A successful product launch doesn’t end when guests receive a product and test it out, it begins when they actually experience the brand. My live engraving services are what continues to consistently turn heads at any event I perform at.
In the past couple of years (especially here in Los Angeles), we’ve seen that consumers are expecting more interactive and personalized events. And it has become one of the most effective ways to turn a simple purchase or gift into a memorable keepsake.
As you read this blog, you’ll learn
- What live engraving is
- Why any brand can use it
- Best products for engraving (just some simple suggestions!)
- Tips for planning a seamless activation
What Is Live Engraving for Product Launches?
How the service works
Live event engraving services are becoming a major experiential marketing and gifting experience activation. My engraving machine is similar to a nail drill, same size and function. Except the nibs (or burrs) I use are typically diamond ball burrs in various sizes and rotate at various speeds.
A guest is given the opportunity to fill out a personalization form where they write out what they want hand engraved on their item. They can then drop off the request with me (or my assistant*). Guests can stay and watch the activation or if you have other activations or anything happening, they can go experience those while I complete the engravings.
Laser vs Hand Engraving
There are always questions as to which is better – laser engraving vs hand engraving. But let me and my expertise help guide you towards the best option for your event or project. I’ll try to be as objective as possible 😉
Laser Engraving:
One key difference is that the engraving results are produced by a machine. This can be ideal if you need an exact font or something extremely detailed. Think something with smaller, more intricate lines. Laser engraving can however, be limited with regards to character limit and placement of the engraving.
Sometimes we see that laser engravers can only account for a space that is 2×2 inches depending on the size of the machine. This highly limits what can be engraved in that space. Most laser engravers also require flat materials or can handle curved ones, but up to a certain extent. For example, they’re unable to wrap text around a wine bottle or mug.
I could go deeper into detail with laser engraving and its pros and cons, but the above has just some quick examples and things to consider.
Hand Engraving:
Custom engraving for events has many benefits that laser engraving can’t provide. Yes, we have limitations of placements and character limits as well, but as creatives we can usually steer the client or guest in the right direction. That way, they can still get what they want. If a guest wants something wrapped around the neck of a wine bottle, I can do it! Can a laser engraver? Nope!
Another (fun) difference is when it comes to illustrations, engraving artists can add little symbols here and there. If given enough time, we can also recreate logos and complex designs as well. But for the sake of live event engraving and this blog, we’ll stick to words and quick illustrations.
Since all of this is by hand, it’s not going to be like the next person’s. We’re not copying a computer icon or font and that’s why the organic qualities of hand engraving can be more appealing to your audience.
Hand engraving, however, is truly dependent on artist skill and with 100% transparency, is usually more expensive. Make sure you really look at an engraver’s portfolio to ensure their work is what you’re looking for. You are paying for an artisan service that takes years to master and gives a human touch. And although it’s not a computer controlled laser, you’re getting a truly one-of-a-kind piece created by an artist’s hand. I’m definitely biased when it comes to actually watching a human create art right in front of you!
More information on my hand engraving services can be found here.
Ideal Event Set Up
Every brand activation or experiential marketing event with a live event engraving service station is different. Below is a quick list of things to consider when you’ve hired an engraving artist and what their set up may look like.
- Table (Minimum 4 feet is ideal, but not always necessary)
- Chair
- Lighting (Is it inside or outside? Is it during the day or at night?)
- Signage that explains the activation (or at least tells people there is one!)
- Line queue (May not need one, but should be considered for larger, high-volume events)
- Where will the items for personalization be? (Are they with the guests or will I be storing them at my table?)
With an interactive product launch such as a fragrance/perfume or new jewelry, a large table may not be needed. However, there are so many things that need to be considered with how large a table may need to be. For example, will guests be waiting at the table for the items or will they have the opportunity to drop off their request and come back later? If the latter, you may want to consider a larger table, or at least a side one, so that I can place completed products on that table for pick up.
I usually provide my own small table top signage to explain the activation to guests as well as custom personalization slips for them to fill out. I’m ALWAYS down for a collaborative discussion on these so we can ensure they’re in line with your event’s aesthetic and vibe. And with any of the event set up, I’m here to answer any questions and help guide you to what would be the most ideal set up for your event.
Experience for the Guests
Experiential marking is blending entertainment, activations, and a brand’s identity into one cohesive experience. These branded event experiences really immerse guests into what a brand is, who they service, and what they stand for. My on-site engraving is truly an experience for your guests and I want them to be a part of it as well.
This type of activation isn’t limited to brands that have the “ideal” items to engrave either. Below is a list of brand types that can definitely have an engraving activation.
- Clothing Brands
- Music Festivals
- Sports Teams
- TV Show & Move Premieres
- Credit Card Companies
- Banks
- Restaurants
- Beauty Brands
- Corporate Companies
- etc.,
Maybe you’re thinking – “How can a clothing brand have an engraving activation?” You can do gifts with purchase, for example. Key an engraved keychain with a $200 purchase. Or you can even just flip the whole script and do calligraphy lettering on the apparel (been there, done that!). It’s not engraving per se, but its an activation nonetheless. We can side-message regarding that since we’re strictly talking engraving in this post 😉
Why Brands Are Choosing Live Hand Engraving
- Creates a luxury and premium customer experinece
- Adds exclusivity to your product
- Encourages organic social sharing and proof
- Guests recieve a lasting reminder of your brand
- Waiting becomes entertainment
Just look at the crowds!
Best Product Launches for Live Engraving
- Beauty and fragrance launches
- Luxury fashion collections
- Leather goods
- Jewelry
- Wine and spirits
- Home décor
- Corporate gifting campaigns
- Retail grand openings
Of course this list doesn’t cover everything. And if you’re not sure if the item you have in mind can be engraved, shoot me a message! We can discuss what may or may not work and any limitations to consider.
I also threw Leather Goods up on that list even though heat foiling or debossing are probably better options, but because these activations can be confused with engraving. I can go over this with you, too!
How to Plan a Successful Live Engraving Activation
We can break this into practical steps for ease, but also this is why I’m here to lean on!
- Select products suitable for engraving (I can help)
- Decide what guests can personalize (a word, name, saying, etc.,)
- Estimate guest volume (this also helps determine the number of artists)
- Design the engraving station to complement your brand (aesthetic and vibes!!)
- Work with experienced engravers [(me, me, and me ;)]
In my opinion, this should be a collaborative opportunity between the two of us.
Common Questions About Live Engraving Services
- How long does each engraving take?
- As quick as a few seconds, to a few minutes (message me and I can explain in further detail!)
- What materials can be engraved?
- See list above! But glass and metals are the most ideal
- Can guests choose custom text?
- Yes! I will discuss with you on any limitations based on engraving location and time constraints, however
- How much space is required?
- An ideal table size is 4-6ft
- Is live engraving suitable for outdoor events?
- Indoor, Outdoor, Rooftops, Boats — you name it!
- Can branding or logos be included?
- Yes! We can discuss that you provide items with your logo already on them, or for a feed I can hand engrave logos. These may be most ideal for completion in my studio prior to an event.
- What is the ideal guest count for a live engraving station?
- It’s really up to you! I’ve done events with 800+ attendees. I can build a team of professional event engravers if needed and lead the team to success with your event
Memories & Lasting Impressions
If you’re planning a product launch and want to create an experience guests will remember, my live engraving services can help create a sense of connection and identity. The moment of personalization creates a stronger connection to both the product and the brand behind it. Contact me to discuss your event, product selection, and customization options.
*Please note that I will always suggest an assistant to come with me if I feel it would help make the most out of your guests’s experience and making the activation perform smoothly. An assistant is an added fee, but is highly recommended for larger events or events with shorter time windows.
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