GIVING GIFTS to clients and business associates requires a delicate balance. The ideal present is friendly, but not too personal — functional, but not dull. Any of these options will be a memorable way to seal a business relationship, and without burdening the balance sheet.
1. SWAROVSKI
CATEGORY: USB crystalline memory stick
TELL ’EM THIS: It’s always a treat to take something utilitarian and give it a sense of fun. These portable, bedazzled USB sticks hold tons of data, but are as much fun as a frivolous accessory.
WHO’S IT FOR: Sparkle aficionados
MSRP: $59 each
(888) 207-9873 | swarovski.com
2. NATICO ORIGINALS
CATEGORY: Matte silver decision maker
TELL ’EM THIS: Think of this little gadget as the contemporary answer to the Magic 8 Ball. It’s a fun desktop toy for moments when it’s tough to figure out what to do. Spin the dial and it will offer advice with options like, “pass the buck” or “sit on it.”
WHO’S IT FOR: Indecisive associates
MSRP: $25
(212) 685-5308 | natico.com
3. SWEDA USA
CATEGORY: Mini digital photo frame
TELL ’EM THIS: Sure, a smartphone holds hundreds of pictures — that doesn’t stop anyone from wanting photos of friends and family on display. This digital frame can display up to 30 images. You can add your logo to the front of the frame, too.
WHO’S IT FOR: Photo gazers
MSRP: $29.99
(626) 357-9999 | swedausa.com
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4. EXUVIUS
CATEGORY: Titanium multi-tool collar stays
TELL ’EM THIS: MacGyver would have had a field day with these collar stays. Yes, they keep a collar upright, but they’re also tools that can open a bottle, turn a screw or cut a thread.
WHO’S IT FOR: Well dressed adventure seekers
MSRP: $50
exuvius.com
5. KATE SPADE
CATEGORY: Silver-plated business card holder
TELL ’EM THIS: It’s a digital world, but every businessperson still carries cards. An elegant case to store them is preferable to rummaging through pockets to find one. A cheeky engraving that reads “let’s do lunch,” shows a sense of humor.
WHO’S IT FOR: A polished pro
MSRP: $20
(866) 999-5283 | katespade.com
6. A GIFT PERSONALIZED
CATEGORY: Carbon fiber rollerball pen
TELL ’EM THIS: Stumped for what to give? No one will ever be disappointed by a well-appointed pen. It’s composed of ultra light carbon fiber, so that it’s not a chore to carry around. Engrave the recipient’s name so it doesn’t feel nondescript.
WHO’S IT FOR: Anyone. It’s a one size fits all solution.
MSRP: $25.99
(800) 972-3691 | jdsmarketing.net
This article originally appeared in the May 2016 edition of INSTORE.