Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Executive Awards different?

Gilson’s Executive Awards is a family-owned company with over 50 years of providing a wide selection of luxury professional gifts and awards, great customer service, and fast turnaround on all our orders. We also have an in-house artist and offer design services for one-of-a-kind pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. This means our customers get small-business care with big-business capability.

Can I customize an award or gift with engraving?

Yes. Almost all our products can be customized with a unique engraving of names, logos, or other text. We can create virtually any design and even have an in-house artist to hand-engrave detailed or intricate projects. For one-of-a-kind awards and gifts, we also offer laser engraving and glass printing.

What font should I choose?

It’s a good idea to choose a clear, simple font that’s easy to read from a distance. Some of our font suggestions for laser engraving glass gifts, crystal awards, and trophy plaques are:

• For small text: Serif fonts like Arial and Arial Black
• For cut letters: Arial Black in all caps
• For a stylized but readable look: Lucida Handwriting
• For formal events: Script MT or Old English Text

We favor Arial fonts because they are consistent, easy-to-read, come in several different styles, and tend to make the engraving more resilient.

How long does it take to engrave a product?

Many orders can be completed quickly, with some proofings and simple engravings available the same day. Speediness doesn’t diminish quality. You can rest assured that a short turnaround never compromises product quality or engraving quality. Timing depends on the product, quantity, customization details, and delivery needs. If you have a deadline, contact us as soon as possible to make sure your engraved plaque or award is ready when you need it.

Is there a minimum order requirement?

No, our products can be ordered individually. From our most prestigious custom trophies and plaques down to personalized pens, we handle orders of all sizes.

What engraving methods do you offer?

We offer precise laser engraving, color glass printing, and hand engraving on select pieces by our master in-house engraving artist. Personalization options depend on the material and product, and we can advise which engraving options are suitable.

Can I order just part of an award?

Yes! We understand that you might already have a trophy topper, but no trophy base, or vice versa. When you have the option to change or upgrade only part of a perpetual award trophy, you preserve its integrity and heritage while retaining the option to upgrade later.

What is the difference between acrylic, crystal, and glass awards?

Your first thought might be that glass or crystal is “nicer” than acrylic, but that’s simply untrue! Each material has its own advantages, and all are premium quality.

• Glass awards are beautiful and have unique blown patterns.
• Crystal is simple, traditional, and elegant with a distinct weightiness.
• Acrylic awards are just as attractive as glass and crystal, without the fragility. Acrylic is virtually shatterproof and also comes in clear or color.

Do you offer proofs or samples before my order is finalized?

Yes, we go through the design and proofing process with you. We do not finalize orders without our customers knowing exactly what their corporate gift order looks like.

Are there separate charges for designing and proofing my order?

No, any time you place an order with us, we provide free design consultation and collaboration, and free proofing to make sure your order comes out perfectly.

What is your return policy?

We guarantee the quality of all items we sell.

If your trophy, plaque, award, or gift item arrives broken or damaged, simply return it for a free replacement. Be sure to keep the original product container. For best results, use the packaging your order arrived in, and send your items back to us (address below). We will credit your account for any shipping expenses you incur.

If you need to return your purchase for a refund, please send us a copy of your invoice along with your order. Upon receipt of your returned order, we will credit your account for the value of the merchandise.

Please send your item securely, in its original packaging, to:
Executive Awards
7116 Miami Ave.
Cincinnati, Ohio 45243

Can orders be shipped outside of the United States?

At this time, we only ship within the United States.

Is my private information safe online?

Absolutely! We are committed to ensuring your privacy. Orders placed through our website are encrypted using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology, so transactions are completely protected. We do not sell or exchange names or any other information about our customers with third parties.

Do you provide free gift wrapping?

Yes, complimentary gift wrapping is available.

How can I place an order or speak to someone?

Just give us a call! You’ll talk to a real person who can help you design exactly the corporate award you need. Virtually all our products are customizable, or we can start from scratch to bring your vision to life.

For any further assistance, or to place an order by phone, call us toll-free at 1-800-906-7654.

Customer service phone hours:

M – F 9:30 – 5:00 EST
Sat 10:00 – 5:00 EST