When Anaita Sarkar puts on an event, it’s never just business as usual. But her recent business marketing networking event—hosted at a Pickleball venue—took things to another level. It was bold, unexpected, and brilliantly executed: a blend of strategy, connection, and movement.
Lunaire was proud to be part of the experience.
Every attendee received a customised Lunaire sample candle - a refined, sensory gift designed to feel personal, purposeful, and aligned with the event’s vibe. It wasn’t the focus of the day, but it quietly elevated the experience and gave guests something tangible to remember it by.
Here’s what it revealed about the future of corporate gifting in 2025 - and why intention is everything.
The Event: Business Meets Play
Hosted by Anita Sarkar - one of Australia’s most respected voices in marketing, branding, and sustainable entrepreneurship - this wasn’t your typical networking event. Instead of PowerPoints and panel talks, attendees were invited to step onto a Pickleball court and connect through play, conversation, and community.
There were strategy chats, collaborative match ups, plenty of laughter, and a refreshing absence of ego. It was professional without being performative - focused, but fun.
And every detail had purpose.
The Power of Gifting at Business Events
Gifting is common at events - but rarely done well. Generic tote bags and branded pens don’t inspire loyalty. They certainly don’t inspire conversation.
What stood out at Anaita's event was the intentionality behind the gift. Instead of handing out disposable swag, Lunaire was invited to contribute a custom branded candle, thoughtfully crafted to reflect the energy of the event and the calibre of the guests.
Why it worked:
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It made the moment tangible.
Guests left with something beautiful and functional they could take home, light, and enjoy long after the event. -
It mirrored the experience.
A Lunaire candle is all about slowing down and connecting - perfect contrast to a fast-paced game of Pickleball. -
It created brand awareness through experience, not advertising.
There was no need for a pitch. The product spoke for itself.
Why Lunaire’s Custom Candle Was the Right Fit
On paper, a candle might seem like a simple gift - but the difference lies in design and execution. Each Lunaire sample candle for the event was:
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Custom-engraved, turning it from a product into a keepsake
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Crafted from 100% soy wax - with no paraffin, additives, or blends
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Thoughtfully scented, evoking calm and intention
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Designed and hand poured in Australia, supporting local craftsmanship
🕯️ Lunaire’s mission is to replace single-use candles with long-lasting, refillable options that are beautiful, sustainable, and gift-worthy. While these sample tins weren't refillable, they still embodied our core ethos: thoughtful design that lasts.
Guests didn’t just acknowledge the gift - they responded to it. Photos were shared, DMs were sent, and Lunaire’s story reached a new wave of aligned, curious followers. A few conversations even led to wholesale and gifting enquiries.
What the Event Revealed About Gifting in 2025
The event underscored key shifts in how brands are approaching gifting this year:
✅ Gifts Should Extend the Experience
Your product should make people feel something - not just during the event, but after. The best gifts reinforce the memory.
✅ People Crave Personalisation
A custom touch - even something as small as engraved text - creates emotional impact. It shows the gift wasn’t off a shelf, but selected with care.
✅ Sustainability Is a Baseline Expectation
No one wants throwaway corporate items. Thoughtfully made, eco-conscious gifts build goodwill and reflect brand values.
✅ Your Gift Reflects Your Brand
Whether you’re luxe, minimalist, sustainable, or playful - your gift should feel like an extension of your brand identity.
The ROI of Thoughtful Gifting
A Lunaire candle doesn’t just smell good - it starts conversations.
And conversations turn into connections. According to a 2024 LinkedIn B2B study:
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79% of professionals remember companies that gave them a thoughtful gift
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52% said it influenced a future purchase or collaboration
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68% said it positively shifted their perception of the brand
In Lunaire’s case, the post-event traction was clear: engagement spikes, direct outreach, and strong alignment with like-minded founders, creatives, and marketers.
Tips for Elevating Your Corporate Gifting Strategy
Want your gifting to stand out for the right reasons? Here’s how:
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Think beyond the logo. Engraving someone’s name > printing your brand on a mug.
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Keep it useful. Functional, beautiful items are more likely to be kept and remembered.
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Choose quality over quantity. One elevated item is more impactful than five forgettable ones.
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Tell a story. Include a note that explains your gift’s purpose or meaning.
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Work with aligned brands. Let your gift reflect your values - be that slow living, sustainability, luxury, or community.
Final Thoughts: Connection Over Commodity
Gifting isn’t about ticking a box. It’s about building a relationship - the silent handshake your brand leaves behind after the event is over.
At Anaita Sarkar’s Pickleball networking event, Lunaire was honoured to contribute something that resonated. Not flashy. Not loud. Just intentional.
And that’s what makes the best gifts - the ones that speak softly, but stay with you.
✨ If you’re planning an event, campaign, or launch and want to make a lasting impression, Lunaire offers custom-engraved, Australian-made soy candles designed for luxury gifting with a sustainable heart. Explore our corporate gifting options or get in touch for a bespoke order.
