When it comes to recognizing the achievements and milestones of individuals or organizations, awards and trophies play a significant role. Not only do they commemorate accomplishments, but they also serve as lasting symbols of recognition and appreciation. One crucial aspect to consider while designing or selecting an award or trophy is the material used. The chosen material may impact the overall appearance, durability, and perceived value of the award. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various factors to consider when choosing the right material for your award or trophy, to ensure it leaves a lasting impression on the recipients.
Purpose and Theme of the Award
The first step in selecting the right material for your award is to understand its purpose and the theme it represents. Different materials convey distinct messages and emotions. For instance, glass and crystal evoke elegance and sophistication and would make an impressive addition to a corporate office, while metal represents durability and strength, reflective of the durability and strength required to win a championship. Understanding the award’s purpose and the desired emotions it may evoke will help you narrow down the material choices.
Budget Considerations
Budget is a crucial factor in determining the material for your award or trophy. High-quality materials such as crystal, silver or gold may be more expensive, while materials like wood, resin or plastic are more budget-friendly. There are also many materials such as acrylic and glass that have both economy and prestige pricing, depending on the size and design of your choice. It’s essential to strike the right balance between the award’s perceived value and the available budget. A well-crafted award, even in a more affordable material, can still leave a lasting impression if designed thoughtfully.
Durability and Longevity
An award or trophy is meant to stand the test of time, serving as a cherished memento for the recipient, and may even be passed down through generations. Consider the durability and longevity of the material, especially if the award will be presented at recurring events, as seen with perpetual awards, or if it will be displayed prominently in a public space. Metals, such as brass, stainless steel and gold, as seen with these cups, are known for their sturdiness, making them ideal for long-term use.
Brand Image and Recognition
It’s also important to consider the alignment between the chosen material and the brand image of the organization. The material should reflect your brand’s values and identity. For instance, if your brand focuses on sustainability, choosing an eco-friendly material like bamboo would be a great fit. On the other hand, if it’s excellence your brand strives for, an award made of high-end material such as crystal would be the right choice.
Customization and Design Possibilities
Certain materials offer more design flexibility than others. Glass and crystal, for example, can be moulded into intricate shapes and engraved using laser and sandblasting. Acrylic can be completely customizable, allowing you to design a unique one-off award, and you may even choose to use your company logo as the award itself. Metals allow for precision engraving and can be combined with other materials for an individual and eye-catching design, while wooden plaques may be personalized using laser, burning black into the wood for a clean and rustic effect. Personalizing onto wood with gold-paint-fill or a sublimation plate, are other ways to add colour and make your club logo pop. Consider the level of customization you desire for your award and choose a material that can bring your vision to life effectively.
Occasion and Recipient
The occasion and the type of recipient should also influence your material choice. For formal events or corporate awards, premium materials like crystal or metal add an air of prestige, while wooden, resin or plastic awards may be more appropriate for casual events or sports competitions. Tailoring the material to suit the recipient’s preferences and tastes will make the award even more meaningful.
Weight and Portability
Heavy materials like marble, crystal or certain metals carry distinction and importance, as well as weight. Consider the weight of the award, and where and how it will be transported. If the award or trophy will be presented to recipients needing to carry it around, lighter materials such as acrylic or wood may be more manageable. Medals are a popular choice for many sporting, artistic and academic competitions as they are small and therefore easy to transport. Additionally, medals come with a variety of ribbon colour options that can be matched to your team or club colours, making the award more personal.
Selecting the right material for your award or trophy is a critical decision that can significantly impact its overall appeal and value. By considering the award’s purpose, budget, durability, brand image, customization possibilities, recipient, occasion, and weight, you can make an informed choice that will create a lasting impression on the deserving recipients. Trophymade offers an extensive range of awards in a variety of materials including glass, crystal, acrylic, wood, bamboo, resin, metal and plastic, and every trophy and award can be personalized using our online TrophyMaker tool. You may choose from our pre-designed custom templates or design it your way, and we’ll do the rest. Remember, a well-designed and thoughtfully chosen award is not just a symbol of recognition; it’s a treasured reminder of achievement and success.