The Art & Science of Deal Toys
When you hold a custom award in your hands—a sleek Lucite embedment, a stunning crystal sculpture, or a finely crafted resin piece—it’s easy to focus on the finished product. What often goes unnoticed is the intricate process behind its creation: a delicate blend of artistry, craftsmanship, and technical precision. At Polaris Custom Awards, each piece tells a story, and every step in its design ensures that story shines through.
1. Concept Development: Turning Ideas into Vision
The process begins with understanding the client’s goals. Is the award celebrating a groundbreaking commercial real estate deal? Commemorating an innovative pharmaceutical milestone? Honoring a stellar employee? Each purpose informs the design.
Clients often share key elements they’d like included, such as corporate logos, symbolic imagery, or event-specific details. For instance, a recent award we crafted for an M&A transaction incorporated layered graphics representing the merging companies’ growth trajectories. Brainstorming sessions with our design team translate these ideas into initial sketches, ensuring the concept is meaningful, unique, and visually impactful.
2. Material Selection: The Foundation of Elegance
Materials set the tone for an award. Lucite, for example, offers a modern and versatile look, perfect for embedding elements like miniature models, deal documents, or even digital renderings. Crystal, on the other hand, exudes timeless elegance with its clarity and ability to reflect light. Resin provides flexibility for intricate, sculptural designs that demand durability.
The choice of material is crucial not just for aesthetics but for durability and production feasibility. A crystal award celebrating a billion-dollar transaction should feel as weighty and significant as the deal itself.
3. Precision Design: Merging Creativity with Technology
Once the concept is finalized, we bring it to life using cutting-edge design software. 3D modeling tools allow us to refine every detail, ensuring accuracy in dimensions, proportions, and balance. This phase is where innovation meets precision—creating something visually striking yet structurally sound.
For example, a recent piece celebrating a new biotech patent included a double-helix design suspended within Lucite. Achieving this required not just artistic vision but technical expertise to ensure the helix appeared to float seamlessly within the block.
4. Hands-On Manufacturing: Crafting the Award
With designs approved, the manufacturing process begins. Each material requires a different approach. Lucite embedments are cast layer by layer, allowing embedded items or designs to become part of the award. Crystal awards are carefully etched, engraved, or sandblasted for a sharp, professional finish. Resin pieces might involve intricate molding and detailed painting for a truly bespoke look.
This stage requires a steady hand and a sharp eye. Our team inspects each piece meticulously to ensure no imperfections—because the final product represents not just your achievement but our dedication to quality.
5. Finishing Touches: Adding the "Wow" Factor
The magic often lies in the details. Polishing crystal to a flawless shine, adding custom inscriptions, or choosing the perfect base elevates the award from beautiful to breathtaking. Packaging is also an essential element—an elegant presentation box can heighten the recipient's experience and underscore the significance of the occasion.
Why Custom Awards Matter
Every award we create is more than a decorative object; it’s a story encapsulated in glass, resin, or crystal. It’s a way to freeze a moment in time—a remarkable deal, a milestone achievement, or a groundbreaking innovation—and honor the people behind it.
At Polaris Custom Awards, we believe in making every detail count, because when someone receives an award, it should resonate with meaning, pride, and celebration.
Let’s Celebrate Your Achievements
Whether you're looking to commemorate a major business deal or recognize an employee's extraordinary contributions, we’re here to help. Contact us today to create a custom award that captures your story and celebrates your success.