6.2 SWAG – Stuff We All Get

‘SWAG’ (“Stuff We All Get”) refers to free things and cool giveaway programs or events that participants receive that are branded with a company name or logo. Examples: Pens, hats, t-shirts, mugs, ribbons, notepads, keychains, water bottles, pop-sockets, glassware (and more!). SWAG is most often given out to participants at large Special Events, but sometimes SWAG shows up at smaller recreation programs, too. Although SWAG is great (who doesn’t love free stuff?) Program Planners should know it is not required to pull off a successful program or event.

Branded SWAG (items branded with the logo or name of a program, event or organization) is an easy and slick advertising stream for the provider and is a great way for sponsors and donors to brag about their part in bringing your event to life. At large events, like trade shows, galas, fundraising events or open houses, SWAG items are often gathered together and given to participants in a “SWAG bag” (also called a Goodie Bag) upon entry.

Note: If you have not secured a sponsor or donor who will provide SWAG at your program or event, but you really want to provide it, it will need to be purchased out of your program budget. Depending on the type of SWAG item you have in mind and the quantities you need, this can get expensive! This is why not every large event provides SWAG, as the cost can be prohibitive. Another reason SWAG may not be provided is when suitability might be at issue: Not every event or program theme warrants SWAG.

There are a great number of companies that will provide personalized, customized or branded items to you in bulk. One such provider in Canada is Vistaprint.