"Many of my customers I never meet--and some I do.  The way I welcome people depends on the context of how we've met.  I will almost always refer people to my website.  Sometimes I'll send them the "Honors" page is they are interested in public recognition, or another relevant page (publications for the writing industry, for example). If I am on the road, and meet with an already established customer, I review my database notes before I leave home base to find out what I've logged about them: family notes, interests, hobbies, and the like.  Often I take something unique from home base (Nashville) as a gift, avoiding unhealthy food gifts.  The Southern custom of taking a gift when I go to visit (and it doesn't have to be big, mind you!) has served me well, as well as remembering that all my customers want what I want: recognition, affection, acceptance, and love.  I think the ultimate welcome to my customers is a little time when I pay total attention to them--how they are doing, what's going on, their hopes and dreams. 

They know I really do care, and that the relationship is based on more than money."