There is no good answer per se. In fact, it is very much on a case by case basis.

Yesterday we received a gift box from Libby Ray of Connected Event Group<, a national event production, entertainment, audio visual and broadcast in-a-box company that works with the world's biggest brand. They are extending their solution to smaller organisations that want a 'connected approach' in their marketing efforts.

As you can see from the picture, the box took into account that I have a dog, and she is equally as important in the scheme of things when considering the time I need to be 'connected' to my clients. While she is eating her treats and playing with her new toys, I can stay 'connected' to my clients without disruption, especially when working from home. Genius really.

The wine of course, is helpful especially after all the stress that this year has brought about, and the rocky road, a good sweetner!

When I received this pack, I was surprised - in a good way. I was eager to open the box to see what was in it, and I wasn't disappointed. I showed my colleagues, took pictures and posted on social media. Immediately, I was in love with this brand that was so thoughtful by sending me a gift box. In fact, I was equally eager to signup to their next webinar, and made the quick decision that I would wait until then to open the wine. It's all about experiences - isn't it?

Good entrepreneurs know that customer experience is everything

Customer experience setting is everything. While as entrepreneurs we have had our heads down working tirelessly to keep our businesses going, it's our customers and the connection we have to customers that really sets us up to not only keep everything in tact, but also to grow our businesses and get back on track.

Festive Seasons are tricky

Knowing what is the best thing to do for customers over the festive season is difficult to say the least, especially this year. So many companies have done it tough and its important to not flaunt wealth in any way.

We usually gift designer brand gifts or seriously expensive wines, but that is not the answer nor the image that we would like to project. Being thoughtful is important and while being 'cheap' is frowned upon, you really can be creative using local brands to fill up gift boxes or event boxes. Companies like Connected Event Goup does this well and are considerate to the importants of Australian made and produced.

Make sure you take into account different religious views of customers but this part should be a piece of cake because as marketers we need to know our customers well.