Top 5 Custom Award Design Mistakes to Avoid

Award design not only guides the creation of a piece, but it also directly impacts its meaning and how that message is received. It’s important to set the tone by crafting a trophy, plaque or medal that not only reflects your recipient’s efforts, but your organization’s values, too. Material choice, engraving style and branding are just a few elements to consider, so be mindful in their selection to avoid custom award design mistakes.

#1: Using Generic Designs

Matching a custom award aesthetic to a recipient’s achievements reflects how you perceive that individual and their work. Providing an off-the-shelf trophy for a milestone achievement like “Top Sales Representative” or “Player of the Year” can leave a lackluster impression. That’s why originality matters.

The person who receives the award should be able to look at it and remember how they felt during the event or ceremony. A generic design may fail to make an emotional impact and diminish the recipient’s sense of accomplishment. Avoid stock shapes like standard cups and clipart icons.

#2: Choosing the Wrong Award Material

The type of material you use in your custom award reflects how you feel about the recipient to the audience. Choosing an inexpensive material to save money can cheapen the value of their accolades. Consider the longevity of an award when selecting the material, too. Some materials are more prone to scratching and discoloration over time, so keep the display location in mind when making your selection.

Avoid the following:

• Thin plastic
• Flimsy metal
• Unfinished wood
• Rubber and foam bases
• Fragile glass

#3: Overcrowded Engraving

It’s important to be concise if you engrave a recognition piece. Even large awards only have so much surface area, so add details such as the recipient’s name, award title, date and organization. Quotes are an effective way to add a personal touch, but be mindful of lengthy wording. While script-style fonts are beautiful, they can be difficult to read, especially if they’re in small print. Simple fonts with appropriately spaced lines provide consistency and easy-to-read messaging.

#4: Poor Branding

Inconsistent brand identity: Designing a custom award presents an opportunity to include branded elements like your organization’s logo, colors and messaging. Failing to do so can create a disconnect between the event and your company and its values.

Lack of memorability: Including branding ties your recognition piece to your company, producing a lasting, identifiable symbol. Skipping those details can make an award feel more generic and less memorable.

Limited effort: You may unintentionally exhibit disinterest by providing a basic award or trophy, which can leave the recipient feeling underappreciated.

Less authentic: Misaligning design elements with the type and purpose of an award can make the honor feel less genuine.

#5: Disregarding the Recipient’s Perspective      

The person taking home the custom plaque or medal should be the center of your focus when you’re designing an award. Failing to consider how they would feel about receiving a basic recognition piece can decrease the emotional value of their achievement. A well-crafted award with thoughtful messaging helps establish a personal connection and becomes an item the recipient is proud to display.

Design Inspiring Custom Awards with Sylvan Studio

Avoiding generic designs and including personalized touches can help you create a unique award that suits your recipient and the occasion. Sylvan Studio specializes in custom creations, and our expert team can provide recommendations if you’re unsure where to begin. Contact us to learn more about our products and services.