Has somebody experiences with booths at exhibitions?

Discussion in 'Random Thoughts' started by kuriiroobi, Nov 11, 2025 at 1:06 PM.

  1. kuriiroobi

    kuriiroobi Members

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    I’m trying to figure out what it actually takes to run a booth at an exhibition. My workplace is planning to show up at a few next year, and somehow I’ve ended up being the one looking into it. I’ve never organised anything like that before – I’ve only ever wandered through fairs with coffee in hand, not behind the table. I keep wondering how people even start: what kind of prep happens before it all looks neat and effortless. Are there things that always go wrong no matter how well you plan? Or moments that make the whole stress worth it? Would be great to hear from anyone who’s done it before, just to know what it really feels like from the other side.
     
    ~Zen~ likes this.
  2. MeAgain

    MeAgain Dazed & Confused Lifetime Supporter Super Moderator

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    Never done it but you may need a tax number.

     
  3. ~Zen~

    ~Zen~ California Tripper Administrator

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    I have done it a few times at Cannabis Cups. First, you have to contact the organizer and arrange for a booth space, choosing location is important... you don't want to be in a far corner away from the entrance or exit.

    Second step is designing your space. If outdoors, is a canopy required? Canopies can be super simple, or printed with the company logo or product name, they are no too expensive, and can be used many times if needed at different places. Indoors, a canopy is not necessary. You will need at least a folding table (usually 8 feet) and some folding chairs. Another back table is also helpful, if you are selling product. If you are simply handing out information, you need to have handouts designed and printed. Consider giveaways to get people to your booth. Some thing cheap, even a nicely printed plastic bag for attendees to carry all the stuff given away at shows and fairs.

    Also consider some displays! Something large and eye catching behind the table on the back space of the booth or even along the bottom of the table... if indoors it can be a nice folding divider to delineate your space.

    Also, and importantly, who will be manning the booth? Have you considered a memorized dialog or rap to use for visitors touting your company, product, or whatever...? Many companies focus on someone attractive and articulate, sometimes hiring someone for that specific time and place...and of course training them to do the job properly.

    If that person is you, then get cracking! Prepping for one of these events is not something you can do at the last minute, and you do have to have a budget!!!

    Good luck, and if you need more advice, just ask me... I have been there, done that. :)

    And PS, I have never needed a tax ID to do an information display, but selling product directly you may need one, ask the event organizer!
     
    Toker likes this.
  4. scratcho

    scratcho Lifetime Supporter Lifetime Supporter

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    What products and / or services do they provide to customers if such is engaged??
     
  5. Toker

    Toker Lifetime Supporter

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    Beware of people pulling joints out of their noses. They might be interesting characters.

    You don't want a booth right next to your competitor who hates you.

    Unless it's a food convention with lots of food to sample, bring your own food and drink. Not only do conventions serve the worse food it's usually astronomically priced for the captive audience.

    It can be stressful depending upon your attitude and goals being there. It's usually exhausting having to spend most of the time on your feet.

    Make sure you have enough staff to man the booth. Expect people to flake out, either no shows or disappear leaving you to do everything.

    All these conventions are places to network, source product, get contacts, and have a good time if that's possible and you're that kind of person.
     
    Last edited: Nov 12, 2025 at 6:23 PM
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