We are having our first women's conference this fall and have a question that only women can answer. When attending conferences does it matter to you whether you recieve a sampling of goodies to take home OR the have your name in a hat and have the chance to win a nicer gift?
Example: small gift...bookmark,pad,pen (open to other ideas)
OR devotional book with pen (open to ideas as well)

Thanks so much for your help
CM

I've attended many a conference/retreat where goodies are given away and it's always fun to get them. It can get expensive if there are a large number of women and one has a small budget. I've also been to events where nothing was given but the tables were set up beautifully, the speakers were dynamite and we were made to feel so special for being there that not having a goody bag didn't matter.
Each event is different and what matters when I leave an event is: Did God speak to me? Was this event glorfiying to God or was it just a grand production.

If you plan to give gifts the best one I received was a padfolio with the logo of the event. I have it to this day and continue to use it.

i love little goodies

if you are having the women sit at tables, then maybe have a notebook of some sort and a pen. maybe some candy and small bottle of water.

as far as "nicer" gifts go, may be ask local retailers to donate door prizes - salons can do a basket of products, a florist may do a picture frame or other gift, resteraunt may give a gift card - offer to mention "this door prize was GENEROUSLY donated by XYZ Salon"

be creative and watch those clearance aisles for ideas!

You could also do themed tables and ask a ladies from your congregation to sponsor a table - be incharge of decorating and a gift for each person at their table