A hotel doesn’t smile on its own—guests remember the experience, the care, and the people who made them feel welcome. Custom branded items can extend that feeling, keeping the smile alive long after the stay.

So you know what type of promotional item you want. You go online. Order the item. It comes in. Looks good.

Over the years, social psychologists and marketers have demonstrated just how powerful this pull of reciprocity can be, often influencing...