The only people who know and understand how challenging a musician’s career is are the ones who stand directly behind them. These are the people who have supported you all along the way. While at the end of the day you get showered with awards and accolades, their only reward is your success. Therefore, it's extra important to always let them know you appreciate their support. Small gestures go a long way in maintaining these relationships.
Gift baskets are something everyone loves. Instead of mass ordering gift baskets, choose one depending on what each person likes. There's a basket for everyone, ranging from indulgent toiletry sets to gourmet food selections. Goodie baskets are especially meaningful to those on tour with you as they likely miss the luxuries of home. Baskets can be ordered from a company like FTD wherever you can find a Wi-Fi connection and sent to your next location. Present them to people like your manager and key sound crew with a hand-written note. In your note, mention why they are an essential part of your trip and how their support is essential to you.
Think of the number of weekends and holidays your crew has spent working with you and gift them some much needed time off. Sponsor a nearby weekend getaway for them and their family. Choose between putting them up in a hotel or gifting them tickets to a destination of their choice. This is a beautiful way to let them know how much you appreciate the time they put in to making you a successful artist.
Personalized stationery is a great way to tell people how much you value them. This is a gift that will be treasured by anyone. One idea is to gift your supporters a personalized journal with a photograph of them with you on the first page. It's the perfect way to document this musical journey. Try some of the beautiful paper and design options from stationery studio Papyrus.
Depending on personal preferences, you could gift the key members of your team indulgent experiences like dinner at a nice restaurant, a massage or even a hobby class they could attend with their partner. Experiencing what it would be like to be a fighter pilot for a day or riding in a hot air balloon are memorable experiences most people would not think of unless it were presented to them.
A beautifully framed picture of the two of you is a meaningful memento to gift someone. Pick a picture that encapsulates the closeness of your relationship. For team members who you aren’t so close to, frame a group photograph with a personalized thank you attached.
Never forget that without these people behind you, you might not have achieved the success you have today. Don’t wait for birthdays and Christmas to let them know how much you value them. Most importantly, keep your ears open to know if there’s something special they like or need that you can help them with. To be able to show them you pay attention to what's going on in their lives is the best way to show them you care.