How to Choose the Right Award for Your Event: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you're planning a corporate recognition night, a school graduation, or a local sports tournament, choosing the right award is a crucial part of your event’s success. The trophy, plaque, or certificate you present isn’t just a token—it’s a lasting symbol of achievement, appreciation, and prestige.

But with so many options in size, material, design, and purpose, how do you ensure you're picking the right award for the right occasion?

This guide walks you through everything you need to consider to make a choice that’s memorable, meaningful, and perfectly matched to your event.

1. Understand the Purpose of the Award

Before looking at any physical product, start with why the award is being given.

• Is it to honour lifetime achievement or celebrate a recent milestone?

• Is it for individual excellence or team success?

• Are you recognising performance, creativity, leadership, or community spirit?

Examples:

• A “Volunteer of the Year” award should feel heartfelt and personalised.

• A corporate sales award may need to look sleek, modern, and professional.

• A school sports trophy should be fun, energetic, and reflect school spirit.

Tip: The deeper the meaning behind the award, the more intentional your choice should be.

2. Consider Your Audience and Setting

Tailor the award to the people receiving it—and to the event itself.

Think about:

• Audience type: Corporate professionals? Students? Athletes? Artists?

• Age group: Younger recipients may prefer vibrant or fun designs; adults might appreciate timeless or premium aesthetics.

• Event formality: A black-tie gala demands a different design than a school assembly or casual staff celebration.

Tip: The award should complement the tone and mood of your event.

3. Choose the Right Material

The material of the award says a lot about its significance and value.

Common options include:

• Acrylic – Lightweight, colourful, and cost-effective.

• Glass/Crystal – Elegant and sophisticated, perfect for high-end corporate awards.

• Wood – Natural and warm, ideal for eco-conscious or creative settings.

• Metal – Sturdy and premium, often used for sports or legacy trophies.

• Sustainable materials – Bamboo, recycled glass, or reclaimed wood for eco-friendly events.

Tip: Match the material with your brand values and budget.

4. Think About Design and Personalisation

Design is where the award transforms from a product into a meaningful keepsake.

Consider:

• Shape and size: Does it stand out without being overbearing?

• Engraving: Names, dates, logos, quotes, or messages make awards unique.

• Branding: Incorporate your event logo or brand colours tastefully.

• Themes: Align design with the event theme (e.g. stars for excellence, flame for inspiration, globe for global impact).

Tip: The more personal and relevant the design, the more treasured the award becomes.

5. Set a Realistic Budget

Awards come in a wide range of prices. Planning ahead helps avoid last-minute compromises.

• Budget per award (don’t forget to include engraving and packaging).

• Quantity—are you ordering 5 bespoke trophies or 100 participation medals?

• Delivery or shipping costs if working with remote vendors.

Tip: Communicate your budget early with your supplier—they’ll help you find the best value within your range.

6. Factor in Lead Times and Logistics

Good awards take time to create—especially custom designs or bulk orders.

• Check supplier timelines well in advance.

• Allow time for artwork approval, engraving, and potential delivery delays.

• Ask about packaging and presentation—will it arrive ready for the stage?

Tip: Ideally, place your order 4–6 weeks before the event to avoid stress.

7. Consider Sustainability and Values

If your event or brand prioritises sustainability, let your awards reflect that.

• Look for eco-friendly materials or suppliers with green credentials.

• Reduce packaging waste by choosing minimalist or recyclable options.

• Consider digital alternatives (e-certificates or awards NFTs) for virtual events.

Tip: Make sustainability part of the story when presenting the award.

The right award is more than a prize, it’s a representation of the values, excellence, and emotion behind the moment. By understanding your audience, being intentional about design, and planning ahead, you’ll create an award that your recipients will be proud to display for years to come.

Whether you're recognising a student, a CEO, a team, or a volunteer, your choice of award helps shape the memory and meaning of your event.