Only if they IMPRESS us...

We have these things called 'capabilities presentations,' where companies set up a time to come in and present to us (I actually like these). They show us what their business offers and how it would benefit our company. While these aren't always exciting, they are always useful for us to compare with the businesses we currently use to ensure that we are getting the best price for the service/product. We're open to new things... maybe even THEIR new thing, but only if they impress us!
For example, a freight shipping company came in last week to market themselves and highlight the benefits of working with a smaller business for freight & shipping since we do A LOT of shipping of large items for events. As you can see, not so exciting. BUT we had another capabilities presentation with a small company called Mélangerie Inc., which specializes in extremely creative gifts, memorabilia and event details for all occasions. They offer a myriad of services including gift consultation and design, gift packaging and presentation, event identity design, invitation and announcement design, custom event favors and details, custom event websites, custom memorabilia, and custom correspondence. I was amazed at some the cool & unique ideas they have produced... and I'm not the only one. You may have seen them (or their gifts) since they were featured in Target's Red Hot Shop, which show cases up-and-coming & innovative small businesses. The Red Hot Shop sold Mélangerie's oragami-inspired gift wrap packs.
Or may you've seen those 'Home Green Home' gift bags filled with products for greening your home... their idea (someone else just paid money for it)!
These don't even being to scratch the surface of the creativity that I saw from their capabilities presentation, but they're definitely some of my favorites!  You can check out more at the Mélangerie website.