Hollywood Swag Suites Trim Back

With the economy in a slump, Hollywood swag suites are being toned down in the season of giveaways. At least six gifting suites are scheduled for the Golden Globes this weekend, but organizers say finding vendors has proved more difficult this year. Vendors pay to participate in the suites in addition to giving out free products. The popular swag suites have attracted criticism in the past, and some worry that they will attract more hostility at a time when Americans are being laid off. Many organizers have teamed with charities to donate money if celebs show up. "The cost of giving out product at a suite is still less expensive than paying for one celebrity appearance fee," Britt Johnson, whose company helps run the HBO Luxury Lounge at the Four Seasons Hotel, told Variety.