What is a Calligraphy Activation?
What Is a Live Calligraphy Activation?
Experiential marketing is about creating unforgettable experiences for event guests and is essential to making a lasting impression. That’s why live calligraphy activations have grown exponentially in popularity in recent years.
A live calligraphy activation is a designated station at an event where guests can have items personalized on the spot by a professional calligrapher. The items typically feature your brand’s logo, or can be an in-store purchase, and are customized with the guest’s name or other personal details, creating a memorable and unique keepsake.
Calligraphy and engraving activations are perfect for corporate events, product launches, brand activations, PR/influencer events — and even social events like wedding receptions or celebration of life parties — because they add a personal and interactive element that delights attendees while driving brand visibility.
Case Study: Maker’s Mark Kentucky Derby Event
A perfect example of a successful live calligraphy activation is the Maker’s Mark Kentucky Derby event I worked on this past May. Alongside fun elements like a live band, raffle prizes, a flower crown bar, branded t-shirts, derby hats and bowties, an open bar, passed appetizers — and the event also featured a Mint Julep cup engraving station.
At this station, guests received engraved Mint Julep cups with their names etched underneath the Maker’s Mark logo. This thoughtful touch brought a “wow-factor” to the event that connected guests with the Maker’s Mark brand long after the day ended.
The cups were not only a conversation starter but also a highlight of the event, leaving guests feeling valued and appreciated.
Why Choose a Live Calligraphy Activation for Your Next Event?
The difference between a branded giveaway that someone keeps versus one that gets tossed into the donation pile is personalization.
Memorable Guest Experience
Personalization is the key to standing out in a crowded event. When guests receive customized items created in front of their eyes, it adds a level of excitement and exclusivity.
Increased Brand Engagement
Many event marketers know how branded items serve as a constant reminder of your event, keeping your brand top-of-mind long after guests leave. However, engraved or hand-lettered items are not only cherished keepsakes but also effective tools for increasing brand recognition.
Versatile Customization Options
From engraved mugs to hand-foiled leather goods, the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re hosting a product launch, VIP experience, or large-scale conference, a live calligraphy station can be tailored to fit the theme and tone of your event.
Shareable Moments
Guests love sharing their personalized items on social media, helping your brand gain additional exposure. With brands and individuals alike looking for Instagram-worthy moments, live calligraphy activations encourage guests to take photos and tag your brand, increasing visibility to a broader audience.
How It Works
At a live calligraphy activation, a professional calligrapher is stationed at your event to personalize items in real-time. These items can include anything from leather goods, wine/spirit bottles, glasses, metal mugs and beyond. The station can be fully branded to fit seamlessly into your event’s aesthetic. Guests simply visit the station to fill out the request form and can watch as their item is customized while leaving with a one-of-a-kind gift.
Whether your goal is to make a lasting impression or to create meaningful brand engagement, a live calligraphy activation delivers on both fronts.
Bring Your Brand to Life with a Personal Touch
When planning your next event, consider adding a live calligraphy activation to the mix. It’s a simple, elegant, and impactful way to surprise and delight your guests while simultaneously boosting brand loyalty.
Interested in booking me for your next live event?
Marie Coleman-Johns is a live event calligrapher and engraving artist based in the Philadelphia region and travels anywhere for clients. Supporting brand activations and corporate events, Marie provides on-site personalization for branded giveaways and retail products. Services include calligraphy, engraving, heat-foiling, and wood-burning.
When she’s not on-site with clients, Marie is in the yoga studio, on her paddle-board, or planning her next trip with one her husband, two dogs, and three cats.
