Trade shows can get expensive. I have been working on a booth recently where I am spending most of my budget outside of the trade show floor. I have been looking for ways to save money on the booth design. I wanted to share how I am cutting into my budget.
Booth Design
The booth design that I have includes two tables, a TV, and the potential for a custom backdrop. I will be showcasing multiple items from different businesses in the booth so I will be creating tiered levels to give the booth some height and dimension.
1. Bring Your Own Items
- I am using two tables in this booth design. My booth comes with one 8 foot table. Rather than paying the $40 for the second table, I will be bringing in my own. I will also being using file archive boxes as my tiers. I could rent shelves for $100 but that would not work with the booth design.
- Savings: $40
2. Rent Outside of the Show
- I need at least three white table cloths and some colored overlay. I will rent the white table cloths at $8 rather than that $20 from the show.
- Savings: $36
3. Use the Early Bird Discount
- I start the basic planning for my booth at least 6 months ahead of the time. Most shows offer an “Early Bird” or “Advanced” pricing. This will often be 10 – 20% discount on the pricing. I am a big believer of carpet in you booth as a way to elevate it. I will save $25 by ordering early. I am also ordering electricity and will save $32 with the discount.
- Savings: $57
Total savings: $133
Now, I know this is not a huge dollar amount, but it is 10% of my $1,000 budget (after booth space purchase). These savings will grow as your booth size grows and your budget. I will use these savings towards my paid advertising budget and boost the marketing campaign that is happening outside of the booth.
Now, there is one huge caveat to this, please read the load in or set up rules. Some shows do not allow you to use a cart (or rolling suitcase) to bring items in so you will have to carry everything. Other shows state you cannot bring certain items in from the outside. Please make sure you have read the rules and if you have any questions, ask the General Services Contractor for clarification.