Your client, a video game manufacturer, wants to give its employees a little entertainment away from the TV and the computer. Your mission, should you choose to accept it (and why wouldn’t you?): Put together some high-tech and fun products to give away to a lively high-tech group of about 250.

You start with a goodie bag to be given upon entry to the party. Why not make the bag a laptop briefcase? Offer something high-end and practical, too. A “checkpoint-friendly” bag, which airport screeners can X-ray while a laptop is still in the bag, will be much appreciated.

Inside the bag, you’ll want to include more practical items, specially made for their gadgets. Everyone can use chargers for all of their electronics, so be sure to tuck a cell phone charger and an iPod charger inside. Next, add a charging station, which will hold iPods, cell phones, or PDAs and also provide cord storage. Finally, they will need something to protect their devices as well. A silicone case can be colorful and useful.

You’ll want to suggest prizes for the party because, let’s face it, they are gamers, so there will be games. A little video karaoke and perhaps some video game trivia, maybe played in teams of five, would be amusing for all. You should have about 25 each of higher-end items for the winners. Something like a digital photo frame that zooms in to each picture would be unique and innovative for the innovators. A Snackmaster deluxe family-size cooler/warmer would be a coveted gift because snacks and video games go hand-in-hand.

Finally, send everyone home with some extras they can use in their personal or professional space. A flexible keyboard with a USB plug can even be taken on the road. A laptop cooler pad will always come in handy. A mini digital camera and speaker radio with LED lights are also cool ideas that will delight the techie-minded. So, get planning that party today. Game on. > MORE

Editor’s Note: ESP Online features an Event Planner tool, which is based on this section. Be sure to check it for even more tips and solutions for upcoming events.