Order Well in Advance**
Order the trophies well in advance. The larger your order, the more time you want to allow. Be sure the delivery date for your project is ample time for your committee to review the items before handing them out.
Following these steps, you can easily set a budget and plan to purchase awards without breaking the bank.
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