It is always a thrilling experience to receive an award. When you hear your name being announced and you walk up to the stage to receive your trophy, that moment leaves a lasting impression on everyone present at the event.
That is why the awards and trophies you choose as the management matter more than you think. However, such a simple task can go wrong in many ways.
So, how to strike the right balance and choose awards and trophies that are meaningful?
6 Tips On Choosing The Right Award For Your Annual Awards Night
1. What Is the Purpose of Each Award?
Before choosing the physical trophy, get clear on the award itself. Ask yourself:
- What is this award recognising?
- Is it for performance, creativity, leadership, attendance, or something else?
- Is it competitive or honorary?
Define each award category. Be specific. For example:
- Best Team Player rather than just Best Employee Award
- Highest Sales Achiever – Q4 instead of Sales Award
Once the categories are defined, you’ll know whether you need formal plaques, fun novelty trophies, or something unique.
This clarity avoids mix-ups and helps your event feel thought-through, not a last-minute plan.
2. Match the Trophy Style with the Award Tone
The design should reflect the spirit of the recognition. Here’s how you can match them:
- Corporate or formal awards: Go for glass or crystal trophies, engraved with precision. These look elegant and suit leadership or performance-based honours.
- Creative or fun awards: Consider colourful acrylic trophies or custom shapes. These work well for categories like Best Dressed or Most Creative Campaign.
- Long service awards: Classic metal cups or timeless wood-and-gold combinations can lend gravitas to these recognitions.
- Student or youth awards: Go with lightweight, durable options like resin or plastic trophies in exciting shapes (stars, books, sports gear).
When you align design w,ith intention, you avoid tone mismatches like handing a formal CEO award on a novelty plaque.
3. Personalise Each Award Wherever Possible
Generic trophies feel forgettable which is why personal touches matter. Simple ideas include:
- Adding the recipient’s full name.
- Including the year or event name.
- Mentioning the achievement clearly on the trophy.
For example:
Emma Roy – Best Marketing Campaign – 2024 Annual Awards Night
This does two things:
- Makes the award feel truly earned.
- Turns it into a keepsake, not just a prop.
You can also personalise through design by choosing shapes, colours, or icons that suit your brand or team culture.
4. Consider Quality and Durability
People often display their trophies for years. Some might even pass them down. So, avoid low-quality builds that chip, fade, or feel flimsy. Check for:
- Solid base and stable weight,
- Scratch-resistant surfaces,
- Clear and permanent engraving,
- No loose parts or adhesive marks.
While budget matters, quality should take priority, especially for milestone awards.
If you’re buying in bulk, speak with your supplier about sample pieces first. It helps avoid disappointments later.
5. Don’t Ignore Practical Details
Looks aren’t everything. So, you need to think of the function too. Ask your supplier:
- How long will production take?
- Can they deliver on time?
- Do they offer customisation?
- Are replacements possible if something breaks?
Also consider the award’s size. Bigger doesn’t always mean better. Will the trophy fit on a shelf or desk? Will it be easy to carry on stage?
And what about packaging? A trophy box adds a touch of professionalism and protects the award in transit.
Ticking off these details early reduces last-minute stress.
6. Make the Presentation Count
Even the best trophy will fall flat if the presentation feels rushed. Plan how each award will be handed out. Here are a few suggestions that might work for you:
- Have someone from leadership or management present the award.
- Share a short story or example about the recipient’s contribution.
- Allow time for a handshake, photo, or applause.
This builds pride and makes the moment meaningful.
You can even play light music during the handover or include visuals on screen showing the recipient’s work.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right awards and trophies doesn’t have to be complex. But it should be intentional.
Focus on what each award stands for. Match the design to the tone. Personalise when possible. Prioritise quality. Handle the logistics early.
Most of all, remember the goal is to celebrate people in a way that feels thoughtful and genuine.
That’s the kind of recognition that stays with people.
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