Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate retreat, festival, or product launch, one thing’s for sure: the little details make a big impact. And one of the easiest, most affordable details to get right is custom drinkware.
From eye-catching branding to eco-friendly functionality, custom cups can elevate the guest experience and leave a lasting impression. But not all cups are created equal. The right choice depends on your audience, beverage types, and event vibe.
At Kings Cups, we’ve helped hundreds of organizers pick the perfect drinkware for their events. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting it right.
1. Define the Purpose of the Drinkware
Before choosing materials or styles, ask yourself:
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Will these be giveaways or keepsakes?
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Are they for hot or cold drinks?
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Will guests use them during the event, or take them home?
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Is branding or theme consistency more important?
👉 Quick Tip: For multi-day or outdoor events, reusable tumblers with lids and straws are ideal. For one-night weddings or galas, elegant glass-like plastic cups might be better.
2. Choose the Right Material
Different materials send different messages—and suit different needs.
| Material | Best For | Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic (single-use or reusable) | Festivals, budget-friendly events | Lightweight, customizable, affordable | Some options are not eco-friendly |
| Acrylic | Upscale outdoor events | Sturdy, clear like glass | More premium pricing |
| Stainless Steel | Corporate gifts, outdoor/active events | Insulated, durable, eco-conscious | Heavier, higher cost |
| Ceramic | Coffee bars, morning conferences | Great for hot drinks, professional feel | Breakable |
| Glass | Weddings, upscale dinners | Elegant, traditional | Fragile and heavier |
3. Match the Size and Shape to the Drink
Your custom cup should match what you’re serving.
| Drink | Ideal Size & Type |
|---|---|
| Coffee or tea | 12–16 oz ceramic mug or double-walled tumbler |
| Smoothies or juices | 16–20 oz clear cup with lid & straw |
| Beer | 16 oz plastic pint cup |
| Cocktails | 12 oz rocks-style cup |
| Water | Reusable bottle or standard 20 oz tumbler |
🍹 Design Tip: If your drink has layers, colors, or garnishes, go with clear cups to let the presentation shine.
4. Add Branding That Pops
Your event’s drinkware should reflect your brand or theme. Make your logo shine with:
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High-contrast colors: Light logos on dark cups (or vice versa)
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Simple fonts: Avoid small or thin text
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Event-specific details: Add the date, hashtag, or campaign slogan
We recommend uploading a vector logo (SVG, AI, or EPS) for the sharpest results. Our design team at Kings Cups is happy to help clean up your logo or suggest layouts that work.
5. Consider Reusability and Sustainability
Events with eco-conscious audiences should lean into reusables. Guests appreciate drinkware they can use again, and your brand gets extra exposure long after the event.
Look for:
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BPA-free materials
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Dishwasher-safe options
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Lids and straws for easy portability
6. Order Early (And Don’t Forget Extras!)
Production and shipping can take anywhere from 1–3 weeks depending on volume and complexity. Always pad your timeline and order extra (usually 10% more than your headcount) to account for breakage, VIPs, or last-minute additions.
Make Your Event Unforgettable—with the Right Cup
Custom drinkware isn’t just a nice touch—it’s a statement. It tells guests you care about the details, the experience, and your brand.
At Kings Cups, we make it easy to design and order the perfect custom cups for any occasion. Need help choosing? Our team is ready to walk you through styles, pricing, and design options.