Checking into a Doubletree for holiday discounts, logging into a cocktail lounge, a key-chain with a lifetime of exclusive offers are just a few novel ways brands are making consumers feel uniquely cared for. VIP is usually synonymous with high-brow luxury, but more “economy” brands are leveraging technology and consumers’ desire to feel distinct from their peers. Here are several cutting-edge luxury and economy brands thinking outside of the box to make their clientele feel like Very Important People:

VIP Check-Ins — Check-ins have been all the rage ever since FourSquare burst on the social networking scene with location-aware updates. And brands are trying to sign onto the craze with exclusive discounts for loyal fans. Hilton’s Doubletree Hotels is one of those brands. The hotel chain offers discounts for checking into Facebook Places, Topguest, Foursquare, Gowalla or tweeting about the Doubletree check in on Twitter. The exclusive deals make “checking in” at a Double Tree a VIP experience for every guest.

VIP For Life — Imagine exclusive access to luxuries for life. Key-2 Luxury promises just that. The Key-2 Luxury key ring offers exclusive deals and freebies at the world’s most exclusive clubs, bars, hotels and restaurants for the remainder of a recipients life. For instance, a key-bearer can receive 50 bottles of Cristal champagne when they book a five-cabin yacht for 10 nights. There is a catch, however. An individual cannot purchase the key, only companies can. Lamborghini, Hugo Boss, Exclusive Resorts and Hilton on La Dolce Vita are on the client list, yes, it’s very exclusive.

VIP Dating — Online dating can be somewhat awkward and frustrating for digitally unsavvy users. Unflattering pictures, amateur love poems… eFlirt Expert understands you might not be a professional wordsmith or photographer. You might need a bit of help from an expert to look your best for your prospective life partner. That’s why eFlirt’s service includes touching-up those unflattering Facebook pictures, injecting personality into your words and even crafting eloquent emails. The service can even recommend dating sites that best match your personality. Because you are a very important person, eFlirts wants to brand you as such.

VIP Restaurants — “What’s the secret password?” That’s what MiWorld’s asking its exclusive customers. The South African bar is an invitation-only lounge that requires users to register online and log in at the door. Exclusive customers can order drinks off interactive touch-screen MiTables and chat with others in the lounge or log onto Facebook. The lounge is a perfect mash-up of VIP access with digitally savvy audience.

Prediction
As consumers become more empowered by a wealth of choice and information, they will seek individuality. Part of that individuality is feeling special and pampered, like a VIP. Whether it’s an “open sesame” password to get in or special discounts for checking in, expect to see more “economy” brands offering special privileges to loyal fans.