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Last Updated on March 24, 2010 by Work In My Pajamas
Before I actually worked in the marketing field, I used to love to go to trade shows to gather all the freebie promotional items. Free tshirts, pens, pencils, notepads, keychains, magnets, you name it, I snatched it up. Now that the tables have turned, I like to browse exhibit halls to see what unique items catch my eye to get my own ideas on what promo items I may invest in next. And I usually only gather the “swag” that I (or my family) will actually use (and will fit in my suitcase for the plane ride home).
Some of my favorite promotional items I’ve received are shot glasses for my wet bar, decks of playing cards for entertaining guests (13 point pitch, anyone?), alcohol breathalizers (great gag gifts for my brothers) and staplers (yes, I’m obsessed with staplers, and I use colored staples).
My favorite promotional items to give away are collapsible can koozies. For you non-rednecks, they are neoprene foam covers for single-serve beverages (that sounds nicer than “beer cans”) to keep them cold. I know some of my friends on the coasts have never heard of such a thing, but here in the Midwest, people actually ask if they can buy them from me! Imagine their delight when I respond that I give them away for free!
I’m actually running low on promo items, so I’m considering placing an order with ParagonPromotions.com who offers free samples, discounts and a low price guarantee. I read more testimonials and was impressed. Click here for resources and more information about promotional items for yourself.
This post is sponsored by Paragon Promotions. All opinions are mine.
LOL…So you almost got all the freebies in trade shows? I like the way you write and article it have sense of humor.