Ways to Entertain New Clients this Summer

Entertaining new and prospective clients is an integral part of business relationship building. No matter what business you’re in, treating your clients to fun seasonal activities can build your professional bond and provide the perfect opportunity for networking. Plus, it shows appreciation for their business—and you can never go wrong with gratitude. Here are some ideas—and tips for advertising with promotional items—to get you started:

Take Them on a Cruise

Impress your VIPs with a corporate cruise. There are cruise providers that offer day and evening jaunts of various durations. Depending on the provider you choose, you may find a two-hour cruise, an eight-hour cruise, or one in between. Some cruises have themes and include refreshments. There may be brunch or dinner packages, or sunset cruise packages that include cocktails and appetizers. No matter what kind of package you select, you’re sure to receive a positive reception from your cruise guests.

Promotional Tip: When your clients arrive to board the ship, present them with a summer-themed gift—such as a custom promotional towel or tote bag. The souvenir will help them remember the event and your business.

Check Out a Trendy New Restaurant

A provider-client dinner date is always a good way to make a connection. Whether you host a gathering for multiple clients at once or prefer to go one-on-one, you can’t miss with an evening at a buzzworthy restaurant. Make reservations a few weeks ahead of time to ensure your spot, then start sending out invites. Most clients and/or potential clients are unlikely to turn down a free dinner—especially if it’s at a restaurant that’s hard to get into or that they’ve been wanting to try.

Promotional Tip: After the dinner, say thanks by sending your client a handwritten note and a small gift, such as a promotional pen. Custom company pens come in various colors and styles, and they can be ordered in bulk for convenience.

Wow Them with a Wine Tasting

Another elegant way to entertain new clients is by inviting them to a wine tasting. You can hire a wine specialist to come to your home and host the event, or you can schedule your group for a wine tasting at a local establishment. Many vineyards and wineries have tasting events for groups, many of which include trying different food-wine pairings.

Promotional Tip: Gift each attendee with a company logo cup to express your appreciation. Various types of drinkware can be customized with your business name, including stainless wine canteens that keep varietals at the right drinking temperature for hours.

Host an Ice Cream Social

Treat your clients to an ice cream social for a fun way to socialize and celebrate summer. If you have space at your home, you can host the event right in your own backyard. If you don’t, there are plenty of outdoor venues to consider. Rent an ice cream truck for the event and set up small tables with shade umbrellas for comfortable seating. While everyone enjoys childhood-inspired frozen treats, you can work on building business relationships.

Promotional Tip: Welcome everyone to the event by presenting them with a small item, such as a baseball-style cap embroidered with your logo. Custom company hats come in many colors to coordinate with your aesthetic.

Invite Them to a Backyard Barbecue

Another casual event that serves as a networking opportunity is the summer barbecue. Fire up the grill and cook some warm-weather favorites, such as grilled meats and vegetables. Fill coolers with bottled water, soft drinks, and other beverages, and serve a light, cool desserts such as strawberry shortcake or a fruit salad. Provide picnic tables for seating or set up folding tables and chairs. You could also set up classic outdoor summer games such as croquet or lawn darts for those who want to play.

Promotional Tip: Give each attendee a customized gift, such as a set of branded golf balls or a cooler emblazoned with your company name. You might also want to provide your barbecue guests with a custom visor to help shade them from the sun.

Publicize the Events

No matter what kind of event you choose, make sure to take plenty of photos and publicize it on your company’s website and/or social media accounts—with your client’s consent, of course. It shows prospective clients that you appreciate the clients you do have and may make them more likely to work with you.

There are lots of creative ways to entertain new, established, and potential clients this summer. Think outside the box and come up with ideas they’ll be sure to remember. Memorable events are also likely to generate word-of-mouth referrals and bring in more business. Remember to always express your gratitude with promotional gifts when clients attend events.