A medal represents an accomplishment that can be touched and is awarded in connection with a memorable event. Choosing the appropriate medal for that occasion depends on a number of factors in order to settle for the right one that suits the occasion, the participants and the budget put aside for the medals. In this detailed manual, I am going to outline the most important strategies that help in selecting appropriate event medals that create a positive lasting impact on participants.
This is the stage where one has to decide on the style and design of the work.
The first choice to be made is whether the medal is to be in a certain style or of a certain design. Key options include:
- Plain round badge – The circular medal is standard and has an inscription on the front and the back portion where engraving can be done. Preeminent and widely used for any types of events.
- Size and shape of medal – Instead of the traditional round medals, try having the medals in the shape of race bibs or any other shape that corresponds to your event. Enables one to be unique to the standard medals.
- Medallion – They are larger and more prominently shaped than circular medals in general. Can enshrine more elaborate carvings and markings in relation to the starker and simpler designs on the stones of previous periods. Well-suited for high-end events.
Once you select a style, hone in on specific design elements that will resonate with your audience:Once you select a style, hone in on specific design elements that will resonate with your audience:
- Event name/year – These circles should have the core branding of the event so that people can recall when and what the medal is for.
- Purposeful images – Ensure that the symbols and graphics used have a proper connection to the subject or the purpose of the event.
- Participant Name – Custom engraved name make medals look more appealing and are easily identifiable for this reason it is a good idea.
When planning for the event there are several things that you should consider, for instance:
The type of event and demographic profile of your participants will guide your selection toward the best medal style, size, materials, etc. Some key considerations:The type of event and demographic profile of your participants will guide your selection toward the best medal style, size, materials, etc. Some key considerations:
- Athletic events: Create medals athletes actually want to wear. Event name/logo and graphics of a representative of the type of sport being advertised (basketball, running shoe, etc. ). If competitors will be donning their medals immediately, it may help to add a neck ribbon.
- Youth events: This product should appeal to children and nothing scares them away more than dull colours and uninteresting prints (best to stick to cartoon characters or animals). Keep text simple. Select materials that are not too heavy and sensitive to the smaller necks.
- Corporate events: Ensure the medals have appropriate aesthetic appeal that will correspond to the company branding, values and culture. Provide space for engraved plaques acknowledging top performers and other significant employee anniversary awards.
- Academic events: Include academic representation such as books, graduation caps, school names, etc. Emboss/etch words pointing to academic accomplishments. Design medals sufficient to be put on display.
Hence, weigh between the quality of the food and the price at which the food is sold.
Although it makes a fantastic statement to have solid gold medals, especially for the ultra-high-end events, such is not feasible due to financial constraints of event budgets. Focus spending smartly on details participants value most:Focus spending smartly on details participants value most:
- Medal type – Reflect on the medals regarding the type of metal to be used, commonly bronze, silver and gold although gold plated medals may also be used depending on the event’s culture and the expectations of the participants. Pricing rises respectively.
- High precision detailing – Die-struck is used to detail the product with high precision especially on thin areas which are more expensive but adds more perceived customer value. Cost savings: The simple stamped images applied on clothes enable the company to reduce its expenditures on product production.
- Satin ribbon – Substitute satin ribbons with better quality ones that are more elegant. Employ wider versions for clear text presentation especially where detailing events, achievement labels etc.
- Messages on medals – To further enhance the medals, there should be an option of adding custom text on the surface of the medals so that they symbolize the accomplishments of the receivers.
- Pricing by quantity – You can buy the medals in lots from manufacturers hence you will be charged a lower price per unit than ordering a small number which will attract higher per unit price.
- Recyclable items – the design of medals should incorporate items with general logos like the event’s name, but without dates so that remaining stocks can be used the following year.
This is because it is important to leave time for production and delivery of finished products to meet the target market needs.
It is important not to overlook the number of productions required for an event and the amount of time which the medals will take to be shipped. Select and finalize medal designs at least 6-8 weeks before your event date for medals ordered domestically, and even earlier for international orders due to the shipping time. Provide a good buffer to handle any delay that may arise in the flow of orders or products on their way.
Select medals that best suit your special event and the expected attendees in terms of gender and age. In regards to style, design, materials, detailing, customization, prices, production time and many other factors you are sure to find the perfect custom medals to award the next great event!
