Remember, A Promo/Handout Item Should Not Be a Throwaway.

Great promo items should not be looked at as a necessary item for any convention, gathering, or promotion-they should be looked at as a branding opportunity. You should chose an item people will want and use. You also want it to be seen repeatedly as a message about you or your company. Advertisers call that-reach and frequency and as metric increases-it is all free.
Guide to Most Popular Promotional Items at Conferences

There are many events, gatherings, and occasions where promo items are given out. These are often called giveaways or handouts at conventions or association meetings, at familial gatherings such as weddings or anniversary’s gifting would be called favors. In a business setting such items would be known as gifting. No matter the event or occasion for any given out item it should be purposeful, appreciated, quality and long lasting. In business, there needs to be a branding component that has a lasting value.