The Jotted Line

You are brainstorming on possible growth strategies for your business. Ideas are flying around the room. Then someone talks about gifting as a possible growth strategy. You look at them as if they’ve lost their minds. This starts the questions flowing. Why would giving corporate gifts be a way to grow your business? Corporate gifts are expensive. Aren’t they unnecessary expenses when I should focus on cutting expenses and boosting my revenue? You’ve got it wrong. Gifting is a great way to grow your business. Everybody lights up when they receive gift boxes. The same thing happens to clients and employees when they receive corporate gifts from a company or organization. Many corporate bodies have benefited from this strategy over the years. The gifting experience has enhanced their reputation and boosted their growth in the long term. Your business can also benefit from this strategy. How can this happen? Stick with us as we reveal how a corporate gifting strategy can grow your business. Why Give Corporate Gifts Fast Delivery on 1 Day Rush Pens Companies have been giving out gifts since time immemorial, when humans started trading with each other. Today, the custom is widespread, with corporate gifts worth $22 billion given in 2017. Businesses run on relationships. The gifting process is a good way to appreciate your clients for the sales they’ve brought your way. Giving a custom gift helps to solidify the business relationship with the clients. Most corporate gifting occurs at the end of the business year, usually in December. But it can also mark special milestones in the business world. These could be after a business arrangement, contract, or expansion into new territories. It also happens during the launch of new products or services, business events, and exhibitions. It’s also a way to market your company and attract new clients from prospects. This strategy is also a way to reward employees in the company. The reasons include recording a milestone, rewarding productivity, or celebrating a special occasion. Corporate gifting requires following proper ethics and procedures to distinguish it from bribery. Get Started With a Gifting Process Image from: Pixabay Corporate gifting is much more than dashing to a gift shop, selecting some items, and shipping them off to the recipients in personalized gift boxes. Set up a corporate gifting strategy with a well-laid plan. Start with actionable procedures for gifting your clients, employees, and prospects. This strategy should include the gifting budget, gifting needs sourcing, and the gifts to give out. Other considerations include the criteria for gift recipients and the logistics of sending them out. Identify what qualifies clients and employees for certain gifts, including custom or personalized items like pens, among others. And, consider whether the gifts will be branded with your business logo. If yes, write down your procedures for such branding. The timing of the gifting process is another essential factor that you have to clarify. For the gifts, you can look at gift cards (physical or electronic), downloadable products, or other similar affordable gifts for employees and prospects. For clients, you should investigate their corporate gift-taking culture. Some companies discourage receiving gifts. For those who do, get to know your client’s personal preferences. This information will enable you to give gifts that resonate with them. The gifts ought to reflect the amount of business and value they provide. If possible, get a concierge service to customize the gifts for your high-value clients. This service involves personalization and custom corporate gifts for your gifting needs. How Corporate Gifting Can Grow Your Company Image from: Pexels There are various ways that gift-giving can aid your business growth. These include: Boosting customer relationships Increasing productivity Enhancing brand reputation Promoting the business Let’s see how each of the above factors can boost your corporate growth. Boosting Customer Relationships Image from: Pexels 63% of companies credited gift giving as a factor in their improved customer relationships with their clients. Many companies are increasingly using gift-giving as part of their relationship marketing strategy. Its effectiveness lies in the fact that most gifts are not expected. When you send a gift to your recipients, it tells them you value their relationships. It’s also a way of expressing gratitude to both your customers and employees. The gifting experience is further heightened when you customize the gift. Receiving a personalized gift shows the recipients that some effort went into it. A custom card thanking them for their patronage puts the icing on this gesture. Many recipients appreciate the gifts they receive. This action engenders trust and an unconscious need to reciprocate the gesture. For customers, this reciprocity means maintaining or increasing their business dealings with you. These actions lead to more sales, strengthening the working relationship. A recent survey reported 94% of top business executives believing that gifting can impact a business relationship  Increasing Productivity Image from: Pexels There’s a saying that once you take care of your employees, they will take care of your customers and your business. Recognizing your employees’ efforts through internal gift-giving can boost productivity in your business. Employees feel appreciated when given personalized gifts for performing their job. This gesture, especially when accompanied by public recognition, helps engage them. It sends a message to the workforce that productivity will be rewarded by the business. There is a feeling of being highly valued and connected when employees get their gift boxes. It also engenders a sense of belonging and strengthens the workplace bond. Giving gifts to your employees is also likely to spur them to work better at serving customers. This action is bound to increase productivity in your business. 70 percent of American employees raised their productivity after getting gifts from their employers. This was the outcome of a workplace survey. Another report stated that 53% of employees stayed at their company due to the recognition and reward for their job performance.  Related Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Professional Gifting Etiquette Enhancing Brand Reputation Dayspring Pens Corporate gifting is a great way to build a solid brand reputation for your business. Giving gifts to your customers generates good feelings. These feelings engender an image of your business as being kind and caring. This positive reputation can help your business attract more sales from customer referrals. Referrals are one way to increase sales without increasing your marketing budget. 27% of organizations say that external gift-giving resulted in their clients referring their business to new customers. These results come from people trusting the businesses enough to take care of their referrals. It’s also an effect of the good brand reputation already present. Internal gift-giving is a sure way to boost your reputation among professionals. Potential employees want to work in an organization that recognizes and rewards productivity. A good brand reputation from gifting will attract the best professional talents.  Promoting Your Business Logo Engraving Information A marketing tactic for promoting your company is gift-giving. Gift boxes with your logo and branded cards are a great way to publicize your company softly. Corporate gifting keeps your business in the minds of your clients and their peers. This situation happens when they use the gifted item. It is also a great tool for turning prospects into customers. Giving promotional gifts to prospective customers physically and through the mail can increase your brand recall rate. 66% of gift receivers can recall a brand name on a promotional item after a year. The same effect is noticeable when going after new business opportunities with other companies. 24% of gift-giving opened up new opportunities or leads for the gifting company. Learn More: 5 Reasons Why Good Businesses Need Great Pens Get Your Gifting Strategy Partner To get your corporate gifting strategy right, you need a reliable partner for your gifting needs. Dayspring Pens is that reliable partner that will make your gifting experiences memorable. Dayspring Pens provides high-quality pens, clocks, and other gift products. They come from well known luxury brands, so you’re rest assured of getting the perfect personalized gift for that executive. Their services include same-day custom product engraving, free shipping within the US, and branded custom gift boxes. They can also help you with carefully curated gifts. Here are some customer reviews of Dayspring Pens that will inspire you to take action. Image from: Amazon | MCP Customer Review Image from: Amazon | Anthony R. Customer Review Image from: Amazon | Donna Bramell Customer Review Featured image: Pexels Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

The best pens for professionals are not only writing instruments, but also symbolize excellence and make exceptional corporate gifts for dedicated employees. While your preference may differ depending on function and hand grip, some standout pens make for trusty companions, allowing you to write with precision and accuracy (like Robin Hood or Katniss Everdeen with their trusty bow and quivers!) While top-of-the-line pens like the Cross Townsend Rollerball Pen can catch quite the pretty penny, did you know you can write phenomenally with some pens for under $30 as well? Let’s stroll down the list and go in-depth with these best pens for professionals at a friendly budget. Deluxe Woodmark Rosewood Pen and Pencil Set Deluxe Woodmark Rosewood Pen & Pencil Set Product Features: Comes with a 0.9 mm pencil and a twist action black-ink ballpoint type pen  Carved rosewood finish gold trim and meticulous scrolling Personalized and customizable engraving can be black or gold Bundled with a Dayspring Pens protection sleeve A two-in-one package for less than $35, there's no greater bargain you can find than this marvelous duo. Indeed, the pen itself is comfortable, durable, and reliable, which makes it a great writing companion for daily use. Cross Click Chrome Ballpoint Pens Product Features: Click-action ballpoint tool with black ink Lustrous chrome exterior  Comes in a Cross packaged box Personalized engravings with tone-on-tone color Cross gives it a Lifetime Warranty The Cross Ballpoint uses a click assembly rather than the much-adored swivel-type pens. Consequently, it's great for professionals who habitually click pens. Affordable and unique, gift this Cross pen to your caffeine-loving friends! Cross Calais Ballpoint Pens Cross Calais Ballpoint Pen- Lustrous Chrome Product Features: Twist action ballpoint pen with black writing ink Gorgeous Lustrous Chrome sheen  Packaged in a Cross gift box Personalization coloring comes in light brass Cross Lifetime Mechanical Warranty Despite its stunning luxurious shine, the Lustrous Chrome costs just under $35. But, trust us, this versatile, smooth pen hits the mark dead center, making it a worthy contender for the uni-ball for daily use. Monroe 18-Karat Gold Plated Pen Monroe 18 karat Gold Plated Pen and Pencil Set Product Features: Click-action pen with black ink and a 0.7 mm pencil 18kt gold-plated finish on the ballpoint Comes in a customized Dayspring Pens gift box Subtle personalized message lightly engraved on the sheen Who says gold finish pens go for only over $100? Indeed, this fine point pen blows your expectations out of the water. In addition to its gold finish, the Monroe comes with great grubber grips and a medium barrel, which creates a comfortable writing experience.  Further Reading: How Do Ballpoint Pens Work Alexandria Fountain Pens Product Features: Black ink pen with a stainless steel medium-sized nib Two blank ink cartridges and an ink converter Comes in a custom-made Dayspring Pens gift box Personalized message engravings match the body exterior Moreover, the Alexandria Fountain Pen comes with an adaptive nib that personalizes a professional's writing right as their pen glides across the paper. This sapphire blue writing tool also comes with an ergonomic grip, making for a seamless writing experience the whole way through.  Learn More: How Do Fountain Pens Work Abingdon Pens Abingdon Chrome and Blue Lacquer Ballpoint Product Features: Medium point pen that writes black Chrome finish and blue lacquer appointments with twist-action ballpoint mechanism Ships in a Dayspring Pens gift box Custom engraving appears light brass Say hello to this handsome pen. The classic finish of the Abingdon makes it a charming pen for professionals to carry along inside leather suitcases and bags. Aside from unmatched quality and affordability, this beauty also has a smooth and easy flow and a nice light weight. An excellent pen for the white-collared professional. Parker Jotter Gel Ink Pen Parker Jotter Gel Pen Stainless Steel Gold Trim Product Features: Click-action gel ink pen Stainless steel body accented with iconic gold Parker appointments Ships in a Parker gift box with black gel ink Tone-on-tone colored monogramming Two-year Parker mechanical warranty Great set for men, women, corporate gifts, birthdays, and graduation The Parker Jotter is a piece of history and one of our Best-Selling Pens. Its simple but solid construction paired with a satisfying click and smooth-as-silk writing experience makes this pen one of the best pens for professionals available in the price range. Richmond Rollerball Pens Richmond Rollerball Pen - Black Product Features: Rolling ball pen comes with own cap and black ink Matte black lacquer finish that engraves silver  Comes packed in a Dayspring Pens gift box Available as a ballpoint, rollerball, or mechanical pencil sets The Richmond offers a smooth, comfortable, and a proper writing experience. Additionally, it distributes ink on the page at just the right touch, thanks to its liquid-based ink flow. As a result of its ergonomic grip and a medium barrel, this pen is well-endowed with a fantastic tool kit for left and right-handed professionals. Cross Coventry Ballpoint Type Pen Cross Coventry Ballpoint Pen Blue Lacquer Product Features: Medium twist-action ballpoint with black ink Polished chrome appointments on a black lacquer finish Packaged in a two-piece Cross gift box  Silver engraving available on pen cap Cross Lifetime Mechanical Warranty A modern and distinguished pen, the Cross Conventry’s best attributes lie in its reliability and quality. Consequently, this graces the writer with the enamoring ooze of luxury as they glide their pen across paper. This model writes fantastically and will surely meet your needs. What Are the Pen Types That Go for Under $35? While many luxurious pens price themselves at a much higher rate, a $35 budget range is more than enough to snag yourself a fantastic pen. These pens may be a bit cheaper than many others in the market, but they don’t skimp on the quality at all (and are perfect for corporate gifting). Here are some pen types to give your employee, boss, or loved ones: PEN DESCRIPTION Ballpoint Pens Works on any smooth surface; a versatile, day pen Fountain Pen Functional, luxurious; used for signing documents and cheques Rollerball Pen Contains a ballpoint mechanism with liquid-based ink Gel Pen Resembles the Rollerball but uses gel ink instead of liquid Felt Tip Pen The pen nib is made from porous fibers; these are your markers, highlighters, and Micron Pens Stylus Used on a digital screen; like a smartphone, tablet, or laptop screen Now here the question lies: are they all customizable? Indeed! With Dayspring Pens, you receive custom-engraved pens all within a day (except for the Deep Cut Color-Filled Engraving Style). So whatever price point you buy your pens, the message you engrave is absolutely priceless! How Does Engraving Pens Work? It’s a simple heating process. With metal and heat equipment, you incise through a material surface to imprint your message. However, you have nothing to worry about, this is all safely handled by us. Once done, you get the final engraving, adding a touch of personality to your pens. Moreover, the engraving process isn’t strictly limited to pens. You can personalize most gift items as well, from wooden clocks to wooden picture frames. Perfect for showing your appreciation and gratitude towards your coworkers! Elevate your pen to the next level at Dayspring Pens today. Be sure to let us know which is your favorite affordable, professional pen in the comments! Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Growing your business is hard work. There's a ton of strategies at your disposal, and it can be a bit overwhelming to try them all. However, there's one that can help you elevate your company without doing the most—giving promotional gifts to potential clients and other SME owners. At Dayspring Pens, we're a gift-giving company. That's our wheelhouse. Additionally, since we're a small business, I want to discuss what we know about promotional gifts for small business owners. I'll also show you how they can assist your small business in growing. How can you use corporate gifting? What are the actual benefits of using gift-giving as a corporate tool? I'm going to try to answer these questions for you by explaining promotional gifts and examining how real companies use them. Let's take a look! What is a promotional gift? A promotional gift is an item given to an individual to encourage or celebrate a business relationship. Traditionally, promotional gifts are branded with a company's logo or name to spread brand awareness, share the corporate identity, or promote an event. But a promotional gift can also be a higher quality, expensive gift as well. What makes a gift a promotional item is how the gift is used. If it is used to create, foster, or retain a business relationship, then it qualifies as a promotional gift. How do promotional gifts work? In terms of how promotional gifts work for small business owners it really is as simple as it sounds. You buy a gift (either branded or not) and give it out to spread brand awareness. The idea behind it is a tangible, sensory item a person can experience. Social media manager Elle-Rose Williams writes: [They] allow people to see your brand, associate your brand and recognize your brand. All these things are important as the more people who become aware of your brand - the better results you will see in business and sales. There are two main distinctions in promotional gifts: mass distributed gifts or individualized gifts. Mass distributed gifts: Mass distributed gifts are probably what comes to mind when you think about the phrase Promotional Merchandise. These items are cheap to the company, will be branded to the company or event, and will be distributed in mass indiscriminately to potential customers. Examples of this are plastic ballpoints, lanyards, keychains, chapsticks, cups, posters...you get the idea. Individual gifts: Individual gifts tend to be less about spreading awareness and more about retaining/fostering a business relationship. These gifts will often be either given specifically to a person at a certain point in the working process or individualized the client. Examples of this would be gift baskets with edible treats, tickets to an event, or a personally engraved name brand pen. Is giving a promotional gift good business? You may be wondering if promotional gifting is still a good business practice in our digital, social media age. Yes. It really is! A 2016 study done by the Advertising Specialty Institute gives an incredible breakdown of the effectiveness of promotional giving for businesses. People who receive promotional items are likely to keep them up to eight months, which means eight months of brand awareness. More importantly, as Forbes business contributor Michael Wood points out: The majority of people who receive a promotional product are also more likely to have a favorable impression of the company that gave it to them. People love a free gift and are statistically going to feel pretty optimistic about your business for giving it to them. How do I use promotional gifts to grow my small business?: 5 actionable steps Here's my 5 actionable steps for growing your small business with business gifts:   I've tried to make this as simple as possible. Keep in mind everything in these steps centers on the idea of value. Value is not simply profit. Value is about relationships, longevity, trust, honesty, commitment to fix what's broken, and so much more. It's honestly about who we are as people—as business people. You want your promotional gifts to promote a valuable relationship. Don't use gifts to buy loyalty or curry favor. Instead, make them a point of connection and let your goodwill and commitment to hard work speak for themselves. Here's how to get started: Step 1: Cast your net wide, but keep it relevant. Do a search for other businesses that would benefit from your products or services and create a big list. You'll want to find businesses that you think will actually find some value in your work and who you'd find value in working for. Make it a list of , say, 30 companies, but make a "top 10" list of businesses you think will be most receptive to your products and services and who you think will share a sense of value in your collaboration. Step 2: Do your research on the companies to whom you want to give. From that master list, start with your "top 10", and take a deep dive into their brands and industry. Next, find out about their history, their founding, their people, their service, what their customer base thinks about them (both positive and negative). Begin to think about what gifts will be best for each business on your list. Step 3: Give gifts that communicate value. Taking the information you have gathered, take time to select gifts that show: 1.)you understand what the company or individual does 2.) you value their work 3.) you have something to offer them. This might seem like a lot to keep in mind when selecting a gift, but don't over think it. For example: You have a business that creates budgeting software and you want to share it with small business that don't have an accounting department. A valuable gift could be a branded calculator or a personalized pen. Both these items show you are aware of their business and their needs, while showing your gift recipients you are a practical business. Learn More:11 Reasons Why Personalized Pens Are the Best Gifts    Step 4: Keep up friendly contact. While you need to observe proper and professional corporate gifting etiquette, it's alright to be interested and friendly. Friendly does not necessarily mean informal or rude; it means being interested in the things the other business and potential clients are interested in and wanting to promote those things. Check in now and again—and for concrete reasons. Don't be too insistent that they consider your products or services. Just ask what's going on and if there's anything you can do to help. Even if you just make their day a little brighter, that's a great use of time and energy. People remember things like that. Step 5: If you get rejected by a client, don't use gifting as a method to try and buy them back. If someone gives you a hard no, take them at their word. If you keep on sending gifts or checking in, it will look like you're trying to buy them back. Consequently, it comes off as beggy and manipulative. It's likely that someone on your "top 10" will want to partner with you. Nevertheless, if you happen get through it and no one takes you up on your work, move on to the next ten on the master list. Rinse, repeat. What are the REAL benefits of giving promotional gifts? Based off of the interviews I conducted and collected conclusions of other studies, I've narrowed the benefits of corporate gifts down to 3: Benefit 1: Brand recognition We saw in every case that brand recognition is one of the biggest benefits for giving gifts to clients and partners. Benefit 2: Client retention Client retention ultimately comes down to the connection you make with your customers and the good service you offer them. That being said, the right promotional gift used to demonstrate your loyalty to the client and to thank them for either considering or working with you can help make a more personal and positive encounter. You can't buy yourself a customer with a gift. But you can show them how much their business means and show them what your business values. Benefit 3: Lead generation Like we saw with Philips & Peters Law Firm, corporate gifting can help your referral rate and generate new leads. Being the kind of company that gives gifts keeps you in the mind of clients who may refer you. People who think well of you tend to keep thinking of you. It's that simple!  Further Reading: 4 Reasons Why Corporate Gifting is Crucial to Growth   What are the best business gifts for small business owners? The ASI study on promotional gifts listed useful gifts as the most effective for marketing. Here's my list of top promotional gifts for small business owners: Because all of these gifts can be branded, you might be thinking that these are naturally the best gifts for your business, period. Not totally true. Like I said before, you need to find gifts that communicate value. Personalized pens, our specialty, were ranked the most useful promotional gift, and that's what makes it one of the most popular forms of corporate gifts and swag.  Shop Now: Luxury Customized Pens From Dayspring Pens Where can I find the most effective promotional merchandise? One option is hiring a company such as Promotional Products Association International who will research and work with your budget to find the perfect promotional item for your business and your market. You can also check blogs and gift ideas lists just like ours: Epromos' 100 Best Seller Top Promotional Products & Gifts Snacknation's 67 Best Promotional Item, Product, & Gift Ideas For Any Business In 2022 Forbes' The Secret to Giving the Best Business Gifts Business Insider's 44 Creative Corporate Gifts to Thank Your Employees for Their Hard Work Sendoso's 110 Corporate Gift Ideas That Will Break Through the Noise In addition to that, I've compiled a list of 103 personalized gifts, many of which would make GREAT business gifts. The benefit of all these resources for merchandise is that they present you with a ton of options and avenues for purchase. We know it's a lot of information, but with a little planning, we're sure you can find exactly what you're looking for. And we hope you might also consider pens from Dayspring as one great option. How a real company uses promotional gifts Philips & Peters Law I interviewed Leila Mills, a Marketing Manager at Philips & Peters Law, to find out what she thought about effective corporate gifting strategies that can land bigger clients. Since we both have an interest in local marketing and other similar topics, I knew she'd have some great insights. So, when I asked Leila about the kinds of promotional gifts that her firm sends out, this is what she said: Phillips & Peters send out promotional gifts in the form of cakes [from Pownd Cakes by Jen] at the end of the year to professional peers, the clerks of the courts, and other connections that have served as viable referral sources for us. To date, we haven't used any promotional gifts to retain new business or thank current clients. It's been helpful. It's become a tradition that our recipients look forward to and ask us about. We have had a couple professional peers joke that they are sending us clients just to get the cakes.  We give gifts because we enjoy it, but I can't deny the practicality of it. Even with the prevalence of digital marketing our most profitable clients come from word-of-mouth recommendations, so we want to keep our referral sources happy.  People always love them. In the past we have hand delivered the cakes ourselves and offices have cheered in the past when they saw the cakes coming through the door with one of our employees.  Promotional Gifts: Hits Vs Misses I then asked Leila if her firm had ever received promotional gifts and how they perceived those gifts. She told me this story which I thought was super interesting: Leila's firm was once looking for a digital design company to build its website, and there were three companies in the running. The first company made a really great presentation, and they sent excellent personalized gifts. Leila said that they even sent a bouquet of flowers on the firm's anniversary. That communicated a lot of value and thoughtfulness. The second company made a good presentation, and they made an in-person connection with the firm. The third company made an okay presentation, and they sent a lot of personalized gifts. Philips & Peters turned down the third company in no uncertain terms. However, the company kept sending gifts. It became a little annoying, even a bit spammy. No matter how personalized the gifts were, the fact that they had been rejected just didn't seem to register, and the notes that came with the gifts said things like, "We hope you've reconsidered your decision and you choose us instead." Leila said, I... don't appreciate when I've talked to a company and expressed we aren't interested in doing business with them, but they keep sending gifts. That feels manipulative because we've said no, but they try to keep their foot in the door.  That's using promotional gifts in the wrong way: it's beggy and unprofessional. You'd think that the first company would get the deal, and Leila even says that, objectively speaking, the first company made the best presentation. However, Philips & Peters went with the second company because they'd made a good enough presentation, and they'd met face-to-face. What does this mean for corporate gifting? It means 1.) you shouldn't use a promotional gift to beg, but it also means that 2.) your personal presence counts as a kind of corporate gift. Meaningful gifts make a huge difference, but none so much as a face to put to the name. Conclusion This has been the easy guide to using promotional gifts to grow your business. Corporate gifting is about communicating the value of the business relationship. Remember, gifts don't have to be expensive or even overly cheap. The key is to look for a gift that shows the client the kind of company you are and communicate that value you put in them. Have you had success with these steps or better yet do you have a story to share of how promotional gifting has grown your business? If so, please share in the comments below! We are always looking to learn more about how your business has grown. Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

You spend a better chunk of your day-to-day with your employees. One minute you’re rushing through deadlines, the next you’re setting new goals. But to spend so much time together means you’ll need to show some appreciation for the hard work your employees put in, perhaps through staff gifts. But, professional gifting itself isn’t a bed of roses: The budgeting gets messy. Chaos and dramas arise. And before you know it, no one wants anything to do with your gift ideas. Depending on the event and the gift recipient, the average amount you can spend on employee gifts ranges between $15–$75 per person per occasion. But, exceptions can still apply. With a well-thought-out strategy, you can set a decent budget without breaking a sweat. And with our definitive guide on the best affordable staff gifts, we will help you traverse the murky waters of gift-giving in the office. Ready? Let’s get started. Staff Gift Ideas: The Top 2 Gift-Giving Categories Everyone wants to feel valued and acknowledged—and your employees are no exception. Besides wage hikes and job promotions, employee gifts are an invaluable investment. In most cases, they help with retention and job satisfaction. To set the pace, cultivate a healthy gift-giving culture in your workplace to symbolize appreciation. First, you’ll need to set a budget and think about which gifts correspond to what events. This way, you ensure the gifts you send out have a long-lasting impression. Also, it ensures the gifts don’t risk you appearing extravagant or too cheap. That said, here are two gift-giving categories you can stick by: Annual individual events (birthday and graduation events) Annual company holidays (Christmas) Let’s break down each category further below. 1.) Annual Individual Events: The Best Affordable Staff Gifts The two common events in this category are: Birthday events Graduation events. For both events, we recommend spending $25–$50 per person per event. Here’s how I break it down below. 2.) Birthdays and Graduation Events: Best Gifts for Employees Birthdays and graduations are one of life’s epiphany moments. We want to make them unique and get the recognition we deserve. Now, I know it’s normal to get swept into the bubble of workplace routine. However, this shouldn't deter you from showing appreciation every once in a while. So, what staff gift ideas stand out in these events? The best gift ideas for these events are: 1.) Engraved Pen Alexandria Fountain Pen - Black You can never go wrong with a budget-friendly personalized pen. It’s an excellent birthday or graduation gift—with a touch of class and elegance, all wrapped up in one package. And if you’re wondering where to get one, yours truly (Dayspring Pens) have the best customizable pens that are a worthwhile investment. Are you spoilt for choices? Don’t fret. We’ll help you sift through our wide array of engraved pens. And with a budget of $13.99, our Lumen Light Up Pen is a splendid gift for a birthday or a graduation event. Shop Now: Luxury Engraved Pens From Dayspring Pens 2.) Gift Card This low-key option is a great gift for the introverted employee. Even a tiny amount (e.g., $30) will have the employee acknowledge your warm gesture. For the employee who never skips their 10 a.m. cup of Joe, a Starbucks card can be the perfect gift idea. Whatever gift card you choose, ensure you do a bit of research before you pull the trigger. The best way you can achieve this is by talking to your staffers. To avoid appearing inappropriate, apply the age-old, yet still practical, golden rule: address your staffers the way you’d like them to speak to you. But if you struggle to communicate with your coworkers, check out this explainer video by Mindset Coach Preet Kalsi. So, what about the Christmas holidays? Annual Company Holidays: Best Christmas Gifts for Employees via GIPHY It’s that time of the year again: the snow is falling, the world is winding down for a holiday,  and Santa, well, Santa is doing what Santa does best—dishing out gifts! This is the perfect time to shower your staffers with nice Christmas gifts. Remember, ending the year on a positive note ensures your employees and coworkers feel appreciated. However, this is where HR teams run into trouble: They’re trying to pick gifts for a diverse employee base while intending to match them to every staff member in the company. When this happens, the results are far-reaching, and your budget shoots over the roof. So, how do you dodge the bullets on this one? Here’s what the not-so-humble Santa in me recommends: Aim to spend between $25–75/per staff. Again, go easy on the Christmas gifts and keep the cards and desk niceties to a minimum. Okay?  Related Reading: How to Find and Give the Best Secret Santa Gifts for Coworkers Remember, you still have other holidays along the way that you’ll need to budget for. With a plethora of expensive and inexpensive gifts out there, we recommend going with these gift ideas below: Gift (s) Budget Gift card $25–$45 A chocolate gift box $14.70–$65 Personalized pen Padfolio (Buy here) $25–$49 Customized journals and cases (Buy here) $25–$49 Books $16–$35 Pitfalls to Avoid When Buying Staff Gifts Besides planning and budgeting for each event, there’s a gray area surrounding gifting etiquette in the corporate world. For instance, when you offer certain employees exclusive treatment for getting married, it inadvertently leaves out those who aren’t engaged. To find the perfect staff gifts, you need to know what pitfalls to avoid. Since I’m a big fan of corporate gift-giving, I recommend following the guidelines below: Say NO to favoritism: Sure, Robert from finance is cranking the numbers up and putting your business on the right trajectory. Does this mean Robert deserves a holiday gift ticket to the Maldives? No! When you favor some coworkers over others, people are likely to get offended. The bottom line: strive always to maintain a balance. Set the right precedent: If you spend $60 per staff this year, then scale down to $35 next year, someone will notice this. As a general rule, set a consistent budget and follow it religiously. Deliver the gifts in person: Don’t drop the gifts on your coworkers' desks with handwritten sticky notes saying how much they mean the world to you. It’s lazy. It shows a lack of civility. Present the gift to the employee with a sincere compliment like, “I appreciate all you’ve done this year.” (I know you can craft a better message than mine) Budget and Execute with Zeal When you’re a dedicated leader, you can approach workplace events and holidays with confidence. Why? You know your staff will feel included and accepted under your lead. With my advice, it’ll help you steer the wheel when setting budgets around staff gifts. Also, the results are a win-win situation for everyone. Don’t forget to browse our product catalog for the best corporate gifts. Whether you’re shopping for a graduation event, wedding, or the Christmas holidays, you can find your dream gift with us. Our pens have been featured by Team Building as one of the Top 10 Best Employee Gifts. Do you feel like I left anything out? A clarification? Let me know in the comments below! Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

Even though all pens essentially serve the same purpose, the best writing pen can make a significant difference. Each pen type has unique characteristics that influence the appearance of your writing and its smoothness on paper. From the ink type and nib sizes to the paper type and price, there’s always a category of best pen for what ever you need. In this article, I am going to take you through a quick tour of the different writing styles and show you the best Dayspring Pens has to offer for when your pen needs to hit the page.  Which Is The Best Writing Pen Type? Pens come in various forms and sizes. Consequently, how you write with certain models may differ from that of others. Indeed, it helps to have a grasp of what makes a pen good for you. While some of them roll seamlessly over the paper, some bring liquid ink down to the nib. On the other hand, some are great for writing on the go and some for a relaxing writing session. These are the different types of pens: Ballpoint Pen Fountain Pen Rollerball Pen Gel Pen Felt-Tip Pen Stylus However, there are two major categories for writing that I am going to use. Firstly, what is the smoothest pen for writing, and secondly, what is the easiest pen for writing. If you are interested in the experience of sitting down with a pen and writing, the first category will be your go-to.  However, for people who are looking for function over form, the second category will be your jam.  A Fast Breakdown of Each Pen Type Ballpoint Pen A ballpoint pen has small ball rolls at the tip of the pen with oil-based ink. It’s versatile, works well on any surface, and the ink won't dry out quick. As a result, it's great for daily use! Fountain Pen Fountain pens use a feed that brings liquid ink down to a pen nib. This pen has flowing liquid ink for smooth continuous writing. Note that the ink dries quickly, so requires a bit more upkeep than other types. However, it's great for sitting down for a little writing or journalling. Rollerball Pen A rollerball pen fuses the best parts of ballpoint and fountain pens. It has both a small ball that rolls at the tip of the pen and smooth liquid ink, creating a wonderful writing experience without the pesky maintenance. Best for taking notes and signing documents.  Gel Pen Gel pens are basically just rollerballs, distinguished only by the presence of gel ink. This gel ink flows like a liquid, but doesn't dry out as fast making it more user friendly.  Felt Tip Pen Felt tip pens are categorized by the presence of porous fibers at the tip. Consequently, these fibers absorb the ink that’ll be used for writing. Pens like this include markers and highlighters. Stylus Pens Stylus pens are non-ink-based pens intended to be written on computer screens. As a result it's great for a drawing tablet to have a more pleasant interaction with a digital device. Often, stylus pens are multifunction pens with an ink side and a stylus side.  Further Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Different Pen Styles: Ballpoint, Rollerball, Fountain Pen, and Gel Ink Pen Now that I've talked a little about what each pen style is, let's jump into our categories for finding the best pen.  What Is The Smoothest Pen to Write With? This question is all about how the ink hits the paper for the kind of writing that makes you wish you were a Civil War soldier writing to your beloved back home. For an incredible writing experience, rollerballs and fountain pens are the way to go. The key to smooth is liquid ink that effortlessly slides out of a pen with almost no writing pressure.  However, to achieve this, finding a fountain pen or rollerball with well crafted mechanisms is a must. I come across quite a lot of pens working at a pen company; here are some of my favorites that we offer in the liquid ink family. Best Rollerball Pens Waterman Hemisphere Black Gold Trim Rollerball Pen Waterman Hemisphere Black Gold Trim Rollerball Pen What I love about the Waterman Hemisphere Rollerball is kind of everything. Indeed, this is hands down one of my favorite pens of all time.  Its slimmer barrel and all metal construction make it a great fit in the hand. Additionally, its fine point glides effortlessly, plus its unique angled cap and gorgeous silhouette makes it perfect for any occasion. A stunning and quality pen for any professional. Product Features:  Comes in a cap; a rollerball pen Sleek dark lacquer coat with a 23 karat gold-plated Waterman accents Stunning gold engraving available for free Waterman warranty good for 3 years Cross Bailey Medalist Selectip Rollerball Pen Cross Bailey Medalist Selectip Rollerball Pen The Selectip Rollerball Pen is perfect for anyone looking for larger pen. Aside from being a great writing tool, it’s also polished with 23-karat gold appointments to symbolize an air of elegance. Unleash the inner wordsmith in you with this fabulous pen. Product Features: Comes in a cap made of polypropylene; a medium nib rollerball pen Polished body featuring 23 karat gold-plated appointments Ships in a durable Cross gift box Brass customizable engraving  Lifetime Warranty with Cross  Shop Now: Cross Bailey Medalist Selectip Rollerball Pen Best Fountain Pen Pilot Metropolitan  The Pilot Metropolitan is far and away the best entry level fountain pen I have used. Affordable and easily refillable, this pen is a great choice for any writer whether new to a fountain pen or an aficionado. The fine point nib starts easy and releases ink perfectly. Despite being under 20 bucks its well worth a try. Product Features: Fountain pen with a high-quality stainless steel nib  Resin finish that comes with one black starter cartridge and an ink converter Comes with a gift box Great gift for executives, professionals, graduates, men, and women  What is the easiest pen to write with? Anyone looking for the easiest pen to write with is looking for something functional and convenient. Ballpoints and gel pens are ideal since they write on most surfaces, don't dry out, and don't require any maintenance. Below are some of the best ballpoint pens and gel pens for everyday use. Best Ballpoint Pens Cross Calais Ballpoint Pen- Lustrous Chrome Cross Calais Ballpoint Pen- Lustrous Chrome The Lustrous Chrome is one of our best-sellers, and it’s clear to see why. With a medium barrel size and all metal construction this pen is all about reliability. Additionally, it has a sleek design, ultra-smooth writing feel, and remarkable affordability. As a result, this pen can serve as the perfect corporate gift for your hardworking employees. Product Features: Twist-action pen Chrome finish featuring black ink Inside a Cross brand packaging box Engraving-ready Cross Lifetime Warranty Start Here: Buy the Cross Calais Pen Woodmark Rosewood Ballpoint Pen and Case   Woodmark Rosewood Ballpoint Pen and Case   A more luxurious ballpoint pen option, the natural rosewood finish of the Rosewood Ballpoint Pen is coated in high-quality oil with a durable, protective topcoat. A mix of comfort, durability, and style, this pen can reward you with steady writing for years to come. Product Features: Twist-action pen that comes with matching case Rosewood-carved ballpoint with gold tip accents Black engraving  Comes in a personalized Dayspring Pens Sleeve Shop Now: Rosewood Ballpoint Pen Best Gel Pens Parker Jotter Gel Pen Stainless Steel Gold Trim Parker Jotter Gel Pen Stainless Steel Gold Trim With a brand that’s been around for over 60 years, the Parker Jotter remains as stylish and professional as ever. The gel ink cartridge grants you smooth lines as you write across paper. If you want to write easily, this pen is right for you. Product Features: Click-action gel pen with black ink Stainless steel body with Parker accents Comes in a Parker package  Tone-on-tone with colored monogramming Comes with a two-year Parker warranty Try It Today: Parker Jotter Gel Pen Stainless Steel Gold Trim The Best Fun Writing Pens Felt pens and styluses don't always make the cut for best pens for writing, but they can be incredibly fun and useful, so here are my two recommendations for them! Best Felt Tip Pen Prismacolor Premier Fine Line The Prismacolor Premier Fine Line leaves a nice thin black line that won't smudge and doesn't bleed through. It is definitely not a fancy looking pen, but it writes better than any felt pen out there. Perfect for art projects and bullet-journaling. Best Stylus Pen Cross Tech3+ Multifunction Pen The Cross Tech3+ is not primarily a stylus pen. The stylus is on the cap of a three-in-one pen: black ballpoint, red ballpoint, and mechanical pencil. This is my favorite open ever made by Cross. Each element writes exactly as it should and doesn't disappoint.  Want More Pens? Dayspring Pens is the place to be for high-quality personalized gift pens. Whether you plan to give them to your colleague, boss or loved one, you’re bound to find the perfect writing companion for them. Grab yourself a pen with us at Dayspring Pens. Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Boss’s day, birthdays, and end-of-year holiday gifting can be challenging. You want to strike the right note with every gift for your boss. Appropriate without breaking the bank. There is an etiquette to corporate gifting that enables you to grow internal and external business relationships. It’s a delicate balance between memorability and propriety. While the typical gifting fallback is a gift card, nearly half of gift card recipients don’t find it memorable at all. That’s why a personalized pen, whether fountain, ballpoint, or electronic, hits the mark. Here are five reasons to add it to your gifts-for-the-boss roster in 2024. The Personal Touch Alexandria Fountain Pen - Black Vincent van Gogh once said, “Great things happen through a succession of small things brought together.” A personalized pen channels this same energy. It’s a seemingly small item to gift, however, the time and attention that goes into personalizing it makes a huge impact. Instead of your gift getting lost in the deluge of promotional and corporate gifts most managers receive annually, it will stand out and have a prime position on your boss’s desk. A personalized pen is a great gift that reinforces the existing positive and appreciative work culture. According to Dr. White, an expert in healthy workplace psychology and culture, a thoughtful, personal gift has the most impact. In contrast, a generic gift chosen for keeping up appearances communicates a lack of consideration and respect which could negatively impact work relationships. Sometimes adding a clip emblem of the company logo to the engraved pen adds that je ne sais quoi that makes the gift memorable. It’s a great way to thank the boss for being super at their job. Not all heroes wear capes. ★★★★★ Dayspring pens took the time to help me select a quality pen set that fell within our budget, incorporated our company logo on the clip emblem, and ended up being a very impressive presentation item... - James, Virginia Functional Gifts for Your Boss Parker IM Black Gold Retractable Ballpoint Pen Minimalism as a more efficient way of living seems to be slowly trickling into all facets of modern life. From fashion and decor aesthetics to digital interfaces, we’re all looking for less clutter, visual or otherwise. Nowhere is this skew towards functionality more apparent than in the workplace and home office desk. As you scour the gift aisles or pages, functionality should be a key determining factor for the gift. This is why personalized pens are perfect. A pen monogrammed or engraved with the recipient’s name is unlikely to be recycled into a last-minute Christmas gift for Aunt Shelly. But that neck massager might! More importantly, as stationery, it will sit on your boss’s desk, at the center of their work, as a valuable addition to their work life. They’ll use the pen and remember your astuteness. Bonus points for thwarting the habit of people borrowing and absent-mindedly walking away with your pen.   Versatility Now you’re probably thinking, my boss is gadget-obsessed and signs everything on Adobe Sign, how will a pen help? Enter the personalized stylus. The 3 Reasons Why I Only Write With a Stylus Pen The culture of remote working, virtual meetings, and digital collaboration platforms grows in popularity year by year with better technologies and more intuitive systems at our fingertips. How familiar is the experience of a co-worker quickly jotting down or sketching ideas on their tablet while they’re sharing their screen the whole group? Said ideas are then immediately digitized with a few clicks and populated or shared for implementation. A stylus is an indispensable part of the digital corporate landscape and the home office. Your boss will thank you for one that says bespoke instead of 20% off on Amazon. The Prestige Factor Modern monarchs in Europe and Asia use a cipher or seal. A stylized version of their initials. The Ottoman sultans had calligraphic monograms called tughra while in Japan — the Chrysanthemum Seal is still a key royal identifier. While your boss is no sovereign ruler, their office and role still deserve respect and acknowledgment. An engraved pen from a premium brand eloquently communicates your recognition of your boss’s leadership role. This positive reinforcement is reciprocal. A business gift satisfaction survey found that more than 8 out of 10 C-suite executives have seen the positive and measurable ROI of business gifts. Plus there are intangible benefits to the relational environment of the workplace. Personalized pens are a subtle way to splurge on a corporate gift for your boss. Only the recipient and those well-versed will spot the 14 karat finish or special trim. These sophisticated, executive pens include: Carène, Expert, and Perspective collections by Waterman Premier by Parker Townsend, Peerless and Century collections by Cross Pens Maintain Professionalism in Your Gift Ideas A personalized pen says to your boss, “I put thought into your gift but I didn’t stalk your social media profiles!” A brief search through online gift ideas yields results that are bizarre, funny, and inappropriate. How would you know whether your boss is struggling with insomnia or stress and needs a sleep mask and some incense? Will it be the $45 popcorn selection or the online liquor delivery service? Overly personal gifts such as perfume, jewelry or clothing can feel extremely uncomfortable to the recipient and strain your relationships with coworkers and superiors. Just because virtual meetings have opened vistas into each others’ homes doesn’t mean we should overstep professional boundaries. The Dayspring Pens guide to professional gift-giving goes further into the nuances involved when looking into gift ideas for business connections. We have already mentioned the functionality of personalized pens. That coupled with their ubiquity means your boss won’t have any trouble meeting your gaze after opening your engraved gift. Speaking of engraving, how long does it take to get a pen personalized?  How Hard Is It To Get a Personalized Pen? Monroe Pen and Pencil Set - Burgundy Red How Long Does Engraving Take? The Dayspring Pens production time for standard engraving is 4-5 business days, excluding shipping. There is a Rush Gift option that ships out in 1 day. Is Engraving Free? Cross Calais Rollerball Pen - Matte Metallic Midnight Blue All standard engraving is free with a purchased pen and includes 1 engraved line on the pen’s cap, up to 25 characters per line in the standard fonts. The standard fonts are Block, Script, and Times. Left-handed engraving positioning is a free available option, too. Custom styles such as personal signatures, logo engraving, logo imprinting, and clip emblems attract an additional setup fee. Is Engraving Worthwhile? Unlike imprinting or pad printing, engraving doesn’t wear off with time. It will last as long as the pen does, possibly millennia like this shell engraving. The engraving is done using a fiber optic or CO2 Laser Engraving Machine. Cross pens have the additional option of deep-cut engraving that can be filled with a complementary color of your choice. Which Gift Pen Can I Get for My Boss? Dayspring Pens carries Waterman, Parker, Cross, and Howard Miller. These premium pen brands all have options in the appropriate budget range for Boss’s Day and similar occasions. A personalized pen never fails to deliver understated elegance. Choose the perfect pen for your boss from our corporate gifts and boss’s day collections. Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Gift giving. Some love it, others hate it, but either way, it’s a part of everyday life, and it’s no secret that the search for a perfect personalized gift can be challenging. But here are a few questions to take into consideration: Who’s the gift for? What’s your budget ? What’s the occasion? And all of the above counts even more when you’re in pursuit of gift ideas for your boss. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of ideas that will help you choose a perfectly appropriate gift with ease. Business Gift-Giving Etiquette Workplace gift-giving practices differ from place to place. It depends on the corporate culture, and it’s developed through time. If you’re not a seasoned employee who knows all the ropes, ask around the office about how things work at your company. Because buying a gift for: Boss's birthday Boss's retirement party National Bosses Day (October 16 in the U.S.) The holiday season, etc. Could be perfectly acceptable at some places and a big no-no at others. To make matters easier, take a look at the Ultimate Guide to Business Gifting Etiquette. However, if you’re already an etiquette master, let’s jump straight on to getting your boss that perfect gift. How to Choose a Perfect Gift for Bosses? So, you’ve decided to give your boss a gift for a special occasion or as a way to say thank you. Maybe a bottle of fine wine along with a nice card? Sure. But is wine appropriate as, let’s say, a retirement gift? And what if your boss doesn’t drink? A gift card is also something to consider, but it’s a bit impersonal, in my opinion, and a funny gag gift could be somewhat too personal and inappropriate. So is there a gift with which you can’t go wrong? Well, I think so. What does every boss need? A perfect pen to sign deals, take notes, make a statement and never forget anything. How to Decide on a Pen Style? There are four basic ink styles and three main handwriting styles. Before you choose a pen, try to find out the type of pen your boss usually uses and his or her handwriting style. Sneaky tip: Ask your boss to write a special personalized note, like a thank you card for a client or an employee and use it to check out their pen and handwriting style. It will make your choice easier. If you need some additional help, read this practical guide on choosing a perfect pen according to handwriting style Calligraphy and the Doodling Boss Have you noticed that your boss doodles while on a phone call or during a meeting? If so, before you presume that it’s out of boredom with the PowerPoint presentation or lack of attention, you should know that 26 out of 46 American Presidents had that same habit. So, it’s actually a good thing? As it turns out, yes, doodling is a great way for achieving focus, stress relief, and better retention of information. An Analog Boss in a Digital World If your boss lives on the precipice of an analog and the digital world, constantly on the go, shifting between jotting down notes and scrolling through a smartphone, finding a great gift could prove challenging. But as Sonny said to Cher, “I’ve Got You, Babe”. This all-in-one slim and stylish Cross Tech 3+ Pen in satin black finish is a true business combo. It will have your boss seamlessly twisting from a mechanical pencil to a black or red ballpoint and back, no matter the task. And when needed, it conquers digital screens with its practically placed stylus. To add the final twist to this gift idea, consider engraving it with a motto or a signature.     Gift Ideas for the Scholar Boss Sometimes the best way to go about choosing a gift is to look at the surrounding decor of the person you’re gifting. If your boss enjoys wood tones and has an office that resembles John Keating’s study from the movie Dead Poets Society more than a typical workplace office, look no further. Desk Name Plate — a Detail That Stands Out A nice addition to the Woodmark Pen decor that your scholar boss will definitely appreciate and have great use for is a Woodmark Rosewood Desk Name Plate with a business card holder, and engraving included.   Personalized/Engraved Woodmark Rosewood Desk Name Plate with Business Card Holder   It will make your boss's office desk look even more professional, and it’s a practical way to keep business cards handy. Pen Sets — Great Retirement Gifts for Your Boss Two is better than one, and pen sets are a great two-in-one present combo that can be an appropriate retirement gift for your boss. The engraved Waterman Hemisphere Fountain & Rollerball Pen Set is one I would choose for such an occasion. This combination gives you the best of two pen style worlds. You have the timeless luxury of a high-quality fountain pen and the benefit of the smooth writing experience of a rollerball, together with a three-year Waterman warranty against defects or workmanship. Not to mention this could be a way to decide on a pen without investigating the handwriting style of your boss, as we mentioned earlier. Choose this set, and you’ll cover all the bases. Journal Gift Set — The Perfect Match No matter if you work for a fierce boss-lady or if your boss is a guy’s guy type, any of these gift ideas will work. But if you’re looking for a unique gift for the woman in charge, then may I suggest the Dayspring Pens Standard Size Leather Padfolio and Pen Set.   Dayspring Pens Standard Size Leather Padfolio and Pen Set   Its simple and elegant design can be personalized with engraving on both the padfolio and pen. The portfolio has a practical pen holder in its binding, and the Blue Abingdon Rollerball Pen has black liquid ink inside the pen. With this gift, your boss will go nulla dies sine linea, which is Latin for not a single day without a line (written). Find the Write Gift for Your Boss Good bosses deserve to be appreciated, but it can be hard to find a gift that’s unique without getting too personal. The above ideas and others from the Dayspring Pens collection are just the right mix of thoughtful and conventional—there’s no better way to say thank you. Find one that’s perfect for your boss today, whatever his or her style. Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Who would’ve ever imagined picking the best personalized gift pen would be so hard? On one hand, the pen has to be functional enough and fit the standards of a gift without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the chosen personalized pen gift has to be thoughtful enough to invoke a deeply personal connection between the giver and the recipient. So, how do you strike a balance? How do you pick the best personalized gift pen that you’ll both love? Since 1994, Dayspring Pens has delivered hundreds of thousands of exclusive personalized pens to individuals and companies worldwide. From our 25+ years of helping people give heart-warming and beautifully engraved pens, we’ve developed a comprehensive guide to help you pick the best one. Choose the best personalized pens in these six easy steps. Step 1: Determine Who the Recipient Is Who’s the personalized pen gift is for? You? Your boss? Your father? How you personalize is dependent on your relationship with the recipient. If it’s a gift for a CEO, engraving the company’s logo next to their name is quite appropriate. However, for a close relative or friend, you can change from formal to informal custom text. At Dayspring Pens, we offer free standard engraving for each pen up to 25 characters. For timeless engraved messages, we use CO2 and fiber optic laser engraving techniques. To understand more about how we personalize pens, check out our ultimate guide to personalized laser engraving. Step 2: Determine Writing Style Do you, or the recipient of your gift, like thin and smooth lines, or prefer lines that are dark and bold? There are four different types of personalized pen gift: Ballpoint Rollerball Fountain Gel Each writes differently depending on: Ink type Tip shape Ballpoint Pen Ballpoint pens have a rounded tip, also known as a ballpoint. They’re the most popular because they use smooth oil-based ink that dries faster than other pens. Cross Calais Blue and Chrome Double Ballpoint Pen Set The likelihood of smudging the ink when writing is extremely low; thus your text remains neat throughout. This makes these pens compatible with left-handed people. The ink’s drying time is determined by the ballpoint’s diameter. Indeed, large ballpoints release more ink and take longer to dry. Additionally, ballpoint pens cost less than rollerball and fountain pens. However, because the oil-based ink has a high viscosity, you’ll need to apply more pressure to dispense the ink. Further Reading: How to Get a Ballpoint Pen to Start Writing Again Rollerball Pen Rollerball pens have the same design as ballpoint pens, except they’ve got finer tips. Water-based ink is used and is held in a reservoir. Water-based inks have a lower viscosity than oil-based inks and flow out of the pen faster. Waterman Expert Black Gold Trim Rollerball Pen The smaller tip and the low-viscosity water-based ink allow you to write in smoother, thinner lines than ballpoint pens. Also, you won’t need to press the rollerball pens hard to get the ink out. As a bonus, the ink saturates deeply onto the paper, making your lines darker than those from ballpoint pens. This may, however, present a problem for left-handed people. The water-based ink takes more time to dry. Therefore, it’s easy for left-handed people to smear the ink while writing from the left side to the right side of a page. Rollerball pens leak easily, too, if placed upside down for too long.  Fountain Pen Besides their classy and elegant look, fountain pens are famous for making your signatures look fancy. Fountain pens have nibs made of either gold or stainless steel instead of ballpoints. The nib’s shape allows you to change the thickness of the lines as you write. Cross Bailey Fountain Pen - Medalist Fountain pens use water-based inks that are stored in an internal reservoir, hence the name “fountain”. The water-based ink takes a long time to dry, and the probability of smudging the ink on paper is high. Also, the ink’s low viscosity makes it leak easily. However, fountain pens have a replaceable ink cartridge so they’re easy to refill. Lastly, they cost more than ballpoint and rollerball pens and are often seen as luxury pens. Fountain pens are best suited for managers, heads of departments, and anyone in charge of approving certain processes. Learn More: What Are the Types of Fountain Pens Gel Pen Gel pens use ink that’s suspended in a water-based gel. This makes the ink thick but it produces smoother and bolder lines compared to other pens. However, like rollerball and fountain pens, the ink is held in a refillable reservoir. Since the water-based gel ink is thicker than the ink in fountain pens, it takes more time to dry. Therefore, it’s easier to make a mess with gel pens than it is with fountain pens.  Parker Jotter Gel Pen Step 3: Determine How the Pen Will Be Used Understanding the tasks the pen will be performing is useful in determining: Features to consider Personalization techniques Features to Consider Will the pen be used to mostly journal, take notes or write signatures? A company’s CEO or a business person will want a pen with the best grip, as they’re more liable to write often. Consequently, some pens have smooth metal casings. If held for long periods, finger cramping may occur. This is where thoughtful ergonomic design comes in. Monroe Pens and Pen Sets A pen with an ergonomic design should include a soft material such as rubber to provide a firm grip and also comfort to the fingers. Ergonomic pens are the best gifts for authors, students, personal assistants, and therapists, as you’ll never catch them without a notebook in hand. However, if your intended recipient only uses pens for signatures, don’t sacrifice on the metal. Surprise them with our beautifully crafted metal pens. Personalization Techniques There are two ways to personalize a gift pen—printing and engraving. Printing involves putting the custom text and logo on the surface of the pen. On the other hand, engraving is etching the characters deep into the pen’s surface using laser beams. Printed text eventually fades due to constant use and passage of time. However, engraved characters can withstand constant use and harsh environments without fading. Thus, for a gift that’s meant to last a lifetime, engraving is the best personalization technique. Step 4: Determine the Brand Do you have a favorite brand? If you like luxury pens, then you’ll want a brand that knows the difference between a regular pen and a pen that has character and taste. That’s why here at Dayspring Pens, we only work with the best brands. So no matter which pen you choose, you’re guaranteed of the highest quality there is. Our brands include: Waterman AT Cross Parker Step 5: Decide the Text to Be Engraved So far, you’ve decided on the recipient, writing style, and the brand. Now it’s time to add a personal touch. Nothing beats engraving a line from the recipient’s favorite poem. It’s heartwarming and thoughtful. For corporate gifts, you can have the recipient’s name or an achievement engraved next to the company’s logo. If you need help coming up with a creative message, check out our occasion-themed pens for inspiration. Step 6: Draw Up a Budget Before making an order for your personalized pen gift, the final step is deciding how much you’re willing to spend on them. If you’re on a tight budget, we’ve got a variety of affordable pens to choose from. And if you’re looking to spend a little extra on an engraved pen because the occasion calls for it, there’s a list of luxury executive pens for you to look at. Besides free standard laser engraving, we also ship out all engraved pens for free anywhere in the United States. Furthermore, we offer discounts of up to 20 percent on bulk orders. Therefore, whether you’re buying gift pens for one person or 10 people, you’ll stay within budget. Related: How Much Does it Cost to Engrave a Gift?: Personalized Gifts on a Budget Ready to Order Your Best Personalized Pen Gift? Looking for a brand name ballpoint, a pen and pencil set, or a fountain pen? You're sure to find just the right personalized pen gift from our variety of colors, shapes, and writing styles — Dayspring Pens gives you countless ways to appreciate the people around you. And they can all come ready to present in a lovely gift box. Visit our shop and order from our amazing collection of custom executive pens today. Has this guide helped you make a decision on what pen to get as a gift? Tell us which one you like in the comments. Waterman Expert Pens and Pen Sets Frequently Asked Questions How much does an engraved pen cost? Depending on the quality of the personalized pen gift, they can run for anywhere between $5 and $5,000, but most engraved luxury pens sit between $25 and $120. How much does a personalized pen gift cost? At Dayspring Pens, engraving is completely free!  Other websites usually charge between $5-$15 for custom engraving. What kind of pens can be engraved? Most pens with high-quality plastic, lacquer, wood, or metal can be engraved easily! Conclusion Engraving at Dayspring Pens takes only one business day. So you can expect to receive your order in record time! However, if you’re in a hurry, upgrade your order to a rush delivery order. This guarantees the personalized pen gift order is processed and shipped out in one day. Want to explore more ideas on engraved gifts? Check out our definitive guide to engraved pens.  Featured image: Pixnio Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

The best personalized gifts reflect something of both the giver and the recipient. That’s why gift giving is every bit as exciting as gift receiving. Especially when it’s a personalized gift. When gifting personalized pens, the most important choice is, of course, the selection of the pen itself. Are you opting for a ballpoint? Or perhaps a fountain pen? Which brand? What color? However, once you’ve settled on the perfect pen, there’s one more key finishing touch that you won’t want to overlook: the choice of engraving font.  Choosing a Font for Personalized Gift Pens  Dayspring Pens is your expert team for customized engraving of the luxury pens. Because personalization is our specialty, free custom engraving is included with every pen purchase. Most of our orders are engraved in-house, and we offer the option of one-day engraving times. We use a CO2 or fiber optic laser engraving machine to create precise and permanent engraving that will never fade or wear away. Thanks to personalized engraving, pens make even more wonderful gifts. They’re elegant, practical, and specially-made for the recipient. With your personalized pens, you’ll get to choose up to 25 characters of text engraving on the pen cap. Let’s consider how you would like that text to appear. Font selection helps to determine how a snippet of written language is perceived. You (or the person you’re gifting for) might prefer lettering that’s understated, stylish, or stately. In this guide, we’ll review the various fonts you can choose from when engraving your personalized pens. Here are your standard font options: Engraved Block Font     Engraved Block Font Want to keep things simple? Block font is the most straightforward choice. It’s also the easiest font to read, thanks to the no-frills letter lines. Block font is a great choice if you want to personalize your gift but prefer a more subtle display. It’s also an excellent option for engraving a company name on the pen alongside your logo.  Engraved Script Font Engraved Script Font The Script font is elegant and sophisticated. Perhaps select this font if you plan to present a gift pen to an important person. The stylish lettering makes the gift feel more personal and elevates the stature of the pen.  It can also be considered more romantic if gifting for Valentines Day or a partner. Engraved Times Font Engraved Times Font Choose the Times font for a classic and stylish look. The lettering is both familiar and distinguished. If you’re gifting a pen and have any sort of doubt about what font the recipient would prefer, the Times font is your safest bet.  Engraved Cursive Font     Engraved Cursive Font Cursive isn’t dead! Well, not for signing your name, anyway. And not for engraving personalized gifts. Cursive letters take on a stylish feel when engraved on a high-quality pen. The name on the pen when displayed with this font takes on the look of a signature. That makes it a perfect choice for the lettering of first and last names on personalized gift pens.   Engraved Deluxe Font Standard Engraving Fonts The Woodmark Deluxe Pen and Pencil Set is a special Rosewood ballpoint pen and pencil duo with a personalized case. The Deluxe font comes standard with this set. It’s a distinguished lettering style that matches perfectly with the look and feel of the pen and pencil. The engraving for this set is a favorite among gift-buyers. Engraving Custom Gifts: Available Fonts For Each Pen Brand Have you already made your pen selection? Let’s see which fonts are available for your choice. Block, Script, and Times font are your standard options, available for all Waterman, Parker, Woodmark, and most Cross pens. Here’s the full breakdown of font choices per pen brand: Pen Brands Font Choices Waterman, Parker, Woodmark, and most Cross pens Cross; available as deep cut, color-filled engraving Woodmark Deluxe Pen and Pencil Set If you’re placing a corporate order, order of high quantity, or order with a logo, your font choice isn’t limited to the prescribed selection. Feel free to customize your selection by choosing your preferred font. That way, you can maintain your brand’s standards, personalized on the pens of your choosing.  Finding the Best Personalized Gifts From Dayspring Pens The choice of font is a fun detail to decide on while selecting your personalized pens. You’re not just picking out a gift; you’re helping to design it. For a closer look at each font, peruse our Engraving Fonts page. And be sure to review our Engraving Information section for answers to all of your questions regarding your engraving options.  For any special occasion, customized gifts are a great way to honor a deserving someone. At Dayspring Pens, there’s no minimum order amount, so personalized pens are an option for father’s day, graduation day, or other individual gifts. And we’re here for your corporate gifting needs, too. You can order any number of pens, each one customizable with its own text. This makes for great customizable gifts to your staff or teammates. We carry ballpoint, rollerball, fountain, and gel pens, each in a price range that suits your needs. Visit our online store today to begin designing your personalized gift order. Featured image: Pixabay Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

You already have your perfect gift picked out and ready to go, but now you need to figure out the personalized engraving to make your unique jewelry or custom pen special. I am here to help with the dos and don'ts of what to get on your engraved gifts. I have been an engraver with Dayspring Pens since 2018 and have noticed some of the big trends and faux pas of personalized engraving. In this article, I am going to focus on engraving etiquette and ideas to help you determine exactly how to utilize your custom engraving whether you are buying professionally or for your loved ones. Let's jump right in! Engraving Etiquette aka how personal should I get Engraving etiquette starts with two major distinctions: Are you buying for a professional relationship or a personal one? Your relationship to your recipient will be key to finding the perfect custom engraving. You probably aren't going to get the same engraving for your best friend or your romantic partner as you would your boss or the coworker you drew for Secret Santa. Timothy Murphy, the master engraver at Tiffany & Company, gave the perfect advice: consider what effect you wish the piece to have on its recipient. Do you want them to be thrilled? Amused? Moved? It is also useful to consider whether it’s a piece to be displayed or privately enjoyed. Start by asking yourself: Who is this person to me? How well do I know them? and, given your answers to those questions, How will they respond to a personalized gift? Professional Custom Engraving If your answers to any of those questions lean towards the gift recipient being a coworker, boss, a client or corporate customer, you will definitely want to be particular in how you choose your custom engraving. 1.) When in doubt, engrave a name Engraving the name of the individual is always a safe, timeless option. It will look appropriate on crystal gifts, a pen, a journal, desk sets...any of the professional gifts out there ripe for personalization. 2.) If the name is long or doesn't fit the gift, engrave initials Initials or monogramming are always a perfect personalized engraving for smaller items that look best with simple engravings. This could include a watch's underside, a thinner barreled pen, or the top of a briefcase. 3.) Communicate through your font selection Again, I will differ to Mr. Murphy's advice: Do you want your lettering style to suggest strength or elegance? Both? Don’t be afraid to mix styles in a message. If legibility is a priority, be wary of requesting words to be engraved entirely in any uppercase script. From my own experience, I cannot agree enough with this advice, especially avoiding an entirely uppercased script engraving. Whether you are engraving initials, a name, or a personal message, all caps script looks oversized at best and illegible at worst. 4.) Keep personal messages relevant to the nature of your relationship When selecting a special message or quotes for your engraved gifts, avoid any language that reflects intimacy. What are your interactions with your giftee? Why are you giving them this gift? If you are giving the gift for an occasion such as a retirement, career milestone, or work anniversary, cater your message to the time they have spent at the company, thanks for their efforts, or simply acknowledge the occasion. For business clients, keep your message on brand for your business. Acknowledge a special project or contract. 5.) Double check your abbreviations If you are getting name with titles or abbreviations custom engraved, make sure you have the correct titles for the person with the right initials in the proper ordering. Here is a list of common abbreviations that might help you out. 6.) Company logo engravings for buying in bulk If you are buying engraved gifts for multiple people like members of a department, people working on a specific project, or potential clients you are courting, company logo engraved gifts might be the perfect solution. It communicates exactly what brought you together and what you have in common. It can also be paired with a text personalized engraving like a name, initials, or a short message for another custom touch. The simpler your logo design, the more visually appealing it will be when paired with a secondary engraving so choose your rendering wisely. Personal Engraving Etiquette The etiquette for custom engraving for your personal relationships will be much looser than the professional side of things. The goal of personal engraving etiquette is to find the words or symbols that properly communicate the feelings you want to share with your loved ones. For engraved gifts to family, friends, or closer relationship, the key is to really think through the content you are getting laser engraved versus how you engrave it. 1.) Always personalize to the individual When giving to someone you care about, its always best to tailor the personalized engraving to the person specifically, even when buying multiple gifts. For example: if you are buying custom engraved gifts for the groomsmen at your wedding, avoid just the title of your wedding (like Smith and Logan Wedding 2019 or your wedding hashtag). Opt for a memory with each friend like nicknames or a word or symbol that reminds you of them. Are they your best friend? Dad? Mother? Are you particularly close? In most instances, this is probably not the time to get Di Nardo Family Christmas (unless your getting pens for the whole family and you all really love acknowledging your Christmas times). 2.) Choose your words carefully Are you a poet and you didn't even know it? I am obviously not. I may in fact be one of the worst rhymers in the history of the English language. If you are like me its probably best to go with someone else's words for your love message engravings. Most custom engraving has very limited character counts (you can only engrave so much). 30-70 characters would be a generous average depending on the item laser engraved. Make sure to say what is true and means a lot without wasting words. 3.) Avoid cliches Some phrases are lovely facts that aren't cliche no matter how much you use them ie: I love you. Some phrases look like you read a 14 year old's diary ie: Love means never having to say you're sorry. (that works for about two seconds...) or Time heals all wounds engraved on a watch (ouch.) If you are opting for a commonly used phrase, make sure it is meaningful to you and your recipient and doesn't clash with your engraved gifts. 4.) Handwriting Engraving This is a little thing that can make a big difference in turning a personalized gift into a keepsake or heirloom. Handwriting engraving is hands down my personal favorite. Handwriting engraving takes a piece of handwriting and engraves it directly onto the item. It could even be a small doodle, symbols, or drawings (like a little heart done by a young child). These kinds of engravings are sentimental in just the right way and are the most personal form of engraving possible. In short, this personalized engraving is one to remember. Final Piece of Advice: Check. Your. Spelling. This applies to professional and personal engravings and is the BIGGEST issue I see with personalized engraving. You think its bad on a Starbucks cup...imagine it on your permanently engraved gifts. Always double/triple check the spelling of your engraving. Whatever you send to the engraver, they will engrave, even if you spell it incorrectly. Custom Engraving Ideas aka what do I actually put Now that you have the etiquette for personalized engraving in your mind, I'm going to throw out some ideas for what to get engraved on your personalized gift. For a list of 277 engraving quote ideas, check out Michael article! I am going to stick more with general ideas and suggestions with some personal favorites I've seen through the years. Professional Engraving Ideas If you decide to get something other than just a name and company logo or are looking for something to add onto the name: Engraving ideas for Realtors, Contractors, Architects, or Closing Lawyers The buyer's name followed by their new address (John Smith 746 Geraldine Way) Homeowner Welcome Home Happy Closing Sign on the dotted line Engraving ideas for Doctors, Nurses, Veterinarians, EMTs, etc. To your health Thank you for your work You saved my life. Dr. Smith (insert name): At your cervix Engraving ideas for Bosses, Business Owners, and Managers It's a pleasure working for you 10 years of service Thanks for hiring me I'd like Christmas off Engraving ideas for Scientists You matter Engraving ideas for Teachers, Educators, or Professors Thank you for your inspiration Learn what you love, and everything else. You have taught me so much Engraving ideas for the Zombie Apocalypse Just run faster than Kevin Stay inside The doomsday preppers were right Could be worse. It could be raining. Professional Signature Engravings The handwriting engraving is still a great option for professional engraved gifts. Instead of handwriting engraving, it can also be called Signature engraving. Get the signature of the boss, doctor, or lawyer who will receive your gift. Or! Get the signature of the person who is their inspiration or favorite historical figure like this one of Dwight D Eisenhower. Big caveat on this one. Signatures of historic or public figures are only public domain after they have passed away at least 50 years ago. If the signature is before that date (1972 or sooner) it is copy written and cannot be engraved by a business. Personal Engraving Ideas aka custom engraving for the people you love You know who these people are. You love 'em. Find what's best for them. Engraving ideas for a spouse, partner, boyfriend, or girlfriend The latitude and longitude of where you met, where your wedding happened, got engaged, had your child, shared your first date, bought your first house. Is there a romantic location you want to remember with them? Here's a neat lil' secret way of sharing it. This is particularly sweet on a piece of jewelry like a ring. The name of a movie, book, author, or serious that you both love. If there quotes or small phrases that you reference together, even better! Inside jokes or phrases. For instance: my husband and I both heard our 7 month old son make a noise that sounded shocking like "My back hurts!" It's a running joke that always makes one of us laugh. Engraving ideas for a best friend, maid of honor, best man, or wedding party Inside jokes are always another go to for this one. Do you have a secret handshake? No? Make one. and then use emojis to engrave it Hashtags can be a clever medium for this one. #bestfrand4lyfe #nocap Engraving ideas for a dad, mom, godparent, or miscellaneous close family members or loved ones Best dad forever! Quotes or phrases they always say. (My dad always likes to give his parting advice "if you get hungry, eat something!) Come home! Here I would highly recommend a handwriting engraving, especially of a doodle or something. Find an old stick figure drawing you did as a kid for the person and have that engraved. Engraving Poetry (especially on personalized jewelry) Engraving poetry can be a great way of communicating your love without getting into cliches. If you aren't naturally good at poetry, here are some recommendations for people to peruse: William Shakespeare Emily Dickenson John Donne John Keats Jennifer Michael Hecht Conclusion I'm sure I am not alone in the terrifying void of realizing you need have the perfect engraved gifts for someone but not know how to personalize it just to them. Whether buying for someone in your office or in your home, I hope this article helped you with the do's and don'ts of getting personalized engraving for whoever the special person is. At the end of the day, remember! You have already gone the extra mile to make their gift memorable. Don't stress too much. Use this article as a guideline. And enjoy the process. I'm sure they are going to love it. If you have any questions or ideas for the perfect engraved gift, leave a comment below! Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Finding a personalized gift on a budget online can be a bit of a pain in the neck. Here's my proverbial chiropractic gift advice for relieving stiffness, anxiety, and dizziness, plus it can help you find the right gift! What I want to do in this article is discuss general concerns about the price of engraving and answer frequently ask questions that a lot of people have about the engraving process, and then I'll suggest a few places to look for affordable personalized gift options. First, let's talk about one of the most whiplash-inducing parts of the buying experience: money. How much does personalization usually cost? Luckily, answer is usually: not that much! It usually depends on how a company can personalize your order, whether its something like laser engraving or its something more in-depth like a completely customized item. How much does laser engraving cost? For most engraving companies (like Dayspring Pens), personalization is free. The cost is included in the price of the items. Other companies will probably only charge a small fee for engraving (usually between $3-$10). This means that personalization by laser engraving (as well as personalization with embroidery or something else that just adds little personal touch) is the most affordable avenue. How much does a fully personalized gift cost? If the company you are buying from personalizes the whole item (for example, items like bobbleheads), then it requires you to give detailed specifications. These sorts of gifts can be pricier, but, again, usually the cost of personalization is added to the total cost of the gifts. That means you likely won’t be surprised by a whole mess of added fees tacked onto the advertised price of engraving. How long does the engraving process take? It depends on the manufacturing guidelines of the company you want to engrave your gifts. I wrote an another ultimate guide to the engraving process that gives a lot of insight into what actually happens when you order an engraved gift. As far as the timeline goes… For some companies, the process can take a long time (usually 4-14 days), and it depends the availability of their products. For others, it’s usually done on or around the same day as when you ordered it. Some companies offer rush production, so you can ensure that the personalization is completed and your gifts are shipped the same day you ordered them. Just make sure your company offers this same guarantee! Gifts that require a lot more in-depth or detailed personalization will likely take longer than engraved gifts, so just be prepared for a bit of a wait. If there’s a particular day you need your gifts, purchase ahead so that your gifts can arrive on time. Don’t procrastinate! How long does shipping take? Like everything else, it depends. But most companies offer a variety of shipping methods to get your purchase to you on your timeline. What personalized gifts should I get if I'm in a rush? That depends on the company! Here’s a short list of 6 of the best personalization and engraving companies and their production and shipping options so you know what you’re getting and when: 1.) Things Remembered Things Remembered is one of the largest engraving and personalization companies out there. They're usually one of the top options on a Google search page. They say this about their production timeline: “Most orders ship in 1-2 business days after the order is placed for Standard and Express Delivery Methods. Economy orders ship within 4 days.” You have to purchase before 3pm EST if you want to get your gift shipped ASAP. 2.) Personalization Mall Personalization Mall is probably the absolute largest company specializing in engraving and personalization. They have a few different options for production and shipping. They sort of lump production times in with shipping timetables. Here's a list of their shipping options and the timeline notice that Personalization Mall has up on their website. First, there’s Economy Shipping… Typically ships within 4-5 business days. Please allow additional 6-10 business days for transit time. Then there’s Standard Shipping: Please allow 2-3 business days for personalization process and additional 3 to 5 business days for shipping time with average delivery between 7 to 10 business days after the order is placed. Then there’s Expedited Shipping… Unless otherwise specified on order confirmation page, orders ship Monday through Friday and will be delivered 3 business days after you place your order. Finally, there’s Rush Shipping… Unless specified otherwise on order confirmation page, orders ship Monday through Friday and will be delivered 2 business days after you place your order. All in all, Personalization Mall can be pretty quick to engrave or personalize your custom gifts, and they let you make a pretty accurate guess of when you’ll get them. 3.) Dayspring Pens This is us! Yay! At Dayspring Pens, we have a ton of custom engraved gift pens from gold pens to pens in every writing style. We like to think we’re a great option for your needs. Orders from us usually ship about 3 business days. Depending on production volume, it's often much sooner, but getting rush production ensures that your gifts ship the day you buy (provided you buy before 3pm EST). 4.) Zazzle On Zazzle, you can shop for gifts based on a specified date, and each product page usually tells you the earliest date it can arrive. With them, everything kind of depends on the gift, but they offer a huge selection of personalization specifications. 5.) Shutterfly Shutterfly’s production and shipping timelines are also Economy: 6-10 business days Standard: 5-7 business days Expedited: 4-5 business days Rush: 3-4 business days Super Rush (for select gifts only): 1-2 business days If all that you need is a  4x6 glossy print, Shutterfly also has a partnership with CVS, so you can purchase a print and have it ready in about an hour! 6.) Snapfish Snapfish’s production and shipping times are also lumped together. However, they don’t really seem to budge on their production time. It’s almost always a 3-day process; this is probably due to the sheer amount of orders that Snapfish gets in a given day. All in all, Snapfish can get your gifts to you in about 4 days, it just depends on how much you want to pay for shipping. Need help deciding which gifts to get? Here's some of the best engraved gifts at the best cost that I've found from all over the internet: 4 Affordable Custom Engraved Gift Ideas to Add to Your List: 1.) Beat Block Cell Phone Speaker This is such a cool gift! I always just put my phone in like a mug or a bowl or something to amplify sound, but this beat block is designed specifically to channel sound to the max without needing to be charged. Get it engraved for your gift recipient so they can pump up the jams and feel cared about. 2.) Tac-Force Knife A custom Tac-Force pocket knife with a unique monogram engraving offers a unique twist on a go-to buying option for a more-than-affordable price. For the person who always has a handy blade on them; get them an even more special one that shows how much you care. 3.) Personalized desk wedge A personalized desk wedge is the best way to either provide you with a special opportunity to make your coworkers laugh or show your real appreciation in a new way. It comes with a custom engraving at a reasonable price Custom engrave it with "World's Best Boss," or perhaps "Grand Master of the Water Cooler." Whatever works! 4.) Wedding Ring Box Get one of these to hold your fine, covenantal jewelry, and remind you of who do it for. Get both of your initials on it! People also ask me... What should I engrave on a gift? I've written a whole other article with some great examples of engraving quotes that I think is worth your time. How are pens engraved? Check out my other article on the whole laser engraving process! Conclusion I hope this article answered your question about affordable engraved gifts and production times. Let us know which affordable engraved gifts you love and why in the comments! Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.