Closing a major transaction is a milestone worth celebrating. Whether it’s a merger, acquisition, IPO, or financing round, companies often commemorate these achievements with customized awards known as deal tombstones or deal toys. Ordering one for your team or client can feel overwhelming if you’re new to the process, but with the right approach, you can create a memorable piece that perfectly captures the spirit of your deal.
Understanding Deal Tombstones
Deal tombstones are custom-made keepsakes that mark the completion of significant financial or corporate transactions. Traditionally, they display key details like company names, transaction value, and the date. Today, they’ve evolved beyond simple acrylic blocks to include intricate designs, unique materials, and even 3D shapes tailored to reflect the industry or deal theme.
Step 1: Define Your Objectives
Before contacting a manufacturer, think about why you’re ordering deal tombstones. Are they primarily for internal recognition, client gifting, or branding purposes? Defining the goal will influence the design, quantity, and budget. For example, a high-profile IPO might call for more elaborate designs, while a smaller private deal may only need a sleek, minimalist piece.
Step 2: Choose a Trusted Supplier
Selecting the right supplier is crucial. Look for companies with experience in financial tombstones and a portfolio of creative designs. A reputable provider will guide you through the process, offer mock-ups, and ensure accuracy in engraving. This prevents last-minute errors and ensures that the finished product aligns with your vision.
Step 3: Collaborate on Design
The design phase is where the creativity comes alive. Some tips to consider:
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Incorporate logos and colors to reflect the deal participants.
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Pick materials such as crystal, acrylic, wood, or even metal for a unique feel.
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Add personalization—such as names or deal-specific icons—to make the tombstone stand out.
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Balance aesthetics with readability, ensuring all key transaction details remain clear.
Step 4: Review and Approve Proofs
Suppliers usually provide digital or physical proofs before production. Carefully check all details, including company names, deal size, and dates. Small mistakes can be costly once the order is finalized. Having multiple stakeholders review the proofs ensures accuracy and avoids delays.
Step 5: Place Your Order Early
Deal tombstones typically take two to six weeks to produce, depending on complexity. To avoid last-minute stress, place your order as soon as the transaction is close to signing. Ordering early allows room for adjustments and guarantees timely delivery for celebratory events.
Step 6: Decide on Quantity and Distribution
Think ahead about who should receive a deal toy. Common recipients include internal team members, executives, external advisors, and clients. Ordering extras can save time and money if more people need recognition later. Many firms also provide elegant packaging to elevate the unboxing experience.
Step 7: Celebrate the Moment
Once your deal tombstones arrive, present them in a meaningful way. Whether it’s at a closing dinner, a company gathering, or a client meeting, handing out these awards enhances the sense of accomplishment and strengthens professional relationships.
Final Thoughts
Ordering deal toys is more than a formality—it’s about honoring hard work, teamwork, and milestones. By carefully planning the design, collaborating with an experienced supplier, and ordering early, you can ensure that your deal tombstones become lasting symbols of success and pride.
