As the holiday season approaches this year, many businesses are looking for unique ways to shower their customers with gratitude. Consider going above and beyond the standard client appreciation tactics this time of year – like branded gifts or exclusive offers – and hosting a memorable customer appreciation event instead. A holiday-themed gathering in the heart of NYC might be just the thing your business needs to connect with customers in a way that’s truly unforgettable.
Whatever your goals or budget, there’s a client appreciation event to suit your needs. Let’s dive into seven event ideas that are sure to strengthen your relationships and drive more business.
1. VIP Dinner at a Legendary NYC Restaurant
Ideal for small groups, a VIP dinner can be an elegant way to show your most valued customers appreciation. Reserve a private dining room, a trendy new restaurant, or a local winery for a truly intimate experience. To make it truly memorable, consider crafting customized name cards or small, thoughtful gifts for each guest. A VIP dinner at an iconic NYC restaurant can be a great – and delicious – way to foster deeper connections with top clients.
2. A Fun Outdoor Adventure
If your customers are the active type, consider a more adventurous outing, like a low-key golf tournament with branded golf balls at Chelsea Piers, a hike with custom water bottles in Central Park, or a friendly softball tournament with athletic bags in company colors.
An outdoor adventure can be a great option if you’re aiming to create a relaxed atmosphere with casual networking. Be sure to offer snacks and plenty of refreshments to keep attendees feeling energized and hydrated.
3. Free Learning or Workshop Event
Offering a free learning event or workshop that promises to equip attendees with new insights and skills can be a compelling way to engage your clients, whether it’s a demonstration, a lecture, or a hands-on workshop, a free (key word: free!) informational event is often an effective way to build stronger connections with all your company clients and demonstrate your company’s value, include interactive elements like Q&A groups, breakout sessions, or worksheets, where customers can discuss what they’re learning.
Pro tip: Book an outside expert in your field to speak at the event or lead a hands-on exercise. After the event, follow up with useful materials, like links to additional learning or an easy-to-read recap for added value.
4. Family-Friendly Client Appreciation Event
Family-friendly outings, like a trip to the Bronx Zoo, Coney Island, or a local park, are ideal for family-oriented businesses. These types of events show your clients you appreciate them as people and not just as business partners. To go above and beyond, consider adding fun features like a dedicated family photo area, personalized goodie bags, or access to behind-the-scenes experiences at the venue. Think fast-passes at an amusement park or up-close animal encounters at the zoo.
5. Product-Preview Party
A product-preview party can be a fun and interactive way to give customers an exclusive sneak peek of your company’s upcoming products or services or a look at company plans. This type of event is a great way to drum up a sense of excitement and exclusivity around your offering and allows your customer to feel “in the know.”
Offering limited-edition samples of products, offers, or other interactive experiences like demonstrations or testing stations are great ways to make your product preview party truly memorable. Be sure to ask attendees for feedback, too – that way, they feel like they’re playing a vital role in the development of your offerings.
6. Virtual Event for Long-Distance Customers
A virtual appreciation event is ideal for customers who can’t attend in person but want to stay connected to your business. Use platforms like Zoom, TEAMS, or Google Meet to host a fun trivia event, a virtual wine tasting, or an information session. Be sure your host is engaging, and consider incorporating icebreakers to keep the event upbeat and fun. If your customers want to connect with each other, schedule breakout sessions for small groups to allow for networking. Keep your virtual event short and sweet – no more than 90 minutes – to ensure your guests stay engaged.
Pro tip: Send a personalized thank you message to each attendee after the event with an exclusive offer to leave a lasting impression and keep the connection going.
7. Plan Your Next Client Appreciation Event with EMRG Media
As the best event planners in NYC, EMRG media understands just what it takes to plan an event that wows customers. When options for venues, activities, and more seem endless, we understand just how overwhelming it can be to get started. But with more than 20 years of experience and hundreds of working relationships. NYC’s finest event companies, we can make planning your next event a breeze. Contact us today to start planning!
