Common Mistakes to Avoid When Ordering Custom Medals And Trophies

Ordering custom medals and trophies might seem like the last step in planning an event, but in reality, it can make or break how people remember it. Whether it is a corporate awards night, a regional sports championship, or a school competition, the quality and design of those awards directly influence how valued the winners feel. A well-made medal or trophy becomes a proud keepsake.
Here are the biggest mistakes people make when ordering, and how to avoid them.

1. Choosing Materials Based on Price Alone
While cheaper options might seem like the most cost-effective solution to your needs (especially when you’re ordering in bulk), they might not always be the best choice. A medal or trophy made from low-grade metal will tarnish, bend, or chip faster than you think. If you want something that still looks good ten years from now, invest in quality materials like brass, zinc, or copper.

Think of it as buying something once instead of replacing it later.

2. Skipping the Design Stage
Designing and truly customising your trophy or medal can be a gamechanger. Skipping this step is where most problems start. The wrong proportions, poorly-placed logos, or unclear engraving can completely throw off the look of something very special. 

When ordering custom medals and trophies, insist on detailed design checks. Go through them closely and confirm the sizes of each element before production. A good supplier will help translate your ideas into something that looks incredible in real life.

3. Forgetting to Link It to Your Event
The best custom medals and trophies tell a story of achievement, pride and a personal touch. That might be as simple as including the event name and date, or as creative as shaping the medal to match the theme.

If you’re hosting a sports tournament in Qatar, picture a medal shaped like an emblem or component of the sport. These small touches make your awards memorable long after the event is over.

4. Underestimating Timelines
Customisation takes time. The best custom medals and trophies are not made in hours or a day, so last-minute orders often mean you’ll have to compromise on design or quality.
For big events where you need mementos on a larger scale, it’s ideal to plan at least 4-6 weeks in advance so you get the best suppliers who can bring your vision to life. This way, you are not left panicking days before your event.

5. Ignoring Durability
You want the medal or trophy to survive more than a few photos and weeks. This is a memento which will act as a reminder of achievement, appreciation and much more. That means checking the finish and coating - electroplating in gold, silver, or bronze can protect against scratches and corrosion, especially in humid climates like the UAE or Qatar.

6. Picking the Wrong Supplier
Not every manufacturer can deliver the level of quality and service you need. Look for suppliers who specialise in custom medals and trophies, have strong reviews, and can show you past work.The right partner will spot potential issues before they become costly mistakes.

An award isn’t just a piece of metal - it’s a lasting symbol of effort, victory, and pride. To make yours genuinely memorable, you need a partner who blends thoughtful design, high-grade materials, and flawless craftsmanship. KN Trophies brings eight decades of expertise to the table, offering over 500 catalogued products and bespoke creations that reflect your brand’s personality and event significance.

From intricate cast metal medals to gold, silver, or bronze electroplating that withstands time and humidity, they’ve built their reputation on precision, aesthetic finesse, and reliability. If you want winners to walk away with awards that still look remarkable years later, KN Trophies is a trusted choice.