Having been in the “swag" business since Ronald Reagan’s first inauguration in 1985, I can claim to have a bit of experience with the successful - as well as unsuccessful - inaugural gifts and amenities that hotels, restaurants, embassies, event planners, and even the Presidential Inaugural Committee itself, have purchased over the years to commemorate this historical event.
1. Make it FUN
For the 2001 Inaugural of George W. Bush, we presented a sound card, designed to look like an American Flag, to the Presidential Inaugural Committee. When opened, the card played “Hail to the Chief” and contained a business card with the letter “W”. The cards were placed on tables and delighted the attendees of the various Bush/Cheney inaugural parties around the city. A gift that incorporates sound and music is a great way to capture attention and contributes to an enjoyable experience.
2. Make It USEFUL
For Bill Clinton’s first inaugural in 1993, I pitched a brass key tag, customized with the Capitol Dome, name of the hotel, and inauguration date, to the Dupont Plaza Hotel. The key tags were presented in velour pouches to VIP guests upon check-in and served as the entrance pass to exclusive inauguration dinners, events, and parties hosted by the hotel. The most important aspects of gift selection is if, how, and why an item will be used by your audience.
3. Make It MEMORABLE
For Ronald Reagan’s first inaugural in 1985, we designed and produced a commemorative porcelain plate for the Hyatt Regency Washington. The plate was decorated in gold leaf with the official inaugural logo and the names of Ronald Wilson Reagan and George Herbert Walker Bush on the front. Presented to the VIP guests staying at the hotel during the festivities, the back of each plate was individually numbered. Choosing a one-of-a-kind gift garners a "Wow!" factor and is sure to be remembered for years to come.
4. Make It Fit Any BUDGET
For the first inauguration of Barack Obama and Joe Biden in 2009, we worked with several smaller hotels and restaurants with a limited budget - but unlimited enthusiasm - to produce low cost commemorative items to give away to their guests. Among the gifts chosen were stress relievers in the shape of the Capitol Dome, Lincoln Memorial, and the White House. Staying within your budget is our primary concern. You don't have to spend a lot to make a lasting impression.
With over 30 years of experience, we specialize in working one-on-one with our clients to suggest, design, and create unique gifts that are sure to be used and remembered. By always offering the best possible pricing, our products are guaranteed to fit your budget.
